A door that sticks is usually rubbing at one spot, and the fix depends on where. Loose hinge screws, a swollen edge or a built-up finish are the usual causes. Find the rub point first, then choose the lightest fix that works.
Step One: Locate the Problem
Close the door slowly and watch the gaps around it. A slip of paper slid along the edge shows where the fit is tight. Look for shiny or scuffed marks on the door edge or frame, since these show where contact happens.
- Rubbing at the top corner on the latch side often means a hinge has loosened.
- Rubbing along the latch edge may mean swelling or a thick finish.
- Rubbing at the bottom may mean sag or a rise in the floor covering.
Step Two: Try the Gentle Fixes
- Tighten every hinge screw with a screwdriver. If a screw spins freely, the hole may need a longer screw or wood filler packed into it.
- Clean and dry the door edges, as grime can add thickness.
- Rub a little wax or candle stub on the sticking edge.
- Test the door again.
Step Three: Remove a Little Material
If the door still binds, you may need to sand or plane a small amount from the tight edge. Do this carefully.
- Mark the tight spot with a pencil.
- Remove the door by lifting the hinge pins if needed, with help for heavy doors.
- Lay the door flat, then sand or plane the marked area lightly, working with the wood grain.
- Wear a dust mask and eye protection.
- Seal any bare wood with a suitable finish, because open wood can take on moisture and swell again.
- Rehang the door and test it.
Cause and Remedy
| Sign | Probable cause | Lightest remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Rubs at top latch corner | Loose hinge | Tighten screws |
| Tight in damp season | Swelling | Dry out, seal edges |
| Drags on floor | Sag or thick covering | Adjust hinges or trim bottom |
Seasonal changes matter too. Wood takes on moisture in humid weather and gives it up in dry weather, so a door that sticks in summer may fit well in winter. Because of that, avoid taking off a large amount of wood in one go. Check the door on a few different days before deciding it needs trimming at all.
FAQ
Should I trim the door right away?
No. Tighten screws and clean the edges first, since trimming cannot be undone. Remove material only in small amounts.
What if the frame itself looks out of square or cracked?
That can be a structural matter, such as settling in the building. Ask a qualified professional to look, and follow local rules for any structural work.
The Short Version
Find where the door rubs, tighten the hinges, clean and wax the edge, and trim only as a last step. Seal any bare wood afterward. Follow the maker’s guidance on tools and finishes, and expect results to vary with your door and climate.