Core Handyman Services – A Local Chelmsford Handyman Explains How to Fix Sticking Doors Properly

Core Handyman Services – A Local Chelmsford Handyman Explains How to Fix Sticking Doors Properly

Sticking doors are one of the most common issues in homes across Chelmsford. They scrape on the floor, catch on the frame, or won’t close smoothly. Many people assume the door needs replacing, but in most cases the problem can be fixed with the right approach.

At Core Handyman Services, door repairs are assessed properly before any work starts, saving unnecessary cost and disruption.

Why Doors Start to Stick

Doors rarely fail without a reason. Common causes include:

• Seasonal movement in timber

• Settlement in older properties

• Worn hinges or loose fixings

• Previous poor repairs or paint build-up

Identifying the cause is essential. Trimming a door without addressing hinge or frame issues often leads to repeat problems.

Hinge and Frame Checks First

Before any planing or cutting, hinges and fixings should be checked:

• Loose screws can cause doors to drop

• Worn hinge pins can allow movement

• Frames may be slightly out of square

Correcting these issues first can often resolve the problem without altering the door itself.

When Planing Is Actually Needed

If adjustment alone doesn’t solve the issue, controlled planing may be required. This must be done carefully to:

• Remove only the minimum material needed

• Maintain clean, straight edges

• Avoid damaging the door finish

Once trimmed, the exposed timber must be sealed correctly to prevent future swelling.

Doors Catching on Carpets or Floors

New flooring is a frequent cause of door problems. Carpets, underlay, and laminate all change floor height.

A proper fix involves:

• Removing the door

• Cutting accurately to the required clearance

• Refinishing the bottom edge for durability

Quick trimming without sealing often leads to moisture damage later.

Paint Build-Up and Poor Decorating

Heavy layers of paint on door edges and frames can cause tight spots. This is especially common in older properties where doors have been repainted multiple times.

Careful removal and refinishing can restore smooth operation without damaging the door or frame.

Why a Proper Repair Matters

Poor door repairs can cause:

• Continued sticking

• Uneven gaps

• Damage to frames and flooring

A correctly adjusted door should open and close smoothly, latch properly, and sit evenly within the frame.

Local Chelmsford Handyman for Door Repairs

Core Handyman Services provides professional door adjustments and repairs across Chelmsford and surrounding areas. Each job is completed with care, attention to detail, and a clean finish.

If a door is sticking, scraping, or not closing correctly, it can usually be fixed without replacement.

Contact Core Handyman Services, your reliable local Chelmsford handyman, for advice or a quote.