How Do I Fix a Sticky Door Jamb?

Sticking doors are created by moisture.

Wood doors and wood door jambs sometimes expand due to heat and moisture, which causes the door to stick. This can be remedied by checking a few things on the door such as if it is square in the frame. If all else fails, removing some of the door itself is the sure fix to the situation. The process of repairing the door and jamb is simple and quick, and only requires a few basic tools.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Drill
• 3-inch screws
• Sandpaper
• Paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Look at the hinges to see if they are loose or shifted out of place. Use a screwdriver to tighten them back in position.

2. Remove the middle screw on the hinges and replace them with 3-inch screws that will go through the frame and into the rough opening. This will help keep the door square.

3. Drill 3-inch screws into the jamb and through to the rough opening to pull the jamb tighter to the wood of the rough opening. Do this in the area where the door is scraping the jamb.

4. Sand down the edge of the door. Open the door and then close it. Watch for where the door touches the jamb. Sand in that spot first to see if removing a little bit will allow the door to close. If it doesn't close, sand the entire edge of the door until it will shut.

5. Touch up the door where you sanded by repainting the edge. Use a paintbrush and matching paint.

References

• "The Family Handyman": Fix Sagging or Sticking Doors
• "This Old House"; How to Fix a Sticking Door; Rebecca Zacks