If you are having trouble with a stuck garage door, you should consult an experienced serviceperson for evaluation and subsequent resolution of the problem. In some cases, jamming of the garage door could indicate a problem with the automatic opener. The unit can prevent the door from opening and closing properly, leaving it stuck in one place. It might also happen as a result of faulty sensors which can cause the door to only close halfway before retreating. However, often, jammed garage door issues are cause by simple anomalies which you can resolve with a little mechanical know-how. Here are some essential guidelines for dealing with a stuck garage door.

Clear the Tracks

One of the common causes of a stuck garage door is the presence of an obstruction in the tracks. In simple terms, if there is an object or material in the tracks, it might be difficult for the door to slide smoothly during opening and closing. Large objects like stones are easy to identify and remove from the tracks. However, there are cases when the obstruction is a build-up of dirt and oils or accumulated debris. If this is the case, you will need to sweep and clean the tracks. Also, consider applying a light layer of mineral oil to facilitate smooth movement.

Check the Rollers

It is important to confirm that the rollers of your garage door are working properly if the structure seems to stick during operation. You should check whether the rollers are moving within the tracks. Sometimes, rollers can be dislodged from the tracks. Therefore, when you attempt to close or open the door, there is only limited movement before the off-track rollers cause jamming. If this is the case in your home, you should reposition the rollers and place them back in the tracks. When doing this, check for the anomaly that could have allowed the rollers to be dislodged from the tracks. If the root issue is not resolved, the problem will reoccur.

Replace the Springs

The movement of your garage door could be impaired by the damage of springs. In simple terms, if the springs supporting your garage door are damaged, the structure might become inoperable. Horizontally located springs, commonly known as torsion springs, will have an irregular gap in between them if they are damaged. Extension springs, which are found on the door sides, will hang down as pieces if they are broken. It is not advisable to handle the replacement of these springs without professional help. 

To learn more about garage door repairs, contact a garage door repair professional in your area.

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