Fixing a swollen door involves addressing the underlying cause of the swelling and making adjustments to ensure proper fit within the door frame. Here’s a detailed guide on how to fix a swollen door:

1. Identify the Cause:

• Determine why it is swollen. Swelling usually occurs due to exposure to moisture, which causes the wood to expand.
• Common sources of moisture include high humidity, water leaks, or direct contact with water.

2. Remove the Door:

• If the door is severely swollen, you may need to remove it from the hinges to work on it more effectively.
• Carefully remove the hinge pins using a hammer and nail punch or a Flathead screwdriver. Have someone support the weight of it as you remove the pins.

3. Assess the Damage:

• Inspect the door for swelling areas and determine the damage’s extent.
• Pay close attention to the edges of it, as this is where swelling is most likely to occur.

4. Dry the Door:

• Allow the door to dry thoroughly to reduce swelling. If possible, move it to a dry, well-ventilated area or use fans to speed up the drying process.
• Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause further damage.

5. Sand the Swollen Areas:

• Once the door is dry, use medium-grit sandpaper to sand down the swollen areas. Start with gentle strokes and gradually increase pressure as needed.
• Focus on the edges of it where it contacts the frame, as well as any other areas that are visibly swollen.
• Work slowly and evenly to avoid removing too much material, which can affect the door’s fit within the frame.

6. Reinstall the Door:

• Once you’ve sanded down the swollen areas, rehang the door on the hinges.
• Insert the hinge pins back into place and tap them gently with a hammer to secure them.
• Test it to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly without sticking or binding against the frame.

7. Prevent Future Swelling:

• Take steps to prevent future swelling by sealing it properly and addressing any sources of moisture.
• Apply a waterproof sealant or finish to it to prevent moisture absorption.
• Use weatherstripping or a door sweep to minimize air and moisture infiltration around its edges.

By following these steps and addressing the underlying cause of swelling, you can effectively fix a swollen door and restore its functionality. If you’re unsure about tackling the repair yourself, consider seeking assistance from a professional carpenter or door repair specialist.

How to Fix a Sticky Door Lock

Fixing a sticky door lock is a relatively simple task that often requires basic tools and lubricants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to address this issue:

1. Identify the Problem: 

• Determine whether the stickiness is due to debris buildup, rust, or lack of lubrication.

2. Clean the Lock Mechanism: 

• Start by cleaning the exterior and interior of the lock with a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.
• Use a damp cloth to wipe down the lock and ensure it’s free of any remaining residue.

3. Lubricate the Lock:

• Apply a lubricant specifically designed for locks, such as graphite powder or silicone-based lubricant, to the keyhole and key.
• Insert the key into the lock and turn it several times to distribute the lubricant evenly throughout the mechanism.
• Avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they can attract dirt and debris, worsening the problem over time.

4. Operate the Lock:

• Test the lock to see if the stickiness has improved. If the key still doesn’t turn smoothly, repeat the lubrication process.
• If the lock remains sticky despite lubrication, there may be underlying issues such as rust or misalignment.

5. Check for Rust or Corrosion:

• Inspect the lock for any signs of rust or corrosion, particularly around the keyway and internal components.
• If rust is present, use a rust remover or penetrating oil to dissolve the rust and free up the mechanism.
• Once the rust has been removed, clean the lock again and reapply lubricant as needed.

6. Adjust the Strike Plate:

• If the door latch is sticking due to misalignment with the strike plate, you may need to adjust the plate’s position.
• Loosen the screws holding the strike plate in place, slightly shift its position, and then tighten the screws.
• Test the lock to see if the sticking issue has been resolved. Repeat the adjustment process as necessary until the lock operates smoothly.

7. Seek Professional Help:

• If the lock continues to stick despite your efforts or if you encounter any difficulties during the repair process, consider seeking assistance from a professional locksmith.
• A locksmith can diagnose the problem accurately and provide expert guidance on how to resolve it effectively.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix a sticky door lock and restore smooth operation. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, can help prevent future sticking issues and prolong the life of your door lock. By any chance, if you happen to do all the above and still the door wouldn’t function consider consulting us and we will gladly help.