It’s a frustrating experience when you’re trying to leave for work and the garage door won’t open or close completely. Instead, it stops halfway, causing inconvenience and potential security risks. If you’ve dealt with this before, you’re not alone. Explore the reasons why a garage door gets stuck halfway and how to fix it.
Common Causes of a Stuck Garage Door
Worn or Damaged Rollers
Rollers are central to the smooth operation of the garage door. These small components allow the door to glide along its tracks. Over time, rollers can become worn, rusted, or bent, causing friction and restricted movement. This can lead to the door becoming stuck halfway.
Misaligned or Damaged Tracks
Tracks control the movement of the garage door so it opens and closes. If the tracks become bent, misaligned, or obstructed, the rollers can’t move. Misalignment may occur from bumps, loose bolts, or debris caught in the tracks. In cases of significant damage, you may need to hire a professional overhead garage door repair service.
Issues With Springs
Springs support the majority of the garage door’s weight, allowing the heavy panels to lift with ease. However, springs wear out or snap over time, causing uneven weight distribution that may leave the door stuck halfway. Due to the high tension in springs, only a professional should repair or replace these parts to avoid injury.
Problems With the Garage Door Opener
The garage door opener automates the door’s movement. A malfunctioning opener can disrupt the entire operation. Common problems include motor failure and faulty sensors.
Misaligned sensors may halt the door due to safety reasons, while a malfunctioning motor may not have enough power to fully move the door. If your door opener is malfunctioning, it’s best to call a technician for repairs.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Preventing problems is always easier than fixing them. Regularly inspect your garage door components, such as the rollers and tracks, to prevent misalignment or excessive wear. Lubricate moving parts, tighten loose bolts, and clean the tracks every few months. These simple tasks can help your garage door function properly.
Schedule Professional Checkups
While basic maintenance is important, some issues require the expertise of a professional. If you live in Ames, Iowa, it’s recommended to schedule a checkup at least once a year. Routine inspections from a technician can help identify hidden problems before they cause damage. An expert will assess your system and confirm that everything works as it should.
Get Your Garage Door Back on Track
Understanding the reasons why a garage door gets stuck halfway is the first step toward getting the system back on track. No matter if the problem is worn rollers, misaligned tracks, broken springs, or a malfunctioning opener, there’s a solution. Promptly addressing these issues and performing seasonal maintenance will extend the life of the garage door.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact The Door and Fence Store for help. We’ll make sure that your garage door performs its best.
