Sticky Door Fix

Tools:

workbench with vise attachment
hammer
chisel
flat-head screwdriver
hand plane
5-in-1 painter's tool
safety glasses
sandpaper
paint sponge
paint

1. Tap out hinge pins using the hammer and screwdriver (figure A). Have an assistant hold the door steady as you remove the pins.

2. Remove the door and clamp it in a workbench vise with the hinge edge up. Protect the surface of the door by placing a towel between the vise and the door (figure B). It's easier to shave the hinge side of the door, as you don't have to worry about the latch mechanism.

3. If the hinge plates are covered with paint, use the painter's tool to scrape away paint and expose the screw heads. Remove the screws, then tap the hinge with the hammer to knock it free (figure C). Repeat until all hinge plates are removed.

4. Set the hand plane so that it shaves off very thin, even sections and start planing the door (figure D). Use short strokes until you get into a groove.

5. After planing, the hinge pockets may be too shallow. Put on safety glasses and use the hammer and chisel to chisel away the socket so the hinge fits flush (figure E). Reattach hinges.

6. Sand the edges of the door to blend in the paint line, then paint the edge. Don't put the paint on too thick or you'll be back shaving the door again.