How to Fix a Squeaky Door

What Causes a Door to Squeak

The squeak almost always comes from the hinges. Over time, the lubricant between the hinge pin and the knuckle dries out, and metal rubs against metal. Other causes include:

• Hinge pins that have become slightly bent
• Hinges that have loosened and shifted position
• A door that has dropped and is rubbing against the frame
• Paint build-up on the hinge preventing smooth movement

Quick Fix: Lubricate the Hinges

This solves the majority of squeaky doors in under a minute.

1. Open the door to access the hinges
2. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the top of each hinge pin where it enters the knuckle
3. Open and close the door several times to work the lubricant in
4. Wipe away any excess

Best lubricants to use:

• WD-40 or similar penetrating oil (quick fix but dries out over time)
• White lithium grease (longer lasting)
• Silicone spray (clean and long lasting)
• Even a drop of olive oil works in a pinch

If Lubrication Does Not Work

Tighten the Hinge Screws

Loose screws allow the hinge to move, causing noise and misalignment. Check each screw with a screwdriver. If a screw spins freely and will not tighten, the hole may be stripped. Fix this by:

1. Removing the screw
2. Pushing a wooden matchstick or toothpick dipped in wood glue into the hole
3. Letting it dry, then snapping off the excess
4. Re-driving the screw into the reinforced hole

Clean and Reset the Hinge Pin

For persistent squeaks, remove and clean the hinge pin.

1. Close the door and support it underneath with a wedge or book
2. Tap the hinge pin upward using a nail and hammer from below
3. Pull the pin out once it is loose
4. Clean the pin and the inside of the hinge knuckle with wire wool
5. Apply a generous coat of lithium grease to the pin
6. Tap the pin back into place

Check for a Dropped Door

If the door is rubbing at the top or dragging on the floor, it has likely dropped. This is common in older South London properties where door frames shift over time. Possible fixes include:

• Tightening or replacing hinge screws
• Adding a packing piece behind the top hinge
• Planing a small amount off the edge that is rubbing

Our carpentry team regularly fixes dropped and sticking doors across Wandsworth, Putney, Fulham and the wider South London area.

When It Is More Than a Squeak

Sometimes a squeaky door signals a bigger issue. Doors that stick, jam or will not latch properly may need:

• Hinge replacement
• Frame adjustment
• The door itself planing or trimming
• New handles or latches

If you have multiple doors causing problems, a professional handyman can work through them all in a single visit, saving you time and frustration.