Kadence Blocks Errors when SCRIPT_DEBUG is Enabled
Some users have reported encountering issues with Kadence Blocks when the SCRIPT_DEBUG constant is enabled in their WordPress configuration. This document outlines the common symptoms, the cause, and a confirmed workaround.
Common Symptoms
These issues typically occur while editing pages or posts whenever SCRIPT_DEBUG is enabled:
- Blocks fail to render or display as generic “HTML” blocks.
- JavaScript errors appear in the browser console (check our guide on how to see the console errors here), such as:
Uncaught TypeErrorCannot read properties of undefined
- “This block has encountered an error and cannot be previewed” message.
- Errors appear when limiting posts by taxonomy in blocks like the Post Grid/Carousel.
- Row Layout block generates more than the selected number of columns. Example: Selecting 1 column will generate 3 columns instead.
Cause
The SCRIPT_DEBUG constant tells WordPress to use unminified (development) versions of core and plugin JavaScript and CSS files instead of the optimized/minified versions.
Important: Enabling
SCRIPT_DEBUGis generally not recommended on live or production websites. It can expose development assets, reduce performance, and cause compatibility issues like the symptoms above.
Solution/Workaround
To resolve the issue, set SCRIPT_DEBUG to false in the wp-config.php file:
define( 'SCRIPT_DEBUG', false );Since this requires access to site files, it is recommended to contact your hosting provider if you’re not comfortable making this change yourself.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps:
- Kadence Troubleshooting Guide – This guide goes over general troubleshooting steps.
- How to view Console Logged Errors – Console errors in your browser can help identify what’s causing the white screen or failed editor load.
- How to enable the WordPress Error Logs – WordPress error logs can reveal PHP errors or warnings that may be causing issues behind the scenes.
- Support – Feel free to contact our support team for further assistance.