Why Is My Door Sticking at the Top and Not Closing Smoothly?

A door that rubs against the top of the frame is usually due to loose hinge screws, a swollen door, or a settled frame. Here's how to fix it without replacing the door.

Category:Doors & Windows

Difficulty:Easy

Time:20 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jun 12, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why Is My Door Sticking at the Top and Not Closing Smoothly?, start with "Tighten the top hinge screws": Open the door and locate the top hinge. Using a screwdriver, tighten both screws on the hinge leaf attached to the door. If they spin freely, replace them with 3-inch screws that reach the wall stud. Stop DIY if the door frame is visibly cracked or separating from the wall. This is listed as a easy recovery and usually takes about 20 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaDoors & Windows

Estimated time20 min

DifficultyEasy

Stop conditions3

Last updated Jun 12, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceDoor

Current stateSticking

Specific stateHinge Sag

Failed stepHinge Screw Loosened

Likely failure typeMisalignment

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

When a door sticks at the top, it often means the hinge side has shifted or the door has expanded from humidity. Loose screws in the top hinge can cause the door to sag. Alternatively, the frame may have settled, creating a tight spot. This guide shows you how to adjust the hinges and plane the door if needed.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Tighten the top hinge screws

Open the door and locate the top hinge. Using a screwdriver, tighten both screws on the hinge leaf attached to the door. If they spin freely, replace them with 3-inch screws that reach the wall stud.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

See what's happening and how to try the first recovery step.

Check for loose hinge pinsOpen the door halfway and lift up on it. If the door moves up, the hinge pin is worn. Remove the pin, tap it with a hammer to slightly bend it, then reinsert.

Inspect the strike plate alignmentClose the door and look at the gap between the door and the frame at the top. If it's uneven, the strike plate may need to be moved. Remove it and file the hole slightly.

Sand the sticking areaIf the door is swollen from humidity, use coarse sandpaper (80-grit) to sand the top edge where it rubs. Work in the direction of the grain.

Test the door swingAfter adjustments, open and close the door several times. It should move smoothly without catching. If it still sticks, proceed to planing the door.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Plane the door edgeIf hinge adjustments don't work, remove the door and use a hand plane to shave 1/16 inch off the top edge. Repaint or seal the bare wood.

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