How to avoid getting stuck when fixing sticking doors

Doors are a basic and functional technology that has been part of human civilisation for thousands of years. Nowadays, people are usually looking for a bit more than basic function when browsing the doors on offer from suppliers like Todd Doors. Aesthetic considerations now seem as important as fulfilling the basic functions of providing security and keeping the weather out (or heat in).

Anyone who has ever tried increasing the value of a property prior to a sale, or even just watched one of those home improvement/ property developer programmes on TV will know that quality doors can often be an overlooked part of the puzzle when it comes to home improvement. However, even with the highest quality money can buy, doors are nothing but a nuisance when they start to stick, removing any value added by cosmetic appeal.

The most common cause of this problem is damp, which can cause the door to swell. The resultant change in shape means that the door may no longer fit the frame, even if all components of the door and frame were properly measured up and fitted at the time of installation.

Exterior doors should of course be adequately treated before being hung, with a material that provides a seal against moisture. This preparation is generally a given nowadays, and sticking exte
al doors are rare. If ever, exterior doors tend to stick by dragging along the floor, generally a result of poor water drainage immediately outside causing a build up of water at the bottom of the door. Over time, this can lead to the door soaking up water and expanding.

However, the problem of taking on moisture is much more common in interior doors. The wood will generally not have had the same rigorous treatment routinely applied to exterior doors, and over time general wear and tear can degrade paint or varnish, allowing possible areas for moisture ingress.

Never attempt to correct the problem if the door in question is still damp, as when conditions change and the door starts to dry out it will shrink, and you’ll find that you are left with gaps. When the door is dry, start gently using sandpaper to take back the offending area of the door that is sticking. You can always upgrade to a plane once you’ve zeroed in on the exact area of the door that is causing the problem. You will find that you pinpoint this area most effectively when engaged in the process of sanding. Perhaps most important: always correct the problem by altering the door – never sand or plane the door frame.