Here are the Top Reasons Why Your Roller Shutter Keeps Jamming… and How to Fix It
There’s nothing more frustrating than a roller shutter that won’t budge – especially when it seems to happen at the most inconvenient time. Whether it’s your home, shopfront or warehouse, a jammed shutter can slow you down, compromise security, and in some cases, pose safety risks. But what exactly causes this issue? And more importantly, what can you do about it? Here are the most common (and a few lesser-known) reasons why your roller shutter keeps jamming.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Like any mechanical system, roller shutters need periodic maintenance to function properly. Dirt, debris, and rust can accumulate in the tracks and rollers, leading to stiffness and sticking points. This is one of the most common reasons your shutter gets jammed over time.
How to fix it: Gently clean the tracks with a damp cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the moving parts. Avoid using grease or oil-based products, which can attract more dirt.
Pro tip: Preventative maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs. Alpha Garage Doors offers convenient servicing plans to keep your shutters running smoothly year-round.
Obstruction in the Tracks
Sometimes, it’s the smallest objects that cause the biggest headaches. A stone, twig, or even a loose screw can block the track, preventing the shutter from opening or closing completely.
How to fix it: Inspect the tracks thoroughly and remove any foreign objects. If the shutter is jammed, avoid forcing it, as this can strain the motor or damage the slats.
Misaligned or Damaged Slats
When the slats of your roller shutter become bent or misaligned, they can catch on one another, causing jamming during operation. This may happen due to accidental impact or long-term wear and tear.
How to fix it: You might be able to gently realign a slightly bent slat, but significant damage usually requires professional attention. In cases of repeated jamming, it’s worth having an expert from Alpha Garage Doors assess the issue to prevent further complications.
Motor or Sensor Malfunctions
For automatic shutters, electrical faults are often to blame. A faulty motor, misfiring sensor, or power supply issue can all result in your exterior shutter being jammed.
How to fix it: First, check for obvious issues like a tripped circuit breaker or flat remote batteries. If the problem persists, don’t risk electrical damage – call in a professional technician who can diagnose the issue safely.
Improper Installation
Unfortunately, not all roller shutters are installed to the same standard. An improperly aligned or poorly fitted shutter can create ongoing operational issues, including frequent jamming.
How to fix it: If your roller shutter has been problematic from day one, it may not be a maintenance issue – it could be an installation fault. In these cases, it’s worth seeking a second opinion. The team at Alpha Garage Doors provides expert installation services backed by years of experience and a long list of satisfied customers across Melbourne.
Weather-Related Swelling or Freezing
In Australia’s ever-changing climate, exterior shutters can expand or contract due to moisture or heat. In colder regions or winter months, water can freeze inside the mechanism, causing it to seize.
How to fix it: If you suspect weather-related swelling or freezing, avoid using force. Instead, gently warm the affected area (e.g., with a heat gun or warm water bottle) to help it release. Going forward, regular weatherproofing maintenance can help prevent this issue from recurring.
Worn-Out Springs or Tension Issues
The springs in your roller shutter bear a significant load. Over time, these springs can lose tension or break altogether, making the shutter uneven or jammed on one side.
How to fix it: Spring repairs should never be a DIY job; as high tension makes them dangerous to work with. If your shutter is jammed and you’re unsure how to fix it, the safest solution is to get a licensed technician to handle the repair.
Time to call the experts? Call Alpha Garage Doors today
While some minor issues can be managed with basic cleaning and maintenance, frequent or persistent jamming often points to a deeper mechanical fault. Attempting to force a jammed shutter can lead to costly damage (or worse, personal injury!). At Alpha Garage Doors, we understand that a functioning roller shutter is vital for both security and convenience. Whether it’s your exterior shutter that’s jammed, an automatic roller that’s acting up, or a full system replacement you need, we’ve got you covered. We offer a full suite of services across Melbourne, including:
- Roller shutter installations
- Preventative maintenance programs
- Same-day emergency repairs
- Comprehensive diagnostics and system upgrades
Don’t let a jammed shutter slow you down – contact Alpha Garage Doors today for expert advice, reliable service, and peace of mind.
