Garage doors are essential to any home, providing security and convenience. However, like any mechanical device, they can experience problems from time to time. Some common issues include broken springs, malfunctioning openers, and misaligned tracks. These problems can be frustrating and even dangerous to deal with, so it’s important to know when to call professionals for help.
This article will discuss some of the most common garage door problems and the signs that indicate it’s time to call in the experts. By taking the necessary steps to keep your garage door in good working condition, you can ensure that it continues to provide reliable service for years to come.
Now let’s look at a few common garage door problems.
Broken Springs
Broken springs are a common problem in garage doors. They are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, and when they break, the door will not be able to move. There are two types of springs on a garage door. You can find the torsion springs positioned above the door, while the extension springs can be found on either side of the door.
One way to identify a garage door’s broken spring is by observing the door as It’s being operated. If the door cannot move or is moving unevenly, it could signify that a spring is broken. Another way to check is by visually inspecting the springs. They need to be replaced if they are visibly broken or have gaps.
It’s essential to have broken springs repaired by a professional because they are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous to handle. Improperly handling a broken spring can cause it to fly off and cause injury or damage. A professional has the knowledge and tools to safely replace the broken spring and ensure that the door operates correctly. Additionally, a professional can inspect the other parts of the garage door to ensure all other issues are addressed.
Malfunctioning Openers
Malfunctioning openers can cause many problems for homeowners, as they are responsible for opening and closing the garage door. Several things can cause opener problems, including worn gears, a broken chain or belt, a malfunctioning remote control, and a lack of power.
One way to troubleshoot opener problems is by checking the power source. If the opener is not working, ensure that It’s plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If the opener is still not working, try using the manual release handle to open and close the door. This can help determine whether the problem is with the opener or the door itself.
If the opener is not working and the manual release handle is not helping, It’s a good idea to call a professional for repair or replacement. An experienced technician can diagnose the problem and determine if the opener needs to be repaired or replaced.
It’s vital to have opener problems repaired or replaced as soon as possible. In addition, garage door opener problems can also cause the door to come down too quickly or slowly, which can be dangerous.
Misaligned Tracks
Misaligned tracks occur when the tracks that guide the door’s movement become bent or out of alignment. This can cause the door to become stuck or to move unevenly, making it difficult to open or close.
Several things can cause tracks to become misaligned. One of the most common causes is damage from a car or other vehicle. If a car hits the garage door, it can cause the tracks to become bent or out of alignment. Another common cause is wear and tear. Over time, the tracks can become worn, and this can cause them to become misaligned. Improper installation can also cause tracks to become misaligned.
There are several signs that tracks may be misaligned. One of the most obvious is if the door is not moving smoothly or getting stuck. Another sign is if the door is not closing properly or is closing unevenly. Sometimes, the tracks are visibly bent or out of alignment.
Getting misaligned tracks realigned by a professional is crucial because if left unrepaired, it can cause further damage to the garage door spring, opener, or even the door itself.
Other Common Problems
- Damaged panels: Panels can become damaged due to impact from a car or other vehicle or wear and tear over time. This can cause the door to become uneven or to not close properly.
- Frayed cables: Cables lift the door and can become frayed due to wear and tear or rust. Frayed cables can cause the door to become stuck or to move unevenly.
- Damaged sensors: Sensors are responsible for reversing the door if something is in the way while it’s closing. If the sensors are not working properly, the door may not reverse when it should, which can be dangerous. It’s important to check the sensors and ensure they are working properly.
Tips For Maintenance
Preventive maintenance can prevent problems from occurring with your garage door. Here are a few tips to help keep your garage door in good working condition:
- Regularly inspect the door for any signs of wear or damage. Check for the panels and tracks’ cracks, rust, or other damage.
- Lubricate the door’s moving parts, such as the tracks and opener chain or belt, with a silicon-based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.
- Keep the tracks clean. Use a brush or a vacuum to remove debris that can accumulate in the tracks.
- Test the automatic reversing mechanism of the garage door opener. This can be done by placing a roll of paper towels on the ground and then closing the door. The door should reverse when it comes into contact with the roll of paper towels.
- Check the balance of the door. If the door is not properly balanced, it can cause problems with the opener and be dangerous to operate.
By following these tips, you can help prevent problems from occurring with your garage door and ensure that it’s in good working condition. However, if any problem persists, it’s better to call a professional to diagnose and repair it.
Our skilled technicians at Majestic Garage Doors understand the importance of maintaining your garage door. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to help keep your door in good condition. From regular inspections and maintenance to garage door repairs and replacements, we have you covered. Don’t let a malfunctioning garage door ruin your day.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your garage door running smoothly.
