If you’ve ever owned a home with a garage, then at some point, you’ve probably encountered the issue of having a large gap at the top of the garage door. This can be caused by several things, such as poor installation or settling of the house over time. Fortunately, there are ways how to fix gap at top of garage door without too much trouble.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes the gap and how to address it. We’ll also provide some helpful tips on maintaining your garage door so that this issue doesn’t pop up again in the future. So read on for all you need to know about fixing the gap at the top of your garage door!
Summary: To close the gap at the top of a garage door, use a foam weather seal to fill in any current gaps. You should also inspect and adjust the door’s rollers so that they roll smoothly along its track. If necessary, you may need to lubricate or replace them. It’s important to make sure your springs are properly tensioned and that the brackets connecting them to the tracks are secure. Finally, check that the bottom of your door is adjusted correctly against its doorstop for complete closure.
10 Common Reasons That Causes Gap at Top of Garage Door
1. Improper Door Installation
If your garage door has a gap at the top, it is probably because it was not installed properly. You can fix this by adjusting the height of the door using the screws at the bottom of the door.
2. Misaligned Tracks
If your garage door tracks are misaligned, it may cause a gap. You can fix this problem by realigning the tracks. Use a level to help you adjust the tracks.
3. Bent Tracks
If your garage door tracks are bent, they can cause the door to gap at the top. You can fix this problem by using a hammer to straighten the tracks. Be careful when doing this, as you don’t want to damage the tracks further. Once the tracks are straight, test the door to see if the gap is gone.
4. Malfunctioning Springs
If your garage door isn’t closing properly, it might be because the springs are damaged. To fix this, you’ll need to replace them. First, disconnect the power to the door. Then, use a crescent wrench to loosen the bolts on the spring brackets. Once they’re loose, remove the brackets and old springs. Finally, install the new springs and reattach the brackets.
5. Improper Door Alignment
If your door isn’t aligned properly, it can cause it to gap at the top. This means that there is a space between the door and the frame. To fix this, you’ll need to adjust the door’s alignment. You can do this by manually moving the door up or down until it’s aligned properly. Once it’s aligned, tighten the bolts on the hinges. This will make sure that the door is securely in place.
6. Worn Out Door Seal
If the door seal on your garage door is worn out, it can allow air to escape, causing the door to gap at the top. You can replace the seal by removing the screws on the bottom of the door. Next, remove the old seal and replace it with a new one. Finally, reattach the screws to close up the gap.
7. Warped Door Panels
If the panels on your garage door are warped, you will need to fix them before you can install a new door. You can use a blow dryer to heat up the panel and make it more flexible, or use a hammer to gently tap it back into shape. Be careful not to damage the panel any further.
After the panel is back in shape, you can proceed with installing the new door. However, if the panels are too severely warped, you may need to replace them altogether. In this case, you will need to remove the old panels and install new ones before proceeding with the installation of the new door.
8. Malfunctioning Genie Opener
If the Genie opener on your garage door is malfunctioning, it can cause the door to gap at the top. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the opener. To do this, first, disconnect the power to the opener. Next, remove the cover and disconnect the wires. Finally, install the new opener and reconnect the wires.
9. Damaged Overhead Track
If the overhead track has been damaged, it will need to be replaced. This is not a job that a homeowner can easily do and will require the services of a professional.
10. Damaged Weatherstripping
One possible reason for a gap at the top of your garage door is that the weatherstripping has become damaged or worn. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the weatherstripping. You can buy weatherstripping at most hardware stores.
25 Effective Steps on How to Fix Gap at Top of Garage Door
Step 1: Assess the Gap
Begin by assessing the size and location of the gap at the top of your garage door. This will help you determine the cause of the issue and the most appropriate solution.
Step 2: Check the Garage Door Tracks
Examine the garage door tracks for any signs of damage or misalignment. If the tracks are bent, damaged, or not parallel, they could be causing the gap at the top of the garage door.
Step 3: Adjust the Tracks
If the tracks are misaligned, loosen the bolts holding the tracks in place and carefully reposition them until they are parallel and aligned with the door. Once the tracks are in the correct position, tighten the bolts to secure the tracks in place.
Step 4: Inspect the Garage Door Rollers
Check the garage door rollers for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. If the rollers are worn or damaged, they may not be guiding the door smoothly, leading to a gap at the top.
Step 5: Replace Damaged Rollers
If the rollers are damaged or worn, purchase replacement rollers compatible with your garage door system and install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Inspect the Garage Door Springs
Examine the garage door springs for signs of wear or damage. If the springs are worn or damaged, they may not be providing the necessary tension to keep the door closed properly, resulting in a gap at the top.
Step 7: Replace Damaged Springs
If the springs are damaged or worn, contact a professional garage door technician to replace them. Replacing garage door springs can be dangerous and should only be done by a trained professional.
Step 8: Check the Garage Door Seal
Inspect the garage door seal for signs of wear or damage. If the seal is worn or damaged, it may not be effectively sealing the gap at the top of the door.
Step 9: Replace the Garage Door Seal
If the garage door seal is damaged or worn, purchase a replacement seal compatible with your garage door and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 10: Inspect the Garage Door Opener
Examine the garage door opener for signs of malfunction or improper adjustment. If the opener is not functioning correctly, it may be causing the door to close unevenly, resulting in a gap at the top.
Step 11: Adjust the Garage Door Opener
If the garage door opener is not functioning correctly, consult the owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the opener’s settings. This may involve adjusting the force settings, travel limits, or other settings to ensure the door closes properly.
Step 12: Inspect the Garage Door’s Balance
Check the balance of the garage door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway. If the door remains in place, it is properly balanced. If the door falls or rises, it may be unbalanced, which can cause a gap at the top.
Step 13: Adjust the Garage Door’s Balance
If the garage door is unbalanced, contact a professional garage door technician to assess and adjust the balance of the door. This may involve adjusting the springs or other components to ensure the door operates smoothly and closes evenly.
Step 14: Test the Garage Door
After making any necessary adjustments or repairs, test the garage door to ensure that the gap at the top has been resolved. Operate the door both manually and with the garage door opener to confirm that it closes properly and the gap is no longer present.
Step 15: Perform Regular Maintenance
To prevent future issues with gaps at the top of your garage door, perform regular maintenance on the door and its components. This includes inspecting the tracks, rollers, springs, and opener for signs of wear or damage, and addressing any issues promptly. Regular maintenance can help keep your garage door functioning efficiently and prevent issues that could lead to gaps.
Step 16: Inspect Weatherstripping
Examine the weatherstripping around the garage door, paying close attention to the top portion. If the weatherstripping is damaged or worn, it may not be effectively sealing the gap at the top of the door.
Step 17: Replace Weatherstripping
If the weatherstripping is damaged or worn, purchase a replacement compatible with your garage door and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Properly installed weatherstripping can help seal the gap at the top of the garage door and prevent drafts, moisture, and pests from entering your garage.
Step 18: Check the Door Panel Alignment
Inspect the alignment of the garage door panels to ensure that they are properly positioned and level. Misaligned panels can create gaps at the top of the garage door.
Step 19: Adjust the Door Panel Alignment
If the door panels are misaligned, carefully adjust them until they are level and properly aligned. Depending on your garage door model, this may involve loosening and tightening bolts or making other adjustments to the panel attachments.
Step 20: Insulate the Garage Door
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, consider insulating your garage door to improve its energy efficiency and further seal any gaps at the top of the door. Insulation kits are available for purchase and can be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 21: Regularly Inspect Your Garage Door
Periodically inspect your garage door and its components for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment that could contribute to gaps at the top of the door. Address any issues as they arise to keep your garage door functioning properly and prevent future gaps from forming.
Step 22: Keep the Garage Clean and Organized
Ensure that the garage is clean and organized, with no obstructions that could interfere with the door’s operation. Obstructions can cause the door to close unevenly or prevent it from closing fully, leading to gaps at the top of the door.
Step 23: Consult a Professional if Needed
If you are unable to identify or resolve the cause of the gap at the top of your garage door, consult a professional garage door technician for assistance. A professional can assess your garage door system and determine the best course of action to address the issue.
Step 24: Be Proactive with Garage Door Maintenance
Being proactive with garage door maintenance can help prevent issues like gaps at the top of the door from developing in the first place. Schedule regular inspections and maintenance with a professional garage door technician to keep your garage door in optimal working condition.
Step 25: Stay Informed on Garage Door Technologies
Stay informed about advances in garage door technology, materials, and maintenance techniques. New products and methods are continually being developed, which can help make garage door maintenance more accessible and effective. By staying up-to-date on the latest information, you can ensure that your garage door remains in top condition for years to come.
Some Helpful Tips and Suggestions
Here we have given some tips on how to fix gap at top of garage door
- If the weather stripping is still in good condition, remove it and clean both the door and frame surface with a mild detergent. Allow drying completely before reinstalling.
- If the new weather stripping is needed, purchase an adhesive-backed type that can be easily trimmed to size.
- Carefully peel off the backing and press the weatherstripping down into the gap, ensuring it is securely in place.
- If there is a light between the door and frame, close the door and check to see if the gap has been eliminated. If not, add or remove some of the weather strippings until it is.
- Once the weather stripping is properly installed, check it periodically to ensure it remains in good condition and is still filling the gap properly.
- If the weather stripping becomes worn or damaged, replace it as soon as possible.
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Conclusion
Garage door openers come in various shapes and sizes, making finding the right one for your home is challenging. If you have an older garage door opener or if your opener is not working correctly, it may be time to replace it with a newer model. In this blog post, we have shown how to fix gap at top of garage door so that it closes properly.
This is a common problem that can easily be fixed without calling in a professional. The most important part of fixing this issue is ensuring that the door is level. If your door isn’t level, you can use shims to adjust it. Once the door is level, you can add weather stripping to help keep out the cold and rain. We hope this blog post was informative. If you have any questions, then feel free to comment below!