Sometimes, you know there’s something wrong with your garage door, but you can’t seem to put a finger on it. Like any other mechanical system, garage doors can undergo wear and tear with repeated usage.
However, knowing the most common problems can help you resolve them before they turn into something costly.
Here are six common garage door problems that you can encounter.
1. Loud and Unusual Noises
If you hear loud or unusual noises on opening or closing your garage door, it’s a huge red flag. But worry not, in some cases, it’s a minor issue only.
That’s why you should know the different noises, so you can catch the issue early. These noises include:
Vibrating or Rattling: Loose nuts or bolts.
Popping: Broken springs.
Straining or Scraping: Alignment issues.
2. Door Sensor Malfunctioning
With over 20,000 people injured due to malfunctioning garage doors annually, it’s essential to keep your door sensor updated. These sensors prevent any mishap from happening.
If your garage door isn’t closing properly, or if it reverses suddenly, address the problem immediately. Moreover, if you see something in front of the sensor, remove it and test the sensor again.
3. Tracks Not Aligned Properly
Garage doors are mostly opened and closed daily, and often even more than once. After a few years or even months, this repeated usage can cause the door to stop operating optimally.
To solve this issue, check if there are any gaps or bends in the rollers or the track. You can easily correct minor issues by loosening or tightening some screws. However, if the alignment is severe, let the professionals handle it for you.
4. Broken Springs and Cables
Door springs are usually held together with high tension to prevent the door from falling out. However, like any other machine, it can break after prolonged stress. It is one of the most common problems for which homeowners get professional garage repair services.
Due to this issue, you may find it difficult to open your garage door, or it might not open at all. Make sure to replace these broken springs immediately.
5. Door Opener Not Working Properly
The door opener is responsible for the proper functioning of the garage door. This means if there are any issues with it, you may not be able to open or close the door.
If this happens, don’t panic. Go to the main board and inspect if the door opener is getting optimal power. After that, replace the remote batteries and check again. These steps will most likely resolve this issue.
6. Weather Seal Damage
Weather seals help maintain a consistent temperature inside the garage and keep moisture away. But, these seals can get damaged after much use and might need replacing.
A general rule of thumb is to check these seals every few months and replace them if you see any damage. These are quite inexpensive, so you won’t have to worry about the cost.
Summing Up
Garage door issues can become a real headache if left unresolved for a long time. That’s why it’s always recommended to watch out for early signs and get professional help.
If you’re new to handling garage doors, take your time to understand how they work. Also, conduct inspections occasionally to prevent minor issues from turning into something worse.
lexutor