How to Fix a Sticking Door Without Replacing It
Quick and Easy Fixes for a Sticking Door That Won’t Budge
Is your door sticking like a stubborn lid on a jar? Nothing’s more frustrating than a door that refuses to glide open smoothly. Before you start daydreaming about replacing it, take a breath! Most sticking doors can be fixed with a few simple tweaks, and you don’t need to be a master carpenter to get it sorted.
Why Is Your Door Sticking?
There are a few usual suspects behind this household headache:
- Humidity and weather changes: Wood expands with moisture, causing doors to swell.
- Loose hinges: Over time, hinges can loosen, making the door sag slightly.
- Paint buildup: Multiple layers of paint may be making the edges too thick.
- House settling: Older homes often shift a little over time, affecting door alignment.
Easy Fixes You Can Try Right Now
Let’s roll up those sleeves and get your door swinging like it’s brand new!
Tighten Up Those Hinges
Grab a screwdriver and check if the hinges are loose. If so, tighten the screws. If they keep turning without catching properly, you might need longer screws to grip into the door frame securely.
Give It a Quick Sand
If you’ve spotted the area where the door is rubbing, use sandpaper or a hand planer to shave down the problem spot. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Once you've sanded it down, seal the exposed wood with paint or sealant to prevent future swelling.
Lubricate the Edges
A little lubricant can work wonders. Rub a dry bar of soap, a candle, or even petroleum jelly along the edges of the door where it’s sticking. This quick fix helps the door slide more easily without any permanent modifications.
Check for Swelling
If humidity is the culprit, try running a dehumidifier in the room where the door is misbehaving. This might help the door return to its normal size. In extreme cases, consider sealing the edges with a clear wood sealant to keep moisture out for good.
Trim It Down (Only If Necessary!)
As a last resort, if nothing else works, remove the door and carefully trim a small amount off the edge using a plane or a circular saw. This is only necessary for doors that continually stick despite all other attempts to fix them.
When to Call for Backup
If your door is still giving you grief after trying these fixes, it might be time for some expert advice. The team at Strathalbyn H Hardware is on hand to help with the right tools and know-how to get your door back on track. Pop into the store or give us a call – we’re here to help!
Happy fixing!
Candeece
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