Imagine this: You are running late for work; you jump in your car, hit the garage door button, and nothing. Your garage door is not closing. You try again. It moves an inch, then reverses. At this point, frustration kicks in—why now?
If this scenario sounds familiar, you are not alone. Many Houston homeowners deal with garage door problems, especially when sensors get misaligned, tracks bend, or the opener malfunctions. The good news is that most of these issues have simple solutions you can try before calling a garage door repair in Houston.
In this week’s blog, we will break down the most common reasons a garage door won’t close and guide you through quick troubleshooting steps. Plus, we will let you know when it is time to call in the pros to prevent further damage. Let us teach you how to fix that garage door once and for all.
Why Your Garage Door Not Closing Is a Problem
Is your garage door not closing all the way? That is more than just a hassle—it is a security risk. A garage door stuck open makes your home an easy target for break-ins and unwanted pests. Houston’s extreme heat and humidity can also creep into your garage, causing moisture damage, rust, and mold.
Yet, security is not the only issue. If your garage connects to your home, a malfunctioning door can affect your energy bills. When hot air enters through gaps, your air conditioner has to work harder, increasing your electricity costs. The longer you ignore the issue, the worse it gets. Sooner than you think, it can also lead to much bigger, more expensive repairs down the road.
But there is no reason to fret. Many garage door issues are easy to fix on your own. In the next section, we will cover the most common reasons your garage door won’t close and how to troubleshoot them like a pro.
Common Reasons Your Overhead Door Won’t Close
Several issues can cause a garage door not to close. Here are some of the most common reasons and how to fix them:
1. Blocked or Misaligned Safety Sensors
Garage doors have safety sensors located near the floor on either side of the door. If these sensors detect an obstruction, you might have a garage door not closing right before your eyes.
How to Fix:
- First, check for debris, dirt, or objects blocking the sensors.
- Then, clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth.
- Ensure the sensors are in the proper alignment; if they are not, adjust them until the indicator lights are steady.
2. Damaged or Worn-Out Garage Door Tracks
Over time, garage door tracks can get bent or clogged with dirt, which prevents smooth operation.
How to Fix:
- Start by inspecting the tracks for dents or misalignment.
- Next, use a rubber mallet to straighten minor bends in a gentle tap-down motion.
- At this point, clean the tracks and lubricate them with a garage door lubricant.
3. Broken Garage Door Springs or Cables
Both these components work together to help balance the door’s weight. If your garage door starts to close and then reverses, broken springs or cables might be the cause.
How to Fix:
- Again, the first thing to look for is visible damage to the springs or cables.
- Avoid DIY repairs—springs and cables are under high tension, which calls for professional replacement.
4. Issues With the Garage Door Opener Settings
Most garage door openers have force and travel limit settings that determine how far and how hard the door moves. Incorrect settings can prevent proper closing.
How to Fix:
- As recommended, refer to your opener’s manual and adjust the travel limits.
- If the door reverses before touching the ground, reduce the closing force little by little.
5. Remote Control or Wall Switch Malfunctions
Sometimes, the problem is not the garage door itself but rather the remote control or wall-mounted switch.
How to Fix:
- First off, replace the batteries in your remote control.
- Follow the user’s manual to reprogram the remote if the new batteries don’t work.
- Then, check for wiring issues in the wall switch.
6. Weather-Related Garage Door Issues in Houston
Another factor is Houston’s humidity and heat, which can impact garage door parts. Note that warped tracks, swollen wood doors, or dried-out rubber seals may affect the door’s operation.
How to Fix:
- Inspect the door’s bottom seal and replace it if it is cracked or stiff.
- Lubricate metal parts to prevent rust and friction.
- Ensure the door moves freely despite temperature changes.
When to Call a Houston Garage Door Repair Professional
While you can fix garage door not closing issues with some simple maintenance, others require expert repair. Call a local and trusted garage door technician if:
- You have broken garage door springs or cables.
- The door is off-track or uneven.
- The motor in the garage door opener is malfunctioning.
- You have tried troubleshooting, but the issue persists.
Preventing Future Garage Door Not Closing Issues
Routine maintenance can help prevent garage door problems and extend the lifespan of your system. Here are some tips:
- Inspect and clean sensors once a month.
- Lubricate moving parts every six months.
- To check the balance of your garage door, disconnect the opener and manually lift it halfway. If it does not stay in place, the springs may need a few adjustments.
- Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to spot issues before it is too late.
So, if you see your garage door not closing, do not panic. Such issues have simple solutions, from cleaning safety sensors to adjusting opener settings. However, for serious problems like broken springs or a misaligned door, it is best to call Houston garage door experts. By keeping up with regular inspection and maintenance, you can also prevent future headaches.
Overhead Door Company Near Me
A garage door not closing can be a real headache, but you do not have to deal with it alone. BBM Garage Door provides fast and reliable emergency garage door repair in Houston, TX. Our skilled technicians know residential garage doors inside and out. From sensor issues to garage opener malfunctions, we fix it all!
Are you tired of dealing with a garage door not closing? You should not be. Trust us for garage door repair in Houston to get your door working again in no time. Do not wait—call us now for a quick and hassle-free same-day garage door repair service.
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