Can the Sun Affect Your Garage Door?
The sun brightens our days—and sometimes sabotages our garage doors. From misbehaving safety sensors to warped panels, sunlight can create problems you’d never expect. Here’s how the sun interferes with garage‑door performance and what you can do about it.
- How Sunlight Can Interfere with Your Garage Door
- Can Sunlight Keep a Garage Door from Closing?
- Can the Sun Affect Your Garage Door Sensor?
- How Do I Protect My Garage Door from the Sun?
- Is It Better to Leave Your Garage Door Open in the Summer?
How Sunlight Can Interfere with Your Garage Door
Direct sunlight most often causes trouble by overwhelming the door’s safety sensors, but intense heat can also fade finishes, dry out weather‑seals, and warp thin panels.
Can Sunlight Keep a Garage Door from Closing?
Yes. Bright rays shining into the safety eyes (photo‑electric sensors) can mimic an obstruction. The opener interprets this as something blocking the doorway and refuses to close for safety.
Can the Sun Affect Your Garage Door Sensor?
Absolutely. Safety eyes transmit an infrared beam. When low‑angle sunlight (sunrise or sunset) hits one sensor directly, the glare “blinds” the receiver, breaking the beam and stopping the door.
How Do I Protect My Garage Door from the Sun?
Sun Shields
Plastic or metal hoods block direct rays from striking the sensors.
Reposition Sensors
If possible, mount sensors a few inches farther back or angle them slightly to reduce glare.
Regular Maintenance
Keep lenses clean, ensure sensors are level, and check that wiring is intact.
Is It Better to Leave Your Garage Door Open in the Summer?
An open door can ventilate a hot garage, but it also invites pests, thieves, and hot air into attached living space. Vent briefly when working inside, then close the door to protect belongings and keep AC costs down.
The Bottom Line
Sunlight can disrupt sensors and shorten a door’s life, but simple fixes—sun shields, sensor adjustments, and routine upkeep—keep everything running smoothly.
Need help taming Colorado’s sunshine? Call Sean at Third Gen Garage Doors (720‑697‑0418). We’ll handle the door drama so you can enjoy those bright Denver days worry‑free.
