Why Does My Door Stick at the Top When I Close It?

A door that sticks at the top is often caused by swollen wood or loose hinges. Adjust the hinges or sand the binding spot.

Category:Doors & Windows

Difficulty:Easy

Time:20 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jun 18, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why Does My Door Stick at the Top When I Close It?, start with "Identify the binding spot": Close the door slowly and watch where it rubs against the frame. Mark the spot with a pencil for reference. Stop DIY if the door frame is visibly warped or cracked. 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 18, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceDoor

Current stateSticking

Specific stateSwollen Wood

Failed stepSwollen Wood

Likely failure typeMisalignment

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

A door that binds at the top typically indicates the door frame has shifted, the hinges have loosened, or the door has absorbed moisture and expanded. Seasonal humidity changes are a common culprit. Fixing it restores smooth operation and prevents damage to the door and frame.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Identify the binding spot

Close the door slowly and watch where it rubs against the frame. Mark the spot with a pencil for reference.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

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

Tighten the hinge screwsOpen the door and check all hinge screws. Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose screws, especially the top hinge screws.

Adjust the strike plate if neededIf the door latches but sticks, loosen the strike plate screws slightly and tap the plate slightly outward with a hammer. Retighten.

Sand the binding areaUse 100-grit sandpaper on a sanding block to gently sand the marked spot on the door edge. Test the fit repeatedly to avoid over-sanding.

Apply wax or lubricantRub a bar of paraffin wax or spray dry lubricant along the sanded edge to reduce future friction.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Plane the door edgeIf adjusting hinges doesn't work, remove the door and use a hand plane to shave off 1/16 inch from the binding edge. Sand smooth and repaint.

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