Why is My Garage Door Sticking?

There's nothing quite as aggravating—or potentially hazardous—as a garage door that gets stuck while opening. This essential part of your home is meant to provide security, convenience, and protection from the elements. However, when it starts sticking, it undermines all those purposes. If you're experiencing this issue, it’s crucial to address it right away to avoid further complications.

A garage door that operates correctly not only keeps unwanted visitors out but also ensures the safety of your family and pets. Understanding the causes of a jammed garage door can help you take proactive measures to fix the problem before it escalates into something worse. Here's what you need to know about why your garage door might be getting stuck.

Common Causes of a Sticking Garage Door

Identifying why your garage door sticks when opening is key to finding a long-term solution. A few common culprits include:

Track Misalignment or Damaged Rollers

The rollers of your garage door move along the tracks, guiding the door’s movement as it opens and closes. Over time, these tracks and rollers can become misaligned due to wear and tear or improper maintenance. When this happens, it becomes harder to open or close the door smoothly. In some cases, the rollers might even get stuck, making it nearly impossible to use the door at all.

This misalignment can lead to unusual noises and erratic behavior when trying to operate the door. Addressing these issues early can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Dirty or Corroded Tracks

Tracks that haven’t been cleaned regularly can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, which interfere with the smooth motion of the rollers. Similarly, rust can form over time, especially if the tracks aren't maintained properly. Rust weakens the structural integrity of the tracks and can cause the rollers to seize up, making the door stick.

Faulty Springs

Your garage door springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the heavy door. Without proper care, these springs can degrade or break. A malfunctioning spring can:

• Fail to generate enough tension to lift the door smoothly
• Lead to uneven movement, putting unnecessary strain on other parts of the door
• Pose a safety risk if the door drops unexpectedly

Preventing Your Garage Door From Sticking

By performing regular maintenance, you can keep your garage door functioning optimally and avoid the frustration of a stuck door. Some essential maintenance tasks include:

• Regularly lubricating moving parts like hinges, rollers, and springs to reduce friction
• Cleaning the tracks and rollers to remove dirt and debris
• Replaced worn-out components, such as door springs and rollers, to ensure smooth operation
• Tightening any loose hardware, like nuts, bolts, or screws, to maintain the door’s balance
• Checking the door panels for any visible damage

It’s important to remember that garage doors operate under significant tension, so attempting DIY repairs without proper knowledge can be dangerous. For your safety, it’s best to leave complex maintenance and repairs to professional technicians.

Trust Door Systems for Reliable Garage Door Solutions

If you’re tired of dealing with a stubborn garage door, consider reaching out to Door Systems. We specialize in providing homeowners with high-quality garage doors and reliable service options. Our products are designed to ensure smooth operation and long-term durability. Additionally, we offer expert installation and maintenance services to keep your door running smoothly.

Don’t let a problematic garage door disrupt your daily life. Contact us today to request a service and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your door is in good hands. With Door Systems, you can expect efficient performance and extended longevity for your garage door.