The door to your garage does a lot of hard work, opening and closing countless times each year. Like any mechanical system, it's susceptible to wear and tear and needs maintenance to keep it working properly. Here are some common garage door problems we see and their potential solutions. 

Always remember, if you're uncomfortable attempting to repair these issues yourself, it's always best to call a garage door repair professional.

Common Garage Door Issues

1. Garage Door Won't Open or Close

• Check the power supply: Ensure the garage door opener is receiving power. Check the circuit breaker and outlet.
• Inspect the remote: Replace the batteries in your remote. If multiple remotes aren't working, the issue might be with the opener.
• Examine the safety sensors: Clean and align the safety sensors. Obstructions or misalignment can prevent the door from operating.
• Lubricate moving parts: Regular lubrication of rollers, hinges, and tracks can prevent issues.

2. Garage Door Opens Slowly or Hesitates

• Inspect the springs: Worn or broken torsion springs can cause slow operation. This can be a potentially dangerous issue that should be handled by a professional.
• Check the opener motor: A worn-out motor might be the culprit. Consider replacing it if necessary.
• Lubricate moving parts: Proper lubrication can improve door speed and efficiency.

3. Noisy garage door

• Lubricate moving parts: Squeaky noises often indicate a lack of lubrication. Apply lubricant to rollers, hinges, and tracks.
• Check for obstructions: Objects caught in the tracks can cause noise and damage. Clear any debris.
• Inspect the rollers: Worn or damaged rollers can create noise. Replace them if needed.

4. Garage Door Off-Track

• Identify the issue: Determine if the door is off-track at the top, bottom, or in the middle.
• Manually reposition the door: Carefully and slowly move the door back onto the track.
• Check for obstructions: Remove any objects blocking the track.
• Tighten hardware: Loose bolts or brackets can cause the door to come off track.

5. Garage Door Doesn't Close Completely

• Adjust the force settings: Your garage door opener has force settings. Increase the force slightly to ensure the door closes completely.
• Check weatherstripping: Worn or damaged weatherstripping can prevent the door from sealing properly. Replace it if necessary.
• Inspect the bottom seals: Ensure the bottom seals are in good condition and making proper contact with the ground.

6. Cosmetic issues

While functionality is crucial, your garage door also plays a significant role in your home's curb appeal. Here are some common aesthetic problems you might encounter:

• Dented or Cracked Panels: Dents and cracks can occur due to impact, weather damage, or normal wear and tear. Depending on severity, these may be repairable with patching compounds or paint. However, for significant damage, replacing the affected panel might be necessary.
• Faded or Peeling Paint: Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather can cause paint to fade or peel. Repainting the door can restore its appearance but ensure you use high-quality paint designed for exterior applications.
• Rust (for steel doors): Steel doors can be susceptible to rust, especially in areas with high humidity. Promptly address rust spots by sanding, applying a rust converter, and repainting.

Safety First

When working on your garage door, always prioritize safety. Disconnect the garage door opener before performing any maintenance or repairs. Wear gloves and protective eyewear. If you're unsure about any of these steps, it's best to call a professional garage door technician.

Regular Maintenance is Key

To prevent issues and ensure your garage door operates smoothly, perform regular maintenance. This includes:

• Lubricating moving parts
• Inspecting springs, cables, and rollers
• Cleaning tracks and sensors
• Checking the balance of the door

By following these tips and scheduling regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your garage door and avoid costly repairs.

Remember, while DIY repairs can save you money, complex issues or safety concerns should always be addressed by a professional garage door technician.