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6 Tips on How to Fix an Internal Door That Won’t CloseStruggling with an internal door that won’t close properly? Whether it’s a misaligned latch, a swollen door, or loose hinges, a door that won’t close can be a real nuisance. Fortunately, most issues can be fixed with a few simple adjustments. Here are six tips to help you fix that stubborn door and restore smooth operation.
In this post staircase refurbishment specialists, A & T Carpentry, share their solutions to DIY door fixes.
1. Check the Hinges
Over time, hinges can become loose, causing the door to sag and misalign with the latch. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws in the hinges. If the screws are stripped, you may need to replace them with longer ones or insert wood glue and matchsticks into the holes before screwing them back in. This can give the screws a better grip and realign the door.
2. Adjust the Strike Plate
If your door is misaligned with the latch, adjusting the strike plate may help. The strike plate is the metal piece attached to the door frame where the latch enters.
Lipstick is the best tool for the job here! Your door latch and strike plate might be misaligned, causing your door to stay open. This can be difficult to see which is where the lipstick test comes in. Put some lipstick on the door latch and stick masking tape to the strike plate. When you close the door, you’ll be able to see the lipstick mark left on the masking tape which indicates where the latch and plate meet.
Loosen the screws of the strike plate and adjust it slightly up or down to match the latch’s position. Once aligned, retighten the screws and test the door.
3. Sand the Door Edges
In humid environments, internal doors can swell, making them difficult to close. To fix this, identify the area where the door is sticking and use sandpaper or a planer to shave off a small amount of wood. Start by sanding lightly and test the door frequently to avoid removing too much material.
4. Tighten the Door Frame
A loose or warped door frame can cause the door to misalign. Inspect the frame for any gaps or loose areas. Tighten any loose screws or nails securing the frame to the wall. In some cases, you may need to remove the trim and reinforce the frame with additional screws or shims.
5. Lubricate The Hinges
If your door sticks or creaks when closing, it might just need a bit of lubrication. Apply a small amount of oil or silicone spray to the hinges. Open and close the door several times to work the lubricant into the hinge pins. This simple step can often resolve issues with doors that are hard to close.
6. Replace the Latch
Sometimes, the problem lies with a worn-out latch that no longer catches properly. If you’ve tried adjusting the strike plate and the door still won’t close, consider replacing the latch. Most latches can be swapped out with a new one easily, using just a screwdriver.
Conclusion
A door that won’t close can be frustrating, but with these six tips, you can often fix the problem without calling a professional. Whether it’s tightening hinges, adjusting the strike plate, or simply sanding down a swollen door, these solutions can help you get your door back in working order. Don’t let a stubborn door disrupt your peace – tackle the problem today!
Contact A & T Carpentry
A & T Carpentry would love to hear about your project. Why not tell them about your new staircase installation or renovation plans. They are always on hand to offer free friendly advice and a competitive quotation.
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