03/07/2026
Just a little advised in this hot weather
uPVC doors often behave differently during a heatwave because the material expands as it gets hot. This can cause a few common problems:
* The door becomes difficult to open or close. The frame or door may expand slightly, making it rub against the frame.
* The lock becomes harder to operate. If the door has expanded, the locking points may not line up perfectly.
* The door may appear to bow slightly. Dark-coloured uPVC doors absorb more heat and are more prone to this than white ones.
In most cases, this is temporary. As temperatures drop in the evening or after the heatwave, the door usually returns to normal.
What you can do
* Avoid forcing the door if it’s sticking, as this can damage the lock or handles.
* Keep the door shaded if possible by closing curtains, using an awning, or external shading.
* If you need to lock it, try lifting the handle firmly before turning the key (if your door is designed that way).
* Lubricate the hinges and locking mechanism with a silicone-based or PTFe lubricant if they feel stiff (avoid WD-40 as a long-term lubricant for locks).
When to be concerned
If the door:
* still sticks after cooler weather returns,
* has gaps that let in draughts,
* won’t lock securely,
* or has visibly warped,
it may need adjustment by a certified Locksmith. Often, a simple hinge or keep adjustment is enough rather than replacing the door.
If you’re asking because your door is sticking during the current hot weather, that’s a very common issue and is usually caused by thermal expansion rather than a fault.
