How to Repair a Swelling Door Lock

Look around the doorframe for any obstructions, such as loose nails. If you find any, pound them back into the doorframe. Test the door to see if this solved the problem. Lock the door; if it does not lock easily, proceed to Step 2.

Tighten the screws on the door hinges with a screwdriver. Open the door, then shut and lock it to see if this resolved the issue. Repair screw holes for any loose screws that will not tighten. Remove the door from the frame with a screwdriver and hammer by driving the lower hinge pin out. Hold the door in place while using the same tools to drive out the upper pin.

Unscrew the hinge from the door. Check the screw holes in the wood for noticeable wear. Place wood glue on wood dowels and insert them into the screw holes. Allow the wood glue to dry. Cut the excess off the wood dowels with a utility knife. Drill new screw holes into the dowels. Reattach the hinge and rehang the door. Open the door and check for difficulty in closing and locking it. If it still sticks, move on to Step 4.

Run a piece of card stock along the closed door and frame. Mark with chalk any spots where the card stock becomes stuck. Open the door. Sand down any spots you marked on the door. Check the door after a few minutes of sanding to see if it opens more easily. Continue to sand until the door opens with ease. Insert the piece of card stock between the closed door and the doorframe to check for mobility. Test the lock to make sure the door locks correctly.