Common Garage Door Problems and What to Do About Them

Having a garage is a convenient and secure way to protect your vehicle and store your belongings. However, like any other mechanical device, garage doors can experience problems and malfunctions over time.

In this blog post, we will discuss some common garage door problems and provide practical solutions to help you resolve them.

1. Noisy Garage Door

A noisy garage door can be annoying and disruptive. It can also indicate a serious problem with your garage door components.

Possible Cause: The most common cause of a noisy garage door is worn-out rollers, hinges, or bearings. These parts can become dry, rusty, or damaged over time and create friction and vibration when the door moves.

Solution: To fix this problem, you can lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. This will reduce the noise and extend the lifespan of your garage door parts. Additionally, consider replacing any damaged or worn-out parts to ensure smooth and quiet operation.

You can find replacement parts at your local hardware store or online. However, if you are not comfortable with DIY repairs, you can hire a professional garage door technician to do the job for you.

2. Garage Door Opener Not Working

A garage door opener is a device that allows you to open and close your garage door with a remote control or a wall switch. It can save you time and effort, especially in bad weather. However, sometimes the garage door opener may stop working or malfunction, leaving you unable to access your garage or secure your vehicle.

Possible Cause: There are several possible causes for a garage door opener not working, such as:

• Dead batteries in the remote control
• Power outage or faulty wiring
• Misaligned or blocked sensors
• Broken or loose chain or belt
• Damaged circuit board or motor

Solution: To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• Check the batteries in the remote control and replace them if needed
• Make sure the opener is plugged in and receiving power. You can test the outlet with another device or check the circuit breaker or fuse box
• Clean and align the sensors. They should be facing each other and have no obstructions in their path. You can use a level to make sure they are aligned horizontally
• Adjust the chain or belt tension. It should be tight enough to move the door smoothly, but not too tight to cause strain on the motor. You can use a screwdriver to adjust the tension
• Inspect the circuit board and motor for any signs of damage or wear. If you see any burnt or broken components, you will need to replace them. You can find replacement parts online or at your local hardware store. However, this may require some technical skills and tools, so you may want to hire a professional garage door technician to do it for you.

3. Garage Door Stuck or Off Track

A garage door that is stuck or off-track can be a safety hazard and prevent you from using your garage. It can also damage your garage door components and cause further problems. A garage door can get stuck or off-track due to various reasons, such as:

• Obstructions in the door’s path
• Bent or broken tracks
• Loose or missing hardware
• Improper installation or alignment
• Extreme weather or temperature changes

Solution: To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• If the door is stuck, check for any obstructions in the door’s path and remove them. You can also try to manually reset the door by pulling the emergency release cord and operating the door manually. However, be careful not to force the door or injure yourself.
• If the door is off-track, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Attempting to fix it yourself may cause further damage or injury. A professional garage door technician can inspect the tracks and hardware, adjust the alignment, and repair or replace any damaged parts. They can also ensure the door is balanced and operates smoothly.

4. Broken Springs

one of the common garage door problems and what to do about them. Here are the key points:

• Symptoms of broken springs: The garage door may not open or close properly, make loud noises, or sag on one side.
• Causes of broken springs: The springs may break due to wear and tear, rust, extreme temperatures, or improper installation.
• Risks of broken springs: The broken springs can pose a safety hazard, damage the garage door opener, or cause the door to fall off the tracks.
• Solutions for broken springs: The best solution is to call a professional locksmith to replace the springs, as DIY repairs can be dangerous and void the warranty.

5. Sensor Malfunction

Garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent them from closing if there is an obstruction in the way. This feature is designed to protect you, your family, and your pets from getting injured by the garage door. However, sometimes the sensors may malfunction and cause the garage door to not close properly or at all.

Possible Cause: There are several possible causes for a sensor malfunction, such as:

• Dirty or misaligned sensors
• Blocked or damaged wires
• Faulty or incompatible sensors
• Sunlight or bright light interference

Solution: To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• Clean and align the sensors. They should be facing each other and have no obstructions in their path. You can use a soft cloth to wipe off any dust or dirt. You can also use a level to make sure they are aligned horizontally.
• Check the wires and connections. They should be securely attached and free of any cuts or damages. You can also inspect the terminals and contacts for any corrosion or loose connections.
• Replace the sensors if they are faulty or incompatible. You can find compatible sensors online or at your local hardware store. However, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications when installing the new sensors.
• Adjust the position or angle of the sensors if they are affected by sunlight or bright light. You can also use shades or covers to block the light source. Alternatively, you can install a photo-eye bypass switch that allows you to override the sensors and close the door manually

Conclusion

Garage doors are essential for the security and convenience of your home. However, they can also experience problems that can affect their performance and safety. By following these tips, you can fix common garage door problems and keep your garage door in optimal condition.

If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are a licensed and insured garage door company that offers quality service and affordable prices. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate or a same-day service.