8 Common Garage Door Repairs

Garage doors are a vital component of many homes, providing security and convenience. However, like any mechanical system, garage doors can experience problems that require repairs. Here are some of the most common garage door repairs that homeowners may encounter:

Spring Repair

One of the most common garage door repairs that homeowners may encounter is spring repair. The springs in a garage door are responsible for balancing the door’s weight, making it easier to open and close. If a spring breaks, the door will become heavy, challenging to move, or not open.

Torsion springs are above the garage door and used to lift most of the door’s weight. Extension springs are on the sides of the door and used to assist the torsion spring in lifting the door.

When a spring breaks, it is important to address the issue immediately. It is recommended that a professional garage door technician handle spring repair.

Cable Repair

Cable repair is another common garage door repair that homeowners may encounter. The cables in a garage door are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, working in conjunction with the spring system. If a cable snaps, the door will not open or close properly and may become stuck in the open or closed position.

When a cable breaks, it is important to address the issue immediately. The repair process typically involves replacing the broken cable with a new one. The technician will first release the tension on the cable and then remove the old cable and replace it with a new one. They will then adjust the tension on the new cable to ensure that the door is properly balanced and operates smoothly.

Track Repair

The tracks in a garage door are responsible for guiding the door as it moves up and down. If the tracks become bent or damaged, the door may not move smoothly and become stuck. This can get caused by several factors, such as impact damage, rust, or misalignment.

When the tracks are not functioning properly, it is important to address the issue immediately. Track repair typically involves straightening or replacing the damaged tracks. If the tracks get bent, they will get straightened. If the tracks get rusted, they will get cleaned and lubricated. If the tracks are severely damaged, they will get replaced.

Panel Replacement

The panels of a garage door are responsible for keeping the door weather-tight and for providing an aesthetic appeal. If a panel becomes damaged, it can affect the integrity of the door and its appearance. Panel damage can get caused by several factors, such as impact damage, rust, or wear and tear.

When a panel becomes damaged, it is important to address the issue immediately. Panel replacement typically involves removing the damaged panel and installing a new one. If the panel gets bent, it will get straightened. If the panel gets rusted, it will get cleaned and lubricated. If the panel is severely damaged, it will get replaced.

Weatherstripping Repair

Weatherstripping repair is a common garage door repair that homeowners may encounter. The weatherstripping on a garage door is responsible for keeping out drafts, dust, and other debris. If the weatherstripping becomes worn or damaged, it can allow air to leak into the garage, making it uncomfortable and drafty. Weatherstripping damage can get caused by several factors, such as impact damage, sun exposure, or wear and tear.

When the weatherstripping is not functioning properly, it is important to address the issue immediately, as it can cause further damage to the garage door, the opener, or even injury. Weatherstripping repair typically involves replacing the damaged weatherstripping with new seals.

The repair process typically involves the technician inspecting the weatherstripping, identifying the problem, and then fixing it. If the weatherstripping gets worn, it will get replaced. If the weatherstripping gets damaged, it will get repaired or replaced.

Garage Door Opener Repair

The opener is the motor that powers the garage door and is responsible for lifting and lowering the door. If the opener is not working properly, the door may not open or close or may make strange noises. Opener problems can get caused by several factors, such as power outages, malfunctioning sensors, or worn-out gears.

Opener repair typically involves troubleshooting the problem and making necessary repairs or replacements. If the opener is not getting power, the technician will check the electrical connections and the circuit breaker. If the opener is not responding to the remote or keypad, the technician will check the sensors and alignment. If the opener is making noise, the technician will check for worn-out gears or a malfunctioning motor.

Sensor Repair

The sensors on a garage door are responsible for preventing the door from closing on people or objects. If the sensors are not working properly, the door may not close or may close on something that is in the way. Sensor problems can get caused by a few factors, such as misalignment, dirt, or damage.

Sensor repair typically involves troubleshooting the problem and making necessary repairs or replacements. If the sensors are not aligned, the technician will adjust them. If the sensors are dirty, the technician will clean them. If the sensors get damaged, the technician will replace them.

Lubrication Repair

Lubrication repair is a common garage door maintenance task that homeowners may encounter. Regular lubrication of the moving parts of a garage door is essential to keep it running smoothly and to prevent wear and tear. If a garage door is not lubricated regularly, it may become noisy and difficult to open and close.

The lubrication process typically involves the technician applying lubricant to the moving parts of the garage door, such as the tracks, rollers, springs, and opener chain or screw. This helps to reduce friction and wear, ensuring smooth operation and prolonging the lifespan of the components.

It’s important to note that different types of lubricant are suitable for different parts of the garage door. For example, some lubricants get designed specifically for metal parts, while others are suitable for plastic parts. Therefore, it gets recommended that a professional garage door technician handle lubrication repair and use the right lubricant for the right parts.

Regular lubrication can help to prevent issues from arising, prolonging the life of the garage door. It’s recommended to lubricate the garage door at least once a year or every six months if the door is frequently used.