If a door that closes fine in January sticks in July, humidity is a likely reason.
Why it happens
Wood absorbs moisture from the air and swells. Georgia's humid summers make doors and frames grow slightly, especially unpainted edges (tops and bottoms of doors are often left unfinished).
Simple checks
- Hinges — tighten loose hinge screws. Stripped holes are a common cause of sagging.
- Where it rubs — look for worn paint along the edge to see the contact point.
- Seasonal or constant? A door that sticks year-round may have a different cause.
When to hold off on planing
Planing a door that only sticks in summer can leave a gap in winter. Fixing hinges or adjusting the strike may be all it needs. If the door is planed, the bare edges should be sealed.
When it's more than humidity
Doors that suddenly stop closing, plus new cracks in walls or floors that are no longer level, can indicate movement in the house. Mention these signs.
See door repair and door installation.