A door that doesn’t open or close properly is not only a nuisance, it can pose a security risk and cost you money in higher power bills. Here’s how to diagnose the problem and get it that difficult door fixed.
Be a door doctor. Does it stick? Not closing tight? Diagnosing the issue is the first step. Examine the door to see if it was installed properly. It may just need a simple adjustment if the door isn’t level.
Check the weather. Doors don’t care for hot, humid weather. The wood can swell and warp, causing the door to improperly fit the frame. The hot and sticky summers in the South and Midwest can do a number on doors.
Multiple door problems? If several doors in your home are having issues, the problem could be the foundation. Shifting walls and foundation shifting are serious problems. A structural engineer may need to be consulted.
Now the good news. It’s possible to fix a lot of door issues yourself. If a door is sticking it might just be dirty. Scrub with soap and water. If that doesn’t work, tighten all the screws and hinges and spray them with WD-40. If tightening doesn’t work, you may be able to sand down a door that has expanded from humidity.
Last resort. When all else fails, it’s time to call an expert. Even if a door is only a few centimeters off, it can make a big difference in how it fits. Foundation issues are certainly a much bigger issue and need to be dealt with immediately by a professional.
