If your garage door opens just fine but gets stuck at any point on the way down, you need to get the problem taken care of. A stuck door is more than an eyesore — it’s a weak point in the structure of your home that leaves your property exposed to everything the world has to offer. In many cases, a garage door that won’t close all the way is caused by something simple that you can resolve yourself without calling a professional repair service.
Common Reasons Your Garage Door Won’t Close
Dealing with a garage door that won’t close is frustrating. Before you can fix it, however, you must identify the cause. Here are some of the most common reasons why your garage door won’t close:
- Unaligned sensors
- Warped, bent or damaged tracks
- Dirty or broken sensors
- Inaccurate travel limit
- Presence of an obstruction
- Damaged cable
- Broken garage door springs
Useful Tips to Restore Operation to Your Garage Door
Garage doors consist of several components that all contribute to smooth, quiet and reliable operation. If any part of the system is blocked, becomes loose, falls out of alignment or is otherwise prevented from doing its job, it can cause your door to get stuck while closing. Here are some of the first steps you should take when your garage door won’t close:
- Check, clean and align sensors: Sensors are crucial safety features to any system, but they’re notorious for causing issues when they get dirty or fall out of alignment. You should visually inspect and test your sensors to make sure they have power, are free from debris or dirt and are in the right position to operate effectively.
- Check the tracks: The tracks running up the sides of your garage door guide the rollers as the door moves. If they get warped, bent or damaged, it can stop the door from closing partway down. Check your tracks for apparent signs of damage. If possible, use a rubber or wooden mallet to get them back into shape if you notice minor issues. Make sure you search for and tighten any loose hardware, clear dirt or grime from the tracks and lubricate using a silicone spray.
- Check your travel limits: If your garage door won’t close all the way and goes back up to the top, you might be dealing with a travel limit issue that can stop the door before it reaches the ground. While most garage doors have travel limits programmed into them at the time of installation, they can sometimes be incorrect or can slowly shift from their desired setting over time.
- Lubricate moving parts: Being proactive with lubrication for all screws, chains, rollers, hinges and tracks is crucial to ensuring your garage door is ready when you need it. It’s important to check your manufacturer’s recommendations, although it’s best to lubricate your door at least twice a year.
- Inspect various mechanical components: Whether from external forces or routine wear and tear, it’s not uncommon for various mechanical components to experience damage which could lead to improper operation. Checking these areas will allow you to find any signs of corrosion, dents, chips or any other signs of damage, as well as loosened or insecure parts.
Get in Touch With the Garage Door Experts for Help
