Foundation Repair · Common problems · Updated November 2026
Sticking Doors: Humidity or Foundation Movement?
Doors that stick in humid summers and loosen in winter are usually swelling with the weather. Doors that start sticking suddenly, especially several at once and along with new cracks, can be a sign the house is moving.
Signs it is probably humidity or hardware
- It happens seasonally and improves in dry weather.
- One wood door is affected, especially an exterior door.
- Hinge screws are loose (tightening them fixes it).
- The door rubs evenly along the top or side.
Signs it may be foundation-related
- Several doors started sticking around the same time.
- Gaps at the top of the door are wedge-shaped (wider on one side).
- Diagonal cracks in drywall running from the corners of door frames.
- Floors that slope or feel uneven (sloping floors).
- New or widening foundation cracks (how to track them).
What you can safely do
- Tighten hinge screws, using longer screws into the framing on the top hinge if needed.
- Run a dehumidifier in damp areas and see if it helps.
- Note which doors stick and photograph any cracks near frames.
When to call a pro
If several signs show up together, have a structural engineer or foundation contractor evaluate the house. Engineer inspections run $230–$3,800 nationally (foundation repair cost guide).
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed in our foundation repair cost guide, not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor. This article is general information to help you decide on next steps. It is not an inspection or professional advice; a qualified pro who sees the problem in person can tell you what is actually going on.