How to Fix Word Cannot Open Building Blocks.dotx Error When Inserting Page Numbers
Question details
The user is unable to insert page numbers in Microsoft Word due to a template file error.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2007
- Device & OS
- Windows 8
- Scenario
- Inserting page numbers into a document using the header or footer tools.
- Observed behavior
- Word displays an error stating that 'Building Blocks.dotx cannot be opened' and fails to insert the requested page numbers.
Ensure your document is saved to prevent any accidental data loss. Keep in mind that Microsoft Office 2007 has reached its end of life and no longer receives official support or updates.
Insert Page Numbers Using a Keyboard Shortcut Workaround
Bypass the broken Building Blocks template entirely by manually inserting a page field using a native keyboard shortcut.
This method avoids the corrupted Building Blocks.dotx file by calling the page number field directly into your header or footer.
Double-click the very top or bottom margin of your Word document page to enter the Header & Footer editing mode.
Click exactly where you want the page number to appear (e.g., align to the right or center).
Press the 'Alt + Shift + P' keys simultaneously on your keyboard. This will instantly insert the current page number field without relying on the template library.
Repair Your Microsoft Office Installation
Running the built-in repair tool can fix a corrupted Office installation and restore a healthy Building Blocks.dotx file.
Upgrade to WPS Office for a Bug-Free Writing Experience
Microsoft Office 2007 is outdated and prone to template corruption errors like the Building Blocks.dotx issue. WPS Office provides a modern, lightweight, and completely free alternative. It seamlessly handles Word formats, allowing you to insert page numbers, headers, and footers without dealing with crashes or unsupported software.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and run the quick installation.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .doc or .docx file; your formatting will remain intact.
- 3. Insert Page Numbers: Navigate to the 'Insert' tab and click 'Page Number' to easily add styling to your document without any template errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Building Blocks.dotx error happen in Word?
This error generally occurs when the Building Blocks.dotx file, which stores pre-formatted document elements like page numbers, headers, and footers, becomes corrupted or is misplaced during an unexpected system shutdown or update.
Where is the Building Blocks.dotx file located on Windows 8?
The file is typically hidden in your user profile. You can find it by navigating to C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Document Building Blocks\1033\14 (the exact folder numbers may vary depending on your language and Office version).
Is it safe to delete a corrupted Building Blocks.dotx file?
Yes. If you close Microsoft Word entirely and delete or rename the corrupted Building Blocks.dotx file, Word will automatically generate a fresh, default version of the file the next time you open the application.
Will repairing Microsoft Office delete my personal documents?
No, running the Microsoft Office repair tool only scans and replaces missing or corrupted application system files. It does not alter, move, or delete any of your personal Word documents.
