How to Fix a Door That Won’t Close: Expert Tips from NYC Doors and More
Learn how to fix a door that won’t close with tips from NYC Doors and More. From adjusting strike plates to tightening hinge screws, we cover common causes like contact between the door and frame, and gaps that let in drafts. If DIY fixes aren’t enough, our expert team in New York City is ready to help with professional door repair services.
Table of Contents:
1. Introduction
2. Common Causes of a Door That Won’t Close
– Contact Between the Door and Frame
– Gaps Between the Door and Frame
3. DIY Fixes for a Door That Won’t Close
– Adjust the Strike Plate
– Tighten the Hinge Screws
– Check the Hinge Alignment
– Lubricate the Door Latch
– Replace Damaged Hinges
– Trim the Door
– Adjust the Hinge Pin
– Fill Loose Screw Holes
4. When to Call a Professional
5. Why Choose NYC Doors and More?
6. Conclusion
Introduction
A door that won’t close properly can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to security risks, drafts, and even damage to your home. Whether it’s due to contact between the top of the door and the frame or gaps between the door and the frame, identifying the cause is the first step toward a solution. This guide from NYC Doors and More will walk you through common reasons why doors may not close properly and offer practical fixes. Plus, if you’re in New York City, our expert team is ready to assist with any door-related issues you face.
Common Causes of a Door That Won’t Close
Contact Between the Door and Frame
One of the most frequent issues is contact between the door and the frame, particularly at the top. This can happen due to:
– Misaligned Hinges: Loose or uneven hinges cause the door to sag, leading to contact with the frame.
– Warped Door or Frame: Changes in temperature and humidity can warp wood, making the door too tight for the frame.
– House Settling: Over time, your home may shift slightly, causing the door frame to move and the door to no longer fit properly.
Gaps Between the Door and Frame
Gaps can make your door look unaligned and create drafts. Causes include:
– Loose or Damaged Hinges: Hinges that are loose or damaged can cause the door to hang unevenly, creating gaps.
– Improper Installation: A poorly installed door may have gaps from the start due to incorrect measurements.
– Warping: Similar to causing contact, warping can also create gaps as the wood bends out of shape.
– Worn Weather Stripping: Old or compressed weather stripping can create small gaps, particularly in exterior doors.
DIY Fixes for a Door That Won’t Close
Adjust the Strike Plate
If your door doesn’t latch or close tightly, adjust the strike plate. Remove it, center it over the latch, and reinstall it. For more extensive misalignment, you may need to chisel out some wood for a better fit.
Tighten the Hinge Screws
Loose hinge screws often lead to sagging doors. Tighten any loose screws, and if they don’t hold, replace them with longer screws that anchor securely into the door frame.
Check the Hinge Alignment
Damaged or misaligned hinges can prevent proper closure. Ensure all screws are present, and the hinge pin is secure. Replace the hinge if needed.
Lubricate the Door Latch
A stuck latch can be fixed with a lubricant like WD-40. Apply the lubricant, wipe clean, and the latch should work more freely.
Replace Damaged Hinges
If the hinge itself is damaged, replacing it can restore proper door alignment and eliminate sticking issues
Trim the Door
Humidity can cause doors to swell. Use a planer or sandpaper to trim the door edges until it fits the frame again.
Adjust the Hinge Pin
A loose hinge pin can lead to misalignment. Tighten the pin to eliminate any play in the hinge.
Fill Loose Screw Holes
If screws are stripped, fill the holes with a wooden dowel, toothpicks, or wood filler before re-drilling and re-inserting the screws for a secure fit.
When to Call a Professional
If your door still won’t close after trying these fixes, or if the problem involves structural issues like severe warping or a shifted frame, it’s time to call the professionals. NYC Doors and More specializes in fixing doors that won’t close, offering reliable service across New York City. Whether it’s a residential front door or a commercial aluminum door, our experts can handle any repair with precision.
Why Choose NYC Doors and More?
At NYC Doors and More, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. With years of experience in the industry, we understand the unique challenges New York City buildings present, from old brownstones to modern skyscrapers. Our team is equipped to handle any door issue, big or small, with fast and efficient service.
Conclusion
A door that won’t close properly is more than just an annoyance—it’s a problem that needs fixing to maintain security and comfort. By understanding the common causes and applying the right solutions, you can often resolve the issue on your own. However, for more complex problems, NYC Doors and More is here to help, offering expert door repair services throughout NYC.