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How to fix a binding door

Fix doors that are binding with these simple steps
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If you have a hinged door that is binding on the latch, the first place to look is at the hinges. The screws may have worked loose and a few turns with a screwdriver may solve it. If the hinges are tight, however, the door may need to be planed or sanded at the point it is rubbing. 

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WATCH: Adam Dovile explains the tips to hanging a door correctly

In this example, the screws have been ripped completely out of the jamb, stripping the timber and leaving nothing for them to grip onto. It may seem like a big problem, but it is surprisingly easy to fix.

Gather your supplies

PVA glue

6mm dowel

Drill and bits, including 5mm drill bit

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Tape

Screws

Hammer

Sharp chise

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Before

Here’s how

Step 1

With door in open position, knock a wedge underneath the latch side to support its weight. Unscrew hinges and lift door out.

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Step 2

Drill out holes where screws won’t grip using 5mm bit. Using a bit that is a millimetre smaller than the dowel will make it a tight fit. If the back of the door jamb is visible, as it is here, wrap a piece of tape around drill bit as a depth-guide so you don’t drill too deep.

Step 3

Squeeze PVA glue into holes and tap in a short length of dowel. Using sharp chisel, cut off dowel so it’s flush with the hinge housing. Leave to dry.

Step 4

Wedge door up in open position. First screw hinges into holes that didn’t need repairing. Drill pilot holes into dowel using hinge as a guide, then screw on.

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How to fix a door that scrapes the floor

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