How To: Fix a door that sticks

Instead of pushing, pulling, and cursing, why not fix that door that sticks?

You Will Need

* A screwdriver
* Some cardboard
* Screws that are larger than those in the hinges
* A pencil
* A belt sander or sanding block
* A book or piece of wood
* A solid wooden block

Step 1. Check installation

Check that the door was properly installed. Close the door and see if the top of the door lines up with the doorframe.

Step 2. Test tightening

See that the hinges are tight and secure. Use your screwdriver to tighten any loose screws. Do not use a drill; it could cause you to strip the screw holes.

Step 3. Check for warping

Look for swelling. Time and humidity can cause wooden doors to warp and expand, so check where the door sticks and see if its shape has been altered.

Step 4. Mark warped areas

If warping seems to be the problem, slip a thin piece of cardboard between the door and frame and notice the problem areas where it sticks.

Step 5. Sand the door

Sand the problem areas with a sanding block. Be careful not to take off more than you want.

Step 6. Plane the door

If the problem area is significant, use a belt sander to grind it down. Follow the manufacturer's directions and don't wear away too much wood!

Step 7. Replace screw

Still sticking? Replace the middle screws on the hinges with larger, longer screws that will grip the frame better.

Step 8. Dent the doorframe

You could also try carefully denting the doorframe. Take your wooden block and place it on the frame where the door tends to stick. Hammer the block lightly so the doorframe bends a bit; this make the door looser when it's closed.

Step 9. Push frame closer to the studs

Here's another trick — push the doorframe closer to the studs by hammering a nail into the frame where the door tends to stick. Sometimes this can buy you a little room.

Step 10. Buy a new door

If all else fails, it may be time for a new door.