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!

It’s not every day that one is tasked with searching for a garage repair professional. However, sometimes the unforeseen can happen: a garage door that won’t open, broken or old door springs, or even a garage door keypad that has decided to take the day off. Whatever the case, finding a professional and skilled garage repair professional can be a challenge, so in this article, we give you several tips on how to find one that will get the job done right!

Choose a Professional Company

A reputable garage door repair company will staff skilled and highly trained repair professionals. They often list their certifications and awards on their website or can be found through credentialing agencies. A professional company will also carry insurance. This is a vital component of choosing someone to work with to avoid your property damage or any potential lawsuits that could result from someone or something being harmed.

Word of Mouth Recommendations & Referrals

Chances are, you know someone who owns a garage. While it may not be an everyday topic of conversation, many people have used garage repair professionals for their garage door needs. Asking around is often a great way to choose a professional that has already established trust and rapport with those in your community.

Overall Reputation

In terms of overall reputation, looking for a garage repair professional who either works for a well-established company or a professional who has developed a solid small business can eliminate future problems with your property or with getting matters resolved. To check the overall reputation, look at online reviews, presence in the local community, or their status with organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Opt for Locally Owned and Operated

A locally owned and operated repair company is an excellent option for many reasons, mainly because they care about the community they serve, thus ensuring you receive quality services and support. In addition, it can also be an easy way for you to contribute to your local economy.

Length of Time in Business

Everyone has to start fresh, but when selecting a company to work with for garage repairs, choose a company that knows what they are doing. Time means experience and with experience comes better repairs.

Contact Garage Door Repair Today!

Garage Door Repair has been in operation for over 100 years and has over 450+ locally owned and operated locations with results you can trust. If you or someone you know needs garage repairs, maintenance, or anything in between, contact us at Garage Door Repair so we can put our 100+ years of work to the test!

Whether you have a detached garage or a garage built into your home, your garage door is a barrier between where you’re safely parked and any inclement weather that may arise as seasons change. From scorching summers to snowstorms, your garage door has a weather seal that works overtime to keep weather changes outside. So, how do you know when it’s time to get a weather seal replacement in your garage? Are there any telltale signs to look out for, or should you replace your weather seal as preventative maintenance? Follow our expert tips at Garage Door Repair to find out!

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Sign #1 Your Garage Door Needs a Weather Seal Replacement 

If you’ve noticed that your weather seal strip is worn or damaged, it’s time to get a replacement. A worn-out weather seal may not be as effective as it used to be, resulting in drafts impacting the temperature within your garage and even leaves or debris from the outdoors getting inside. A few indicators can help you determine when to replace your weather seal strip. First, you’ll want to step inside your garage and glance at the bottom of your garage doors. If you can see any light filtering in from underneath the door or there are visible signs of damage, it’s worth replacing. 

Sign #2: Debris, Leaves, Rain, and Snow 

If you’ve noticed an endless stream of debris, leaves, rain, and snow entering your garage year-round, it’s time to get a weather seal replacement. At Garage Door Repair, we offer weather stripping, bottom, and threshold seal replacement so that you can get what you need the most. Our vinyl rubber seals are built to withstand the harshest temperatures and weather conditions to keep your garage door in the best condition for as long as possible.

Sign #3: Bugs, Snakes, Crickets, Mice, and More

If every time you step foot into your garage you notice an influx of pests, it may be time to replace your weather seal strip. When your weather seal strip has become so worn on your garage door that it allows pests to enter your garage, it’s vital that you replace your seal for your family’s safety. While it may not seem like a big deal to have pests entering your garage, they can cause more problems and damage than you may realize. In addition, replacing your weather seal strip is more affordable than hiring pest control! 

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Garage Door Repair is Your Source for All Garage Door Repair Needs

At Garage Door Repair, we’re your source for all your garage door repair needs. From garage door weather stripping to springs, cables, openers, rollers, tracks, parts, door and panel replacement, to more, we’ve got you covered. We offer residential and commercial garage door repair to cover a broad range of garage door repair needs. We even offer maintenance plans. We have convenient locations across the nation with 24/7 support, expertly trained technicians, and we are fully licensed and insured. Contact us today through our website or a location near you.