Panic bar repair: won't latch, sticks or won't unlock

Common problems

• The door won't latch, so it doesn't lock
• The bar sticks or needs a second push
• The dogging feature that holds the latch back won't engage or release
• The latch catches on the strike and the door drags
• Vertical rod devices miss the top or bottom strike

Often it's alignment, not the device

If the door has dropped on worn hinges or pivots, the latch no longer meets the strike plate properly. Adjusting the door or the strike can fix it without touching the panic bar. Loose mounting screws on the device or strike are another frequent cause.

When it needs replacing

Worn internal springs, broken latches and damaged rods usually mean replacing the device. Exit devices on required exits must work every time, and fire-rated doors need devices rated for them, so we match the replacement to the door.

When to call us

Call as soon as an exit device sticks or won't latch. We adjust the door and strike, repair the device, or replace it, and check that the door closes and latches every time.

Questions