Why Won't My Interior Door Close Properly?

When an interior door stops closing the way it should, homeowners often assume it’s a big problem. In most cases, though, it’s a simple fix — and a very common one in Northern Colorado homes.

Common Reasons Your Door Won’t Close

1. Loose or Stripped Hinge Screws

Over time, hinge screws loosen or strip out of the wood. Even a tiny gap can cause the door to sag and miss the latch.

2. Humidity & Seasonal Shifting

Colorado’s dry winters and humid summers cause wood to expand or contract slightly. This can make the door rub, stick, or fail to latch.

3. Settling of the Home

Older homes — and even newer ones — shift naturally over time. This can cause the door frame to become slightly out of square.

4. Paint Build-Up

Multiple layers of paint can cause friction points that stop the door from closing smoothly.

How to Fix a Door That Won’t Close

Try These Simple Checks First:

  • Tighten all hinge screws

  • Replace stripped screws with longer ones

  • Look for obvious rubbing points on the door or frame

  • Check if the latch lines up with the strike plate

When It’s Time to Call a Professional

If tightening screws doesn’t fix the issue, the door or frame may need adjustment. A handyman can realign hinges, plane small areas of wood, adjust the strike plate, or repair damage — usually in one visit.

How Pre-Listing Pros Can Help

We fix misaligned or sticky doors quickly and professionally. Whether your home is getting ready for the market or you’re simply tired of forcing the door shut, we’ll make sure it closes smoothly again.

We serve homeowners in:

Windsor, Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Severance, Timnath, Johnstown, Milliken, Wellington, and surrounding Northern Colorado communities.