A carpenter is installing a pre-hung interior door and notices that the door slab is rubbing against the hinge-side jamb at the top. The head jamb is level. What is the most appropriate action to correct this issue?

Question: A carpenter is installing a pre-hung interior door and notices that the door slab is rubbing against the hinge-side jamb at the top. The head jamb is level. What is the most appropriate action to correct this issue?

Answer options:

• Loosen the hinge screws on the frame side and push the top hinge out slightly, then re-tighten.
• Remove the door from the frame and plane a small amount off the top of the door slab.
• Install shims behind the bottom hinge on the frame side to push the bottom of the jamb out. ✅ Add a shim behind the top hinge on the frame side to pull the top of the jamb in slightly.

Correct answer: Add a shim behind the top hinge on the frame side to pull the top of the jamb in slightly.

Explanation: If the door is rubbing at the top on the hinge side, it indicates the top of the hinge-side jamb is pushing out too far. Adding a shim behind the top hinge on the frame side will pull that part of the jamb inward, correcting the rub. Planing the door should be a last resort after attempting adjustment.