How to fix a door that rubs at the top 
Stouffville, Ontario 

Why Doors Rub at the Top in Stouffville

When a door rubs at the top, it can be frustrating. The door may stick, be hard to open or close, and might even damage the frame or the door itself over time. In Stouffville, this problem happens often because of changes in weather or settling of homes. Wood can swell when it gets damp outside, or the entire house can shift just enough to make the door misaligned. Knowing why this happens can help with fixing it properly.

Most doors become hard to operate because the hinges may be loose or the frame has moved slightly. Sometimes, the top of the door rubs against the inside of the door frame or the trim. This makes it annoying to use and could lead to further damage if it is not taken care of.

How to Identify the Cause in Your Stouffville Home

To figure out why your door rubs at the top, start by observing the door’s behaviour closely. Open and close it slowly to notice exactly where the resistance or rubbing happens. You might see marks on the door or the frame where they touch more than they should.

Check the hinges for looseness by closing the door and seeing if there’s any wobble. If the hinges are tight and seem okay, also look at the door frame itself. Sometimes, house settling causes shifts in the door frame’s shape, making one side or the top press against the door. Finally, take a look at the door material. Wood doors are more prone to swelling and shrinking, which can affect how they fit inside the frame.

Simple Fixes to Stop a Door From Rubbing at the Top

One easy way to fix a rubbing door is by adjusting the hinges. If the top hinge is loose or has slipped, tightening the screws might help realign the door properly. Sometimes, replacing the screws with longer ones lets the hinge hold better and corrects the position.

If tightening the hinge doesn’t help, try slightly loosening the bottom hinge to raise that side of the door. This change in angle can reduce rubbing at the top. You can also add thin cardboard or wooden shims behind the hinges to adjust the door’s position gently.

In cases where the door sticks because of swelling due to moisture, sanding or planing the top edge where it rubs might be necessary. Use a sanding block or a hand planer carefully to shave a little off the door until it fits smoothly. Remember to sand evenly and avoid removing too much material.

When and How to Get Professional Help

While some door fixes are easy and can be done by homeowners, there are times when calling in an expert is a better choice. If you try adjusting the hinges and sanding but the door still rubs or the problem keeps coming back, the door frame or the door itself might need more complex work.

Everest Windows and Doors is the best local candidate for Windows and Doors Sales, Service and Installation in Stouffville. Their team can inspect the door and frame professionally and offer repairs or replacement options. If you want reliable service, their experts have the right skill and the tools to make sure your door works perfectly again. You can learn more about their window services, door services, and the custom options available for windows and doors.

Keeping Your Doors in Good Shape Year Round

Maintaining doors regularly can prevent rubbing issues before they start. In Stouffville, humid summers and cold winters affect door materials more than you might think. Check your doors every few months to see if hinges are loose, or if the door has begun to swell or shrink.

Cleaning your door and frame helps too, by keeping dirt and grime from building up where the door closes. In some cases, applying a weather-stripping or adjusting the door sweep can help avoid friction and stops drafts at the same time.

If you notice any changes, like the door not fitting right or unusual wear on the frame, don’t wait too long to address it. Early repairs are usually simpler and less costly. And local experts like Everest Windows and Doors in Stouffville can help you with advice or service if you want a thorough fix.