Fix a squeaky or sticking door

Squeaks and sticking are usually caused by dry hinge pins or loose hinge screws. Both are quick to fix.

A squeaky hinge

1. Close the door and tap the hinge pin up with a nail and hammer from below
2. Remove one pin at a time so the door stays hung
3. Wipe the pin and coat it with a little white lithium grease or petroleum jelly
4. Tap it back in and swing the door to spread the grease

A sticking or rubbing door

1. Look for where it rubs: shiny or worn paint marks the spot
2. Tighten all hinge screws
3. If a screw just spins, replace it with a 3-inch screw into the framing behind (top hinge usually), which pulls the door back into line
4. If it still rubs, light sanding of the edge may help; seal bare wood afterward

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