How to Fix a Door That Won’t Close (2025 Door Repair Guide)
A door that won’t close fully is probably on my list of top 3 most annoying things. And I’ll tell you what – it ain’t second or third. And before you continue, this is gonna be the best door repair guide you’ll read.
Shifting foundations, humidity, and worn hinges are 99% of the time your culprit but it really depends.
On the cost side of things, according to HomeAdvisor (2024), minor door alignment repairs average $150–$400, while full rehanging or frame repair can reach $600–$900.
With that out of the way, if you are someone in LA who needs this repair, we got you 😉
1️⃣ Check Your Hinges First
Loose or uneven hinges are the #1 cause of doors that won’t close properly. Years of use can loosen the screws holding the hinge plates.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Open the door halfway and test hinge tightness.
- Tighten loose screws using a screwdriver.
- Replace stripped screws with longer ones (2–3 inches) for a firmer grip into the framing.
Average CA cost: $100–$250
Time to complete: 30–60 minute
2️⃣ Inspect the Strike Plate & Latch
If the latch doesn’t align with the strike plate, the door won’t close fully. Dry and wet seasonal shifts can move wood frames just enough to misalign them.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Close the door slowly — see where the latch hits the strike plate.
- If it hits high or low, adjust by filing the plate opening or re-positioning it slightly.
- Tighten or replace the plate screws.
Average CA cost: $120–$300
Time to complete: 45–90 minutes
3️⃣ Realign a Warped or Swollen Door
High humidity can swell wooden doors so they rub the frame.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Identify where the door sticks (top, side, or bottom).
- Sand that area lightly and repaint or reseal to prevent future swelling.
- Check that weatherstripping isn’t adding extra resistance.
Average CA cost: $200–$500
Time to complete: 1–3 hours
4️⃣ Tighten or Replace Door Frame Screws
Over time, door frame screws loosen due to repeated slamming or building movement.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Remove one hinge screw at a time.
- Replace with longer screws that reach the wall stud.
- Fill stripped holes with wood glue and toothpicks for grip, then re-insert the screw.
Average CA cost: $150–$350
Time to complete: 1–2 hours
5️⃣ Lubricate Sticking Hinges and Latch
Dust buildup and corrosion can make hinges squeak and resist closing.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Use silicone spray or white lithium grease on hinges.
- Operate the door back and forth to distribute lubricant.
- Wipe away residue to avoid staining paint or flooring.
Average CA cost: $100–$200
Time to complete: 30 minutes
6️⃣ Adjust the Door Jamb or Frame
If the frame itself has shifted due to foundation settling, small alignment tweaks can make a big difference.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Check gaps between door and frame (top, sides, bottom).
- Shim hinges or lightly tap jambs back into place.
- Re-caulk and repaint after adjustments.
Average CA cost: $250–$600
Time to complete: 2–4 hours
7️⃣ Replace Damaged Weatherstripping
Old, compressed weatherstripping can prevent full closure and energy efficiency.
Quick Fix Steps:
- Peel off old strips carefully.
- Clean the groove and measure accurately before installing new material.
- Choose the right type — foam for flexibility, rubber for durability.
Average CA cost: $120–$250
Time to complete: 1 hour
🧰 Call us?
If your door still won’t close after hinge and latch adjustments, or you just want us to deal with it, then we will deal with it the right way.
You can also look at our other service forms here.
You can check our all 5-star review google maps page by clicking the image on the left. 
And here’s our phone number : +1 818-835-0556.
🔗 Some Links You May Wanna See
❓FAQ — Door Repair
Q1. Why won’t my door latch properly after repainting?
Paint buildup around the edges can change clearances; lightly sand and re-seal affected areas.
Q2. Can humidity really affect my door?
Yes — humid summers cause wooden doors to swell and misalign.
Q3. How can I tell if the frame shifted?
Uneven gaps at the top or latch side usually mean frame movement.
Q4. Is replacing hinges better than repairing them?
If rusted or bent, yes. Otherwise, tightening and lubricating often solves the issue.
Q5. How long does professional door realignment take?
Most single doors can be realigned in 1–2 hours, depending on the damage.
Just get a quote bro!
A misaligned door is honestly a huge headache. Who wants a headache? No one. Get it fixed the right way 😉
📞 Call us or 💻 Book Online today to schedule fast, precise door repair with The Handy Geeks — your local 5-star property maintenance team serving all of Southern & Northern California.
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