How To Fix a Sticking Door

Sticking doors can be an annoying and frustrating issue in any household. Whether it's due to humidity changes, poor installation, or wear and tear, failing to fix a sticking door can ruin your daily routine. Experts at G Johns & Sons offer several simple, practical solutions to prevent doors from sticking, including removing paint buildup, correcting humidity levels, adjusting door hinges, and trimming doors.

Why Do Doors Stick?

Before diving into the solutions, it's essential to understand why doors stick in the first place. Several factors can contribute to a sticking door:

• Humidity: Changes in humidity levels can cause wood to expand or contract, leading to misalignment and sticking
• Poor Installation: Doors that are not properly installed may not hang correctly, resulting in sticking
• Paint Buildup: Layers of paint along the edges of the door or frame can create friction, causing the door to stick
• Warping: Over time, wooden doors can warp, causing them to no longer fit properly within the frame

Top Tips for Fixing a Sticking Door

When it comes to fixing a sticking door, there are simple ways to stop the sticking that can be done without professional help and don’t take a long time to complete. Some of the top ways to stop a door from sticking either at the top or the bottom include: 

Adjust Hinges

• Check for loose screws in the hinges
• Tighten or replace any loose screws
• Use a screwdriver to adjust the door hinges, aligning the door against the frame
• Test the door to see if the adjustments have resolved the sticking issue

Trim the Door

• Measure the area where the door is sticking
• Remove the door from its hinges if necessary
• Use a plane, saw, or sander to trim the problem area
• Sand the edges until smooth, and then repaint or refinish if needed
• Reinstall the door and test its movement

Fixing a Door Due to Humidity

• Install a dehumidifier in areas prone to high humidity
• Use weather stripping or door sweeps to seal gaps around the door, preventing moisture from seeping in
• Apply a sealant or finish to wooden doors to help protect them from moisture absorption
• Consider using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and take preventive measures accordingly

Remove Paint Build-Up

• Use a scraper or sandpaper to gently remove layers of paint along the edges of the door and frame
• Ensure the surfaces are smooth and free of any rough patches
• Apply a thin layer of lubricant, such as paraffin wax or silicone spray, to reduce friction
• Wipe away any excess lubricant and test the door's movement

Top Tips for Fixing Sticking Door Accessories

As well as fixing the actual door, keeping on top of door fittings, like handles, locks, and latches, is just as necessary to prevent sticking and ensure optimal functionality. Some top ways to avoid door accessories from sticking include: 

1. Tighten visible screws on hinges and door handles 
2. Clean visible dirt with a cloth and a toothbrush 
3. Spray the hinge pins with a drop of oil, then work the door.
4. Put some graphite lubricant in the keyed lock and work the key.
5. Check the strike alignment and adjust with a file if the latch is still rubbing.

How to Prevent A Door From Sticking in the Future

While fixing a stuck door can often be straightforward, prevention is key to avoiding the issue altogether. Regularly maintaining your doors, ensuring proper installation, and keeping humidity levels in check can significantly reduce the chances of doors sticking in the first place. A little proactive care can save you the frustration of a sticking door and help keep your home running smoothly.

The following steps can help stop a sticking door in the future:

• Regularly inspect front and internal doors for signs of sticking and address any issues promptly.
• Maintain consistent humidity levels within your home.
• Avoid slamming internal doors, as this can exacerbate sticking over time.
• Consider investing in high-quality front and internal doors, and in professional installation, to minimise future problems.

Expert Solutions for Sticking Doors

At G Johns & Sons, we're not just experts but specialists in the door and ironmongery industry. With years of experience, we've honed our craft to perfection, allowing us to confidently offer strategies for various door problems, including how to fix a sticking door. Our solutions to unstick doors aren't just fixes; they're meticulously crafted strategies to ensure your doors operate smoothly for years to come.

Say goodbye to sticky doors and reclaim your household's seamless functionality with our expert advice and solutions. Contact us for all your door and ironmongery needs.

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