How To Fix A Sticking Door

Do you have a door not closing properly? Do you have a door in your house that just won’t budge, no matter how hard you tug?
A sticking door is more than just an annoyance; it can be a safety hazard and a sign of underlying structural problems, such as foundation settlement or shifts, that demand immediate attention.
This article explains why you may have problems with the doors in your home, as well as how to fix a sticking door.
Causes Of A Door Not Closing Properly
Before diving into how to fix a door that hits the frame, let’s explain the cause of sticking door. Sticking doors emerge from a complex interplay of environmental and structural factors, including:
Moisture and Wood Dynamics
Wooden doors are particularly susceptible to environmental changes. Humidity causes wood to absorb moisture, expanding its fibers and creating friction against door frames. Seasonal variations can dramatically impact door performance, with summer humidity causing more pronounced sticking compared to drier winter months.

Foundation Settlement
Ground movement and soil conditions play a crucial role in door functionality. As a home’s foundation settles, shifts, or experiences uneven pressure, door frames can become misaligned. Clay soils, prevalent in many regions, are especially prone to expansion and contraction, creating significant stress on structural elements.
Structural Integrity Factors
- Loose or worn door hinges
- Uneven floor surfaces
- Warped door frames
- Improper initial door installation
- Structural aging and material degradation
As you can see, many factors are at play, making investing in the proper sticking door repair crucial.
How to Fix a Sticking Door: Temporary DIY Solutions
Many solutions for how to fix a door that sticks at top edges are not intended to be quick DIY fixes. Here are some things we’ve witnessed homeowners try to tackle on their own:
The first step is to figure out exactly which part of the door is sticking. Is a particular corner of the door catching against the frame? Is the strike plate of the lock mechanism hitting the frame? Does it look like the door is hanging crookedly? Watch carefully as you open and close the door a few times, and the problem should become obvious. Once you’ve identified the door’s specific problem, you can proceed with the appropriate solution.
If the door is too big to fit easily into the frame, you will need to remove the door and carefully sand down the section causing issues. If the problem is the strike plate, try tightening up the visible screws. For doors that hang crookedly, look for hinges that may have come loose and tighten them.
If these solutions do not work, your door problem may be foundation-related.
Professional Assessment: Beyond Surface-Level Repairs
DIY solutions provide temporary relief, but they cannot address fundamental structural issues. Foundation movement creates complex challenges that require specialized expertise.
Comprehensive Evaluation Process

Groundworks professionals conduct meticulous assessments involving:
- Precise measurement technologies
- Comprehensive structural analysis
- Detailed foundation movement tracking
Customized Repair Solutions
We understand every home faces unique challenges and requires foundation repair solutions tailored to meet these needs. Some of our customized approaches for how to fix a sticking door include:

Foundation Piers
Engineered to penetrate deep into stable ground, our specialized foundation pier systems—including helical, push, and slab piers—provide comprehensive structural reinforcement. These innovative solutions permanently stabilize your home’s foundation and can potentially restore its original elevation, addressing settlement issues with precision.

Crawl Space Supports
We fortify vulnerable floor structures and floor joists with unparalleled durability by utilizing robust, precisely engineered crawl space support jacks. These strategically placed supports effectively counteract structural weakness, potentially lifting and leveling sagging floors to restore your home’s structural integrity.
Crawl Space Encapsulation
Our advanced crawl space encapsulation strategy implements a comprehensive protective system featuring a robust, thick vapor barrier. This specialized approach controls humidity, prevents moisture intrusion, and safeguards critical wooden structural components from potential water-related deterioration.

Basement Waterproofing
We install a multi-faceted moisture control system to protect your basement from water infiltration. Our comprehensive basement waterproofing solution combines interior drainage systems, high-efficiency sump pumps, professional-grade dehumidification, and advanced wall vapor barriers for complete defense against moisture-related structural challenges.
Trust Groundworks for Sound Sticking Door Advice
A door not closing properly represents more than a household annoyance—it’s a potential precursor of significant structural challenges. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent extensive and costly repairs.
Protect your home’s structural integrity. Schedule a free foundation inspection with Groundworks today. Our expert team delivers comprehensive solutions that safeguard your property’s long-term value and functionality.
Door Not Closing Properly FAQs
Wooden doors are most susceptible to sticking due to moisture absorption and expansion. Fiberglass and steel doors generally maintain more consistent dimensions across temperature and humidity variations.
Look for other signs like wall cracks, drywall cracks, drywall nail pops, uneven floors, floor and wall gaps, or multiple sticking doors. Contact a foundation repair professional like Groundworks for immediate inspection and repair.
Temporary fixes—including sanding down the area, tightening door hinges, and adding shims—are possible, but professional assessment is recommended for long-term solutions.