Why does Webflow not allow buttons to be clicked and prevent navigation to other pages upon first loading the site?

Webflow may prevent button clicks or navigation on initial site load due to interactions, page load animations, or blocking overlays. This is often caused by elements like full-page preload animations or modal overlays that unintentionally block the UI until animations complete or scripts run.

1. Check Interactions and Page Load Animations

• Go to the Interactions Panel (shortcut: H or click the lightning bolt icon).
• Look for Page Load interactions that may animate buttons or overlays.
• If a full-screen div or overlay is set to fade out or hide on page load, it might be blocking clicks until the animation finishes.
• Reduce delay or set pointer events: none on loader elements.

2. Inspect Overlays or Loaders

• Check for elements like custom preloaders, loaders, or modals positioned over content.
• They typically have styles like position: fixed and z-index: high.
• Ensure these elements are either removed or properly hidden after loading using interactions or setting display: none once done.

3. Review Button or Link Block Settings

• Make sure buttons or links are not set to display: none, visibility: hidden, or opacity: 0 when the page first loads.
• Confirm there are no Webflow interactions affecting pointer events, opacity, or visibility that could block interaction.

4. Test Published Version and Use Incognito Mode

• Sometimes browser extensions or browser caching can interfere.
• Test in incognito or republish the site, then reload to see if the issue persists.

5. Check Custom Code

• Go to Project Settings > Custom Code or Page Settings > Custom Code and look for JavaScript that:
• Adds overlays or loading screens
• Listens to DOMContentLoaded or window.onload events and delays interactivity
• Manipulates the DOM in a way that prevents early interaction

6. Inspect with Chrome DevTools

• Right-click the button > Inspect > go to the Elements tab.
• Hover and check if any other element is visually covering the button (you can see outlines).
• Check computed styles for pointer-events, z-index, or display issues.

Summary

Webflow often blocks button clicks on initial load due to page load animations, overlays, or interactions that delay visibility or interactivity. Use the interactions panel and developer tools to ensure no elements unintentionally cover or disable buttons until after load completes.