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Door Sticks and Won't Close? Plane the Edge for a Perfect Fit

Does your door rub against the frame? Learn how to locate the high spot and shave it down with a hand plane.

Category:Doors & Windows
Difficulty:Moderate
Time:30 min
Success:50%
Updated:Jun 1, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Door Sticks and Won't Close? Plane the Edge for a Perfect Fit, start with "Mark the Rubbing Area": Close the door slowly and look for the spot where it contacts the frame. Use a pencil to mark the high point on the door edge. Stop DIY if the door binds at the top and bottom simultaneously. This is listed as a moderate recovery and usually takes about 30 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaDoors & Windows
Estimated time30 min
DifficultyModerate
Stop conditions3

Last updated Jun 1, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceDoor
Current stateSticking
Specific stateBinding Edge
Failed stepEdge Binding
Likely failure typeMisalignment
DIY boundaryDIY recovery first
paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

A door that sticks or won't close properly is often due to seasonal wood expansion or a hinge that has shifted. Rubbing usually occurs at the top or bottom edge. Planing the door edge is a reliable fix that restores smooth operation.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step
Mark the Rubbing Area

Mark the Rubbing Area

Close the door slowly and look for the spot where it contacts the frame. Use a pencil to mark the high point on the door edge.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

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

1
Remove the Door
Remove the DoorTap the hinge pins out with a hammer and screwdriver, then lift the door off and set it on sawhorses.
2
Plane the Marked Area
Plane the Marked AreaUsing a hand plane, shave thin strips from the marked edge. Work slowly and check the fit frequently.
3
Rehang and Test
Rehang and TestReplace the door on the hinges, tap the pins back in, and close the door to check for smooth operation.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Tighten the Hinge ScrewsLoose hinge screws can cause the door to sag and rub. Tighten them with a screwdriver.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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warning5. Stop DIY If

Don't continue if any of these apply.

reportThe door binds at the top and bottom simultaneously
reportYou planed more than 1/8 inch and it still sticks
reportThe door frame itself is visibly warped
Still stuck?Get personalized help with AI Recovery.

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Similar Failure Pattern

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This page provides general DIY guidance.
If you're unsure, it's always best to consult a professional.