After a Missouri ice storm, it's common for melted snow to refreeze under the garage door and glue the rubber seal to the concrete. Here's how to free it safely.
Step 1: Don't Just Hit the Button
Forcing the opener against a frozen door can strip gears, bend the top panel, or tear the bottom seal clean off. If the door strains and stops, release the button immediately.
Step 2: Break the Ice Bond
Pull the red emergency release cord and try lifting the door by hand with firm, steady pressure — often the bond cracks free. If not, use a plastic ice scraper along the bottom seal. Avoid metal tools that can slice the rubber.
Step 3: Add Gentle Heat
Pour warm (not boiling) water along the seal and lift immediately before it refreezes. A hair dryer or heat gun on low, moved along the seal, also works well.
Prevent It Next Time
- Sweep snow away from the door before it melts and refreezes
- Rub silicone spray on the bottom seal so ice can't grip it
- Fix drainage issues that let water pool at the threshold
If your door froze and now won't operate properly — or the seal tore — Straight Up Garage Doors offers fast repairs throughout the St. Louis area. Call (314) 788-1106.