Why Florida Doors Stick More Than Anywhere Else
Florida's humidity is the primary culprit. Wood doors absorb moisture and expand. Seasonal sticking is usually humidity-related. Year-round sticking indicates a frame alignment issue or hinge problem.
Diagnosing Where It Sticks
Watch for scrape marks on the door edge or frame. Note the specific point where resistance is felt. Determine whether the problem is seasonal or year-round.
Fixes in Order of Invasiveness
Tighten loose hinges — A door that sags at the top-latch corner almost always has a loose top hinge. If screws spin without catching, the holes are stripped — replace with longer screws.
Adjust strike plate — File the opening slightly or reposition it.
Plane the binding edge — Remove the door, plane or sand the binding edge, and rehang. Remove as little material as possible — the door needs to close in winter too.
When It's Not Just Humidity
If sticking is sudden, severe, or accompanied by visible frame gaps, foundation movement may be involved.