How to fix a door that sticks due to humidity is a question most door installation companies receive in the summer.
In this brief article, we will give you 10 ways to help fix a door that sticks due to humidity.
Why do doors stick due to humidity?
There are a few reasons why doors can stick due to humidity.
One reason is that the wood expands when it absorbs moisture from the air. This can cause the door to swell and become difficult to open.
Another reason is that the metal components of the door (such as the hinges and screws) can rust when exposed to humid conditions. This can also make the door harder to open.
Finally, dirt and debris can build up on the surface of the door, making it more difficult to slide open.
If you’re having trouble with a sticking door, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem. First, try wiping down the door with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the problem. Second, you can try using a lubricant on the hinges and screws to help reduce friction. Finally, if the problem persists, you may need to adjust the fit of the door by sanding down the edges or trimming the bottom of the door.
10 tricks to fix a door that sticks due to humidity
1. Check the door’s fit in its frame. If the door is warped, it may not be able to close properly. Use a screwdriver or pry bar to adjust the hinges so that the door fits snugly in the frame.
2. Inspect the weatherstripping. If the door is sticking because of humidity, chances are that the weatherstripping needs to be replaced. Old or damaged weatherstripping can cause leaks which let moist air into your home, causing doors to stick.
3. Apply a lubricant to sticky hinges. WD-40 or another silicone-based lubricant (or even wax) can help fix a sticking door by reducing friction. However, be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant, as too much can actually make the problem worse.
4. Hang a bag of charcoal in the closet. This may sound strange, but hanging a bag of charcoal in your closet can help absorb moisture and prevent doors from sticking.
5. Use a dehumidifier. If you live in a particularly humid climate, using a dehumidifier in your home can help reduce the amount of moisture in the air, preventing doors from sticking.
6. Ventilate your home. Make sure to ventilate your home, especially in rooms where doors tend to stick. Using a fan or opening windows can help circulate air and reduce humidity.
7. Use a humidifier. If the air in your home is too dry, it can cause doors to stick. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, preventing doors from sticking.
8. Inspect door frames for cracks. If there are cracks in your door frame, moist air can seep in and cause doors to stick. Caulking or weatherstripping the cracks can help prevent this problem.
9. Place a pan of water near the door. Placing a pan of water near the door can help add moisture to the air and prevent doors from sticking.
10. Adjust the humidity in your home. The ideal humidity level for your home is between 30 and 50 percent. If the humidity in your home is too high or too low, it can cause doors to stick. Investing in a humidifier or dehumidifier can help you adjust the humidity in your home and prevent doors from sticking.
Doors can stick for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is due to changes in humidity. When the air is extra moist, it can cause doors to swell and stick. Luckily, these are a few things you can do to fix this problem.
