Garage door rails play a crucial role in garage door operation. They ensure your garage door opens and closes smoothly. And when they break down, your garage door will operate poorly and may even pose a safety threat. 

A garage door rail is subject to considerable wear and tear. Signs that it may be breaking down include excessive noise during operation, misalignment that interferes with opening and closing, rust and corrosion, and other signs of damage. 

This article will discuss the various garage rail issues and the best practices for garage door track repair. So that you can keep your home in tip-top shape. 

Signs that Your Garage Door Tracks Need Repair

Several signs indicate you are ready for a garage door track repair. They include: 

• Noisy Open/Closure: Do you hear popping, whining, or vibrating noises when your garage door opens or closes? This could be a sign that your rails are wearing down or misaligned. Start by checking for blockages. If the rails are clear and continue making these noises, professional services may be necessary. 

• Obvious Damage in the Tracks: Obvious signs of damage include dents, cracks, and bends. You may also notice that the tracks are no longer flat or parallel. These issues are likely to get worse over time and should be addressed immediately. 
• Door Shakes/Stutters as It Moves: Damaged tracks can cause your door to shake and shutter as it moves. In some instances, shaking could be a sign of dirt or debris that can be easily cleaned. But in other cases, the tracks may dip and bend due to wear and tear. The unsteady operation could result in injuries. Call professional services right away. 
• Misaligned Tracks: If your door is not opening or closing smoothly, the tracks may be misaligned. A lack of garage door alignment can be caused by loose hardware, worn-out rollers, or damaged rails. If tracks are slightly misaligned, you may be able to use a tool to bend them back in shape. A severe misalignment will require professional help. 
• Uneven Open or Closure on Either Side: You may notice your door is not even when it opens and closes. This is a sign that your garage door may be off track. In these instances, refrain from attempting to fix the garage door track on your own. Since these are very heavy doors, only a trained professional should service this type of garage door track repair. 

Can Garage Door Tracks Be Replaced?

Garage door track issues do not necessarily mean a new garage door. A garage door track replacement is possible. It ensures you will only pay for the parts and labor of replacing the track instead of the entire door.

While garage door track replacement is a smaller job than full garage door replacement, it’s not the type of thing you want to DIY. Garage doors are heavy. They typically weigh around 400 pounds. If you injure yourself, it’s not worth the risk.

Additionally, DIY always poses a risk of the job being completed incorrectly. Incorrect installation could lead to additional maintenance and repair expenses down the road. It can also pose an ongoing safety risk. 

Raynor Door Authority Provides Garage Door Track Repair You Can Trust

Garage door track issues aren’t something to take lightly. They can cause safety issues and get worse over time, leaving your home vulnerable or in disarray. 

Minor garage door track issues may be an easy fix. But more serious issues require the help of a professional garage door contractor with years of experience under their belt. 

Raynor Door Authority provides extensive repair services. We can repair any garage door issue. We also carry various garage door products that will minimize the need for ongoing repairs and maintenance.

Contact us to learn more about our products and services. We will keep your garage operating smoothly.