The Nut House · 519 W 10th St, Borger, TX 79007 (806) 275-9274
The Nut House · Door Closer Guide

Door Closer Installation and Setup

A good closer installed badly is a bad closer. These guides cover arm types, hold-open and how to fine-tune the valves.

Updated November 2026 · By The Nut House, Borger, TX

Many "bad closers" are really good closers that were never adjusted, or that were installed with the wrong arm. A bit of care during installation costs nothing and makes a closer last much longer.

Install and setup guides

Door closers with hold open

How hold-open arms work, where they are allowed and what to do on fire doors.

Read the guide

Parallel arm vs regular arm

How each arm mounts, how power changes and which one suits your door.

Read the guide

How to adjust a door closer

A step-by-step fix for doors that slam, drag or will not latch.

Read the guide

The three mounting styles in one minute

  • Regular arm: closer on the pull side of the door, with the arm sticking out from it. It gives the most power but it is the most visible.
  • Parallel arm: closer on the push side, with the arm folded along the frame. It is tidy and harder to vandalize.
  • Top jamb: closer on the frame, with the arm on the door. It is useful when the top rail is too narrow.

Tools you will need

  • Drill and the right bits for wood or metal
  • Screwdrivers and a wrench, plus the supplied key for the valves
  • Tape measure, pencil and the paper template
  • A helper for heavy doors or a ladder

We stock hand and power tools and bolts and fasteners for the job.

Before you start

Check the hinges and the door's alignment. A sagging door will not close properly, whatever closer you fit. Then confirm the door handing and the arm style in the template.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to install a door closer?
About 30 to 60 minutes for a straightforward replacement, and longer if new holes or reinforcement are needed.
Does a door closer go on the inside or outside?
Usually the inside of the building, for weather and security reasons. The arm style then depends on which way the door swings.

Talk to a real hardware store in Borger

Not sure which closer fits your door? Call us or stop by 519 W 10th St, Borger, TX 79007. Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. See our door hardware department or go back to the The Nut House homepage.