How to free a stuck door

1. Work out where the door is sticking

Open and close the door slowly and look for the exact point where it catches. Common places are the top corner, the latch side, the bottom edge, or around the hinge side.

If you see a shiny rub mark, scraped paint, or a tight gap, that is usually where the door or frame needs attention.

2. Check the hinges first

Loose hinge screws can let the door drop slightly, which makes it rub on the frame or floor. If the hinge looks loose, gently tighten the screws with the correct screwdriver.

If the screws spin without tightening, the screw holes may be worn and need a small repair rather than more force.

3. Check for swelling after damp weather

Timber doors can swell when the weather is wet or humid. If the door only sticks in damp conditions, forcing it can damage the frame, lock, or paintwork.

Try improving ventilation and letting the door dry naturally. If it keeps happening, the door may need careful easing, sealing, or adjustment.

4. Look at the latch and keep plate

If the door closes but will not click shut, the latch may not line up with the keep plate on the frame. You may see it hitting slightly high, low, or to one side.

A minor alignment issue can sometimes be adjusted, but avoid filing or moving hardware too much unless you are confident, as it can make the lock less secure.

5. Do not force the handle or lock

If the handle feels strained or the lock is difficult to turn, stop before something breaks. A stuck latch, dropped door, or misaligned keep can quickly turn into a bigger repair.

When to call a handyman

Call Richard if the door keeps sticking, has dropped on its hinges, rubs badly, will not latch, has damaged screw holes, or needs planing and refitting. A small adjustment now can prevent damage to the frame, hinges, lock, or floor.