Why your door strike won’t unlock (and the quick fix)
For property managers, building operators and front desk staff. Applies to any access control brand.
The quick answer
Most door strikes that won’t release are under pressure. If the door is being pushed or pulled against the strike, the latch binds on the strike keeper (called preload) and most strikes can’t release until the pressure comes off. Pull the door fully closed, then scan your fob again. If it keeps happening, the strike, door alignment, closer or operator needs service.
We’ll do it for you
Door keeps sticking? Book a door strike service call. A short video of the door helps us bring the right parts.
Try this first
Pull (or push) the door fully closed so the latch isn’t pressing on the strike.
Hold it closed and scan your fob or card again.
Open the door once you hear the strike release.
If it opens this way, the strike is working, but something is putting pressure on it. Read the causes below and book a service call.
Why it happens
Wear and tear: the strike, keeper and latch wear over time, so they bind more easily. This is the most common cause.
Building air pressure: wind, stack effect in taller buildings or unbalanced ventilation pushes or pulls on doors, especially entrance, stairwell and parkade doors, so the door sits against the strike.
A failed or badly adjusted closer or automatic operator: the door doesn’t close fully, or the operator pushes the door against the latch before the strike has released.
A door out of alignment: sagging hinges or a shifted frame put the latch against the side of the strike.
Weatherstripping or seals pushing the door outward.
Signs you need a service call
- You often have to pull the door closed before your fob works.
- The strike clicks or buzzes but the door stays locked.
- It’s worse on windy or very cold days.
- The closer slams or doesn’t close the door fully, or the automatic opener pushes against the door.
- Visible wear, scraping marks or a loose strike plate.
What our technicians check and fix
- Inspect and adjust the strike, keeper and latch alignment.
- Replace worn electric strikes, including with strikes designed to release under preload where needed.
- Adjust or repair door closers, and set automatic operator timing so the strike releases before the door is pushed.
- Check door and frame alignment and seals.
- Check the access control side (reader, power and relay timing) so it isn’t an electronics fault.
- Same-day service available.
If it didn’t work
The quick fix doesn’t help at all
It could be a failed strike, a power problem or an access control fault. Call us.
Only one fob doesn’t work
It’s the fob or its access, not the strike. See the Kantech fob guide or fob reader not working.
The door unlocks but won’t lock again
Call us. It may be a failed strike or a setting.
From our technicians
In our experience, most “broken” strikes are actually under preload. Taking the pressure off the door is the fastest way to get people in until it’s repaired.
Door still sticking?
Book a door strike service call. We check the strike, the door, the closer and the access control together.
Stuck with a system nobody will fix?
We repair and take over cameras, access control, intercoms and alarms installed by other companies, when your current provider has fallen short.
Questions
Why does it only happen sometimes?
Pressure on the door changes with wind, temperature and ventilation, and a worn strike binds more on some days than others.
Is it harmful to keep pulling the door to get in?
It works as a short-term fix, but it means the strike is under strain. Book a service call so it doesn’t fail completely.
Do you service doors with automatic openers?
Yes. We set the operator timing so the strike releases before the door is pushed, and work with your door company on the operator itself where needed.
Will replacing the strike fix it for good?
Only if the strike was the problem. We check the door, the closer and the alignment too, so the new strike isn’t put under the same pressure.
What if the door won’t open at all?
Call us for 24/7 emergency service. If people are trapped or in danger, call 911.
More answers: Access control questionsGlossary: credentialfail-safe vs fail-secure
Book a door strike service call
Tell us which door and what happens when you scan a fob. A short video of the door helps us bring the right parts.
Call and a real person answers, 24/7 for emergencies.