Garage Door Problems: Learn to Recognize ThemGarage Door Problems: Learn to Recognize Them


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Garage Door Problems: Learn to Recognize Them

If your garage door squeaks, you might think it's nothing to worry about. However, a squeaky garage door can be dangerous, especially if it falls. A year ago, my garage door began to squeak whenever I opened and closed it. I ignored the problem and continued to use the door. One day, the door collapsed on my car as I backed out of my garage. Although my car sustained a lot of damage, I was very thankful to be alive. I contacted a garage door specialist the same day. The contractor informed me that my door's springs had given out. After the repairs, the contractor offered sound advice on how to recognize problems in my garage door and what to do about them. I started this blog to help other homeowners stay safe as well. Please, don't ignore your garage's problem, even if it's small.

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Tips for Troubleshooting a Garage Door That Won't Open

The point of a garage door opener is to make it easier on you so you don't have to jump in and out of your car to operate it manually. This is why it's so frustrating when the door won't open at the push of a button. The following tips can help you get to the bottom of the problem so it can be promptly fixed.

Tip #1: Check the remote transmitter

If the problem begins suddenly, chances are the issue is with the remote. Begin your troubleshooting by exchanging the batter for a new one. If this doesn't work, try resetting the code between the opener and the remote. The method for doing this varies, so you may need to refer to your owners manual. In many models there is a button on the main opener and another button inside the battery case of the remote. You push both of these to sync the code.

Tip #2: Inspect the springs

The next likely cause of a door that won't open at all is that one of the springs or pulleys has broken. You can usually spot the problem relatively easily since the spring or cable or chain will be hanging instead of stretched tautly between the door and opening system. Pulleys and springs are typically located near the upper corner tracks of the door or down the center track. Inspect these visually only, as they are under high tension and messing with them can result in injury. If one looks damaged or broken, schedule a professional repair.

Tip #3: Tend to the wheels

When a door attempts to open but grinds or sticks, the problem may lie with the wheels or the track that guides them. First, inspect the wheels to see if they are all rolling smoothly. If a wheel isn't moving, the bearings may be shot and you can replace it. Wheels that seem to stick likely need lubricated – use a lubricant made for garage doors. A dirty track can also lead to a sticking door, so sweep out the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant to smooth the way.

Tip #4: Realign the tracks

Finally, track alignment may be the culprit, especially if a door opens partially and then just stops or begins to close again. First, check that there is no actual damage to the tracks, such as a bent track. You can often straighten small bends manually. Next, check to see if there are gaps between the rollers and the track rails. If there are, then the track needs to be realigned. The tracks should have screws that allow you to adjust them if you want to attempt a realignment yourself.

Contact companies like Raynor Door Company if you need more help with troubleshooting or repairing your door.