How to Fix a Sagging Door: A Step-by-Step Guide

A sagging door can be a frustrating issue, making it difficult to open and close smoothly. And if you want to leave your sagging door open, it can create additional problems, like your door swinging closed on its own. Whether the door is sticking to the doorframe, swinging closed on its own, or just not hanging properly, fixing a sagging door is a manageable DIY project for many homeowners. However, if the problem persists or you’re dealing with more complex issues, your local Mr. Handyman^® is here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to fix a sagging door and share when it might be time to call in a professional to restore your door’s functionality and appearance.

How to Fix a Sagging Door: 4 Tips

A sagging door often results from loose or worn-out hinges, but there are several easy fixes you can try before calling in a professional. Follow these simple steps to fix your sagging door.

1. Tighten the Hinges

The first thing to try when your door starts sagging is tightening the screws on the door’s hinges. Over time, the screws in the hinges can loosen, causing the door to drop out of alignment. Use a screwdriver (rather than a power drill) to gently tighten the screws and avoid stripping them. This can often correct minor sagging and improve the door’s alignment in the frame.

2. Fill the Screw Holes

If the screw holes in the door hinges have become enlarged or stripped, the screws may no longer hold the door securely in place. To fix this, you can fill the holes with toothpicks and wood glue to create a tighter fit. Once the glue has dried, reinsert the screws and tighten the hinges. This simple trick will help secure the door and realign it in the doorframe.

3. Replace the Center Screw with a Longer One

If tightening the screws doesn’t help, try replacing the middle screw of the hinges with a longer one. A 3-inch screw that reaches beyond the doorjamb and into the wall stud will provide extra support and help prevent the door from sagging further. Check all other screws to ensure they are secure.

4. Sand the Door Edges

If your door is still rubbing against the jamb or sticking at the top, bottom, or sides, sanding the edges of the door may help. Use a belt sander or hand planer to shave down the areas where the door is making contact with the frame. Be careful not to sand too much, as you want the door to fit snugly but without resistance. Test the door’s fit after each sanding pass to ensure smooth operation.

Check for Whole-House Sagging

If fixing the door’s hinges and edges doesn’t solve the problem, the cause of the sagging may be related to your home’s foundation. Over time, homes can settle, causing walls and door frames to shift. Cracks in the walls or foundation could indicate a larger structural issue that might be affecting the door’s alignment.

If you notice signs of settling, it’s worth scheduling a home inspection to determine if the issue is minor or something that requires professional attention. Addressing the underlying structural problem will help prevent future door sagging and ensure your home remains stable.

When to Call a Professional to Fix a Sagging Door

While DIY fixes can work wonders for minor sagging issues, some situations may require professional help. If you've tried fixing the problem yourself and your door is still misaligned, or if you suspect a larger structural issue, it’s time to call in an expert. A professional handyman or carpenter can address more complex problems, such as replacing damaged door frames, realigning door jambs, or handling structural issues in the foundation.

Fix Your Sagging Door Today with Help from the Experts at Mr. Handyman

A sagging door can impact your home’s functionality and appearance, but while DIY fixes may work for minor issues, more complex problems require professional expertise. If you’ve tried fixing it yourself or suspect underlying issues, don’t wait—request service now from a Mr. Handyman service professional. Our expert team is ready to handle door repairs, hinge adjustments, and custom installations to restore your door’s performance. Don’t let a sagging door disrupt your daily routine—let the professionals handle it.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Handyman is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mr. Handyman location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.