A close-up shot capturing a garage door halfway open, displaying twisted cables and a worn-out spring, symbolizing the mechanical struggles of "why won't my garage door stay down."

Why Won’T My Garage Door Stay Down? A Comprehensive Guide

ByHulya Aksu Updated on

Is your garage door not staying closed? Do you have to pull it back down each time it goes up a few inches or feet? A garage door that won’t stay down can be frustrating and seem like a mystery. But there are several common reasons why garage doors don’t stay closed and effective ways to fix the problem.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The most likely causes of a garage door that won’t stay down are broken extension springs, broken cables, misaligned tracks, bent tracks, damaged rollers, or an unbalanced door.

Fixing any of these issues should make the door stay down properly when closed.

Check the Door Balance

One possible reason why your garage door won’t stay down is an imbalance in the door itself. This means that one side of the door is heavier than the other, causing it to either rise or fall uncontrollably. To check the door balance, you can follow a few simple steps.

Use the Manual Release to Check

First, locate the manual release cord, usually hanging from the center rail of the garage door opener. Pull the cord to disengage the opener and allow you to manually open and close the door. Once the door is closed, observe if it remains in place or if it starts to rise.

If it rises, then you may have a balance issue.

Adjust the Spring Tension

If you suspect an imbalance, the next step is to adjust the spring tension. The springs play a crucial role in counterbalancing the weight of the door, allowing it to stay open or closed. If the tension is too loose or too tight, it can affect the door’s balance.

You can consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help to adjust the spring tension properly.

It’s important to note that adjusting spring tension can be dangerous and should be done with caution. If you’re not confident in your ability to do so safely, it’s best to leave it to the experts.

For more detailed instructions and guidance on checking and adjusting the door balance, you can visit www.examplegaragedoors.com.

Inspect the Tracks

One of the main reasons why your garage door won’t stay down could be due to issues with the tracks. It is essential to inspect the tracks thoroughly to identify any potential problems. Here are a few steps you can take to inspect the tracks:

Look for Misalignments

Start by checking if the tracks are properly aligned. Over time, the tracks can shift or become misaligned, causing the door to malfunction. Look for any gaps or spaces between the tracks and the door. If you notice any misalignments, you can try to adjust the tracks back into place.

This can be done by loosening the screws that hold the tracks and gently tapping them with a rubber mallet until they are aligned properly. Once the tracks are aligned, tighten the screws back in place.

Check for Bends and Damage

Inspect the tracks for any signs of bends or damage. Bent tracks can prevent the door from moving smoothly, causing it to get stuck or not stay down. If you notice any bends, it is crucial to address them promptly.

In some cases, minor bends can be fixed by carefully bending the track back into shape using pliers or a hammer. However, if the tracks are severely damaged or bent, it may be necessary to replace them. Ensure that you purchase the correct size and type of tracks for your garage door.

Remember, if you are unsure about how to inspect or fix the tracks, it is always best to consult a professional garage door technician. They have the knowledge and expertise to identify and resolve any issues with your garage door tracks effectively.

Examine the Rollers and Hinges

When your garage door won’t stay down, one of the first areas to examine is the rollers and hinges. These components play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. Over time, the rollers can become worn out or damaged, causing the door to malfunction.

Lubricate the Rollers

One common issue that can prevent your garage door from staying down is lack of lubrication. The rollers need to be well-lubricated in order to move freely along the tracks. Without proper lubrication, the rollers can become sticky and cause the door to get stuck.

To resolve this issue, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers. This will help them glide smoothly and prevent any resistance that may be preventing the door from staying down.

Replace Damaged Rollers

If lubrication doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to replace the damaged rollers. Over time, rollers can wear out or break due to constant use. Damaged rollers can cause the garage door to become misaligned, making it difficult for the door to stay down.

Inspect the rollers for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or excessive wobbling. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the rollers with new ones. This will not only help your garage door stay down but also ensure its smooth and efficient operation.

For more detailed information and step-by-step instructions on lubricating rollers and replacing damaged rollers, you can visit www.garagedoorrepair.com or www.familyhandyman.com.

Test the Cables and Springs

One common reason why a garage door won’t stay down is due to issues with the cables and springs. These components play a vital role in the smooth operation of the door. Therefore, it’s important to regularly test and inspect them to ensure they are in good condition.

Replace Broken Cables

If you notice that your garage door won’t stay down, it could be a sign of broken cables. Cables are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, and if they become damaged or worn out, they can cause the door to malfunction. Inspect the cables for any signs of fraying, corrosion, or other damage.

If you spot any issues, it’s crucial to replace them as soon as possible to prevent further problems. It’s recommended to hire a professional technician for this task, as working with garage door cables can be dangerous.

Replace Broken Springs

Another common culprit behind a garage door that won’t stay down is broken springs. Springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. Over time, springs can weaken or break due to regular wear and tear.

If you suspect a broken spring, it’s important to refrain from using the door until it’s fixed, as attempting to operate the door with a broken spring can be dangerous. Contact a professional garage door technician to inspect and replace the broken spring.

They have the knowledge and tools to ensure the replacement is done correctly and safely.

Remember, when dealing with garage door cables and springs, safety should always be a top priority. It’s best to leave these tasks to the professionals who have the expertise and experience to handle them safely and effectively.

Conclusion

A garage door that refuses to stay down is often caused by issues with balance, track alignment, rollers, cables or springs. Carefully inspecting each component and making necessary repairs can get your door working properly again.

If DIY fixes don’t solve the problem, contact a professional garage door technician to inspect and diagnose your specific issue. With some targeted troubleshooting and repairs, you’ll once again have a garage door that stays closed.

Hulya Aksu is the founder and editor-in-chief of Posh Seven Magazine, the leading lifestyle publication serving the affluent suburbs of Washington D.C. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Hulya moved to the United States to pursue her passion for fashion. She worked for major fashion houses before recognizing a need for a magazine that spoke to successful women in D.C.'s prestigious neighborhoods.

In 2007, Hulya launched Posh Seven Magazine from her home while on maternity leave. The magazine quickly gained an avid following for its insider's perspective on upscale living in communities like McLean, Potomac, and Bethesda.

Over the past 15 years, Hulya has built Posh Seven into a multimedia brand with print, digital, social media, and experiential components. Her visionary leadership and hyper-local approach has made Posh Seven a go-to resource for over 100,000 readers.

As founder and editor-in-chief, Hulya lends the magazine her impeccable taste and insights into luxury living. She resides with her family in Ashburn, Virginia where the Posh Seven headquarters are located. Hulya is deeply committed to serving the vibrant community of successful women who call D.C.'s affluent suburbs home.

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