If you’ve ever had to push your door a little harder than usual or pull it back because it got stuck halfway, you’re not alone.
Many homeowners experience this problem, especially when the weather changes. A door that once opened smoothly can suddenly scrape the floor, rub against the frame, or refuse to close properly. It’s annoying, and sometimes it feels like the problem came out of nowhere.
The truth is, doors don’t start sticking for no reason. There’s always a cause and in most cases, it’s fixable.
Let’s talk about why it happens and what you can realistically do about it.
Why doors usually start sticking
Most people assume a sticking door means something is broken. That’s not always true.
In many homes, it’s simply the result of small changes happening over time.
Weather plays a big role
Wood reacts to moisture. When humidity increases, wood absorbs that moisture and expands. During summer or rainy seasons, doors often swell slightly, just enough to rub against the frame.
In winter, the opposite can happen. Dry air causes wood to shrink, which may affect alignment or create gaps.
That’s why many homeowners notice their doors sticking only at certain times of the year.
Homes move more than you think
Even solid homes shift slowly over time.
Foundations settle. Framing adjusts. Tiny movements that you’d never notice can push a door frame out of square by just a few millimeters and that’s enough to cause sticking.
This is extremely common in homes that are 10 years old or more.
Loose hinges cause sagging
Heavy doors put stress on hinges.
Over time, screws loosen, hinges bend slightly, and the door begins to sag. When this happens, the top corner of the door often rubs against the frame or the bottom edge starts dragging.
Sometimes tightening a few screws is all it takes.
Paint buildup adds thickness
If your door has been painted multiple times, the edges may have several layers of paint.
That extra thickness doesn’t seem like much, but it can prevent smooth movement, especially in older wooden frames.
Warped doors are harder to fix
Moisture exposure can permanently warp a door.
If the door looks slightly curved or twisted, sanding might help for a short time, but it usually won’t solve the problem completely.
Warping is one of the most common reasons homeowners eventually choose door replacement.
How to find where the door is sticking
Before trying to fix anything, you need to know where the problem is.
Close the door slowly and pay attention.
- Does it rub near the top corner?
- Does the bottom scrape the floor?
- Does it stick near the latch side?
You can also slide a piece of paper around the edges. Wherever the paper stops moving freely is usually the trouble spot.
Simple fixes you can try at home
Some sticking doors can be fixed in less than 20 minutes.
Start with the hinges
Tighten every hinge screw. Even one loose screw can throw the entire door off.
If a screw spins and won’t tighten, replace it with a longer screw that reaches the wall stud. This often pulls the door back into alignment instantly.
Try light sanding
If the problem area is small:
- Remove the door
- Sand only the tight spot
- Repaint or seal the sanded edge
Never leave bare wood exposed, it will absorb moisture and swell again.
Check the threshold
Exterior doors sometimes rub at the bottom because the threshold has shifted.
Many thresholds are adjustable and can be lowered slightly with a screwdriver.
Control indoor humidity
Using a dehumidifier during humid months can prevent doors from swelling.
Good ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms also helps reduce moisture buildup.
When DIY fixes don’t last
If your door keeps sticking even after adjustments, something deeper is usually wrong.
You may be dealing with:
- A warped door panel
- A shifted frame
- Structural settling
- Poor original installation
At this stage, repairs become temporary.
When replacement makes more sense
Replacing a door may be the better option if:
- The door sticks every season
- You feel drafts around the edges
- Locks no longer line up properly
- The door has visible warping
- Energy bills are increasing
Modern doors are far more energy efficient and much more stable than older models.
Benefits of replacing an old door
Homeowners often notice immediate improvements:
- Smooth opening and closing
- Better insulation
- Reduced drafts
- Improved security
- Quieter interior
- Fresh curb appeal
It’s not just about fixing the sticking, it’s about upgrading the entire entry system.
Why professional installation matters
Even a brand-new door can stick if installed incorrectly.
Professional installers make sure:
- The frame is square and level
- Proper insulation is added
- Weather seals are tight
- Hinges and locks align perfectly
Correct installation prevents future problems before they start.
How Milano Windows & Doors Inc. can help
Milano Windows & Doors Inc. works with homeowners across Toronto and the GTA to solve common door problems including sticking, drafts, and poor insulation.
Whether it’s a simple replacement or a full exterior door upgrade, proper installation and quality materials make all the difference.
Common questions homeowners ask
Why does my door stick more in summer?
Humidity causes wood to expand.
Can sanding permanently fix a sticking door?
Sometimes, but only if swelling is minor.
Is a sticking door a structural problem?
Not always, but recurring issues can indicate frame movement.
Should I repair or replace my door?
If repairs don’t last, replacement is usually the smarter option.
A sticking door is one of those problems that starts small and slowly gets worse.
Sometimes it’s just a loose hinge.
Other times, it’s a sign that the door has reached the end of its lifespan.
Understanding the cause helps you decide whether a simple fix will work or whether it’s time for a more permanent solution.
Either way, the issue can be solved with the right approach.