Garage Door Jumps When Closing: Causes and Solutions

As a garage door opener specialist, I have come across many issues related to garage doors, but one common issue that homeowners often face is a garage door that jumps when closing. It can be frustrating and dangerous if not addressed in time. In this article, I will discuss the causes of this issue and some solutions to fix it.

Causes of a Garage Door Jumping When Closing

Before discussing the solutions, let’s first understand the causes of a garage door jumping when closing.

Track Misalignment

One of the most common causes of a jumping garage door is track misalignment. If the tracks are not aligned properly, it can cause the rollers to come off the track, leading to a jerky motion when the door closes.

Broken Springs

Another possible cause of a jumping garage door is broken springs. Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. If one or both springs break, the door can become unbalanced, causing it to jump when closing.

Worn Rollers

Worn rollers can also be the culprit behind a jumping garage door. If the rollers are worn out or damaged, they may not be able to smoothly glide along the tracks, causing the door to jump when closing.

Loose or Broken Hardware

Lastly, loose or broken hardware can also cause a garage door to jump when closing. Hinges, bolts, and nuts can become loose or break over time, causing the door to become unstable.

Solutions to Fix a Garage Door Jumping When Closing

Now that we know the possible causes of a jumping garage door, let’s discuss some solutions to fix it.

Check and Align the Tracks

If the tracks are misaligned, you need to align them properly. Start by checking if the tracks are parallel to each other and if they are level. If not, loosen the bolts that hold the tracks to the wall and adjust them until they are aligned. Once the tracks are aligned, tighten the bolts and check if the door is closing smoothly.

Replace Broken Springs

If one or both springs are broken, they need to be replaced. Replacing garage door springs can be dangerous and should only be done by a professional. Call a garage door repair company to replace the broken springs.

Replace Worn Rollers

If the rollers are worn out or damaged, they need to be replaced. Start by removing the old rollers from the tracks and replacing them with new ones. Make sure to choose the correct size and type of roller for your garage door.

Tighten or Replace Loose or Broken Hardware

If the hinges, bolts, or nuts are loose or broken, tighten or replace them. Use a socket wrench to tighten loose bolts or nuts, and replace broken hardware with new ones. Check if the door is closing smoothly after tightening or replacing the hardware.

Conclusion

A garage door that jumps when closing is a common issue that can be caused by various factors, including track misalignment, broken springs, worn rollers, and loose or broken hardware. To fix this issue, you need to identify the cause and implement the appropriate solution. Regular maintenance and inspection of your garage door can also help prevent this issue from occurring in the first place.

Remember, garage doors are heavy and can be dangerous if not handled properly. It’s always best to hire a professional garage door repair company to fix any issues to ensure the safety of you and your family.