Sticking, Squeaky or Draughty Doors: Common Problems and Fixes
Why doors stick, drop, squeak, rattle or let in draughts, and the simple fixes for hinges, latches and seals.
Doors take a lot of use, and small problems build up: a door that catches on the frame, a latch that will not click shut, a draught under the front door. Most of these have quick, inexpensive fixes once you know the cause.
The quick answer
- Sticking at the top on the handle side: tighten the top hinge screws first
- Dropped door: fit longer screws in the top hinge so they bite into the frame
- Squeaky door: lubricate the hinge pins
- Latch will not catch: adjust or move the strike plate
- Draughts: fit seals around the frame and a brush or seal at the bottom
Diagnose the problem
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
| Rubs at the top corner on the handle side | Loose top hinge, door has dropped | Tighten or lengthen top hinge screws |
| Rubs along the bottom | Door dropped, or new flooring is higher | Tighten hinges, or trim the door |
| Sticks in winter, fine in summer | Timber swelling with moisture | Plane slightly and seal all edges with paint |
| Will not latch | Strike plate out of line | Adjust or reposition the strike plate |
| Rattles when closed | Gap between door and stop | Move the strike plate or fit a seal |
| Squeaks | Dry hinge pins | Lubricate the hinges |
Fixing loose hinges
- Open the door and check each hinge for loose screws
- Tighten them with a screwdriver
- If the screws spin without tightening, replace them with longer screws that reach the timber of the frame behind
- For badly worn holes, fill them with wooden dowels and glue, let them set, then re-drill
Adjusting the latch
Close the door slowly and watch where the latch meets the strike plate. Lipstick or chalk on the latch can show where it hits. Often moving the strike plate a few millimetres, or filing the opening slightly, is enough.
Doors that rub on new flooring
New carpet, LVT or laminate often raises the floor height. The door may need trimming at the bottom. This is easier and neater with the door taken off its hinges. Our flooring guide explains why door clearance should be in your flooring quote.
Stopping draughts
- Fit self-adhesive or nail-on draught strips around the frame
- Fit a brush strip or threshold seal at the bottom of external doors
- Cover the letterbox with a brush or flap
- Check external door seals and replace any that are flattened or torn
When to plane or replace a door
Plane a door only after checking the hinges, as planing a door that has simply dropped causes a gap later. Always seal any bare timber after planing, or it will absorb moisture and swell again. A door that is warped, split or badly damaged may be better replaced.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best lubricant for squeaky hinges?
A light oil or silicone spray on the hinge pins usually works. Wipe off any excess.
Can you fit fire doors?
Fire doors are life-safety components, so do not plane, trim, drill, adjust closers or replace seals without advice from a competent fire-door specialist. Flat entrance doors and doors on escape routes may be fire-rated. Tell us before booking so the correct assessment and tradesperson can be arranged.
Can you hang new internal doors?
Yes. Send photos and the door sizes, and we can quote for hanging, trimming and fitting handles.
Official guidance and further reading
GOV.UK: fire doors in blocks of flats
Related guides
- Winter home maintenance checklist
- How to choose a reliable handyman
- Front and back doors before winter
Send photos and your postcode, or call 07444 262522.