Home / Door questions / Doors that stick
Why Does My Wood Front Door Stick in Summer?
Because the wood takes on moisture and swells, usually through edges that were never sealed, and often helped by hinges that have sagged. Tighten the hinges first; plane only in the dry season, then seal the cut edge.
St. Pete Custom Doors builds and installs hand-carved and custom wood doors in St. Petersburg, FL. Short answer: Because the wood takes on moisture and swells, usually through edges that were never sealed, and often helped by hinges that have sagged. Tighten the hinges first; plane only in the dry season, then seal the cut edge.
Fix It in This Order
- Tighten the hinge screws; replace a few with long screws into the framing.
- Check the strike and latch alignment.
- Only then plane, and only in the dry season.
- Seal every planed edge the same day; bare wood swells fastest.
Why New Doors Don't Do It
Lumber settled to local air before it is cut, and a finish on all six sides including the top and bottom edges, stop most seasonal movement. More in wood doors in Florida.
FAQ
More on Sticking Doors
Will it shrink back in winter?
Usually, which is why planing in August leaves a gap in January.
Is a sticking door a sign of rot?
Sometimes. Soft wood at the bottom corners or the sill means it needs a closer look.
Ask Us About Sticking Doors
Based in St. Petersburg · serving St. Pete, St. Pete Beach, South Tampa & Apollo Beach