How to Fix a Sticking Door

A sticking door can be frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, fixing it is usually a simple task. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you solve this common issue.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

• Screwdriver
• Sandpaper or plane
• Drill
• Screws
• Wood filler
• Chisel (if needed)
• Pencil
• Spirit level
• Candle or bar of soap

Steps to Fix a Sticking Door

Step 1: Identify the Problem Area

1. Close the Door Slowly: Observe where the door is sticking. Common areas include the top, bottom, or along the latch side.
2. Mark the Sticking Spot: Use a pencil to mark the exact spot where the door sticks.

Step 2: Tighten the Hinges

1. Check Hinge Screws: Use a screwdriver to tighten all the hinge screws. Loose hinges can cause the door to sag and stick.
2. Replace Stripped Screws: If screws are stripped, replace them with longer or thicker screws for a better hold.

Step 3: Sand or Plane the Door

1. Sand the Sticking Area: Use sandpaper to lightly sand the area where the door sticks. For more significant sticking, use a plane to shave off a small amount of wood.
2. Test the Door: After sanding or planing, test the door to see if it closes smoothly. Repeat if necessary.

Common Causes and Solutions Table

Issue	Cause	Solution
Door sticks at the top	Warped door or frame	Sand or plane the top edge
Door sticks at the bottom	Swollen wood due to moisture	Sand or plane the bottom edge
Door sticks along the side	Loose or misaligned hinges	Tighten hinges, sand or plane

Step 4: Adjust the Hinges

1. Reposition Hinges: If the door is still sticking, try adjusting the hinge position slightly to correct the alignment.
2. Add Shims: Place shims behind the hinges to adjust the door’s position if necessary.

Step 5: Lubricate the Door

1. Apply Lubricant: Rub a candle or bar of soap along the sticking edge of the door. This can reduce friction and help the door move more smoothly.

Step 6: Repair the Frame (If Needed)

1. Chisel Out Old Screws: If the door frame is damaged, remove the old screws and fill the holes with wood filler.
2. Sand and Smooth: Once the filler is dry, sand it smooth.
3. Reattach Hinges: Screw the hinges back into the repaired frame.

Tips for Preventing a Sticking Door

• Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air, which can cause wood to swell.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check and tighten hinge screws to prevent sagging.
• Use Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality doors and hardware to ensure longevity and reduce issues.

Maintenance Checklist

Task	Frequency
Tighten hinge screws	Every 6 months
Inspect door alignment	Annually
Lubricate door edges	As needed
Check for frame damage	During maintenance

Conclusion

Fixing a sticking door involves identifying the problem area, tightening hinges, sanding or planing the door, and possibly adjusting the hinges or lubricating the door. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues and ensure your doors operate smoothly.

Ready to start your door installation project? Visit our range of internal doors to find the perfect doors for your home renovation at Internal Doors.