Repairing Common Internal Door Problems

Tip 1: Fixing a Door That Won’t Close Properly

One common issue with internal doors is that they sometimes won’t close properly. This can be due to several reasons, such as misaligned hinges, swollen wood, or an obstruction in the door frame.

Here’s how to fix a door that won’t close properly:

1. Check the hinges to see if they are loose or misaligned. Tighten the screws or adjust the hinges as needed.
2. If the door is swollen due to humidity, sand down the edges slightly where it sticks.
3. Inspect the door frame for any obstructions and remove any debris that may be blocking the door.

Tip 2: Repairing a Squeaky Door

A squeaky door can be annoying but is usually easy to fix. The squeaking is often caused by friction in the hinges.

To fix a squeaky door:

1. Apply a lubricant like WD-40 or a few drops of oil to the hinges.
2. Move the door back and forth to work the lubricant into the hinges.
3. If the squeak persists, you may need to remove the hinge pins, clean them, and apply a fresh coat of lubricant before reinserting them.

Tip 3: Adjusting a Door That Drags on the Floor

If your door drags on the floor, it can cause damage to both the door and the flooring. This issue is often due to the door sagging over time or the floor becoming uneven.

Here’s how to adjust a door that drags on the floor:

1. Check the hinges to see if they are loose. Tighten any loose screws.
2. If tightening the hinges doesn’t help, you may need to remove the door and plane down the bottom edge slightly.
3. Use a plane or sandpaper to remove a small amount of wood from the bottom of the door. Sand the edge smooth afterward.

Tip 4: Fixing a Loose Door Handle

A loose door handle can make it difficult to open and close the door. This problem is usually caused by loose screws or worn-out hardware.

To fix a loose door handle:

1. Remove the door handle by unscrewing it from the door.
2. Check the screws and replace any that are stripped or damaged.
3. Reattach the handle, ensuring the screws are tightened securely.
4. If the handle is still loose, consider replacing the handle with a new one.

Tip 5: Repairing a Sticking Door

A door that sticks can be difficult to open and close. This issue is often caused by humidity, which can cause the door to swell, or by misalignment.

Here’s how to fix a sticking door:

1. Identify where the door is sticking. Use chalk to mark the area where the door rubs against the frame.
2. Use a plane or sandpaper to remove a small amount of wood from the marked area. Sand the edge smooth afterward.
3. If the door is still sticking, check the hinges and tighten any loose screws.

Common Tools for Door Repairs

Having the right tools on hand makes door repairs easier and ensures a successful outcome. Here’s a list of common tools you'll need for repairing internal doors:

• Screwdrivers
• Hammer
• Plane or sandpaper
• Lubricant (like WD-40)
• Chisel
• Level
• Drill and bits

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When repairing internal doors, it's important to avoid common mistakes that can make the problem worse:

• Over-sanding: Removing too much wood can create gaps and make the door too loose.
• Ignoring hinge issues: Loose or misaligned hinges are often the cause of many door problems. Always check the hinges first.
• Using the wrong tools: Ensure you have the correct tools for the job to avoid damaging the door or frame.
• Rushing the repair: Take your time to diagnose the problem accurately and apply the correct solution.

Summary

Repairing common internal door problems is a straightforward task if you follow the right steps. Whether it’s a door that won’t close properly, a squeaky door, or a loose handle, the solutions often involve simple adjustments and regular maintenance. By using the correct tools and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your internal doors operate smoothly and last longer.