Common Door Problems in Seattle Homes — and How to Fix Them

Learn how to identify and fix common door problems in Seattle homes, from swollen doors and squeaky hinges to rot and alignment issues — with expert tips from Interbay Door.

Seattle’s cool, damp climate can be tough on your home and your doors are often the first to show it. Between humidity, rain, and seasonal temperature swings, even well-built doors can start to swell, stick, or squeak over time. But the good news? Most issues are fixable and preventable with the right maintenance and materials.

At Interbay Door, we’ve seen and heard it all. Here’s a guide to the most common door problems in homes in the Greater Seattle Area, what causes them, and how to keep your doors looking and working like new. 

1. Swollen or Sticking Doors

The problem: You notice your door rubbing against the frame, sticking at the top, or refusing to close smoothly — especially in winter or after heavy rain.

The cause: Seattle’s humidity and constant moisture can cause wood doors to absorb water and expand. Even small swelling can throw off the fit.

How to fix it:

• Identify the tight spots: Close the door and look for areas rubbing against the frame.

• Lightly sand the problem areas: Remove just enough material for a smooth swing.

• Seal exposed wood: After sanding, repaint or reseal to prevent future moisture absorption.

• Upgrade materials: Consider fiberglass or steel doors that resist swelling in our damp climate.

Prevent it: Check weatherstripping and door sweeps annually — worn seals can trap moisture inside your jambs.

2. Door Misalignment

The problem: Your door won’t latch properly or looks uneven within the frame.

The cause: Over time, hinges loosen, or the house settles slightly — both common in Seattle’s older homes and hillside neighborhoods.

How to fix it:

• Tighten all hinge screws (replace any stripped ones with longer screws for better grip).

• Adjust hinges slightly to realign the door vertically.

• Check the strike plate — it may need repositioning.

• If the frame itself is warped, a pro may need to rehang or shim the door for a perfect fit.

Prevent it: Check your hinges every spring and fall to catch misalignment before it worsens.

3. Squeaky Hinges

The problem: That unmistakable creak every time you open or close your door.

The cause: Seattle’s damp air can cause metal hinges to oxidize or lose lubrication, creating friction.

How to fix it:

• Apply a few drops of household oil, WD-40, or silicone spray directly to the hinge pins.

• Open and close the door several times to distribute it evenly.

• Wipe off any excess oil to avoid attracting dust.

Prevent it: Once a year, remove hinge pins and apply a thin layer of grease or oil to keep movement smooth and silent.

4. Rotting Wood or Frame Damage

The problem: You notice soft spots, bubbling paint, or discoloration around the bottom of your door or jamb.

The cause: Seattle’s constant rain can lead to moisture buildup, especially if door seals, flashing, or caulking have failed.

How to fix it:

• Inspect the affected area and remove any decayed wood.

• For small patches, fill with wood hardener or epoxy.

• For larger damage, replace the affected jamb section or consider a rot-resistant composite frame.

• Re-caulk and re-paint [ma2] to restore a waterproof barrier.

Prevent it:

• Ensure door thresholds and weatherstripping are intact.

• Repaint or reseal exterior wood doors every 2–3 years.

• Avoid direct water exposure by checking roof runoff and porch coverage.

5. Drafts or Leaks Around Doors

The problem: Cold air, moisture, or even daylight sneaks through the sides or bottom of your door.

The cause: Worn-out weatherstripping or misaligned seals — often due to age, heavy use, or swelling.

How to fix it:

• Replace old weatherstripping (foam, vinyl, or rubber).

• Install a new door sweep at the bottom.

• Check that the threshold is properly adjusted and sealed.

Prevent it: Inspect seals twice a year — before winter and summer — to maintain energy efficiency and prevent water intrusion.

When to Replace Instead of Repair

If your door:

• Has extensive rot or water damage

• Is warped beyond sanding or shimming

• Has broken glass or delaminated panels

• Or no longer seals properly even after adjustments —

—it’s often more cost-effective to replace it with a high-quality, climate-appropriate door.

At Interbay Door, we can help you choose a replacement that fits perfectly — and resists future issues with better materials and finishes designed for the Pacific Northwest.

Keep Your Doors in Top Shape with Interbay Door

From part to full replacements, our Seattle team knows how to keep doors performing beautifully in every season.

We offer:

✔️ Expert door selection with large variety of manufacturers and brand partnerships

✔️ Weather-resistant materials for the PNW climate

✔️ Custom sizes, trims, and hardware to fit your home perfectly

Don’t let moisture or misalignment ruin your home’s comfort or curb appeal. Stop by our Woodinville showroom or email us to get started.