Doors & Windows · Doors & Windows
Plane a Sticking Door
Repair summary
Doors stick from humidity swelling the timber or hinges sagging. Check the hinges first — tightening loose screws often solves it. If the door still binds, mark the rub line with chalk and plane 1-2mm off the edge.
Likely issue
Swollen timber or loose hinges
DIY difficulty
2/5
Estimated DIY cost
$10–$25
Estimated tradie cost
$120–$200
Tools required
- Block plane
- Screwdriver
- Sandpaper
- Pencil
Materials required
Step-by-step instructions
- Close the door slowly and watch where it rubs.
- Doors stick from humidity swelling the timber or hinges sagging. Check the hinges first — tightening loose screws often solves it. If the door still binds, mark the rub line with chalk and plane 1-2mm off the edge.
Safety warnings
Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses), isolate power or water where relevant, and stop work if anything looks unsafe or unfamiliar.
When to call a tradie
Call a licensed tradie if the work is outside the scope of this guide, involves regulated trades (electrical, gas, structural, waterproofing), or if you discover hidden damage. A professional will typically charge $120–$200.
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