A door that’s out of whack or not functioning properly can lead to security problems and higher energy bills. Ignoring these issues can cause the problem to get worse, which means you’re going to have to spend money to fix it.
Doors malfunction by failing to close properly because they are out of alignment, the screws are loose, the door has swollen, or the latch is having issues. Fixing the door’s root cause, such as tightening screws, adjusting hinges, or sanding down the swollen parts, can fix the door.
Let’s discuss why these things happen and what you can do to fix them.
Misaligned Door Frame
A door that’s out of alignment with the frame often fails to close properly. This misalignment can occur gradually as a result of house settling or poor installation.
Fix:
The solution typically involves adjusting the hinges to realign the door with the frame. If the misalignment is slight, sanding down high spots where the door rubs against the frame can solve the problem. In some cases, replacing the hinges with adjustable ones might be necessary for long-term stability.
Loose or Worn Hinges
Loose or worn hinges cause the door to sag, leading to improper closure. Over time, screws may loosen, or the hinge material itself might deteriorate.
Fix:
Tighten the screws on the hinges, especially the ones at the top, as this is often where sagging begins. If the screws are stripped, replace them with longer screws to anchor the hinges securely. If the hinges are worn out, replacing them will ensure the door operates smoothly.
Swollen or Warped Door
Wooden doors are particularly susceptible to swelling or warping due to moisture, especially in humid or cold climates. When a door swells, it no longer fits properly within its frame, making it difficult to close.
Fix:
Sanding down the swollen areas of the door is a quick fix. Once the door fits properly, apply a coat of sealant or paint to protect the wood from further moisture damage. This will prevent the door from swelling again in the future, ensuring long-lasting functionality.
Misfitting Latch and Strike Plate
When the door latch doesn’t align with the strike plate, the door won’t latch and stay closed. This is often due to slight shifts in the door or frame over time.
Fix:
Start by checking the alignment of the latch and strike plate. If they don’t match, you can reposition the strike plate by unscrewing it and moving it slightly. Another solution is to file down the edges of the strike plate hole to make it larger and accommodate the latch.
Frame Shifts Due to House Settling
As a house settles, doors may shift out of alignment with their frames, causing closure issues. This is a common problem in older houses.
Fix:
If the door has shifted due to settling, adjusting the hinges may help restore proper alignment. If the problem is more severe, you may need to adjust the door frame itself. In extreme cases, consulting a professional to assess the structural shift is advised.
Door Closer Malfunction
A malfunctioning door closer can either prevent the door from closing properly or cause it to slam shut too forcefully. Closers wear down over time, or they may be incorrectly tensioned.
Fix:
Check the door closer’s tension settings. If the door is closing too fast or not fully closing, adjust the tension using the manufacturer’s instructions. If the door closer is beyond repair, replacing it with a new one will solve the problem.
Internal Door Not Closing Properly Due to Warped Floors
Shifts in flooring can cause internal doors to misalign with the frame, leading to difficulty in closing.
Fix:
Examine the floor beneath the door for any warping or unevenness. Addressing the flooring issue by leveling the affected area can resolve the misalignment. In some cases, trimming the bottom of the door may also be necessary to ensure a smooth closing.
Winter-Induced Swelling
Doors often swell in winter due to increased moisture levels in the air. This can cause wooden doors to stick or become difficult to close.
Fix:
Prevent winter swelling by sanding down the edges of the door where it sticks. After sanding, apply a high-quality sealant to protect the wood from moisture absorption during the winter months. This preventive measure can keep the door closing properly throughout the year.
Front Door Won’t Close Due to Frame Expansion
Exposure to outdoor elements can cause the front door frame to expand, making it difficult for the door to close fully. This problem is especially common in areas with high humidity.
Fix:
Re-aligning the door frame can help solve this issue. If the expansion is minor, adding weatherstripping to the door’s edge can create a tighter seal, ensuring that the door closes without any gaps. In more extreme cases, adjusting the frame itself may be necessary.
Worn-Out Door Seals
The seals or weatherstripping around a door play a crucial role in ensuring proper closure. Over time, these materials can wear out, leading to gaps and improper closing.
Fix:
Inspect the door seals and replace any worn or damaged sections. Installing new weatherstripping around the door will ensure a snug fit, preventing drafts and improving energy efficiency while also resolving any closure problems.
Conclusion
Identifying the root cause of a door not closing properly is key to selecting the correct fix. Addressing issues such as misalignment, swollen wood, or worn hinges can restore your door’s full functionality.
