How to Fix a Sticking or Misaligned Door

Dampness and settling often conspire to turn a perfectly functional door into a source of daily frustration. When a door drags on the floor or sticks against the jamb, it isn't just an annoyance; it is a sign that the structural geometry of the frame has shifted ever so slightly. Fixing this is a matter of precision, not brute force. By diagnosing exactly where the door makes contact with the frame, you can make surgical adjustments to the hinges or the door itself. A well-adjusted door should swing freely and latch with a satisfying click, staying put in any position without drifting open or shut on its own.

1. Find Where It Sticks. Close the door slowly and observe the gap between the door and the frame. Look for areas where the gap is uneven or where the door finish is worn, indicating constant rubbing.
2. Secure All Hinges. Check the hinge plates on both the door and the jamb for loose screws. Use a screwdriver to snug them up, as a single loose screw can cause the entire door to sag.
3. Bend Pins Strategically. If the door is rubbing on the lock side, you may need to bend the hinge pins slightly to shift the door's alignment. Remove the pin, place it on a concrete surface, and give it a light tap with a hammer to create a subtle arch.
4. Offset With Shims. If the gap is tight on the hinge side, place a thin cardboard shim behind the hinge leaf attached to the jamb. This pushes the door away from the jamb and corrects minor leaning.
5. Plane Away Friction. If the door is hitting the frame and adjustments haven't worked, use a block plane to remove a thin layer of wood from the binding edge. Work slowly, removing only a tiny bit of material at a time.
6. Protect Exposed Wood. After planing, the raw wood is exposed to humidity, which will cause it to swell and stick again. Apply a coat of paint, primer, or wood sealer to the sanded edge.