Overview
A door that's suddenly hard to open often points to swelling, hardware failure or a hook catching. Diagnosis is quick.
Symptoms
- Door needs a heavy pull.
- Key hard to turn on unlock.
- Handle sticky.
Common causes
- Weather seal has swollen (very common in humid coastal air).
- Cylinder or gearbox stiff.
- Hook caught on its keep.
When to call a professional
- Nothing you do fixes it.
Prevention
- Silicone-treat seals twice a year.