Door Not Closing Properly? Common Causes and Professional Fixes
A door that won’t close properly is more than just a daily frustration. Whether it’s sticking, scraping, bouncing open, or failing to latch, a poorly functioning door can affect security, energy efficiency, noise control, and overall comfort in your home or office.
At BlueWood Handyman, our City & Guilds–qualified carpenters regularly help homeowners across Barnet, North London, and surrounding areas restore doors to smooth, reliable operation. Below, we explain the most common reasons doors don’t close properly — and how professional repairs fix the problem for good.
Common Reasons a Door Won’t Close Properly
1. Loose or Worn Hinges
Over time, door hinges can loosen, wear down, or become damaged. Even slight hinge movement can cause the door to drop, scrape the floor, or miss the latch.
Professional fix:
We tighten, realign, or replace hinges using the correct size and type — including heavy-duty or fire-rated hinges where required — restoring correct alignment and smooth movement.
2. Door Frame Movement or Settlement
Buildings naturally shift over time due to temperature changes, moisture, or general settlement. When frames move even slightly, doors can become misaligned and difficult to close.
Professional fix:
Our carpenters assess whether the frame can be adjusted, packed, or repaired. In more severe cases, we repair or replace sections of the frame to ensure a proper fit.
3. Swollen or Warped Timber Doors
Timber doors can expand or contract with changes in humidity and temperature, especially exterior doors or bathroom doors.
Professional fix:
We carefully ease, trim, or resize the door using professional power tools and jigs, ensuring clean edges and a perfect fit without compromising the door’s appearance.
4. Latch or Lock Misalignment
If the latch doesn’t line up with the strike plate, the door may bounce open or require force to close.
Professional fix:
We realign or adjust the lock, strike plate, or keep, ensuring smooth engagement and secure closure every time.
5. New Flooring or Carpets
After installing new flooring or thicker carpets, doors often begin scraping or catching at the bottom.
Professional fix:
We precisely trim the door to the correct clearance, maintaining even gaps and clean finishes for a professional result.
Why Professional Door Repairs Matter
While minor door issues may seem like easy DIY jobs, incorrect repairs can make the problem worse or create new ones. At BlueWood Handyman, we use professional tools, dust extraction, and proven carpentry techniques to ensure:
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Accurate adjustments and clean cuts
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Minimal disruption to your home or workplace
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Long-lasting, reliable results
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Maintained security and insulation
We always tidy up after ourselves, leaving your space clean and safe.
Don’t Ignore a Door That Isn’t Closing Properly
Delaying repairs can lead to:
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Increased wear on hinges and frames
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Damaged locks and latches
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Reduced security
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Heat loss and higher energy bills
Addressing the issue early often saves time and money.
Expert Door Repairs in Barnet & North London
With over 30 years of construction experience, BlueWood Handyman can repair, rehang, adjust, or replace most interior and exterior timber doors. From sticking doors and noisy hinges to full door replacements, we deliver professional results you can rely on.
Book a Professional Door Repair Today
If your door isn’t closing properly, don’t put up with the inconvenience. Let BlueWood Handyman restore smooth operation, security, and peace of mind.
📞 Contact us today to book your door repair service in Barnet, North London, and surrounding areas — and experience the BlueWood Handyman difference.