The average garage door is among the heaviest moving components of your home, and most homeowners use it more than any other entrance. Because of that constant use, problems are only a matter of time.
Thankfully that the majority of problems are easy to identify. Learning the basics can save you an expensive emergency call.
Broken and Worn Springs
The torsion springs carry the heavy lifting whenever you use the door. Springs are wound under enormous tension, which is the reason they eventually wear out.
When a spring breaks, the signs are clear: you may hear a loud bang from the garage. Never try to replace a spring yourself — a single mistake can send you to the hospital. Have a professional handle it, and replace both springs at once so the second one doesn't fail soon after.
Opener and Motor Failures
The opener unit break down for all sorts of reasons, and not all of them require a technician. Start with the simple things: the remote's battery is frequently the fix.
When only the remote fails, the opener itself is probably fine. But if the motor hums without moving the door, you may be looking at a stripped gear that calls for a repair.
When the Door Comes Off Its Track
A garage door that hangs at an angle could have slipped out of alignment. The cause is often following a minor collision. In any case, stop using the opener — running it can bend the track further.
Cable and Drum Problems
The cables and drums work together with the springs to raise and lower the door smoothly. When a cable frays or snaps, the door may hang crooked or get stuck. As with springs, these parts hold tension and are best left to a professional.
Driveway and Automatic Gate Repairs
Automatic gates are a great feature, but they have maintenance needs. Gate motors can lose power as they age, and the beams may need realignment.
A grinding noise often signals a worn part. Since gates combine mechanical and electrical systems, a trained pro is the safest choice for repairs.
The Value of Routine Upkeep
The easiest way to prevent these repairs is a yearly tune-up. Tightening loose hardware once or twice a year goes a long way to the life of your system.
When something does break, hiring an experienced pro is the smart move. A professional can diagnose the problem quickly and save you from bigger repairs down the road.
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