The door is badly installed. When closed it has a huge gap on the upper part. And the installing contractor tell the owner “I can’t do anything about it”.
So we adjusted the hinge and balanced the door installation. In the process, while removing the hinge screws, few screws break apart. Not one, but few. The hinge is GKY. It is a very good hinge, comes with real stainless steel screws for itself. By right their screw will not break apart that easily.
But the installer did not use the provided steel screw. He used zinc alloy drywall screw. Actually using zinc screw is easier. These screws are fast and extremely sharp. It’s really easy to screw into wood frame. Don’t need any pilot hole, just drive it straight in. Contractor’s convenience, however, comes at a cost for the owner. Those “easy screws” are soft and easily bent, easily break.
We are not sure why they used those screws instead of the steel. It might be they don’t know the differences and thought it is OK to use any type of screws.
In locksmithing, we also sometimes use those screw, but just as temporary screws to check on the margin, fitness and positioning. Aftr check, we will remove them and use the steel screws. Zinc screws must not be used on locks and hinge.
Zinc screws:
- Very sharp
- Very fast and easy to drive
- Soft material. Easily break apart.
- Not suitable on door and fittings
Steel screws:
- Not sharp, need pilot hole first
- Might slow down installation
- Hard material and will not break apart or easilt bent
- Strong to use on door and fittings
So make sure not to use soft screws on the most important part of your home.
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An advise by locksmith
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