A door that won't close or latch has one of three root causes: hinge problems, wood swelling/settling, or a misaligned strike plate. Here's how to diagnose and fix each.
Diagnose where it's sticking
Open the door and observe: does it drag along the top edge, the latch side, or the bottom? Insert a piece of cardboard between the door and frame at multiple points to find where the gap disappears. This tells you exactly where to work.
Fix 1 — Tighten loose hinges
Loose hinge screws are the most common cause of a sagging door that rubs the top corner of the frame. Tighten all screws. If the screw holes are stripped, fill with wood glue and toothpicks, let dry, then re-drive the screws. Replacing short screws with 3-inch screws that reach the stud dramatically improves hinge hold.
Fix 2 — Plane or sand the binding edge
If hinges are tight and the door still sticks, the door itself is rubbing the frame due to wood swelling or seasonal movement. Use a hand plane or belt sander on the binding edge — typically the top or latch side. Sand in small passes and test frequently to avoid over-removing material.
Fix 3 — Adjust the strike plate
If the door closes but the latch doesn't catch, the strike plate hole is misaligned. Rub lipstick on the latch bolt and close the door — the mark shows where the latch is hitting. Loosen the strike plate screws, shift the plate slightly in the needed direction, and re-tighten. File the hole larger if only slightly off.
When to call a handyman
Door repairs start at $65 at The Toolbox Pro. We diagnose the exact cause and fix it in one visit — including swollen doors that need planing, hinge replacements, and strike plate adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my door close all the way?
Most likely causes: loose hinge screws causing the door to sag, wood swelling from humidity, or a misaligned strike plate. Tighten the hinges first — that fixes the issue in about 30% of cases.
How do I fix a door that sticks in the summer?
Doors swell in summer humidity and stick against the frame. Sand or plane the binding edge lightly, then seal with primer and paint to slow future swelling.
How do you fix a door that won't latch?
The latch bolt is missing the strike plate hole. Either shift the strike plate to align with the latch (best fix) or file the hole slightly larger if only marginally misaligned.
Can I fix a sticking door myself?
Tightening hinges and shimming a strike plate are easy DIY fixes. Planing or sanding a swollen door requires some skill and the right tools. When in doubt, a handyman visit saves time.
How much does door repair cost?
Door repairs — including hinge tightening, strike plate adjustment, and planing — start at $65 at The Toolbox Pro.
