Why Are My Door Handles Jamming?
Whether you are fitting a new door handle or are having problems with your existing one, you might be having problems with your handle jamming and not turning properly. Before you resort to buying a replacement, read our handy guide for tips and solutions.
![exterior door handles](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1171/1368/files/exterior_door_handles_1200_x_600.jpg?v=1632747081)
What Are The Two Main Reasons For a Jamming Door Handle?
A sticking or jamming door handle is caused by one of two problems:
- An issue with the tubular latch/sash lock OR
- A problem with the handle.
In order to establish which is causing the problem, you will need to unscrew your door handles and temporarily remove your tubular latch/sash lock from the door.
![Why are my door handles jamming?](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1171/1368/files/Tubular_Latch_sash_lock_with_handles_1200_x_600.jpg?v=1632748825)
1. Tubular Latch/Sash Lock Problems
A door handle is either fitted with a tubular latch or a sash lock. These are usually the main casue of any jamming problems and you will need to check for these faults:
- misalignment in the fitting of the latch/lock
- debris clogging the moving parts
- loose screws
- binding of the latch/lock parts due to the mortice fitting being too tight
For an easy way to check if there is a problem with the fitting of the latch/lock, take all parts and reassemble away from the door - if the lever handle moves freely without any problems, there is definitely a fitting issue. A common problem is where the lock/latch parts are binding against the timber. This can be rectified by making the mortice hole slightly larger and re-fitting.
![why are my door handles jamming?](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1171/1368/files/lug_that_needs_space_to_move_freely_1200_x_600.jpg?v=1632750844)
2. Handle Problems
If you have checked all of the possible latch/lock problems above and the handle is still jamming, there may be an issue with the handle itself.
- debris in spring mechanism
- needs lubrication - WD40 is an ideal light oil for door handles
- broken spring
It may be that the spring in your handle is worn and old and in this instance the best advice is to replace the handles.
Take a look at our range of Interior Lever Handles and Front Door Handles.
![pewter door handle](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1171/1368/files/interior_door_handle_1200_x_600.jpg?v=1632751386)
In case you missed it...
- Fixing Drooping Door Handles
- Fitting New Door Knobs & Handles To Old Latches
- How To Fit A Tubular Latch
Comments
![Monkey Tail Lever Handles](http://www.suffolklatchcompany.com/cdn/shop/products/Monkey_Tail_Black_Collection_{width}x.jpg?v=1608557019)
![Warwick Door Handles On Backplate Old English Collection](http://www.suffolklatchcompany.com/cdn/shop/products/ProductLevelPlate_{width}x.jpg?v=1662024055)
![Sophia Round Rose Door Handles, lever on rose handles](http://www.suffolklatchcompany.com/cdn/shop/products/V1900_{width}x.jpg?v=1652777013)
![Metro pull handles on backplate](http://www.suffolklatchcompany.com/cdn/shop/products/PL0337_41f89b57-8986-42cd-8c89-883bb9b6c95a_{width}x.jpg?v=1673514578)