Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close in the Winter & How to Fix It

When temperatures drop in Wisconsin, your garage door can become stubborn and refuse to close properly. Cold weather, ice, and moisture can cause various issues that affect the functionality of your garage door. If your garage door won’t close in the winter, here are some common reasons why—and what you can do to fix them.

1. Contracting Metal Components

Cold temperatures can cause metal parts, such as springs, tracks, and hinges, to contract. This can lead to alignment issues or increased friction, making it harder for your garage door to close.

How to Fix It:

• Lubricate the moving parts with a high-quality, cold-weather garage door lubricant.
• Check for misaligned tracks and gently adjust them if necessary.
• If the springs are too tight or brittle due to the cold, call a professional for service.

2. Frozen Weather Stripping

The bottom weather seal on your garage door can freeze to the ground, making it difficult to open or close. Snow and ice buildup can also prevent a proper seal.

How to Fix It:

• Use a hairdryer or heat gun on a low setting to gently thaw the ice.
• Clear away snow and ice from the garage door’s path before opening or closing.
• Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the weather stripping to prevent freezing.

3. Sensor Malfunctions

Garage doors have safety sensors near the bottom that prevent them from closing if an object is detected. However, in winter, moisture, frost, or dirt can interfere with the sensors, causing them to misread obstructions.

How to Fix It:

• Wipe off the sensors with a dry, clean cloth.
• Check for condensation or ice buildup and gently remove it.
• Make sure the sensors are aligned and that nothing is blocking them.

4. Broken or Worn-Out Springs

The torsion and extension springs that help lift and lower your garage door can become brittle in the cold, leading to breakage or reduced tension.

How to Fix It:

• Listen for a loud snapping sound—this is often a sign of a broken spring.
• Do not attempt to repair or replace springs yourself, as they are under high tension.
• Contact a professional garage door technician to safely replace the damaged springs.

5. Thickened or Frozen Garage Door Opener Grease

Cold temperatures can cause the grease inside the garage door opener to thicken, making it harder for the motor to function properly.

How to Fix It:

• If the opener is struggling, check the drive mechanism for thick grease buildup.
• Use a silicone-based lubricant instead of traditional grease for cold-weather performance.
• If the problem persists, have a technician inspect and adjust the opener.

Professional Garage Door Services

If your garage door won’t close in winter, Garage Door Specialists is here to help. As a trusted, family-owned company serving Wisconsin for over 40 years, we specialize in garage door repairs, maintenance, and installations.

We also offer energy-efficient garage doors, which can help reduce heat loss and keep your garage more comfortable during Wisconsin’s harsh winters. Our insulated garage doors help lower energy costs and protect your home from extreme temperatures.

From emergency repairs to complete garage door replacements, Garage Door Specialists provides fast, reliable service with high-quality products and expert craftsmanship. Contact us today for all your garage door needs!