How to Fix a Sticking Interior Door

Gravity and seasonal humidity are the primary enemies of a perfectly swinging door. Over time, heavy door slabs settle, causing the top or latch-side corners to rub against the frame, leaving telltale scrape marks on the paint that signal exactly where the interference is happening. Fixing this doesn't require a master carpenter's kit, but it does require patience. Most sticking doors can be cured by tightening loose hinge screws, adjusting the hinge depth, or carefully shaving down the high spot on the door edge. When done well, the door will close with a satisfying click and stay put when left ajar.

1. Tighten Every Hinge Screw. Open the door and inspect every hinge plate. If any screws are loose, use a screwdriver to tighten them until they are flush with the plate.
2. Measure the Gap Precisely. Close the door slowly and observe where it makes contact with the stop molding. If the gap between the door and the frame is uneven, your hinges are likely the culprit.
3. Pull the Hinge Deeper. If the door is rubbing at the top latch-side corner, you need to pull the top of the door closer to the hinge jamb. Remove the middle screw from the top hinge plate and replace it with a 2.5-inch wood screw that reaches deep into the wall stud to pull the frame tighter.
4. Create Space Behind Hinges. If the door is still rubbing, remove the hinge leaf from the door jamb and place a thin cardboard shim behind it. This pushes the hinge out slightly, creating more clearance on the latch side.
5. Remove Wood Strategically. If the door still sticks after hinge adjustments, locate the specific rub marks on the edge of the door. Use a block plane or medium-grit sandpaper to remove a small amount of wood from the high spot until the door closes freely.
6. Protect the Exposed Wood. Once you have successfully relieved the sticking, apply a thin coat of paint or wood sealer to the sanded area. This prevents future moisture from causing the wood to swell again.