Dealing with a malfunctioning garage door can be a homeowner’s nightmare. From minor annoyances to major security issues, an uncooperative garage door is a problem you’ll want to address immediately. Fortunately, at Blue Chip Garage Doors, we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help. Let’s dive into the top five most common garage door repairs homeowners encounter and provide some troubleshooting tips and potential solutions.
1. Broken Garage Door Springs
Without a doubt, broken garage door springs top the list of common garage door problems. The springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it possible for the door opener to lift it. When a spring breaks, the door becomes extremely heavy and difficult to lift. To check if the springs are the problem, disconnect the automatic opener and try to lift the door manually. If it’s challenging, the springs are likely broken. In such cases, it’s always best to contact a professional as this is a dangerous task that requires specialized tools and expertise.
2. Worn Out Garage Door Rollers
The rollers along the edge of your garage door can wear out or become damaged, causing your door to operate noisily or jerk during operation. Regularly inspect these rollers for any visible wear or damage. If you suspect the rollers are the problem, you can attempt to replace them yourself. However, be careful not to remove the bottom rollers, as they are under extreme tension from the door cables. If in doubt, seek professional assistance.
3. Misaligned Garage Door Tracks
If your garage door isn’t rolling smoothly, the tracks might be misaligned. Look for gaps between the rollers and rail or bends in the rails themselves. While minor adjustments can be made with a rubber mallet, major realignments should be left to the professionals. Misaligned tracks can cause further damage to your door or even pose a safety risk.
4. Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener
Garage door openers are another common problem area. If your door won’t open or close completely, or at all, the issue might be with your garage door opener. Before calling for service, check the power source by ensuring the motor unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the door still doesn’t operate correctly, it could be an issue with the opener’s motor, limit settings, or the photo eye sensors.
5. Damaged Garage Door Cables
If your garage door slams shut or feels very heavy to lift, it could be an issue with the door cables. These cables work in tandem with the springs to lift and lower your door safely. Cable replacement is a complex and potentially dangerous task due to the high tension in the cables. This is a task best left to the professionals, so don’t hesitate to call us for help at 704-754-8564.
While it’s essential to understand the common issues that can afflict your garage door, remember that some repairs should be left to the professionals. For any garage door issues you’re not comfortable handling yourself, reach out to our team at Blue Chip Garage Doors. We are ready to help get your door back on track.
