What Are the Most Common Garage Door Problems & How Do I Troubleshoot Them?
Are you having issues with your garage door, but are not sure where to start? We are here to provide you with information on the most common problems garage doors have and ways to troubleshoot, before calling a garage door professional. A garage door gets used an average of 2+ times a day, accumulating wear and tear over time. Ensure your garage door is working to its fullest potential by having routine maintenance and servicing completed.
Common Garage Door Problems
Here are some of the most common garage door problems customers deal with:
- Garage door won’t open or close
- Broken springs
- Abnormal noises
- Remote or keypad issues
- Broken cables
- Bent tracks
Regular maintenance and service can prevent these issues, but if you find yourself having garage door trouble, Modern Day Garage can assist you with any problems.
How to Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Issues
Dealing with a malfunctioning garage door can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Whether your door won’t open, closes too slowly, or makes strange noises, understanding how to troubleshoot common issues can save you time and money.
Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
When your garage door refuses to open or close, start by checking potential minor issues. Ensure that the garage door opener has power; if it’s not responding, verify that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped and that the outlet is functioning properly. Next, inspect the safety sensors located near the bottom of the door tracks. These sensors must be aligned and free of obstructions, as any blockages or misalignment can prevent the door from operating. If you have tried this process, there could be more significant damage that might require professional help.
Broken Springs
Troubleshooting broken garage door springs starts with recognizing the signs of a problem. If your garage door is difficult to open, closes too quickly, or makes loud noises, the springs might be broken. To confirm, perform a visual inspection by looking for gaps in the spring, which typically runs horizontally above the door. For safety reasons, replacing broken springs should be handled by a professional, as they can be dangerous if not handled properly. Experts at Modern Day Garage are able to assist with any repair that may be needed.
Abnormal Noises
If your garage door is making strange noises, start by checking for loose hardware such as screws, bolts, and hinges, as vibrations can cause these components to rattle. Additionally, inspect the rollers and tracks for signs of wear or debris, as damaged rollers or obstructed tracks can create grinding or squeaking sounds. If you tighten or remove anything and the noise persists, it might indicate a more serious issue like a broken spring or a misaligned track, which may require professional assistance.
Remote or Keypad Issues
If your garage door remote or keypad isn’t working, start by checking and replacing the batteries, as depleted batteries are a common cause of these issues. Next, ensure that there are no obstructions or sources of signal interference, such as other electronic devices, blocking the transmitter and receiver. If the problem persists, reprogram the remote or keypad according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are having trouble with this, consult a professional for further assistance.
Broken Cables
To troubleshoot broken garage door cables, start by visually inspecting the cables on either side of the door for any fraying, rust, or complete breakage. Signs of an issue may include the garage door hanging unevenly, difficulty in opening or closing, or unusual noises during operation. If a broken cable is confirmed, it’s crucial to avoid using the door. Contact a professional technician to replace the cables and ensure the door is working properly.
Bent Tracks
A bent track can often cause the door to move unevenly or get stuck. Listen for any scraping sounds during operation. To spot this issue, look for gaps between the rollers and the tracks or any noticeable warping in the metal. If you find a bent track, it might be able to be repaired with gentle hammering with a rubber mallet. In more serious cases, professional repair or replacement could be necessary.
Modern Day Garage Repair & Servicing
If you find yourself in a place where you are having trouble with your garage door, try the steps above first for common issues. If you are not able to fix the issue and need further assistance from a professional, contact Modern Day Garage. We service and repair any garage door brand, and are able to fix almost all issues with your garage door. If repair is not feasible and the damage is too severe, Modern Day Garage also specializes in new garage door installation.
Contact us today!
