How To Fix a Sticky Shower Door

A sticky shower door can be a daily annoyance that makes it difficult to enter or exit your shower smoothly. This common problem is often easy to fix with a few simple tools and some patience. In the video above, you can watch This Old House general contractor Tom Silva quickly resolve a homeowner’s shower door problem. We’ll walk you through those steps in the guide below.

Why Are Your Shower Doors Sticky?

Dig into this question before diving into the repair process. Misalignment, buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits, and worn-out rollers or tracks are common reasons that could make your shower door sticky.

Here are some telltale signs that your shower door may need repairing:

• Door catches or drags when opening or closing: This indicates friction and requires adjustment. Excessive friction can cause the door to become sticky over time due to wear on the door tracks or hinges.
• Door fails to close completely: An unsealed door can lead to water leakage outside the shower enclosure. Water leakage can also cause a buildup of mineral deposits and soap scum, making the door feel sticky and harder to close.
• Unusual noises when operating the door: Grinding or squeaking sounds often signal the need for maintenance. These noises could be a sign of debris or lack of lubrication, which can cause parts to stick or bind.
• Visible gaps between the door and frame: Misalignment or wear and tear can create gaps, affecting the door’s sealing capability. Gaps may allow moisture and grime to accumulate, which can lead to sticky residues forming on the door’s surfaces.

Tools and Materials Needed to Fix a Sticky Shower Door

To fix a sticky shower door, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials:

• 2-inch by 4-inch wood block
• Hammer
• Level
• Screwdriver
• Silicone lubricant (optional)
• Wooden shims

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Sticky Shower Door

Fixing a sticky shower door is a simple process. Follow these steps to repair yours:

1. Loosen frame screws: Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws in each corner of the shower door frame.
2. Loosen handle screws: Partially loosen the screws holding the handle to the shower door. This gives additional flexibility for adjustments.
3. Position the door: Open the shower door and place a 2-inch by 4-inch block underneath its outer bottom corner to provide support during adjustments.
4. Insert shims: Slide wooden shims into the space between the 2-inch by 4-inch block and the door.
5. Adjust door height: Hold a wood block against the bottom corner of the door and tap upward gently with a hammer.
6. Secure the adjustment: Make sure the door doesn’t sag back down by driving the shims in tightly.
7. Repeat as needed: Continue the process of tapping up on the corner and driving in shims until the door is level and moves smoothly.
8. Tighten screws: Once the door is properly aligned, tighten all screws on the doorframe and handle.
9. Test and repeat: Close the door to evaluate its operation. If it still sticks, adjust the screws and repeat the process for finer tuning.

Preventive Maintenance for Shower Doors

Maintaining your shower door is key to keeping it sliding smoothly and avoiding bigger issues down the line. With some regular upkeep, you can keep your shower door in great shape.

Regular Cleaning

Make it a habit to clean your door tracks every week. A simple mix of vinegar and water or a commercial shower cleaner works well to dissolve stubborn residue. After cleaning, dry the tracks to prevent water from pooling and causing mineral buildup or corrosion.

Lubrication

Every few months, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the door tracks. This will help keep the door gliding effortlessly by reducing friction without attracting dirt. Avoid oil-based lubricants since they can collect debris that might clog the tracks. Try to avoid slamming the shower door, as this can quickly lead to misalignment or hardware damage.

Inspection

Check the alignment and hardware of your shower door every now and then. Tighten any loose screws or bolts to keep the door aligned. If you notice the rollers or tracks showing significant wear or damage, it’s time to replace them. Also, inspect the seals around the door regularly. If they’re worn or damaged, replace them to prevent leaks and keep the door functioning properly.

When To Call a Professional to Help With a Shower Door

While many sticky shower door issues can be resolved with do-it-yourself (DIY) methods, there are certain situations that may require professional assistance. Here are a few examples:

• Bent or warped door frames: This issue might be beyond the scope of simple DIY fixes and may require specialized tools and expertise.
• Cracked or severely damaged shower glass: Handling broken glass can be dangerous, and it’s best left to a professional.
• Extensive corrosion of metal components: If the shower’s metal parts are corroded, they may need to be replaced professionally.
• Persistent leaks despite adjustments: If water continues to leak outside the shower area despite your best efforts to adjust the door, we recommend seeking professional help.

Our Conclusion

Fixing a sticky shower door is a manageable DIY project that can improve your daily routine. By following these steps and maintaining your shower door regularly, you can have a smooth shower door that lasts. Exercise caution when working with glass and seek professional help for complex issues.