How to Fix Sagging Front Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide

A sagging front door can be difficult to close properly and can even cause drafts to sneak into your home. Over time, wear and tear or changes in your home’s structure can affect how well your door hangs.

Fortunately, fixing a sagging door is often a straightforward process you can handle with some basic tools. This guide will walk you through common causes, solutions, and the potential costs of addressing this issue. 

Common Causes of a Sagging Front Door 

Several factors can cause a front door to sag, such as: 

• Loose or worn hinges – Over time, the screws securing your door hinges to the frame or the door itself may loosen. In some cases, the hinges can even wear out, causing the door to hang unevenly. 

• Warped or swollen door – Exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures can cause wooden doors to warp or swell. This affects their alignment, making them difficult to close properly. 

• Foundation shifting – If your home’s foundation has shifted, it can change the alignment of door frames and cause sagging. This is a more serious issue that may require professional help to address. 

Identifying the root of the problem is the first step toward fixing it effectively. 

How to Fix a Sagging Door 

Once you’ve identified the cause, you can begin fixing the issue. Consider these steps to restore your front door to its proper alignment: 

Tighten or Replace Loose Hinges 

Start by inspecting the hinges. If the screws are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver. If the screws won’t tighten because the holes have become stripped, you can use longer screws to reach the deeper, intact wood. Fill the stripped holes with wood glue and wooden toothpicks or dowels, let it dry, and then reinsert the screws. If the hinges themselves are bent or damaged, replace them as well. Be sure to select hinges that match the size and weight of your door. 

Shim the Door to Realign It 

If tightening the hinges doesn’t fully resolve the issue, you may need to use shims. Remove the hinge screws and slide a thin shim (such as cardboard or a wooden wedge) behind the hinge. Reattach the hinge and tighten the screws. Test the door’s alignment and adjust the shim thickness if necessary. 

Adjust the Strike Plate 

If your door doesn’t latch properly after fixing the alignment, the strike plate may need to be adjusted. Unscrew the strike plate and reposition it slightly up or down to align with the latch. Use a chisel to widen the mortise if needed and screw the plate back into place. 

Check and Adjust the Latch Mechanism 

Sometimes, the latch itself may be misaligned. Test the latch to ensure it slides smoothly into the strike plate. If it’s sticking, loosen the screws on the latch and adjust its position slightly. Tighten the screws and test again. 

Final Testing and Adjustments 

After completing the repairs, it’s important to test the door to ensure it operates smoothly. Open and close the door multiple times to check for any sticking, dragging, or misalignment. Make additional adjustments if needed. Apply a lubricant like WD-40 to the hinges and latch to reduce friction and prevent squeaking. 

Cost to Fix Sagging Front Doors 

The cost of fixing a sagging front door depends on the extent of the issue and whether you do the repairs yourself or hire a professional. Tightening screws, adding shims, or adjusting the strike plate are budget-friendly fixes that typically cost less than $20 for materials like screws and shims.

If you hire a handyman or carpenter, labor costs can range from $75 to $150 depending on the complexity of the repairs. New hinges can cost $10 to $20 per pair, while a door replacement for severe warping or structural damage can cost several hundred dollars. 

Final Thoughts 

By identifying the cause and following the right steps, you can restore your door’s function and appearance. If you’re dealing with a problem that’s more serious, like a kicked in door, or you’d prefer professional assistance, get connected with experienced professionals in your area, who’ll ensure your front door is back to working perfectly. 

Home remodeling companies can position themselves as the industry standard by applying for Best Pick certification.