How to Keep Heavy Doors From Sagging

Open the door, and look at the hinges. Check to see if the hinges are securely attached to the door frame.

Tighten the screws of the upper door hinges with a Phillips screwdriver. Open and close the door to see if this brings a sagging door back into alignment.

Replace the screws if the door begins to sag. The screws that come with standard hinges go only an inch or two into the door frame. Replace these with 3-inch screws that can go through the door jamb and into the frame.

Remove the screw, if the hole is too large or the screw has been stripped. Coat a toothpick or two with wood glue, and place them into the hole.

Screw the 3-inch screw into the hole, but do not tighten it all the way. Open and close the door to check for sagging. Turn the screw one-quarter turn, and check the door again. Continue checking turning the screw one-quarter turn at a time. The goal is to draw the door closer to the frame.

Insert a 1/8-inch drill bit into a power drill. Drill pilot holes approximately 2 inches above and below the hinges. Install 3-inch screws into the pilot holes, keeping an eye on the trim, so you don't pull it out of place. Avoid overtightening the screws. The extra screws will secure the door jamb to the frame, so the weight of the door does not twist the stud out of place. Additionally, the screws help pull in the door slightly, so it hangs properly.