Sticking doors is a common headache for homeowners, especially during rainy seasons when moisture causes wood to expand. While many people’s first instinct is to sand or plane the door, removing wood should be a last resort. There’s a much simpler and less destructive solution: shimming the door.
This method allows homeowners to adjust their doors without permanently altering them, saving time and preserving the door’s integrity. In this guide, we’ll explore why doors stick, how to identify a sticking door and provide step-by-step instructions on shimming a door to resolve the issue.
Don’t know what it means to shim a door? Watch the video below for a quick explanation:
Why Doors Stick
Doors may stick for various reasons, often related to changes in the house’s structure or environmental factors. Understanding these causes helps homeowners address the root of the problem more effectively.
Foundation Settlement
One of the primary reasons doors stick is foundation settlement. As a house ages, its foundation may shift slightly, altering the shape of door openings. This subtle change causes doors to bind against their frames, making them difficult to open and close smoothly.
Weather Conditions
Seasonal changes, particularly in areas with high humidity or frequent rain, can cause doors to stick. Moisture in the air causes wood to expand, leading to tight-fitting doors during wet weather. Conversely, dry conditions may cause wood to contract, potentially creating gaps around the door.
Improper Installation
Doors that aren’t perfectly plumb and level may develop binding issues over time. You might need to reinstall the door entirely to resolve the problem in severe cases.
Warping
Exterior doors are particularly susceptible to warping due to temperature fluctuations and exposure to the elements. This may lead to uneven pressure points that cause the door to stick in certain areas.
Signs of a Sticking Door
Identifying a sticking door early can prevent further damage and make the fix easier. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Difficulty Opening and Closing
If opening or closing the door requires more effort than usual, such as tugging hard or using your shoulder to push it open, it’s likely sticking.
Scraping Sounds
Listen for audible scraping when operating the door. This sound indicates the door is rubbing against the frame, a clear sign of misalignment.
Lock and Latch Issues
Difficulty fully engaging the latch or deadbolt into the strike plate suggests the door has shifted out of alignment.
Visible Damage
Look for scratches, peeling paint, or other damage along the door’s edge where it contacts the frame. These marks are evidence of ongoing friction.
Resistance When Turning the Knob
If you feel resistance when turning the doorknob before the latch releases, the door is out of alignment and needs adjustment.
How To Fix a Sticking Door with Shims
Shimming a door is a straightforward process that can often resolve sticking issues without the need for more invasive measures. Follow these steps to realign a sticking door:
Begin by inspecting where the door is sticking on the frame. Also, examine the hinges for any signs of bending or distortion.
Take out the pins from each hinge one at a time. This step allows for hinge movement, which is crucial for later adjustments.
If the top corner of the door is sticking, place a shim behind the top hinge. For bottom sticking, shim the bottom hinge. Use cardboard, plastic, or wood shims for this purpose. Having the proper shim strikes a balance that effectively reduces friction between the door and the frame, ultimately allowing smooth movement.
After shimming, reinsert the hinge pins carefully and securely. Open and close the door to check for reduced sticking. From there, adjust as necessary for further improvements.
For minor adjustments, gently bend the hinge knuckles in or out as needed to fine-tune the door’s alignment. Remember, apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the hinges or the door itself.
If shimming and bending the hinges don’t fully resolve the issue, consider adjusting the strike plate to further alter the door’s alignment. This might involve loosening the screws and repositioning the strike plate slightly to accommodate the realigned door.
Best Practices for Door Adjustments
When making adjustments to a sticking door, keep these tips in mind for the best results:
Work Gradually
Make minor adjustments and check the door’s operation after each change. Don’t overdo any single step in the process so you’re not inadvertently causing additional binding or alignment problems elsewhere.
Use Proper Safety Gear
Wear eye protection when working with hinge pins, as they can sometimes slide out unexpectedly. Basic safety procedures prevent minor injuries and enable a smooth workflow.
Mark Original Positions
Before making any adjustments, mark the original positions of the hinges with tape. This precaution allows for easy realignment if needed.
Choose Appropriate Shim Materials
Opt for plastic or wood shims instead of paper, which can compress over time and lose effectiveness. The suitable materials offer longevity and consistency under pressure.
Lubricate Components
Lightly lubricate hinges, hinge screws, and shims for smooth operation and to prevent future sticking. A quality lubricant repels moisture and resists wear over time.
Seasonal Maintenance
Be prepared to make minor readjustments as seasons change to prevent the door from rebinding due to weather-related expansion and contraction. Being responsive to these changes encourages longstanding door operation regardless of climate fluctuations.
When To Call a Professional
While shimming is often an effective DIY solution, some situations may require professional intervention:
Severe Foundation Issues
If door sticking is a symptom of significant foundation problems, more extensive repairs like mud-jacking may be necessary. In such cases, consulting with a foundation specialist is advisable. They can pinpoint whether the situation requires attention beyond simple door adjustments.
Persistent Problems
If shimming and other DIY adjustments fail to resolve the issue, it may be time to call a carpenter or contractor. They can assess whether you need to rehang the door or if there are underlying structural issues.
Complex Door Systems
Professional expertise prevents adjustments from compromising the door’s integrity, especially for doors with complex mechanisms or those in historic homes. Such doors often involve intricate locking systems or materials that require specialized handling.
FAQs About Sticking Doors
Should I shim the top or bottom hinge when a door sticks?
Shim the hinge where the door sticks and scrapes the frame. So if it sticks at the top corner, shim the top hinge. For bottom sticking, shim the bottom hinge.
How much can shims adjust alignment?
Each shim can tweak the door position up to about 1/8 inch. Use multiple shims if needed, but avoid overdoing it. Check after each addition.
When should I call a pro for a sticking door?
Call a carpenter if DIY hinge adjustments don’t solve a sticky door. A professional contractor can rehang the door or trim the door jambs if necessary.
Can I just sand or plane the door instead of shimming?
It’s best not to remove material from the door itself. Only sand or plane as a last resort, focusing on the hinges first. If more significant adjustments or carpentry are needed, reach out to your local home contractor for further troubleshooting.
Will shimming affect the door's security?
No, it won’t affect the security of your entire door if done correctly. The lock and latch will still engage fully after shimming.
