Have you ever rushed out the door, only to realize your garage won’t close behind you? This frustrating situation can leave your home vulnerable and disrupt your daily routine. If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why won’t my garage door close?” you’re not alone.
Many homeowners in Abbeville face this common issue. Here, Lakelands Overhead Door LLC breaks down why garage doors sometimes refuse to close.
Why Garage Door Service in Abbeville, SC, Matters
Regular maintenance keeps your garage door operating smoothly and safely. Professional garage door service in Abbeville can identify worn components before they fail. Preventive care addresses issues like noisy operation, uneven movement, and aging parts that compromise performance.
Annual inspections catch minor problems before they become expensive repairs. Technicians lubricate moving parts, test the safety mechanism, and adjust spring tension during routine visits. This proactive approach extends your garage door’s lifespan and protects your investment.
Common Reasons Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close
If you’re wondering, “Why won’t my garage door close?” the answer usually falls into one of six common categories.
1. Something’s Blocking the Path
Your garage door won’t close if an object interrupts the sensors’ line of sight. Garage door sensors use invisible beams to detect obstructions and prevent injuries. Even small items like toys, tools, or debris can trigger this safety feature.
Check the area between the sensors for anything in the way. Sometimes the issue isn’t obvious, so move potential obstructions farther from the door’s path.
2. Misaligned or Dirty Sensors
Garage door sensors must align perfectly to function correctly. When someone bumps a sensor, it can shift out of position and prevent the door from closing. You’ll notice a blinking light on the sensor when alignment is off.
Clean the sensor lenses with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and grime. Gently adjust the sensors until they face each other directly.
3. Remote Control Issues Create Frustration
Dead batteries often cause remote control issues that seem more serious than they are. Replace the batteries in your remote before assuming you have major opener problems. If new batteries don’t solve the issue, the remote may need reprogramming or replacement.
Your garage door opener might also need attention if the remote still doesn’t work. Check that the opener is plugged in and receiving power. Test the wall button inside your garage to determine if the problem lies with the remote or the opener itself.
4. The Emergency Release Cord Got Pulled
Every garage door has a red emergency release cord for manual operation. When someone pulls this cord, it disconnects the door from the opener.
Pull the cord toward the garage door opener to reconnect the mechanism. The door should resume automatic operation once reengaged. This fix takes seconds and requires no tools or special skills.
5. Broken Springs Prevent Proper Function
Springs handle the heavy lifting when your garage door opens and closes. Torsion springs sit above the door, while extension springs run along the sides. When springs break, they can’t balance the door’s weight properly.
Listen for a loud snap or pop, which signals spring failure. Look for gaps in torsion springs or hanging pieces near extension springs. Never attempt spring repairs yourself, as the tension makes this work extremely dangerous.
6. Problems With the Door Tracks
Door tracks guide your garage door’s movement and must stay aligned for smooth operation. Damaged and misaligned tracks prevent the door from closing completely.
Check for these track problems:
- Bent or warped sections: Look for visible damage along the track’s length that blocks the rollers’ path.
- Loose mounting brackets: Inspect the hardware securing tracks to the wall for any looseness or gaps.
- Dirt and debris buildup: Remove any obstructions that prevent smooth roller movement through the track.
Professional garage door service can repair or replace damaged tracks safely. Track repairs require precision to ensure proper door alignment and operation. Attempting DIY track repairs may worsen the problem or create new safety hazards.
Lakelands Overhead Door LLC Keeps Your Garage Secure
If you’re still wondering “Why won’t my garage door close?” after checking these common causes, professional help is your best option. At Lakelands Overhead Door LLC, our experienced technicians diagnose and repair all types of garage door problems quickly.
We provide reliable garage door repairs, installations, and maintenance services throughout the area. For fast, professional help with your garage door, call Lakelands Overhead Door LLC at (864) 941-7313 today to schedule service in Abbeville, SC. Learn more about us and how we serve the Abbeville community.
