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Squeaky Interior Door

A squeaky door is almost always a dry hinge. This fix takes about 15 minutes and costs a few dollars.

Supplies you’ll need

• ☐ Silicone spray lubricant or light household oil
• ☐ Clean cloth or paper towels
• ☐ Screwdriver or nail (for stubborn pins)
• ☐ Old towel or cardboard to protect the floor

Steps

1. Find the source. Open and close the door slowly and listen. Rest a finger on each hinge to feel which one squeaks.
2. Protect the floor. Slide the towel or cardboard under the hinge to catch drips.
3. Lift the hinge pin. Close the door, then use a screwdriver tip under the pin head and tap upward gently until you can lift the pin out an inch or two. Do not remove the door.
4. Lubricate. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the pin and into the hinge knuckle. A little goes a long way.
5. Reseat the pin. Push or tap the pin back down fully.
6. Work it in. Swing the door open and closed 10 times to spread the lubricant, then test again. Repeat on other hinges if needed.

Cleanup

• Wipe excess lubricant off the hinge, door and frame right away.
• Wipe any floor drips so nobody slips.
• Store spray upright, away from heat.