Give Your Home the Wow Factor

Posted on: 8 February 2024

Your garage door: it's the silent guardian of your home, protecting your car and belongings day after day. But what happens when the creaks and groans begin, or worse, when it refuses to budge? Before you panic and brace yourself for a hefty bill, let's roll up our sleeves and discuss some common garage door troubles and how to fix them.

When to DIY and When to Call a Pro

First off, it's important to know that some issues with garage doors can be resolved with a little DIY spirit. However, there are times when it's safer and smarter to call a professional. It's all about balancing confidence with caution.

Simple Fixes You Can DIY

Lubricate Moving Parts:

Squeaking and stiff movements often mean your garage door's moving parts need lubrication. Use a garage door-specific lubricant for best results.

Replace Weather Stripping: 

If you notice drafts or critters sneaking in around the edges, it might be time to replace the weather stripping. This is a simple cut-to-fit job that can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Tighten Loose Hardware:

The vibrations of daily use can loosen nuts and bolts. Grab a socket wrench and give them a tour — a snug fit can solve rattling sounds and erratic movements.

When to Call the Pros

Spring into Action:

Springs bear the weight of your garage door and can be dangerous if they snap. If you suspect spring issues, it's time for professional intervention.

Cable Concerns:

Similarly, cables lifting your door are under tremendous tension. Frayed or broken cables require an expert touch to avoid injury.

Opener Issues:

If your garage door opener is on the fritz, it's often a problem better suited for a technician, especially if electrical issues are at play.

Common Garage Door Problems

Let's walk through some of the issues you might encounter with your garage door and the likely suspects behind them.

The Door Won't Close:

If it's stopping short or reversing direction, it might be your safety sensors. Ensure they're aligned and free from debris. Check with the owner's manual on how to recalibrate them. Sometimes, reprogramming the opener or replacing batteries in your remote are all that's needed.

The Door Is Off Balance:

An unbalanced door can strain your opener. Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), and move the door partway up by hand. If it doesn't stay put, the tension needs adjusting by a professional.

Loud Noises:

Noisy doors can be a sign of several issues, but start by lubricating all metal parts (hinges, tracks, and rollers). If the problem persists, worn rollers or a loose hardware part might be the culprit. Assess what you can tighten or replace easily; otherwise, seek help.

For more information on garage door repair, contact a professional near you.