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Sticking Interior Door

Doors stick when hinges loosen or humidity swells the wood. Start with the simplest cause.

Supplies you’ll need

• ☐ Screwdriver
• ☐ Pencil or chalk
• ☐ Sandpaper (80 then 120 grit)
• ☐ Longer 2.5 inch screws
• ☐ Dust mask and cloth

Steps

1. Find where it rubs. Close the door and look for shiny or scuffed spots along the edge and frame.
2. Tighten the hinges. Tighten every hinge screw. If one spins freely, swap it for a longer screw that bites the frame stud.
3. Test again. If the door now moves freely, you are done.
4. Mark the tight spot. Rub pencil along the rubbing edge, close and open the door to transfer the mark.
5. Sand lightly. Wearing a mask, sand the marked area with 80 grit, then smooth with 120 grit. Remove only a little at a time.
6. Seal the bare wood. Touch up with paint or clear finish so moisture does not swell it again.

Cleanup

• Vacuum or wipe sanding dust from the floor and door top.
• Dispose of rags with paint or finish safely.