A sticking door can be a daily frustration—whether it's scraping the floor, sticking at the top, or jamming in the frame. Fortunately, learning how to fix a door that sticks is a manageable DIY task that can save time, money, and your patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify the cause and fix the problem effectively.

1. Identify Where It’s Sticking

Before making any adjustments, open and close the door slowly to pinpoint exactly where it’s sticking. Common problem areas include:

• Top corner rubbing against the frame
  
  

• Bottom edge dragging on the floor or carpet
  
  

• Side edge catching on the latch-side jamb
  
  

Use a pencil to lightly mark the contact points, which will guide your repairs.

2. Check for Loose Hinges

Often, a sticking door is caused by loose hinges that allow the door to sag.

• Use a screwdriver to tighten all hinge screws.
  
  

• If a screw spins without tightening, remove it and insert a longer screw or fill the hole with a wood plug and reinsert the screw.

3. Lubricate Hinges

Squeaky or stiff hinges can also affect how the door moves.

• Apply a lubricant to each hinge.
  
  

• Open and close the door several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

4. Sand or Plane the Sticking Area

If tightening hinges doesn’t solve the issue, you may need to remove material from the sticking area.

• Use sandpaper for minor adjustments.
  
  

• For heavier contact, use a hand plane to shave down the wood.
  
  

• After sanding or planing, repaint or seal the exposed area to protect against moisture.

5. Inspect for Humidity Swelling

Doors, especially wooden ones, often swell due to humidity.

• Try running a dehumidifier in the room if this is a seasonal issue.
  
  

• If swelling persists, sanding may be necessary to remove the expanded wood.

6. Adjust the Strike Plate

If the door sticks near the latch, the strike plate may be misaligned.

• Loosen the screws and reposition the strike plate slightly.
  
  

• You can also file the inside of the strike plate to create more room for the latch.

7. Consider Weatherstripping or Warping

Sometimes the issue lies in warped frames or compressed weatherstripping.

• Inspect the door frame with a level to check for warping.
  
  

• If weatherstripping is too thick or damaged, replace it with a thinner or more flexible material.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to fix a door that sticks, you can restore smooth operation and reduce wear on your door and frame. Most sticking doors require only basic tools and a little patience to repair, making it a great weekend project for homeowners or facility managers alike. For more information on how to fix doors that are sticking or assistance ordering replacement parts, Contact Us Today! The WHD Team is here to help.