Frequent Garage Door Problems Explained
Your garage door is among the biggest moving parts in a typical house, and most people use it more than any other entrance. Because of that constant use, breakdowns are bound to happen.Fortunately that most failures come from a handful of parts. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and stress.Failing Garage Door SpringsThe torsion springs do most of the heavy lifting whenever you use the door. These parts are wound under enormous tension, which is exactly why they eventually wear out.If a spring snaps, you will usually notice: the opener runs but the door won't lift. This is not a do-it-yourself job — the sudden release of force can send you to the hospital. Leave it to a licensed pro, and swap them as a pair so the second one won't break right behind it.Garage Door Opener ProblemsGarage door openers stop responding for a number of reasons, and thankfully not all require a technician. Begin with the basics: a dead remote battery is frequently the fix.If one control works and another doesn't, the opener itself is probably fine. But if the motor hums without moving the door, it could be a burned-out motor that calls for a repair.When the Door Comes Off Its TrackA door that looks crooked has often slipped out of alignment. The cause is often when a roller wears out. Whatever the cause, do not force the door — continuing to use it can cause more damage.Cable and Drum ProblemsThese parts support the springs to raise and lower the door safely. When a cable frays or snaps, the door may hang crooked or get stuck. Like springs, they carry a heavy load and should be handled by a pro.Common Gate ProblemsElectric gates add security and curb appeal, but they come with a few common problems. The gate opener sometimes fail after a storm, and the safety sensors often just need cleaning.Slow or jerky movement often signals a worn part. Given the mix of power and moving parts, an experienced installer is worth the call.The Value of Routine UpkeepA smart way to reduce costly breakdowns is routine upkeep. Lubricating the moving parts and testing the safety features goes a long way to the equipment's lifespan.If a repair is needed, calling a licensed local professional keeps everyone safe. A professional can diagnose the problem quickly and save you from bigger repairs down the road. garage door repair