If you have a problem with a garage door not closing all the way, it can leave your family and property at risk. Action Overhead Door Inc. is a leading provider of garage door services in Louisville, KY, and is passionate about keeping your door in excellent condition. With our help, you’ll quickly overcome any of the following situations and keep your vehicles and belongings protected.
1. You Have an Obstruction Blocking It
Does your door start closing and then either stop or reverse? A door track obstruction could explain the problem.
Your door works by rolling along tracks on each side, similar to how a roller coaster travels along a rail. If a piece of debris becomes lodged in the tracks, it can cause door-closing issues.
Your door also has sensors along the bottom, which act as a safety feature. If a child walks under the door, it breaks the infrared line, and the door reverses to prevent injury. If a box, tool, or other item in your garage blocks the sensor, it can stop the door from closing.
This is a relatively easy fix, but you may want to rely on an expert to avoid any damage to the tracks. It requires you to inspect every inch and remove any debris that could block the rollers. Sometimes, the door closes better after you vacuum the tracks.
2. The Door Has Misaligned or Faulty Safety Sensors
In addition to blockages, the garage door sensor alignment can cause problems with the garage door not closing all the way. Your system has multiple sensors, so any of the following could cause the issue:
- Safety sensor alignment: If a vehicle or person bumps the safety sensors at the bottom of the door, they could become misaligned. Your door will think that something is blocking it, so it won’t close.
- Dirt and debris buildup: Dirt can build up both on your safety sensor and opener. It can prevent the infrared signal from being sent or render the receiver incapable of reading the signal.
- Remote signal problems: Do you remember the last time you changed the batteries in your opener remote? This, or other issues like old age, can prevent it from properly communicating with your opener.
- Opener alignment issues: Much like your safety sensors, your opener can become misaligned. This prevents it from accurately receiving the signal to close, and it will stay open.
3. Check for Broken Springs
The spring on garage doors helps balance some of the weight from the panels. This makes it easier to open and puts less stress on the system, so it lasts longer.
Torsion springs sit above the door and store energy by twisting. Extension springs are located on the side of the door and stretch and contract to assist with opening and closing.
An inability to open is the most common issue when a spring breaks because the door is too heavy. However, snapped springs can sometimes prevent the door from closing as well. Without their help, the door can become stuck in place.
The force of the snapping can also cause the system to become misaligned. It may not close because of a jam. Modern systems even have safety features that prevent operation when a torsion spring breaks.
4. The Cable Could Have Serious Damage
When you have trouble with a garage door not closing all the way, check the condition of the cable. Every door with an automatic opener has a cable that works with the springs and tracks to open and lower the panels. They further balance the weight and help guide the door along the rails, so it doesn’t stick.
You can expect the cables to last between five and eight years. However, the more you use your door, the more wear and tear they experience. Periodically check them for damage and call for repairs the moment you notice fraying or breakage.
You can help your cable last longer with the following best practices:
- Schedule annual maintenance for your garage door.
- Regularly lubricate it to reduce friction.
- Don’t force the door when it sticks.
- Occasionally clean every component with a damp rag.
5. You May Have Turned Off the Travel Limit Switch
Did you know you can set your garage door to only close a certain amount? The limit switch ensures that panels don’t slam into the ground or run the motor more than needed.
If limits become miscalibrated or breaks, the door may close only halfway before it reverses. You may also notice the motor continues to run even after the door has reached the top.
A garage door contractor can make a limit switch adjustment. Each door model has a different location for the limit switch, so a professional can find it more quickly and make the needed adjustments. They’ll also test the sensitivity to ensure peak functionality and avoid future problems.
6. The Tracks Could Have Bends
Have you ever bent a garden hose, and the water stopped flowing? The same thing happens to your garage door when the tracks have bends. While the springs and cable help manage the weight, the rails guide rollers and make the operation smooth and intentional.
The system consists of vertical and horizontal rails to guide the door the entire way. What can cause the tracks to kink?
- If a broom or shovel falls against the track, it can dent or damage it.
- When the cable snaps, the force can jolt the door and bend the tracks.
- Bumping into the tracks with a vehicle can cause serious damage.
- Like any component, wear and tear take their toll.
Schedule Reliable Garage Door Troubleshooting and Repairs Today
When you have trouble with a garage door not closing all the way, don’t hesitate to contact Action Overhead Door Inc. From reliable garage door maintenance to expert repairs and replacement, we perform every service with excellence so you always feel satisfied. We’ll find the most cost-effective solution to keeping your garage door fully functional.
We’re available for 24-hour emergency service. To schedule an appointment, call 502-955-7725.
