How to Rev Up a Slow-Opening Garage Door
A slow-opening garage door can be frustrating and concerning for homeowners. If you observe a noticeably slower garage door, you might be tempted to ignore it and see if the problem fixes itself, but resist that temptation. Identify and address the root cause before potential further damage to your garage door occurs.
To help you pinpoint what might be causing the slowdown, here are a few of the most common reasons we see garage doors going slower than molasses:
1 – Gauge the Lubrication
Most garage door owners don’t realize that the moving parts of your garage door can become dry and stiff – it’s a machine, after all. So, just like you regularly check and change the oil in your car, you should periodically check and lubricate your garage door system. Use a silicone-based spray lubricant and apply it generously to all moving parts, including the hinges, rollers, and tracks.
2 – Check the Tracks
After lubrication, the next most common cause of a slowdown is the tracks. Grab a flashlight and run the length of the tracks. Check for damage, misalignment, warps, bends, or if the track is filled with debris. If it’s a debris issue, the fix is simple. If the tracks are physically damaged, they will most likely need to be replaced.
3 – Glance at the Rollers and Hinges
While you are reviewing the tracks, it’s also a great time to get eyes on the rollers and hinges. These parts of the system can play a role in a slow garage door. Like the tracks, you are looking for damage and will need to be replaced if they are cracked, chipped, or excessively worn.
4- Check the Springs
Your spring tension could also be a cause of a slower door. The springs provide the power to lift and lower your garage door. If the tension is off in either direction (too loose or tight), it can negatively impact the door’s speed. If you’ve ruled out the lubrication and the tracks and are concerned that the springs are the issue, you should contact a qualified repair technician. Adjusting spring is a delicate task.
Preventive Maintenance for a Smoothly Operating Garage Door
The best way to avoid garage door speed issues is to be proactive with maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your garage door system in top shape:
- Lubricate the moving parts regularly.
- Regularly inspect the tracks and rollers for damage or wear.
- Clean the tracks and remove any debris.
- Have your garage door professionally inspected and tuned up annually.
Seeking Professional Assistance When Needed
While some homeowners prefer to deal with garage door speed issues yourself, some situations and repairs may require a professional’s assistance. Here are some signs that you should call a residential garage door repair technician:
- The issue involves the springs, motor, or opener
- There is physical damage to the system
- You are uncomfortable making adjustments to the garage door system
A slow-opening garage door can be a nuisance and a sign of more significant problems. But with some understanding and DIY know-how, you can often get your door back up to speed quickly. And if you ever find yourself in over your head, don’t hesitate to call a professional garage door repair technician.
