Why do my doors not close properly anymore?

Doors that won't close properly are typically caused by house settling, humidity changes, or worn hardware - all common issues in Ottawa homes due to our extreme seasonal temperature swings and clay soil conditions.

The most frequent culprit is house settling, which is especially pronounced in Ottawa due to our expansive clay soil. As homes settle over time, door frames can shift slightly out of square, causing doors to bind or not latch properly. You'll often notice this more in newer homes (under 10 years) or after significant weather changes when the ground freezes and thaws.

Seasonal humidity changes also play a major role in our climate. During Ottawa's humid summers, wooden doors and frames absorb moisture and expand, making doors tight or difficult to close. Conversely, in our dry winter months with forced-air heating, wood shrinks and doors may not seal properly or may rattle in their frames. This is particularly noticeable in older homes without proper vapor barriers.

Hardware issues are another common cause - hinges can sag over time, strike plates can shift, or door handles and latches can wear out. Heavy solid wood doors are especially prone to hinge sagging, which causes the door to drop and catch on the frame or floor.

Simple fixes you can try include tightening loose hinge screws, adjusting the strike plate position, or lightly sanding high spots where the door binds. However, if multiple doors in your home are affected simultaneously, this often indicates foundation settling or structural movement that requires professional assessment.

When to call a professional: If the problem affects multiple doors, if you notice cracks in walls near door frames, or if doors have suddenly started binding after being fine for years, it's worth having a contractor evaluate for potential structural issues. In Ottawa's clay soil conditions, significant settling can indicate drainage problems or foundation concerns that should be addressed promptly.

For door hardware replacement or frame adjustments as part of a larger renovation project, contact Justyn Rook Contracting for a free consultation. We often address door issues during bathroom and kitchen renovations when we're already working in those areas.