A skewed door can be a frustrating problem, causing issues with proper closure and potentially compromising your home security. Fortunately, repairing a skewed door is a manageable DIY project that can be completed with a few simple tools and some patience. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to diagnose and fix a skewed door. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process in the video above.
Why a Door is Skewed
A skewed door is one that doesn’t align properly within its frame, often resulting in uneven gaps around the edges or difficulty in closing and latching. Various factors can cause this misalignment, such as the following:
- Settling of the house foundation
- Changes in humidity
- Loose or improperly installed hinges
- Warping of the door or frame
Tools and Materials Needed to Fix a Skewed Door
To repair a skewed door, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Drill/driver
- Utility knife
- Cardboard (for making shims)
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Diagnosing the Skewed Door Problem
Before making any adjustments, you’ll first need to assess your door’s current position and identify where the misalignment occurs. Follow these steps to diagnose the issue:
- Close the door and examine the spacing between the door and the frame on all sides.
- Look for areas where the gap is wider or narrower than others.
- Check if the door is rubbing against the frame at any point.
- Ensure the door latch aligns properly with the strike plate.
- Use a level to determine if the door frame is plumb and square.
Shimming the Hinges of the Door
Shimming the hinges is one of the most effective ways to repair a skewed door. This process involves adding thin pieces of material behind the hinges to adjust the door’s position within the frame.
- Identify which hinge(s) need shimming.
- Remove the screws from the chosen hinge(s) using a screwdriver or drill.
- Create cardboard shims by tracing the hinge outline onto a piece of cardboard and cutting it out with a utility knife.
- Place the appropriate number of shims behind the hinge on both the door and jamb sides.
- Reattach the hinge, ensuring the screws are tight and secure.
- Test the door’s operation and adjust the number of shims as needed.
Adjusting the Strike Plate of the Door
If the door is not latching properly after shimming the hinges, you may need to adjust the strike plate.
- Close the door and observe where the latch hits the strike plate.
- Mark the areas where adjustment is needed.
- Remove the strike plate from the door frame.
- Use a chisel to enlarge the mortise if necessary.
- Reposition the strike plate and secure it with screws.
- Test the door to ensure it latches smoothly.
Addressing Door Warping
In some cases, a skewed door may be the result of warping. While severe warping may require door replacement, minor warping can often be addressed with these methods:
- Use a dehumidifier in the room to reduce moisture and prevent further warping.
- Apply weight to the warped area by stacking heavy objects on the door while it’s laid flat.
- Install an adjustable jamb that allows for fine-tuning of the door’s fit.
Maintaining Proper Door Alignment
Once you’ve repaired your skewed door, you’ll want to be sure it maintains its alignment to prevent future issues. Monitor humidity levels in your home to prevent wood expansion and contraction. If you notice any foundation settling issues, address them promptly to maintain the door frames’ integrity.
Additional Tips for Door Alignment
Repairing a skewed door sometimes requires a bit more finesse, especially if the problem persists. Here are some additional tips to help you achieve perfect alignment:
- Check the hinge screws: Sometimes, hinge screws can become loose over time. Ensure they are tight and replace any that are stripped.
- Use a longer screw: When securing a hinge, consider using a longer screw in the center hole of the hinge plate. This can help pull the door closer to the frame and provide better support.
- Inspect door frame: Occasionally, the door frame itself can be the issue. If it’s out of alignment, you may need to make adjustments or call in a professional to correct it.
When To Call a Professional to Repair Your Skewed Door
While many door alignment issues can be resolved with DIY methods, some situations may require professional assistance, such as these:
- Severe warping that cannot be corrected with shimming or other adjustments
- Structural issues affecting the door frame or surrounding walls
- Complex door systems, such as pocket doors or French doors
- Lack of necessary tools or expertise to safely complete the repair
