Door Not Closing Flush

By Robert Robillard on Remodeling


Door Sticks Out | Door Not Closing Flush

The photo above shows a door not closing flush to the door jamb. This is a common issue with door installations and the result often is that the door is out-of-plane with the door jamb.  For this door to close properly, and evenly, the door jamb needs to be in the same plane as the door.

Out of Plane Door Jamb Causes

Out-of-plane issues result in installer error, not installing the door plumb, or when the door is installed on a wall that is not plumb, not completely flat, or “slightly twisted.”

Possible Fixes

When the door’s top corner, [latch side] opposite the hinge side, sticks out away from the jamb, the bottom hinge side of the door jamb/frame needs to be moved out in the same direction as the door is sticking out. This should bring the door into the proper plane.

Note – If the door jamb sticks out past the wallboard you may need to add thin strips of trim called extension jambs for the trim to fit properly.

Steps For Repairing a Door Not Closing | Out of Plane

  1. Remove the trim.
  2. With the door in the closed position, hammer the door jamb/frame in the proper direction.
  3. Use a block of wood between the hammer and the jamb to prevent damage.
  4. Open and close the door to check that the door is tight against the door stop, it should be about flush all the way from the bottom of the door to the top.

Sometimes, depending on the wall, you may need to move all 4 corners of the door (you can move the corners IN and OUT of the wall). splitting the difference by moving multiple corners.

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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