Typically speaking, the most common cause of a sticking door handle is due to a problem with the tubular latch - the spindle bar that sits inside the latch body - as springs and other component parts can easily become damaged.
Door knobs can stick for several reasons. Factors such as temperature, humidity, wear and tear, a broken door lock or latch can cause a door knob to jam or break. However, temperature-related issues will fix themselves once conditions change.
The simplest fix is to adjust the latch plate. Since it will likely be a small adjustment you will need to fill the screw holes in order to make new ones slightly offset from the old. This can be done with toothpicks and glue or you can carve bits of wood to fit and glue those in.
Use some WD-40TM or similar lubricant to try loosening up any sticking components. Using the ``nozzle-tube'' that comes with the WD-40TM can, squirt some of the lubricant directly onto any of the door handle's moving parts you can. The 'striker' - where it slides back and forth into the handle mechanism.
The most common cause of sticking door handles is some kind of malfunction within the tubular latch itself. To test this, firstly open the door and check that there are no obvious obstructions on the tubular latch plate such as loose screws, or signs of internal parts of the latch or lock poking through.
Components seizing within the latch mechanism is usually the fault of grime, dust, or other pollutants (like rust) obstructing normal processes within the latch, causing components such as the spindle and turning metal disc to seize up.
Tightening Hinges
If your door is sticking on the latch edge, a likely cause is that your hinges have started to come loose.
Your door might rub against the frame if it's sagging or when it's just a little too large, but luckily there are some really easy repairs. Adjusting your hinges will solve most of your problems for any type of door, but you may need to trim it if those don't work.
Locks can become stiff to operate due to issues such as dirt in the lock cylinder and lack of maintenance of the locking system. Hopefully, at this point, your lock can still be saved with some attention.
If the latch won't retract by use of the knob or handle either, then you should check the spindle and the latch mechanism to make sure they are still connected correctly. If neither of these will close the latch, then it is either broken or damaged. Examine the condition of the latch for any obvious defects.
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.
What's the best lubricant for your lock? When choosing the best product to lubricate locks, dry lubricants like graphite powder and PTFE lubricants are best. As mentioned above, oil-based products can attract dust and dirt which can damage the delicate internal mechanism of your lock.
Will WD40 help a swollen door? WD-40 can help reduce friction and might loosen up a swollen door temporarily. But it's not a permanent fix since it doesn't tackle the root issue, like moisture or humidity. For a long-term solution, try drying out the door or sanding down the swollen areas.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Dismantle the Faceplate: The faceplate usually covers the lock mechanism. Use a screwdriver to remove it and expose the internal components. Inspect and Tighten: Once the lock mechanism is visible, look for any screws that appear loose. Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten these screws.
The door latch is a common reason for doors to stick to the frame. More often than not, the reason here is that the door latches have been misaligned. This causes the door to not properly connect with the strike plate.
In severe winter conditions, applying WD-40 to door handle pivot pins can help prevent ice buildup that might immobilize the handle. Consider applying WD-40 to the door handle pivot pins if you are expecting freezing rain, heavy snow, or icy conditions.
Common reasons include: Dirt and Debris: Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate inside the door handle mechanism, making it difficult to turn. Rust and Corrosion: Metal components inside the door handle can rust or corrode, particularly in older handles or in areas with high humidity.
Lubricate it.
If cleaning doesn't work, you can try using a penetrating oil like WD-40 around the perimeter and any exposed crevices of the handle to loosen it. Let the oil sit for a moment before trying to wiggle it free.