Garage Door Won't Close? Here's What to Check

Garage Door Won't Close? Here's What to Check

A garage door that won't close can be frustrating and concerning, especially when you're trying to secure your home at night. This common problem has several potential causes, ranging from simple fixes you can try yourself to issues requiring professional service. Understanding what might be causing the problem is the first step toward getting it resolved quickly. In this guide, we'll explore the most common reasons why garage doors fail to close and what you can do about each one.

Check the Photo Eye Sensors

Modern garage door openers have photo eye sensors installed on both sides of the door frame near the ground. These safety sensors prevent the door from closing if they detect an obstruction in the doorway, protecting people and pets from injury. If either sensor is misaligned, blocked by dirt or debris, or not functioning properly, your door won't close. Start by examining both sensors. Ensure they're aligned facing each other, wipe away any dust or cobwebs, and check that neither is loose or damaged. Many door closure problems are solved simply by cleaning and realigning the photo eyes. If one eye is cracked or severely damaged, it will need replacement.

Inspect the Door Tracks and Rollers

If the door tracks are bent, misaligned, or filled with debris, the door may not close smoothly or may not close at all. Visually inspect both sides of the track for any bends, dents, or buildup of dirt. The rollers should move freely within the track without resistance. If you notice any obstruction, try gently cleaning out debris with a brush. For minor bends in the track, you might be able to carefully tap it back into alignment using a rubber mallet. However, if the track is severely damaged, replacement may be necessary. Never attempt to force the door shut if there's a track obstruction, as this could damage the door or opener.

Check the Door Balance and Springs

An unbalanced door won't close properly because the opener can't support the door's weight. To test if your door is balanced, disconnect the opener by pulling the red emergency release cord and manually lift the door. A properly balanced door should stay open at about waist height when you release it. If it quickly falls or rises, the springs need adjustment. The torsion springs above the door are under extreme tension and should never be adjusted by homeowners. This is one repair that always requires professional service due to safety risks.

If your garage door still won't close after checking these items, the problem likely requires professional diagnosis. The limit switches that tell the opener when to stop might need adjustment, or there could be electrical issues with the opener itself. MS Facility Solutions has the tools and expertise to identify and fix any garage door problem. Don't struggle with a non-closing door. Need help? Call MS Facility Solutions at 855-557-5454 or visit msfacilitysolutions.com to schedule a service appointment today.