A garage door is among the biggest moving parts in most homes, and most homeowners open and close it more than any other entrance. Because of that constant use, problems are almost inevitable.
Fortunately that the majority of problems are easy to identify. Understanding the warning signs can save you an expensive emergency call.
Failing Garage Door Springs
The torsion springs carry the weight every time the door opens or closes. These parts are extremely dangerous to handle, which is exactly why they don't last forever.
Once a spring fails, you will usually notice: the opener runs but the door won't lift. Never try to replace a spring yourself — the stored tension can send you to the hospital. Leave it to a licensed pro, and replace both springs at once so the second one won't break right behind it.
When the Opener Stops Working
Garage door openers stop responding for a number of reasons, and thankfully not all require a technician. Begin with the basics: the remote's battery often solves the problem.
If the wall button works but the remote doesn't, it points to the remote. When you hear the motor but nothing happens, it could be a stripped gear that requires a technician.
When the Door Comes Off Its Track
One that hangs at an angle could have jumped its track. It often occurs following a minor collision. Whatever the cause, never keep operating it — forcing it can cause more damage.
When Cables Fail
These parts help balance the door to lift and lower the door evenly. When a cable frays or snaps, the door can become uneven. As with springs, these parts hold tension and should be handled by a pro.
Fixing Automatic Gates
Automatic gates are a great feature, but they come with their own set of issues. Gate operators may stop working during an outage, and the photo eyes 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
A smart way to reduce these repairs is routine upkeep. Keeping the tracks clean and inspecting the springs and cables goes a long way to the life of your system.
When something does break, reaching out to a qualified technician keeps everyone safe. The right technician can get it fixed right the first time and get your door or gate working again.
garage door opener repair