How To Stop A Door From Squeaking: Tried and Tested Fixes

A squeaky door can be really annoying. It often happens due to friction between metal parts or the lack of lubrication on the hinges. Over time, this noise can wear down the hardware, making it harder to open and close the door. 

However, fixing up squeaky hinges by lubricating door hinges can bring down the sound and will make the door framework. But there are other ways to stop squeaky door hinges. This article explains how to fix a door from squeaking without much of an investment.

What Makes a Door Squeak?

The primary reason is due to friction between the door's hinges or the door and the frame. If you haven't replaced worn hinges or squeaky door hinges for a long time, the squeaking sound can be common. Other factors include rust buildup, loose screws or hinges, and even humidity-induced swelling or shrinking of wood. Any of these issues can cause an irritating squeak each time the door moves.

Moreover, poor installation of the hinges can also result in an annoying squeak sound. Identifying the underlying problem is critical as it will not only stop the sound of a squeaky door, but also ensure you can fix a squeaking door or further issues.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before you go ahead to fix a squeaky door sound or replace the worn hinges, you will need to have the following tools ready.

• Lubricant (WD-40, silicone spray, grease, or household oil

• Hammer

• Needle-nose pliers

• Steel wool or sandpaper

Using these tools can help in repairing and realigning the door hinges that will bring the squeaking sound, and also repair the creaky door. You can also add petroleum jelly, paper towels, olive oil, and melted wax to clean metal surfaces.

Steps to Fix Squeaky Hinges

We’ll now walk you through the steps to fix squeaky hinges and make your door squeak-free.

Step 1: Identify the Hinge Problem

The first step in fixing a squeaky door is opening and closing the door carefully to identify which hinge (or hinges) is making a squeaky sound. Sometimes you can hear the squeak just by listening carefully.

Step 2: Clean the Hinges

The next step is to clean the hinges. Dust, dirt, and rust can build up over time and cause the door to squeak.

Start by using a damp cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub the hinge plates, pins, and nearby areas. Wipe away any excess grease, old oil or excess lubricant that may have collected dirt. If there’s rust or stubborn grime, use a clean cloth or steel wool to gently scrub it off.

A helpful trick is to use a paraffin candle to wipe the hinge. The wax wipes off the oily excess while doing this procedure. Candle wax is cheap and the best alternative to grease that will fix rust issues.

Proper cleaning often resolves minor squeaking issues and gets the hinges ready for oiling in the next step.

Step 3: Apply Lubricant

Now comes the most important part of repairing the squeaky door and hinges. You can use a premium silicone-based lubricant or WD-40 and apply it to the squeaky hinges and other moving hinge parts of your door. This reduces friction between the various components of the door.

This procedure reduces noise and increases the lifespan of your door by eliminating excessive wear and strain. After using the lubricant, always wipe away any excess liquid. Leaving it on can attract dust and dirt, which may bring back the squeak later.

Step 4: Remove Hinge Pin (If Needed)

For heavily rusted hinges or when lubrication hasn't worked, removing the hinge pin completely may be necessary. Clean it with a cloth or steel wool, then lubricate it again before reinserting it. If the squeaking continues, the pin might be permanently damaged. In that case, it's best to replace the old hinge with a high-quality one that lasts longer and stays quiet. 

If the squeaking continues, the pin might be damaged. Replacing it with high-quality door hinges that offer better strength, smoother movement, and long-lasting performance.

Step 5: Tighten Loose Screws

Check all the hinge screws, as loose screws might cause the door to misalign and squeak. Use a screwdriver to secure fit all hinge screws into the frame and door, and bring screws into original position.

Step 6: Fix Door Alignment Issues

If the door still squeaks after cleaning and oiling, it might be out of alignment. You can adjust the hinges by slightly repositioning the screws to help realign the door. Another simple trick is to apply a little talcum powder around the hinges to reduce the noise.

Key Takeaways

To fix a squeaky door, start by finding which hinge is making the noise. Clean hinge pin and hinge well, then apply a high-quality lubricant. Clear all rust buildup, which will help your wood material-made door be free from a squeaky sound.

In some circumstances, the hinge pin may need to be removed or replaced completely. Following the above steps can help in repairing the door hinges and having a noise-free door.

If your current door still causes problems even after these fixes, it might be time for a full upgrade. Emerald Doors offers a wide range of internal doors and external doors that are long-lasting and add style to your home or office.

FAQs on Fixing a Squeaky Door

Here are some common questions homeowners have when dealing with squeaky doors and their solutions.

1) What is the best lubricant for squeaky door locks, handles or hinge screws?

Silicone spray and WD-40 are two of the best lubricants for door locks and handles. There are other lubricants as well, but these help decrease friction and leave no sticky residue.

2) Does WD-40 help stop squeaky doors?

Yes, WD-40 is a reliable and popular treatment for squeaky doors. It helps in lubricating the metal components and removing moisture.

3) How frequently should I lubricate door hinges?

Door hinges should be lubricated every 6-12 months, or whenever you hear a cracking or squeaking sound.

4) Can I use cooking oil or olive oil if I lack lubricant?

While cooking oil can provide a temporary solution, it is not suggested for long-term use because it attracts dust and becomes sticky over time.

5) My door still squeaks after lubrication. What’s next?

If lubrication fails to solve the issue, inspect the hinges for signs of rust, ensure all screws are tightened, and confirm that the door is correctly aligned. In some cases, replacing worn hinge pins or the entire hinge may be necessary.