Solving Common Garage Door Issues Yourself: A DIY Repair Guide
View of suburban garage with roller door under gabled roof
Opening and closing the garage door is something we do multiple times a day without giving it a second thought. However, garage doors are mechanical systems that can develop problems over time if not properly maintained. As a homeowner, you’ll inevitably face some garage door issues that require repair. The good news is many common problems are relatively simple for a DIY-savvy person to fix themselves. This can save you money versus calling a professional garage door repair expert.
In this post, we’ll cover some typical garage door troubles homeowners in Smithfield and the surrounding communities often encounter and how to remedy them yourself. Let’s get started!
Noisy Operation
Squeaking, grinding, or clanking noises when the door opens and closes are usually due to worn rollers, hinges, springs or tracks. The first step is to lubricate all moving parts like rollers, hinges, and tracks with a dry silicone lubricant spray. This often quiets noisy doors right away. If noise persists, you may need to replace specific components.
Door Won’t Open or Close
Check the photoelectric sensors located at the bottom of the door for proper alignment first. These “light beams” tell the opener when to stop and reverse. If misaligned, the door won’t function correctly. You can also inspect the door tracks for dirt, debris, or bends that prevent smooth travel. Finally, examine springs, rollers, and hinges for signs of wear. Replacing or adjusting as needed usually solves the problem.
Remote Control Issues
If the garage door opener remote stops working, first replace the batteries. Next, try reprogramming the remote by consulting your owner’s manual. You may also need to replace the remote if it’s old. Check that other remotes paired to the same opener still work – a garage door opener issue requires a repair person.
Broken Cables or Springs
Do not attempt to fix or replace cables or springs yourself. These components store a huge amount of tension and can cause serious injury if they snap or fail. Call a qualified garage door technician for cable or spring repairs. Your safety should always come first.
With some basic tools and know-how, homeowners can troubleshoot and remedy many common garage door malfunctions. Don’t hesitate to call a pro for specialized repairs beyond your skill level or comfort zone. Taking care of small issues yourself saves money and gets your garage door opening and closing reliably again in no time.
