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Maintaining a smooth-operating garage door is essential for both the longevity of your door mechanism and your daily convenience. A critical part of this maintenance involves the application of a high-quality lubricant to reduce friction and wear. In this article, we delve into the top garage door lubricants of 2023, evaluating them based on their performance, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for different weather conditions. Our picks cater to various needs and budgets, ensuring you find the perfect solution for your garage door maintenance.

1. Gasoila Free All Rust Eater Deep Penetrating Oil (Best Overall)

Gasoila Free All Rust Eater Deep Penetrating Oil stands out as the best overall choice for garage door lubrication this year. This product shines in its capability to dissolve rust effectively while penetrating deeply to lubricate garage door components, ensuring a smooth operation. 

 

Pros

• Excellent rust dissolving capability
• Deep penetration
• Long-lasting lubrication

Cons

• May require more frequent application compared to other products

 

Customer feedback: Users appreciate its effectiveness in both lubricating and combating rust, making garage door operation smoother. It has shown remarkable results in loosening rusted or stuck bolts, nuts, and fittings, with some customers suggesting it outperformed other popular products like WD-40 in some cases.

2.Blaster Chemical Company 9.3 Oz Garage Dr Lube (Best Budget)

 

The Blaster Chemical Company provides a premium silicone-based lubricant designed to eliminate squeaky garage doors and prevent rust and corrosion, reducing friction and wear on garage door mechanisms like rollers, hinges, springs, and door tracks​

 

Pros

• Reduces friction and wear
• Quiets noisy operation
• Doesn’t accumulate dust and dirt

Cons

• Requires regular application for continued performance

Customer feedback: The product has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 627 reviews, with 93% of the reviewers recommending the product​.

 

3. Mission Automotive Silicone Paste (Best Lubricating Grease)

 

Mission Automotive Silicone Paste is a dielectric grease used for a variety of applications, including garage door lubrication. It can also be used for battery terminals to prevent oxidation, among other uses.

 

Pros

• Versatile usage including on garage door components and electrical connections.
• Provides good thickness and consistency for lubricating and protecting surfaces.
• Can be used to waterproof marine and automotive connections.

 

Cons

 

• Might be priced higher compared to other lubricating greases.
• The thickness of the paste may require effort in application.

 

Customer Feedback

 

Customers appreciate its effectiveness in preventing oxidation and ensuring smooth operation of mechanical parts.

 

Some users have mentioned that it’s a must-have for marine and automotive wiring and connections.

4.WD-40 Specialist Gel Lube (Best for Cold Weather)

 

WD-40 Specialist Gel Lube is a distinctive no-drip formula lubricant tailored for vertical surfaces and moving parts, boasting 12 times longer-lasting lubrication compared to the WD-40 Multi-Use Product. Its gel consistency ensures it stays where you spray it, making it ideal for overhead applications.

 

Pros

• Provides exceptional no-drip lubrication
• Perfect for vertical and overhead applications
• Promises longer-lasting lubrication, reducing the frequency of re-application

 

Cons

• Possible higher price point due to specialized formula

 

Customer feedback

The product enjoys a stellar rating of 4.7 from 377 reviews, with a whopping 98% of customers recommending it, underscoring its effectiveness and reliability in cold weather conditions.

5. DuPont Teflon Silicone Lubricant Aerosol Spray (Honorable Mention):

DuPont Teflon Silicone Lubricant Aerosol Spray is a high-performance lubricant formulated with Teflon fluoropolymer which helps to outperform other silicone sprays in terms of longer lubricant life, enhanced wear protection, and better high and low temperature range performance. This silicone-rich formula is a great all-purpose lubricant around the home, shop, and worksite. It’s ideal for use on treadmills, sliding parts, windows, doors, rubber door gaskets, and much more.

Pros

• Enhanced wear protection due to Teflon fluoropolymer formulation.
• Long-lasting lubrication.
• Versatile for a variety of applications around home and work areas.
• Good performance across a wide temperature range.

 

Cons

• Might be priced higher compared to other silicone sprays.
• The aerosol spray may not be ideal for precise application.

 

Customer Feedback

• Customers have found it to be effective for quieting squeaks and easing the movement of sliding parts.
• It has been appreciated for its long-lasting lubrication and versatility in applications.

For more detailed information and user reviews, you may wish to visit retail platforms like Amazon, Walmart, or hardware stores where the product is sold.

 

When scouting for garage door insulation, several factors come into play to ensure you make an informed decision. The R-Value is crucial as a higher value signifies better thermal resistance. The material type—be it reflective foil, foam board, or batt insulation—will depend on your local climate and personal preferences. Ease of installation, cost, aesthetics, and durability are other vital considerations. 

Moreover, in a time where environmental conservation is paramount, opting for eco-friendly insulation materials can also be a key consideration. All these factors intertwined will guide you in selecting the insulation that aligns with your needs and circumstances.

Keep reading to see what type of insulation is best for you!

 

Reflective Foil Insulation

Reflective foil insulation, also known as radiant barrier insulation, is designed to reflect radiant heat rather than absorbing it. It’s usually made from aluminum foil backed onto paper or plastic, and is installed in a way that faces an airspace to reflect radiant heat away from a living space or a garage, thereby keeping the area cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This type of insulation is especially effective in hot climates where it can significantly reduce cooling costs.

Top Reflective Foil Product

The SmartGARAGE Reflective Garage Door Insulation Kit is designed to reflect 95% of radiant heat, effectively insulating your garage to keep it warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The kit includes four rolls of reflective foil, which are easy to install with the included double-sided adhesive tape. By insulating your garage with the SmartGARAGE kit, you can create a more comfortable environment and potentially lower your energy bills.

 

Pros of Reflective Foil Insulation

Reflective foil insulation has several pros:

• Reflects Radiant Heat: Effectively reflects a significant portion of radiant heat to maintain a comfortable temperature.
• Energy Efficiency: Can help reduce energy costs by minimizing heat gain or loss.
• Lightweight: Easy to handle and install due to its lightweight nature.
• Versatile: Can be used in various parts of a home or building, including garages, attics, and walls.
• Moisture Resistant: Often resists moisture which can be beneficial in humid or damp conditions.

 

Cons of Reflective Foil Insulation

The cons of reflective foil insulation include:

• Limited Insulation: Primarily reflects radiant heat and may not provide sufficient insulation against conductive or convective heat.
• Cost: May be more expensive than other traditional insulation materials.
• Installation: Requires a proper installation with an air space facing the foil to function effectively.
• Aesthetics: The metallic appearance might not be aesthetically pleasing to some individuals.
• Durability: Can be easily punctured or damaged if not handled or installed carefully.

 

Foam Board Insulation

Foam board insulation consists of rigid panels of foam, often made from polystyrene, polyurethane, or polyisocyanurate. It provides good thermal resistance and can significantly reduce energy consumption when properly installed. These boards are lightweight, easy to cut and install, making them a popular choice for insulating walls, roofs, and foundations. They also provide some degree of sound dampening. However, they are not as effective in insulating against radiant heat compared to reflective foil insulation, and they may be more expensive.

 

Top Foam Board Product 

The Matador Garage Door Insulation Kit is designed to provide an easy and cost-effective way to insulate your garage door, thereby increasing your home’s energy efficiency. The kit includes eight boards of high-impact polystyrene laminate which are easy to install with the included tools. Once installed, the insulation helps to keep your garage cooler in summer and warmer in winter, potentially reducing your energy bills. The Matador Kit is designed to fit standard garage doors and can be installed in less than an hour, making it a convenient choice for many homeowners.

 

Pros Of Foam Board Insulation

• High Insulation Value: Good thermal resistance per inch of thickness.
• Lightweight: Easy to handle and install.
• Moisture Resistant: Some types resist moisture and mold.
• Versatile: Suitable for various applications including walls, roofs, and garage doors.
• Sound Dampening: Can reduce noise transmission to some extent.
• Airtightness: Can contribute to airtightness if installed correctly, reducing drafts and energy loss.

 

Cons Of Foam Baord Insulation

• Cost: Can be more expensive compared to other insulation types.
• Environmental Concerns: Some foam boards are made from petrochemicals and may have a higher environmental impact.
• Flammability: Can be flammable and may emit toxic fumes when burned.
• Durability: Easily damaged by harsh impacts or pests.
• Installation Challenges: Incorrect installation can reduce effectiveness.
• Limited R-Value Stability: R-value can degrade over time in some foam insulations.
• Not Biodegradable: Disposal can be an issue as it doesn’t break down naturally.

 

Batt Insulation

Batt insulation consists of pre-cut panels of fiberglass or rock wool insulation. It’s a common type of insulation used in walls, attics, and floors due to its ease of installation and effective thermal resistance. The batts are designed to fit snugly between the studs, joists, or rafters of a building, providing a continuous layer of insulation that helps to keep the building warm in winter and cool in summer. It also offers some level of soundproofing, making it a good choice for interior walls as well.

 

Top Batt Insulation Product:Reach Barrier 3009

The Reach Barrier 3009 Garage Door Insulation Kit is designed to block up to 95% of radiant heat, enhancing the comfort and energy efficiency of your garage. This kit includes eight panels of insulation and is easy to install, making it a convenient choice for homeowners looking to improve their garage’s insulation. Its design enables it to cover an 8×8 ft garage door, providing a barrier against heat transfer and helping to maintain a more comfortable temperature in your garage year-round.

Pros of Batt Insulation

• Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than other insulation types.
• Ease of Installation: Pre-cut panels fit easily between studs and joists.
• Effective Insulation: Good thermal resistance.
• Soundproofing: Provides some level of sound insulation.

 

Cons Of Batt Insualtion

• Gaps and Spaces: Improper installation can leave gaps, reducing effectiveness.
• Health Concerns: Fiberglass batts can irritate skin and respiratory tract.
• Moisture Sensitivity: Can absorb moisture, potentially leading to mold issues.
• Less Effective: Lower R-value per inch compared to foam insulations.

 

Takeaway

In conclusion, selecting the right garage door insulation is a multifaceted decision influenced by your local climate, budget, and the insulation’s R-value, among other factors. Whether you opt for reflective foil, foam board, or batt insulation, each has its merits and drawbacks. By weighing these factors against your personal needs and preferences, you can enhance your garage’s thermal efficiency, contribute to a more comfortable living environment, and possibly lower your energy bills in the long run.

 

At Garage Door Repair we have years of experience helping homeowners repair and maintain their garage doors. Although maintaining your garage door can seem like a daunting task, it’s actually quite simple if you have the right knowledge and tools. In this guide, we will break down all the essentials of garage door maintenance, providing you with a step-by-step approach to keep your garage door in top condition.

Regular garage door maintenance is not just about keeping it operational; it’s about ensuring the longevity of your investment and safety for your home. Here, we share the secrets of professional garage door services to help you master the art of maintaining your garage door.

 

Why Garage Door Maintenance Matters

Your garage door is one of the most essential pieces of your home’s exterior, offering protection, insulation, and convenience. But, like any other mechanical system, it can wear out over time. By carrying out regular maintenance, you can significantly extend its lifespan, prevent unnecessary repairs, and ensure the safety and security of your home.

Unsure where to start? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to learn more about maintaining your garage, our guide is designed to help you understand the intricacies of garage door maintenance

Understanding the Basics: Garage Door Tune-up

A garage door tune-up isn’t as complex as it sounds. This involves a series of inspections, minor repairs, and adjustments that ensure your garage door operates smoothly. A proper garage door tune-up can help identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems.

Start by visually inspecting your garage door. Look out for signs of wear and tear on the springs, cables, rollers, and pulleys. Remember, never try to repair the torsion springs yourself; they are under high tension and can cause severe injuries if handled incorrectly. Always seek professional assistance for spring-related issues.

Next, test the balance of your garage door. If your garage door is not properly balanced, the door opener will have to work harder, reducing its lifespan. To test the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), and manually move the door about halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put, the counterweight system (springs) is improperly balanced. If this is the case, you may need a professional to adjust it.

Garage Door Maintenance Preventative Measures

While understanding the basics of garage door maintenance and troubleshooting common issues are crucial, prevention is always better than cure. A preventive approach can help you avert garage door problems before they become substantial issues. Here are a few tips:

 

Regularly lubricate moving parts

Regular lubrication of the moving parts of your garage door is a crucial maintenance task. Lubrication reduces friction, which in turn helps the door operate smoothly and quietly, and extends the lifespan of the moving parts. Here are some guidelines:

Type of Lubricant:

Use a high-quality silicone or lithium spray lubricant. Do not use a heavy oil or grease, as these can collect dust and debris, leading to a sticky buildup that can cause issues over time. Avoid WD-40 for garage doors, as it’s a cleaner rather than a long-term lubricant.

What to Lubricate:

• Springs: These do most of the heavy lifting in your garage door mechanism. Spray them lightly, ensuring all parts have a thin layer of lubricant.
• Rollers: Apply lubricant to the rollers, but be careful not to get any on the track. Ensure the lubricant penetrates the rollers well. If your rollers are nylon, make sure to only get lubricant on the bearings as too much lubricant can degrade nylon over time.
• Hinges: Lubricate the hinges, paying particular attention to the hinge pivot points. However, avoid lubricating plastic parts as some lubricants can cause plastic to break down over time.
• Tracks: You should not lubricate the tracks, but you can clean them with a damp cloth. If they’re particularly dirty, you can use a solvent like brake cleaner. After cleaning, wipe them down with a dry cloth.

Keep the tracks clean

Clean the tracks on either side of the door to ensure they’re free from debris, which can obstruct the smooth movement of the door.

Test the Garage Door Balance

If your garage door is not properly balanced, the door opener will have to work harder, and it won’t last as long. To test the door balance, you need to disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), then manually move the door about halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put, the counterweight system (springs) are improperly balanced. This is a task for a professional.

 

Tighten Up the Hardware

Before you start tightening any hardware, it’s a good idea to visually inspect all the components of the door system to see if anything looks loose or out of place.

Track and Roller Brackets:Check all the brackets that hold the track to the wall and the brackets holding the rollers. These brackets are under high tension and are usually attached with a bolt and nut. If you find any that are loose, tighten them with a wrench.

Hinges:Check the hinges that hold the sections of the door together. If they’re loose, tighten them with a screwdriver. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could strip the screw hole or damage the hinge.

Springs, Cables, and Pulleys:The springs, cables, and pulleys of your garage door are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous to adjust if you’re not experienced. If you notice any loose hardware in these components, it’s a good idea to call a professional to address the issue.

Garage Door Opener:If your garage door opener is mounted to the ceiling, check the mounting hardware, including the brackets and screws. Tighten any loose screws or bolts.

 

Inspect and Replace the Rollers

The rollers, whether steel or nylon, need to be inspected twice a year and replaced every seven years or so, and even more if you use your garage door many times a day. Worn, chipped, or cracked rollers should be replaced as soon as possible.

By replacing worn, chipped, or cracked rollers, you ensure the continued smooth and efficient movement of your garage door. This proactive maintenance measure not only prevents potential operational problems but also contributes to the overall safety and longevity of your garage door system.

 

Check the Cables and Pulleys

High-tension cables, over time, can experience wear and tear due to the heavy loads they bear and the constant movement of the garage door. When cables become worn or weakened, they pose a significant risk as they may snap under the extreme tension. A snapped cable can lead to sudden and uncontrolled movements of the garage door, causing serious injury to people or damage to property.

To ensure the safety of you and your loved ones, it is imperative to have a professional technician inspect the cables and pulleys regularly. These trained experts possess the knowledge and experience to identify early signs of wear, fraying, or other forms of damage that could compromise the integrity of the cables.

 

Check the Auto-Reverse Safety Features

There are two mechanisms: mechanical and photocell. To test the mechanical feature, place a piece of wood or a brick on the ground in the path of the door. When the door coming down touches the object, it should reverse direction. To test the second, the photoelectric system with beams at each side, close your door and just pass your leg in the door’s path. Your door should reverse.

 

Schedule professional tune-ups

Even with regular at-home maintenance, having your garage door professionally inspected annually can help catch potential issues before they become serious. Contact Garage Door Repair today to schedule an appointment with our expert technicians. Experience the difference of professional service and restore your garage door to its former glory.

 

Troubleshooting Common Garage Door Problems

Despite regular maintenance, you may encounter some common garage door problems. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here’s how to handle some of these issues.

Garage Door Not Closing Properly

If your garage door doesn’t close all the way, there are several possible causes, such as misaligned sensors or obstructions in the garage door’s path. Learn more about what to do when your garage door won’t close all the way.

Manual Garage Door Operation

There may be times, due to power outages or mechanical issues, when you need to operate your garage door manually. Understanding how to do this safely is essential. Discover how to reset and open your garage door manually with our guide on how to reset a garage door after opening it manually.

 

Conclusion

Maintaining your garage door might seem like a daunting task, but with a little knowledge and regular attention, you can ensure it works smoothly for years to come. Remember, while DIY maintenance can handle minor issues, some tasks should be left to professionals. Our professional and friendly team at Garage Door Repair is always ready to assist you with all your garage door needs.

Garage door maintenance is a valuable task that not only ensures the longevity of your garage door but also contributes to your home’s overall safety and efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just getting started, a well-maintained garage door is a cornerstone of a well-kept home.

 

A regular garage door tune-up is essential to ensure that your garage door continues to operate properly and safely. Garage doors have multiple moving components, all of which may require adjustment, lubrication, and/or tightening from time to time.

Some people may find it intimidating to handle the maintenance of their garage doors alone. However, you don’t need to be a garage door repair technician to perform the essential maintenance tasks. Here are some steps that you can take to keep your garage door running smoothly.

 

 

Conduct a Visual Inspection

Start your garage door maintenance by giving it a thorough visual inspection. Look for any signs of wear and tear on all the main components, including the tracks and rollers. If you notice any loose or damaged hardware, rust, and cracked or broken panels, that’s a good sign that you may need new parts.

Pay special attention to the springs and cables that help balance your garage door. Anything askew in these critical components may lead to major damage in the long run if you leave them unattended. Be sure to inspect and maintain them regularly, so the entire mechanism works correctly.

Another great way to conduct a visual inspection is to run your garage door normally. If you notice that it’s gotten slower over the years, or if you hear any unusual sounds, then something may be wrong with its inner machinations. That’s when you take a closer look at the specific parts of your system to see what might be the problem.

 

Lubricate Metal Parts

Ideally, your garage door maintenance routine should include lubrication at least once a year. However, you can lubricate your garage door as necessary, especially if it’s noisy when you open or close it. Simply spray or wipe down the springs or bearing plates with grease to lubricate them.

If it stays noisy even after recent lubrication, something might be wrong with the moving metal parts. You may need to replace them with new parts. Every garage door is unique and needs specific kinds of parts. Consider getting a professional garage door tune-up specialist to inspect your system before taking any action.

 

Tighten Loose Parts

Constantly using your garage door can loosen some moving parts — particularly hardware like nuts, bolts, and screws. When these small parts are loose, you might hear popping and rattling noises. In addition, you risk experiencing expensive breakdowns when they come totally undone.

Be sure to tighten them when necessary, so your garage door does not fall apart. However, your garage door’s hardware is delicate and can be dangerous to handle yourself if the damage is too much. While you should be able to handle simple tightening jobs, you may need a professional when the torsion springs need changing or replacement.

 

Test Safety Features

Modern garage doors have safety features that you must test regularly to ensure they work correctly. In particular, they have sensors that detect when you are opening the garage door. These sensors can prevent it from closing if there is an obstruction. Test these sensors by placing an object where the garage door meets the ground, preferably a pack of toilet paper rolls or a brick.

The door should reverse if it senses an object in the way. Otherwise, you might want to wipe the sensor to ensure it senses obstructions properly. You may need a new unit if it still doesn’t work correctly.

 

Clean the Tracks

Dust and debris can build up in your garage door’s tracks, impeding its movement. If your garage door opens slowly or stops unexpectedly during operation, clean the tracks thoroughly. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any gunk or wipe them down with a damp cloth. Be sure to dry any parts you went through with a damp cloth to avoid any rust.

Cleaning the tracks this way can also help you see if they are leveled and straight. If anything is bent, your garage door won’t run smoothly, and you’ll need to fix it right away. Leaving these parts as-is may affect other components and cost more in the long run.

Final Words: Get a Garage Door Maintenance Expert for Professional Input

Regular garage door tune-ups and maintenance should be part of your home maintenance routine. You can do simple checks by keeping a close eye and ear out for anything about your garage door that might be out of the ordinary.

If you hear any noise, there may be loose parts that need tightening. If it operates slowly, there might be obstructions on the tracks. If you’re unsure, consider calling garage door tune-up experts to assess your circumstances and determine the best steps to get your door running smoothly.

An automatic garage door opener is a wonderful, energy and back saving tool. At the click of a button, your door opens and you can drive your car in or out of the garage. If you are using the garage as a workshop, you can open the door just a little for ventilation.

There may be times that you want to disengage the automatic opener and use the garage door manually. This may be due to a power outage or just wanting to open the door a few inches and no more. Resetting the door is something that can be confusing. By following these steps, you can reset your garage door quickly and without fuss.

To manually open most garage doors, you simply pull a corded handle that is attached to the door. This disengages the electric drive from the door and you can manually open and close it. To reset it, begin by pulling the cord in the opposite direction. It should click in place. Once this happens, you can open and close the door electronically.

Step 1: Ensure the Door is in The Down Position

It’s important to be careful when disconnecting your garage door opener from your door. Make sure the door is in the closed position. If it’s not, and the spring is broken, the door could come crashing down and cause damage or harm.

If you experience a lose of power while your door is in the up position, please call your local Overhead Door Company.

 

Step 2: Pull the Emergency Release Cord

The emergency release cord is a lifesaver in your garage. It’s that red rope hanging from the door trolley that helps you take control of your garage door when you need it. The door trolley is attached to the door and moves with it as it opens and closes, but it’s also connected to an automated mechanism that moves the door along the door rail. If you ever need to, the emergency release cord lets you manually open and close your garage door by disconnecting the trolley from the automated mechanism. So, next time you’re stuck with a garage door that won’t budge, remember your trusty emergency release cord!

 

Step 3: Manually Move the Door Up and Down

By pulling the emergency release cord you now have the ability to move the door freely. You can effortlessly open and close your garage door as many times as you want. Just remember, once you’re done playing around, put the door back down before turning on the automatic opener again.

 

Step 4: Pull the Emergency Release Cord Towards the Door

The spring lever, has two positions – connected and disconnected. When you need to access your garage manually, simply pull the emergency release cord down and away from the door towards the motor. This will extend the spring lever, allowing you to take control. When you’re ready to re-engage the opener, simply pull the release cord down towards the door and away from the motor, compressing the spring lever and putting the power back in the hands of your trusty garage door opener

 

Step 5: Reconnect the Trolley to the Opener

You have two options to get your trolley back on track and reconnect it to the opener carriage. You can either do it the old-fashioned way by manually sliding the door along the track, or you can hit the magic button on your remote and let technology do the work for you. Either way, you’ll hear a satisfying click as the attachment point locks back into place. And once it’s all set, your emergency release cord will be ready and waiting if you ever need to move your garage door manually.

Conclusion

A garage door may only be one part of your home’s features, but it can be a major inconvenience when it doesn’t function properly. Without it, you may find a garage vulnerable to the elements and potential intruders.

If your garage door won’t close, it’s best to understand what’s causing the issue and take the necessary steps to fix it. At Garage Door Repair, we look at your garage door’s role in keeping your home safe and secure and help you get it back on track.

Reasons a Garage Door Won’t Close All The Way 

It can be frustrating when you can’t figure out why your garage door won’t close. If you’re currently dealing with this problem, here are some of the most common garage door-related damages and issues you should check on:

 

1. Obstructed Door

Garage doors work by using sensors to determine if an object is in the way of the door closing. If there is anything blocking the sensor, even if it’s not in the way of the door closing, this will cause the door to have issues closing.

There’s always a chance that something as simple as a piece of furniture could be getting in the way of your garage door. Take a look around or inside the garage to see if there are any potential obstructions.

2. Malfunctioning and Misaligned Safety Sensors

Your garage door has built-in safety sensors. When garage doors close, these sensors detect any objects in the path of the garage and will stop the garage from closing. If these sensors aren’t working properly, your garage could be stuck open or unable to close completely.

Similar to the solution above, first check if anything is in the way of the sensor. If you have determined that nothing is blocking the sensor, it might be that the sensors themselves are out of alignment.

Here’s a simple way to check: take a look at the exterior LED light when you press the button to close the door. If the light is green, your sensors are in good shape. But if the light starts flashing red, that means the sensors need some attention. Don’t worry, it’s a quick fix! Just inspect the bracket or tighten a screw on the flashing sensor. Once you’ve done that, the red light should turn green, the flashing should stop, and your garage door should close smoothly once again

If this doesn’t fix the issue, it’s time to check the lens itself. Sometimes all it takes is a quick wipe with a clean cloth to get them back in working order. These sensors play a crucial role in keeping your garage door functioning smoothly, but dirt, spiderwebs, and other debris can cause them to fail.

By simply giving the lenses a quick cleaning, you can ensure that your door operates without a hitch. If you live in a particularly dusty area, make sure to give your sensors a regular clean to keep them functioning perfectly.

Lastly, check the wires connecting your garage door to its sensor. Your garage door sensor system’s wires are your trusty connection to the outside world, but with all the wear and tear from regular use, inclement weather, and even pesky critters, they might start to show signs of wear and tear.

Don’t worry, though! If you see any signs of water damage, chew marks, or other suspicious tampering, you can easily replace the wires and keep your garage door sensor system in tip-top shape.

3. Damaged Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs, extension and torsion. Extension springs are mounted on the sides of the track, extending and contracting when the door is in motion. Torsion springs on the other hand run horizontally and hold two cable drums at each end – the torsion spring plays a crucial role in the smooth opening and closing of your garage door.

Although they are different, they serve the same purpose. Storing tension when the door is closed and releasing it when you lift the door open. 

This means that most of the time, your garage door springs are under tremendous tension. Overtime materials will break down and eventually the springs will break.

If this has happened to you, don’t worry, the pros at Garage Door Repair know how to fix it and will have your garage door springs working in no time at all.

Additionally, if you do decide to take on the project yourself, the video below provides a wonderful explanation on how to do so.

4. Damaged Cables

Depending on the type of spring system your garage door uses, extension or torsion, the location of your cables will change.

In the case of a torsion spring system, the cables are connected to the door drum on each side of the shaft and work by rotating a winding cone to lift the door. When the door lowers, the process reverses.

On the other hand, the cables on an extension system are located inside the springs a to prevent any broken spring pieces from causing damage or harm.

Your garage door cables are hardworking components that help you open and close your garage door smoothly and effortlessly. However, just like anything else that’s used repeatedly, they can experience wear and tear and eventually break.

Age, rust, incorrect installation or configuration, and even an accidental bump can all contribute to the breakdown of your garage door cables. Fraying and pulley wear are also common issues.

Regular maintenance, careful usage, and quick repairs can help prolong the life of your garage door cables and keep your garage door functioning at its best.

If you have found yourself with broken door cables, be sure to reach out to a professional installer who can safely secure your garage door for years to come.

5. Damaged Tracks

Fixing a bent garage door track may seem like a DIY project, but it’s best to call in the experts. Trying to fix it yourself with tools and videos may only lead to bigger problems and even injury.

The professionals have the expertise and equipment to get the job done right, ensuring a smooth and safe operation for your garage door. Don’t risk making things worse, leave it to the experts to get your garage door back to its best.

 

Fix Garage Door Problems With Garage Door Repair

When a garage door won’t close, homeowners naturally want to fix the issue themselves. You can clear the way, set the limits, and clean and lubricate the parts. It’s possible, but garage door repairs require specialized tools and expertise. Depending on why your garage door won’t close, you can take the matter into your own hands or call garage door specialists for help.

If it’s simply a blockage or misaligned safety sensors, you can usually troubleshoot and solve the issue on your own. But if it’s beyond your skill set, it’s time to call the professionals. At Garage Door Repair, we work with professionals who identify the problem, fix it quickly, and get your garage door working again in no time.

We help homeowners with garage door issues of all kinds. Whether you need garage parts, replacements, or other garage door services, we can help. Your garage door is vital to your home and family’s security, so let’s help you make the most of your investment. Contact us now!