Why Do Doors and Windows Stick?

When a home’s foundation shifts, settles, or becomes uneven, it can cause the framing around your doors and windows to move out of alignment. This can result in:
 

• Doors that drag, stick, or won’t latch properly

• Windows that are hard to open or close

• Visible gaps around doors or window frames

• Cracks forming above windows and doors
   

In Minnesota, where freeze-thaw cycles, clay-heavy soils, and moisture fluctuations constantly affect the ground, these issues are especially common. Seasonal soil movement and hydrostatic pressure can gradually push or pull sections of your foundation, affecting your entire home's structural alignment.

Foundation Movement Causes in Minnesota

Several factors can lead to shifting or settling foundations in Hinckley and across Minnesota. Over time, these conditions can cause differential settlement, where some parts of your home settle more than others, resulting in sticking doors, windows, and other structural issues:
 

• Expansive clay soils that swell when wet and shrink when dry

• Heavy snowmelt and spring rains saturating the ground

• Hydrostatic pressure pushing against basement walls

• Poor drainage and grading around the home

• Soil erosion and washouts beneath the foundation

Don't Ignore Sticky Doors

Identifying and addressing the root cause early can save you from costly, extensive repairs down the road. While it might seem like a minor annoyance, sticking doors and windows often indicate larger structural concerns. If left unaddressed, foundation movement can worsen, leading to:
 

• Cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings

• Water intrusion in basements or crawl spaces

• Bowing or buckling foundation walls

• Increased repair costs over time

Fixing Sticky Doors and Windows Minnesota