We’ve all been there – you go to open or close your garage door and it gets stuck halfway. Or maybe it starts making weird rattling noises that don’t seem quite right. Before calling in the pros for expensive garage door repair, try these simple fixes yourself to get your door up and running smoothly again.
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Broken Springs
One of the most common problems homeowners face is broken or worn out garage door springs. These springs are under a lot of tension to help lift the heavy door, so over time they can snap. If a spring is broken, it’s best not to try adjusting or replacing it yourself as they can be dangerous – call a professional like Garage Door Repair in Virginia Beach for assistance. However, if the springs are just getting weak, you may be able to tighten them yourself to buy some more time before replacement is needed. Just be very careful handling garage door springs.
Loose Hardware
Noisy or sluggish movement usually means something has come loose. Check all the hardware, pulleys, and brackets securing the door to the tracks and mounting points. Listen for areas that may be squeaking or rattling more than others. Tighten any bolts or screws that have loosened with the proper size wrench or socket wrench. Applying white lithium grease to moving parts like rollers can also help reduce noise.
Bent Tracks
Over the years, the steel tracks holding the wheels can warp or bend from weather or physical damage. This causes the door to rub or hang up in places. Inspect tracks for any dents, kinks, or dips and try bending back gently into proper alignment with a rubber mallet. Repair any deep damage before it leads to bigger problems down the road.
Broken Cables
The cables that run through the tracks and connect to the door and counterbalance system carry a lot of weight. Over time and with repetitive opening/closing, the cables can fray or even break. Check cables for any rust, kinks, or broken strands. Frayed cables should be replaced right away before a complete break occurs. New cables are available at home improvement stores.
Dirty or Damaged Sensors
Photo eyes and sensors that detect objects are crucial safety components. But sometimes they get coated in spiderwebs, dirt, or other debris which can cause the door to malfunction. Clean sensors with a damp cloth or blast of compressed air. Also look for any cuts or damage to wires which would require repair or replacement of the sensor. These cheap fixes can resolve annoyances and avoid a service call.
With a little maintenance, many common garage door issues can be addressed quickly without professional help. But serious problems with springs, rollers, or the motor system often require an expert for garage door repair. So do your own inspection regularly and call in the pros at the first sign your door isn’t operating smoothly and safely. With some TLC, your garage door will last for many years to come.
Meet Jessica, the car-loving wordsmith. She doesn’t just write about automobiles; she crafts stories that paint a vivid picture of horsepower, speed, and the open road. Get ready to cruise through her world of automotive passion.
