Door Dragging on Carpet? door scraping floor? exterior door rubbing on bottom? here is the answer. If you’ve recently had a new carpet installed and noticed that your exterior door is dragging along the floor, or if you’re dealing with a stiff door that’s causing frustration, fear not!
Key takeaways:
- Identify the Tight Spots: Find where the door is dragging on the carpet by marking points where it makes contact.
- Accurate Trimming: Use a circular saw for precision when trimming the door, ensuring a smooth and even cut.
- Measure and Trim Strategically: Measure the highest point where the door touches the floor, and trim 10 to 12 millimeters for optimal clearance.
- Use a Leveling Tool: When reattaching the door, employ a leveling tool like an air bag to ensure it’s at the correct height, preventing further dragging.
- Careful Reattachment: When securing the door with screws, avoid over-tightening to prevent snapping; a gentle touch is sufficient for a secure fit.
In today’s step by step DIY guide for beginners, we’ll walk you through the process of trimming a door to ensure it fits perfectly and moves smoothly.
How to Fix Door Dragging on Carpet or door scraping floor?

To fix a door dragging on carpet, first, identify the tight spots by marking points where the door touches the carpet. Remove the door, measure the highest point, use a circular saw to trim the door, and reattach it using a leveling tool for a smooth, even fit.
Let’s dive into the steps to make your door comfortably rest on the floor without any scraping or dragging.
Materials Needed
- Circular saw: Used to trim the door accurately.
- Speedy clamps: Ensures precise measurements and holds the guide rail securely.
- Second fix saw blade: Provides a clean cut without splinters.
- Tape measure: Helps measure and mark the points accurately.
- Levelling tool (air bag or similar): Assists in reattaching the door at the correct height.
- Screwdriver: Used to secure hinges and reattach the door.
- Sandpaper: Smoothens the cut edges for a polished finish.
Identify the Problem
Start by opening the door and assessing where it’s stiff or dragging. Pay attention to areas where the door is tight against the carpet or floor. Mark these points to identify the specific areas that need adjustment.
Measure and Mark

Slide the door and mark points on both ends where it’s touching and tight against the carpet or floor. These points will help you determine the accurate height at which you need to trim the door.
Find the Highest Point
To avoid cutting the door too much, find the highest point between the marked areas. Measure the distance between this point and the floor to determine how much you need to trim.
Remove the Door

Take the door off its hinges to make the trimming process easier. This will also prevent any accidental damage to the door during the cutting process.
Prepare the Cutting Station
Ensure you have the right tools for the job. A stable work surface like a foldable sawhorse is recommended. Use a circular saw or a fine-toothed hand saw for a clean cut. Measure the distance from the blade to the edge of the rail to set up a cutting guide.
Make the Cut

Set the saw blade depth to half the thickness of the door to avoid splinters and ensure a clean cut. Cut halfway through the door, open it, and then complete the cut. This technique minimizes damage and provides a smoother finish.
Sand the Edges

Give the trimmed edges a light sanding to smooth out any rough spots. This step is especially important if the door is going to be painted or if you want a professional-looking finish.
Reinstall the Door

Use a handy inflatable bag to lift and support the door while reinstalling it. Start with the lowest hinge, pump up the bag, and secure the hinges with screws. Carefully deflate the bag, ensuring the door is aligned correctly and opens smoothly.
Why is my door dragging on the carpet after a cabinet installation?
Cabinet installations can cause uneven flooring, affecting door alignment. Trimming the door ensures it fits properly.
Can I use a hand saw instead of a circular saw?
Yes, a second fix hand saw with fine teeth can be used, but a circular saw provides a quicker and more precise cut.
How much should I trim off the door?
Measure the highest point where the door touches the carpet and trim 10 to 12 millimeters for optimal clearance.
Is it necessary to use a leveling tool when reattaching the door?
Yes, using a leveling tool, like an air bag, ensures the door is reattached at the correct height, preventing further dragging.
Can I skip sanding the edges if the door will be repainted?
Sanding is recommended for a polished finish, but if the door will be repainted, it can be done during the overall sanding process.
Should I over-tighten the screws when reattaching the door?
No, avoid over-tightening screws as it may cause them to snap; tighten them gently to secure the hinges.
Will this method work for doors on different types of flooring?
Yes, whether it’s carpet, laminate, or wood flooring, the process remains the same to ensure a properly fitting door.
Conclusion
With these simple DIY steps on fixing Door Dragging on Carpet, you can trim your exterior door and eliminate the annoyance of dragging or scraping. Taking the time to measure accurately, use the right tools, and follow the proper techniques will ensure a professional-looking result. Now you can enjoy a smoothly operating door that complements your newly installed carpet or floor.

I am Zuhe Honorata Ejsmont, I have over 8 years of experience working with rugs and carpets, and I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned through my blog. I’m passionate about helping people find the perfect rug to fit their style and needs. I focus on clear, easy-to-understand advice about different materials, designs, and care tips.
Currently, I serve as a co-founder of WhatsMyRugsize.com. When I’m not writing, I love exploring local markets to discover unique rugs and adding new touches to my own home.