Whether you’re sneaking around the house in the middle of the night for some peace and quiet or simply trying to keep an eye on the kids, a squeaky door is an annoyance. But luckily, fixing this common household problem is relatively easy. In fact, most methods involve items you probably already have in your home or can pick up at a hardware store for about $25.
Over time, wood hinges can become noisy due to lack of lubrication or rust buildup. Fortunately, a little lubrication and regular cleaning can prevent the squeaks. For best results, lubricate the hinges every six months and clean the space between the door and the door jamb to prevent debris from accumulating.
To silence the squeaks, rub a bar of soap or vaseline over the hinges (while the door is closed). You can also use WD-40 or other aerosol lubricants, which are designed to penetrate and disperse quickly to stop the squeaking. After you’ve lubricated the hinges, open and close the door several times to spread the lubricant. If the squeaking persists, sand the top and bottom of the hinge and scrub it with steel wool. You can even use a commercial lubricant spray that includes a small straw attached to the nozzle to help you get the lubricant into the narrow gap between the hinge plate and pin.
Another possible cause of squeaks is the hinge bracket itself, which can be affected by moisture and rust over time. If the hinge bracket is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced altogether. To prevent the problem from arising in the first place, install hinges made of rust-resistant materials.
If your door won’t stay shut, the latch may be misaligned with the strike plate. A door repair handyman can realign the strike plate and repair or replace the latch to prevent the door from swinging open when you’re not expecting it.
Doors and frames can also develop problems due to normal wear and tear. A handyman can address these issues with caulking and wood filler, restoring the integrity of the frame and ensuring that your doors look like they were always part of your home. They can also replace broken door handles, tighten loose knobs and latches, and replace or repair locks to improve security. The expert handyman will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate repair or replacement.