Garage Door Wont Close All The Way

Garage Door Won't Close All the Way

When your garage door refuses to close all the way, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. Fortunately, in most cases, the issue can be resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Here are some of the most common causes of a garage door that won't close all the way, along with instructions on how to fix them:

1. Obstructions in the Path of the Door

One of the most common reasons why a garage door won't close all the way is because there is an obstruction in its path. This could be something as simple as a toy, a box, or a bicycle that has been left in the garage. Check the path of the door to make sure that there are no obstacles that could be preventing it from closing. If you find any obstructions, remove them and try closing the door again.

2. Misaligned Sensors

Garage doors are equipped with sensors that are designed to detect when there is an object in the way of the door. If these sensors are misaligned, the door may not close all the way. To check the alignment of the sensors, look for two small boxes that are mounted on either side of the door, usually near the bottom. There should be a beam of light that passes between the two sensors. If the beam of light is not aligned, adjust the sensors until it is. You may need to loosen the screws that hold the sensors in place and then move them until the beam of light is aligned. Once the sensors are aligned, try closing the door again.

3. Broken Springs

Garage doors are lifted and lowered by springs. If one of these springs breaks, the door may not have enough power to close all the way. To check the springs, look for two large metal coils that are mounted on either side of the door. If one of the springs is broken, you will need to replace it. This is a job that is best left to a professional.

4. Worn or Damaged Rollers

The rollers on a garage door guide the door as it opens and closes. If the rollers are worn or damaged, the door may not be able to close all the way. To check the rollers, look for small wheels that are attached to the bottom of the door. If any of the rollers are cracked, chipped, or broken, you will need to replace them. This is a relatively easy job that you can do yourself.

5. Faulty Motor or Circuit Board

The motor and circuit board are the brains of the garage door opener. If either of these components fails, the door may not be able to close all the way. To troubleshoot the motor or circuit board, you will need to call a qualified technician.

6. Other Potential Causes

In some cases, a garage door that won't close all the way may be caused by a problem with the door itself. For example, the door may be warped or damaged, or the tracks that the door runs on may be bent. If you suspect that the door itself is the problem, you will need to call a professional to have it repaired or replaced.