How do I fix a sticky door?

A sticky door is usually caused by humidity swelling, loose hinges, or the door frame shifting slightly. Most sticky door issues can be resolved with basic tools and a little troubleshooting to identify the exact cause.

Start by examining where the door is sticking. Close the door slowly and feel for resistance points - common areas include the top corner opposite the hinges, along the latch side, or at the bottom. Look for shiny spots or worn paint where the door rubs against the frame. In Ottawa's variable climate, wood doors often swell during humid summer months and may stick more than in winter's dry conditions.

Check the hinges first as this is often the simplest fix. Tighten all hinge screws with a screwdriver - loose hinges cause the door to sag and bind. If screws are stripped, replace them with slightly longer screws (same diameter) to bite into fresh wood. Apply a few drops of 3-in-1 oil to hinge pins and work the door back and forth to distribute the lubricant.

If the hinges are tight but the door still sticks, you'll likely need to sand or plane the problem area. For minor sticking, wrap 120-grit sandpaper around a sanding block and carefully sand the high spots where the door contacts the frame. Work gradually - remove small amounts at a time and test the door frequently. For more significant binding, a hand plane works better than sandpaper for removing material evenly.

Ottawa's freeze-thaw cycles can cause door frames to shift slightly, especially in older homes. If the entire door frame appears out of square, this may indicate foundation settling that requires professional assessment. However, most residential door sticking is simply due to seasonal wood movement or normal settling.

When to call a professional: If the door frame is severely out of square, if you're uncomfortable using a plane, or if the door has warped significantly. Interior doors are generally safe DIY projects, but exterior doors that won't latch properly can be security issues requiring prompt professional attention.

Next steps: Start with the hinge check and lubrication - this fixes about 60% of sticky doors. If sanding is needed, work in good light and take your time. After any adjustments, you may need to touch up paint or stain on the sanded areas.