How to Fix a Door That Won't Latch
Short answer: Find where the latch hits the strike plate (a little lipstick or chalk on the latch shows it), tighten the hinge screws, then file the strike opening a little larger or move the strike plate to line up. A longer screw in the top or bottom hinge can raise or lower the door.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- 20 to 60 minutes
- Updated
- November 9, 2026
What is causing it?
A latch misses when the door sags, the frame shifts, or the strike plate was set slightly off. A door that latches but rattles has too much gap between the door and the stop.
Tools and materials
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Tools
- ScrewdriverCheck price on Amazon
- Metal fileTo enlarge the strike openingCheck price on Amazon
- Sharp chiselIf the strike must moveCheck price on Amazon
- Lipstick, chalk or a dry-erase markerTo mark where the latch hitsCheck price on Amazon
Materials
- 3 inch screws for the hingeCheck price on Amazon
- Wood filler and toothpicksFor old screw holes if you move the strikeCheck price on Amazon
How do you fix a door that won't latch? Step by step
See where the latch hits
Rub lipstick or chalk on the latch bolt and close the door gently. This Old House suggests putting masking tape on the strike so the mark shows where the latch lands.
Tighten the hinges
Loose hinge screws let the door sag. Tighten them, and fix stripped holes with glued wood slivers.
Raise or lower the door
If the latch hits too low, drive a 3 inch screw through the top hinge into the stud to pull the top of the door up and in. If it hits too high, do the same at the bottom hinge.
File the strike opening
For a miss of 1/8 inch or less, remove the strike plate and file the opening on the side where the latch hits, then reinstall.
Move the strike plate
For a bigger miss, unscrew the strike, extend the mortise with a chisel, fill the old screw holes, and remount the plate where the latch lines up.
Stop a rattle
If the door latches but rattles, bend the small tab inside the strike opening slightly toward the stop with pliers so it holds the door tighter.
Safety notes
- Work slowly with a chisel and keep both hands behind the cutting edge.
- For exterior doors, make sure the deadbolt still throws fully after any adjustment.
When should you call a pro?
- The frame is split or the latch side jamb has pulled away from the wall.
- An exterior door will not lock securely.
- Several doors started misaligning at once, which can point to settling.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my door suddenly stop latching?
Seasonal humidity, loose hinge screws and settling are the common causes. Check the hinges first.
Can I just move the latch on the door?
Moving the strike plate on the frame is much easier and is the usual fix.
What if the latch does not spring out?
The latch mechanism may be worn or painted over. Clean it or replace the latch set.
Sources
Steps are based on these manufacturer and safety references. Your product's own manual comes first.