There are few things more irritating than the persistent squeak of a door. Whether it’s waking you up in the middle of the night when your partner makes a visit to the bathroom or it’s disturbing your much-needed me-time, that annoying sound can drive anyone up the wall.
Luckily, fixing a squeaky door is usually a straightforward and affordable DIY door repair project. Here’s how you can silence them once and for all.
What Are the Common Causes of a Squeaky Door?
Before you start tinkering with your door, it’s essential to understand why it’s squeaking.
The most common culprits include:
- Dirty or Rusty Hinges: Dirt, grime, or rust buildup on the hinges can create friction, leading to that annoying squeak
- Lack of Lubrication: Hinges need to be properly lubricated to move smoothly
- Misaligned Door or Frame: A door that’s hanging crooked can put undue stress on the hinges, causing them to squeak
- Swollen Wood: Changes in humidity can cause wood doors to expand, which might result in squeaking when the door rubs against the frame
Also Read: 10 Common Door Problems and How to Fix Them
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Squeaky Door
Here’s how you can carry out a door repair job right at home with things you have lying around!
1. Inspect and Clean the Hinges
Start by inspecting the door and its hinges. Open and close the door slowly to pinpoint which hinge is causing the noise. Use a cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime from the hinges. If the hinges are particularly dirty, you might need to use a household cleaner to get them spotless.
2. Lubricate the Hinges
The simplest solution for a squeaky door is often just a bit of lubrication — there’s nothing a little grease can’t fix!
Here’s how to do it:
Spray Lubricant
Use a spray lubricant like WD-40 or a silicone spray. These usually come with a small straw attachment that helps you apply the lubricant precisely. Spray the lubricant into the gaps of the hinges, then open and close the door a few times to work it in.
White Lithium Grease
For a longer-lasting solution, consider using white lithium grease. Remove the hinge pins (one at a time) by tapping them out with a hammer and a nail. Coat the pins in the grease and reinsert them.
3. Remove and Clean Hinge Pins
If lubrication alone doesn’t stop the squeak, you might need to remove the hinge pins for a thorough cleaning.
- Use a hammer and a nail to tap out the hinge pins. Be sure to do this one hinge at a time to avoid the door falling off
- Clean the pins with steel wool to remove any dirt, rust, or paint
- Apply white lithium grease or a suitable lubricant to the pins before reinserting them
4. Reinstall and Test
Once the pins are cleaned and lubricated, slide them back into the hinges and gently tap them into place with your hammer. After reinstalling all the pins, open and close the door a few times to ensure the squeak is gone. If necessary, repeat the lubrication process.
Alternatives for Lubrication
Squeaky doors sometimes may occur at the worst possible times — particularly when you seem to have run out of WD-40. If you don’t have a commercial lubricant on hand, you can try some DIY alternatives.
Here’s what to use:
- Olive Oil or Cooking Oil: A few drops can work as a temporary fix. Apply with a pipette or a cloth to avoid a mess
- Petroleum Jelly: Rub a small amount on the hinge pins before reinstallation
- Hairspray: It can act as a short-term fix by creating a lubricating layer on the hinges
- Bar Soap: Rub the soap directly on the hinges to reduce friction
Final Checks
After addressing the hinges, take a moment to check the door frame. Ensure it’s square and secure, as a misaligned frame can lead to recurring squeaks. If the door is still making noise, inspect the door itself for any swelling or warping that might be causing friction.
Squeaky Doors Begone!
Fixing a squeaky door doesn’t always require a trip to the hardware store or a call to a professional. With a bit of elbow grease and some simple household items, you can silence that annoying squeak in no time. However, if you’re dealing with persistent issues or need more extensive repairs, consider reaching out to professionals.
Door Master New York offers expert door repair and maintenance services. Whether it’s a squeaky door or a more significant issue, our team provides the perfect solution to ensure your doors operate smoothly and quietly.
Don’t let a squeaky door drive you crazy — contact us today for top-notch service and lasting results!