How to fix a binding door

Fix doors that are binding with these simple steps - by Better Homes and Gardens

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.

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

Tape

Screws

Hammer

Sharp chise

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.

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.