How to Fix That Squeaky Door Once and For All

Nothing tests your patience quite like a squeaky door that just won’t behave. Whether it’s squeaking like a haunted house, sticking like it’s glued shut, or swinging wide open like it’s begging for attention, troublesome doors are annoying, but totally fixable.

Here’s how to restore peace and quiet (and sanity) to your home in just a few simple steps.

1. For Squeaky Hinges: Lube It Up

If your door creaks every time it moves, grab a can of WD-40 or white lithium grease.

Quick Fix:

• Open and close the door a few times to locate the squeaky hinge.

• Spray a small amount of lubricant into the hinge.

• Move the door back and forth to work it in.

Bonus Tip: If you don’t have lubricant handy, a dab of petroleum jelly or even cooking oil can be a temporary fix.

2. For Sticking Doors: Check for Swelling & Rub

Sticking doors usually come from swelling (hello, humidity) or poor alignment.

DIY Tricks:

• Tighten loose hinge screws—especially the top one.

• Use sandpaper or a hand planer to gently shave the edge of the door where it sticks.

• Paint or seal raw wood edges to prevent future swelling.

3. For Doors That Won’t Stay Shut (or Open): Realign It

Swing-happy doors usually mean the hinges aren’t level.

Steps to Fix:

• Use a level to check if the door is plumb.

• Adjust the hinge screws.

• If needed, slightly bend the hinge pin using a hammer to increase friction and reduce the swing.

Need a Pro? We Got You.

If your door continues to act up—don’t worry. At The Handy Fix Co., we’ve adjusted, sanded, aligned, and fixed more doors than we can count. Whether you need a quick tune-up or a full replacement, our local handymen are ready to help. If you’re not sure, just reach out and we’ll take a look.