Garage door springs play an essential role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They are responsible for lifting the door’s weight and making it easy for you to open and close your garage. However, garage door springs can break or become worn out over time, leading to serious problems.

If you are facing a broken or malfunctioning garage door spring, you may be tempted to try repairs yourself. First, however, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with a DIY garage door spring repair.

In this blog post, we will discuss the risks of attempting garage door spring repair without professional help.

What are Garage Door Springs?

Garage door springs are part of your garage door system that help the garage door open and close smoothly

Two types of springs are used in garage doors: Torsion and Extension springs. The torsion springs are mounted several inches above the garage door and use torque to lift the door. In contrast, the extension springs are installed on either side of your garage door running along the sides of the horizontal tracks and expand and contract as the door moves up and down.

Garage door springs help to counterbalance the door’s weight and allow it to open and close smoothly. Without properly functioning springs, the garage door may become difficult to operate, and safety risks may arise.

What Causes Garage Door Springs to Break?

As stated above, garage door springs are crucial in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the door. And since they are always under tremendous tension, they may break over time. Some of the common causes of garage door spring failure include:

Age

Garage door springs have a limited lifespan, which depends on the quality of the springs and the frequency of use. Most garage door springs have an average lifespan of 10,000 cycles, which may sound like a lot, but since most of us utilize our garage door to access our home, they may only last three or four years.

Rust and Corrosion

Frequent exposure to moisture, humidity, and salt can cause rust and corrosion on the springs, weakening the metal and leading to fractures or breaks.

Lack of Maintenance

Proper maintenance, including regular lubrication and inspection, ensures garage door springs function correctly. Lack of maintenance can cause the springs to wear out faster and break more frequently.

Why is Attempting Garage Door Spring DIY Repair Risky?

The garage door spring repair is a complex and dangerous task that a professional garage door technician should only perform. Attempting to repair garage door springs without professional help can be dangerous for the following reasons:

High Tension

Garage door springs are under high tension and can snap anytime, causing severe injury or death. The tension in the springs is so high that even a slight mistake in the repair process can cause the springs to snap, leading to potentially fatal consequences.

Lack of Experience and Knowledge

Garage door spring repair requires specific skills, knowledge, and tools only a trained professional possesses. Attempting to repair the springs without the necessary experience and knowledge can result in more damage to the door and other garage door system components.

Serious Injury

Inflicting serious injury is one of the most significant risks of attempting garage door spring repair without professional help. Garage door springs are under a tremendous amount of tension and can cause severe injury if they are mishandled. In fact, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, garage doors and their components are responsible for approximately 30,000 injuries per year in the United States.

Attempting to repair garage door springs without the proper training and equipment can lead to serious injury, including broken bones, lacerations, and death. Therefore, it is not worth the risk.

Improper Repairs

Improper repairs can cause the door to malfunction, leading to accidents and property damage. Only a professional garage door repair technician can diagnose the problem correctly and perform the necessary repairs.

Property Damage

Another risk of attempting garage door spring repair yourself is property damage. Garage door springs are heavy-duty and can cause significant damage to your property if not handled properly. A spring not secured correctly can snap and damage the garage door or other nearby property, such as vehicles or tools.

More Expensive Repairs

Attempting to repair the springs without the proper knowledge and experience can cause more damage to the garage door system, leading to costly repairs.

If the repair is not done correctly, it can cause further damage to the garage door system, leading to additional repair costs. Additionally, if the repair is done incorrectly, it can cause the garage door to malfunction, leading to the need for a complete door replacement.

Voiding Warranty

Trying to repair the garage door springs alone can void the manufacturer’s warranty, leading to costly repairs and replacements should you damage the sections during the process.

Why Should You Hire a Professional?

Here are four key reasons why you should get professional help in repairing your garage door springs:

Safety

Garage door springs are under high tension and can snap anytime, causing severe injury or death. Professional garage door technicians have the necessary training and safety equipment to perform the repairs safely and reduce the risk of accidents.

Prevent Further Damage

Attempting to repair garage door springs without the necessary experience and knowledge can cause more damage to the door and other garage door system components. Professional garage door technicians can diagnose the problem correctly and provide the necessary repairs to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Efficient Operation

Garage door springs that are not functioning well can cause the door to malfunction, leading to accidents and property damage. Experienced garage door specialists can accurately identify the issue and make the required repairs to guarantee your garage door performs effectively.

Save Time and Money

Attempting to repair the springs on your own can lead to costly mistakes and further damage to your garage door system, resulting in more significant expenses. Professional garage door technicians can perform the repairs quickly and efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

Your garage door springs are to your garage door system, and their proper functioning is necessary for the smooth operation of your garage door. However, attempting to repair garage door springs without professional help can be risky and could lead to severe injury or property damage.

Professional garage door technicians have the necessary experience, knowledge, and tools to perform the repairs safely and efficiently, ensuring that your garage door system operates correctly and reducing the risk of accidents and property damage.

Homeowners must decide between DIY and professional installation when installing a new garage door.

Although it takes time, effort, and some technical knowledge, installing a garage door yourself can be a financially advantageous option. On the other hand, professional installation may cost more upfront, but if you choose a reputable installer you can be certain the installation will be done correctly and safely. Should you purchase a door from Gator Garage Door Repair both the labor and the hardware will come with warranties that can give you peace of mind.

So, is a do-it-yourself project as good as hiring a trained professional? Here’s everything you need to know.

DIY Garage Door Installation

The external appearance of your home may be updated and given more curb appeal by replacing that outdated and worn out garage door you have now. It can also raise the value of your home, increase overall security, and make daily life more convenient.

While many garage door dealers provide comprehensive installation services, encompassing the removal and disposal of your old door along with the delivery and installation of the new one, opting for a DIY approach can lead to savings on installation expenses, especially if you possess the requisite expertise and experience.

Pros:

• Cost Savings: You may save a lot of money by installing the garage door without an expert’s help. Moreover, you may buy the garage door and other required parts from a hardware store or online to avoid paying installation fees.
• Flexibility: You’ll have more liberty in terms of time and schedule if you complete the installation.

Cons:

• Lack of Experience: It might be difficult to install a garage door, especially if you have no prior expertise. You might have to put in more time and effort to figure out how to do it properly, and you risk making costly errors. A typical DIY installation kit also suggests various instruments, such as a level, ratchet set, cordless drill, and adjustable wrench. If you’re not an expert handyman, you may get these tools from a nearby hardware store to finish the work. Additionally, you’d have to learn how to use the tools properly before installation.
• Safety Risks: When a garage door is installed, your safety cannot be guaranteed. Heavy components used in garage door installation might be dangerous if not handled carefully. Injury or property damage may ensue from improper installation. Only a professional can guarantee the safe installation of your new garage door system.

Garage door installation calls for meticulous planning and expertise in carpentry and mechanics, even though it isn’t an especially time-consuming operation. Additionally, the warranty may be void if a professional doesn’t install the garage door.

Garage doors are heavy and challenging to install, so keep in mind that if you’re ready for a challenge, you’ll be rewarded with one. Two or more employees often carry out the installation of a garage door. It’s due to the weight of each garage door component, which must be lifted during installation into an inconvenient position.

Before determining if a DIY garage door installation is perfect for you, it’s a good idea to view video tutorials regarding the procedure if you’ve never seen it done.

Professional Garage Door Installation

To let you know what to anticipate, professionals will provide you with an estimate for your project before it gets going. Then, on the installation day, they deploy a certified, locally contracted installer who will quickly and expertly install your garage door. A one-year labor warranty is also included in most professional garage door installation services for their clients’ added peace of mind.

Pros:

• Quality: Many expert installers provide high-quality door sales, installations, and repairs. They ensure your brand-new garage door system will last a long time and be supported by a warranty and future service if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, if you install a garage door on your DIY weekend, you won’t have these privileges.
• Expertise: Professional installers have the knowledge and training to efficiently and correctly install garage doors. Since they are acquainted with the local building codes and safety laws, they can guarantee that the installation is safe and in compliance.
  Because they deal with garage doors regularly, professional garage door technicians are also qualified to provide advice and assistance since it can be simple to undervalue the skill required to install a garage door and counterbalance system securely and correctly. As a result, your installation or repair project may be crossed off your to-do list without putting you in danger when you hire professionals.
• Warranty and Guarantee: A warranty or guarantee is frequently provided with professional installation. The installer will return at no additional charge to remedy anything that goes wrong.
• Safety: After completing the installation of your garage door, you can observe that everything is in proper order, and activating the opener results in the smooth opening and closing of the garage door.  Nevertheless, it might be easy to overlook issues during installation, considering the numerous safety features incorporated into garage doors. However, a garage door professional will conduct a safety inspection to ensure all protective measures are in place and functioning correctly to prevent future harm or injuries from the garage door.

Cons:

• Cost: Due to the costs of labor and materials, professional garage door installation may be more expensive than a DIY installation.
• Limited Flexibility: Professional installers frequently follow established schedules, so working around your desired installation day and time could not be easy.

With all these things said, the most significant long-term advantage of investing in a professional garage door installation is safety. Only a professional can install all parts following industry and manufacturer safety standards. Also, a professional garage door installer offers top-notch service, a quick and simple installation process, and the assurance that your investment will last.

DIY vs. Professional Garage Door Installation: Final Verdict

There are several points of difference when comparing DIY garage door kits with professional installation services. While DIY projects might save the homeowner some money upfront, the assistance and warranties you receive after finishing the project might differ from what you originally planned.

Hiring a professional garage door technician to put in your new garage door can be more expensive. But then again, you can be sure that the doors are installed using parts of a professional caliber and that the company’s warranty covers the installation.

Your garage door is the largest moving object in your home and is repeatedly utilized daily and in all weather conditions. It is essential for the safety of you and your loved one’s, as well as the safety of your property, that you keep your garage door well-maintained.  Keeping your garage door well maintained will help keep your door running smoothly and quietly while providing security.

Sadly, skipping out on routine garage door maintenance can result in costly repairs, damages, and sometimes even accidents.

This article will guide you through several garage door maintenance tips and hacks to keep your garage door running properly, efficiently, and safely. From routine inspections to lubrication and cleaning, these procedures can keep your garage door in excellent working order for years to come.

Maintenance Prep

The best method to make sure your garage gets the most use out of its door is to do a full visual inspection and tune-up. Still, accidents may happen when you carry out routine maintenance on your garage door. So, the following four considerations should be made before dealing with your door:

1. Unplug your door opener and put any controls aside so your door will not be triggered to activate.  If you can’t reach the cord in the ceiling you might flip the correct breaker or simply make sure everyone with access knows not to operate the door
2. Remove anything you don’t want to get lubricant on out of the garage such as cars or motorcycles.  Depending on the type of lubricant you use it may drip a little on the ground as the door goes up and down once you’ve completed the tune-up..
3. Do not mess with the overhead torsion springs. If you change the tension on these springs while doing maintenance, you risk seriously endangering yourself and your house. To fix this portion of your door, always hire an expert.

To prioritize your safety, keep these maintenance prep tips in mind as you start looking over your garage door and review the best preventive maintenance list on garage doors.

Garage Door Maintenance Tips and Hacks

1. Ensure that the tracks are clear.

Check the door’s tracks on either side to ensure they are free of dirt and corrosion.

Check the door’s tracks on either side to ensure they are free of dirt and corrosion.  We often see customers try to use some type of grease on their tracks but that’s the worst thing you can do because the grease will attract dirt and debris which will then get all over your garage door rollers.  If cleaning your tracks with a cloth by itself won’t work you can always spray some WD-40 onto cloth and use that to wipe down the tracks.

2. Observe the door’s operation.

It’s a good idea to run your garage door every once in a while and look for things that may seem out of the ordinary.  Do you see daylight coming through areas where you’ve not noticed it before?  Do you hear any sounds such as scraping of metal on metal or any kind of grinding noise?  These things are not normal and could be an indication that the bottom rubber may need replacing or you may just need to lubricate critical areas of the door.

3. Tighten loose screws, bolts, and brackets.

The movement of a typical garage door year-round can cause the nuts, bolts and screws to vibrate loose.  It’s a good idea to go over these things with a screwdriver or socket to ensure that everything is nice and tight and that nothing is missing.  We also recommend checking the lags that secure the track bracket to the wall because this area is prone to vibration as well.

4. Lubricate the moving parts.

Here at Gator Garage Door Repair we recommend our customer lubricate certain areas of their garage door and garage door opener at least twice a year.  You typically want to concentrate on areas where there’s metal-to-metal contact such as between the rollers and hinges and the corners of all the hinges as well.  We also recommend you make several passes with a can of lubricant on your torsion springs as well as the bearings located at both ends of the torsion tube.  As far as the opener goes you can focus your attention on the area where the trolley runs on the opener rail to help it keep it running smoothly and quietly.

5. Inspect the rollers.

The garage door rollers should be inspected at least twice a year while lubricating metal-on-metal areas.  During your inspection you’re looking to see if the rollers are still firmly attached to the stem, if the actual portion of the roller itself is still fully intact and whether or not the roller is free from dirt and debris.  If you find that the rollers need to be replaced we recommend calling a Service Professional but if you think you’re up to the task feel free but for your safety avoid removing the bottom roller brackets on each side of the door. These are connected to the lift cables, which are under high tension.

6. Examine the auto-reverse function.

Automatic garage door openers have an auto-reverse mechanism that should be tested periodically.  Putting a 2’ x 4’ wooden block on the floor in the door’s passage will allow you to test the reversing system.. During the test the door will come down and touch the block and should start to reverse direction once approximately 30 pounds of force is applied.  To test the photoelectric system with eye sensors on both sides, lower your door and pass your leg in the door’s path. The door should now change direction and ascend.

7. Replace or repair any weatherstripping.

The door’s bottom rubber weatherstripping aids in keeping out the cold, water, grime, and dust. To ensure it is in good condition, inspect it twice a year. For wooden garage doors, the weatherstripping is often nailed in place so the nails would have to be removed along with the seal and then replaced.  For more common metal garage doors you’ll have to slide the old bottom rubber out and slide the new one back in.  You can often find the bottom seal for wooden doors in hardware stores but the kind you typically find on metal doors may have to be purchased online or from a garage door company.

8. Inspect and refinish the garage door.

Pay attention to the door. If the door is made of steel, look for rust or areas that may be exposed to the elements.  This typically occurs when the bottom rubber is missing, damaged or dry rot and will need to be replaced.  If you have a wooden door you’ll want to look for signs of water damage to the wood such as rot, chipping or warping.  If the wood is damaged it may need to be repaired or replaced. It is especially important to apply a waterproof sealant to the outside of your wooden garage door approximately every other year to both protect the wood and maintain the doors warranty.

Get Professional Maintenance Services with Gator Garage Door Services

Unless you are an expert yourself, you may need help learning how to maintain your garage door properly from time to time. That is why it is always best to be careful about garage door mechanics and routine maintenance. But do not fret any longer! Gator Garage Door Repair is here to help.

Our local garage door experts have actively performed professional services for several years, including comprehensive inspections, hardware repair, and routine maintenance. In addition, we offer specialized services catered to residential and commercial clients with the right capacity and resources to manage small and big projects.

Fill out the Contact Form to set a schedule and request a free estimate today!

Any garage every garage setup should include door openers to ensure easy and convenient operation for opening and closing.  Nevertheless, garage door openers, being mechanics devices, possess the inherent possibility of malfunctioning as time progresses.

Here are five of the most common garage door opener problems and how to fix them:

Problem #1: The wall station works, but the remote does not.

Troubleshooting Steps: Try a second remote and if that doesn’t work try or you don’t have one then try replacing the batteries.

If your wall station is working, but the remote isn’t try changing the battery or use another remote if you have one. If neither remote works after changing the batteries, the problem might be a faulty internal logic board. Fixing this can be costly and may not be the best course of action if your opener is used a lot and is over 8 to 10 years old. Older openers used to have manual up and down limits along with dials that are used to adjust the amount of force used to help the opener push and pull the garage door up and down but those mechanisms have now become digitized which doubled and sometimes tripled the cost of the logic boards that come with new model garage door openers.

When trying to decide whether to repair or replace keep in mind that everything on the opener including the belt  (unless it’s a chain model), safety sensors, internal sensors, remotes, trolley, and keypads are all the same age and will eventually need to be replaced. Gator Garage Doors is happy to replace the logic board if that’s what the customer would like to do but we also want you to make the best decision that is right for you and your family.

Problem #2: The wall switch does not work, but the remote does.

Troubleshooting Steps: Narrow down whether the root cause is the wall station, wiring, or logic board.

You might need to replace the wall switch or the wiring if the remote operates, but the wall switch does not. First, unscrew the switch from the wall, then connect the wires (the wires are low voltage and will not shock you) to see if the switch or the wires are damaged.  If the door begins to move, it indicates a problem with the wall station.  For older model openers, a cost-effective solution could be using a doorbell button. You will probably need to purchase the exact model wall station for openers with more advanced features to ensure 100% functionality.

If the issue is not a faulty wall control and you need to determine if the problem is with the wiring, you can bypass the existing wiring by removing the wall control off the wall and attaching it directly to the motor.  If the system works, then you should replace the low-voltage wiring that runs from the opener to the wall control.  At Gator Garage Doors, we like to use 18-gauge thermostat wiring that can typically be found at almost any hardware store. It’s will have two wires that are large enough in diameter for it to make a strong connection at the motor terminal block.

The items above will typically solve this type of problem but if it doesn’t you may be looking at a faulty logic board.  If you get to this point and you’re not sure what to do it may be time to call a professional garage door company.

Problem #3: The door opens but only closes when you hold down the wall switch.

Troubleshooting Steps: #1 Check for obstructions. #2 Realign safety sensors. #3 Replace safety sensors.

All garage door openers will blink a certain amount of times in the event of an error.  If that error is related to a misaligned safety sensor the opener will blink 10 times.  If this happens we recommend you try the following to troubleshoot the issue:

1.  Make sure nothing is blocking the beam, such as a box or the rear of a car, that could interfere with the beam that’s created between transmit and receive safety sensors.
2. Locate the two photo-eyes that are located toward the bottom of the vertical tracks that are on each side of the garage door.   Use a soft cloth to remove any debris or spiderwebs that may have built up over time.
3. Each photo-eye is typically held in place using a wing nut although this is manufacturer-specific.  Loosen the wingnut, align the two sensors so they are facing each other, and then tighten the wingnuts.
4. If you’ve tried the above three steps and the opener still won’t move and the motor continues to blink 10 times you can try pressing and holding the wall station button down which will allow you to override the safety sensors but be careful doing this because you could make a bad situation worse.  We recommend calling a reputable garage door company at this point.

Problem #4: Everything is functioning but the lights.

Troubleshooting Steps: Determine whether the issue is related to the bulb, socket or logic board.

If you’ve already tested the light bulb and you know it’s good it could be related to the light socket.  You can try the following things if you feel up to the task.

• Unplug the opener from the socket before attempting any repairs so you’re not electrocuted.
• Remove the bulb from the socket and make sure that the brass tab is making good contact with the bulb.  To do this you may have to use a pair of needle nose pliers.  Be careful when doing this so you don’t break the delicate tab.
• If the tab is broken you may have to contact the manufacturer to get a replacement socket.
• If the issue persists you’ll have to remove the end panel which typically has two small phillips-screws at the top and one on the bottom.
• Unplug the two wires that are connected to the light socket. Furthermore, push down the tab that connects the socket to the end panel and remove the socket.
• Insert the new socket and put the end panel back into place and secure the three screws.
• Make sure you use a bulb that has the correct wattage.
• Plug the unit back in and test.

Problem #5: The garage door does not open even if the trolley carriage is moving.

Troubleshooting Steps: Re-engage the trolley/carriage.

If you find yourself in a situation where the piece on the garage door opener rail, the trolley, moves back and forth but the door doesn’t budge someone has probably pulled the emergency release cord.  Reengaging the trolley can be tricky and we recommend this be done manually to prevent damage to the opener.

• First, make sure your garage door is in the down position.
• Now move the trolley so that it’s close to the motor and manually lift the door until you hear the trolley engage.
• If you have issues with the engagement process it’s probably related to the type of trolley you have.  Some trolleys have a plastic tab that needs to be flipped up or it could be a small spring that’s stuck open and gently pulling on the emergency release cord will force it into the close position and now the trolley should engage.
• If you continue to have issues we recommend you call a professional to avoid damage to the opener.

Final Tip

Garages shelter vehicles and outdoor items from inclement weather. When all of your systems are working properly, they also act as a safe entrance and exit point for your house.

The garage door gets used more frequently than many other home devices. And if this situation persists, the garage door’s mechanical system will eventually need repairs and proactive maintenance.

Simple troubleshooting techniques will often address common garage door opener problems. However, a professional technician may be needed to identify and fix the problem in more difficult situations.

It’s priceless to have convenience. The fastest computer, the most feature-rich vehicle, and the kitchen appliance that prepares food the quickest are all things that people want. That said, there isn’t enough time to cope with the inconvenience nowadays.

Many homeowners find great value in a smart garage door opener. But, unfortunately, if you’re considering a smart garage door opener, you either know little about them or nothing and think it’s simply a rich man’s luxury.

Worry no more! To help you decide on finally getting one installed, we have curated this article just for you. Here are nine benefits of having a smart garage door opener  in your home:

1. Convenience

Convenience is one of the key benefits of a smart garage door opener. You don’t have to step out of your car to open or close your garage since you can stay there until you’re in or out.

It’s easy for your garage door opener to detect whenever your car pulls into the driveway. You may also unlock the door from any corner of the world without risking the possibility of disclosing the access codes.

Moreover, you won’t need to leave your family or pets in the car when opening or closing your garage door or brave the extreme temperatures outdoors.

2. Safety

You don’t have to worry about the garage door collapsing on anything, becoming snagged on something, or fingers getting stuck anywhere.

At present, several smart garage door openers have added functionalities like:

• Pair with smoke detectors: When used with smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, an alarm is delivered to your phone if smoke, fire, or hazardous fumes are detected.
• Laser guidance: Activate as soon as you pull your car into the garage to assist you in parking correctly without risking damaging any objects or storage units.
• Monitor temperature: Smart systems typically include sensors to monitor the temperature. These sensors may help you determine whether your garage door is open or the space is too hot or cold for food, equipment, or other temperature-sensitive goods.

3. Lighting

Most garage door opener systems provide additional light for your garage. The fact that your garage door opener has this capability proves to be a wonderful perk, even if it’s not the main selling factor.

Built-in lights on modern smart garage door openers illuminate the path leading to your garage. This kind of lighting could be extremely handy in the winter, at night, or during inclement weather.

4. Security

Since garage security is crucial, you’ll want to be certain that your smart garage door opener improves the welfare of your family, house, and belongings.

To guarantee that only you can access your garage, consider having smart garage openers with rolling codes, which changes each time the remote button is touched. Even better, some systems are equipped with video surveillance that can broadcast night vision footage and have built-in smart cameras that you can see remotely.

Vacation mode is another feature that turns off the remote controls. So, only from the inside can you access your garage.

5. Scheduled Closing

The garage door opener can also close itself, so you won’t have to get out of your car to shut the door or remember to push the button on your remote.

If you have kids, constantly need to remember to lock your garage door or leave for work, and fear that you might not have done so, this is perfect for you.

You may program your smart garage door opener to open and close at specific times if you leave for work and return at the same time each day or if your child frequently goes to and returns from school. Additionally, you may set a timer to determine how long the garage door should be left open on the weekends while the kids play outside.

6. Phone Connect

Smart garage door openers offer a wide range of functions and amenities to increase comfort. A smart garage door opener can also be controllable via mobile apps. These allow you to check if your door is closed no matter where you are or to sound an alarm if it is open.

7. Energy Efficiency

Convenience may incur a major financial burden when your electricity bill is due. In addition, the cost of running and charging your appliances may add up at the end of the month, so it makes sense that you’d be reluctant to add another one to your house.

The energy used by a smart garage door opener is minimal. So you may relax if you’re worried that using such equipment would make you broke. These are also less harmful to the environment and very economical to operate.

8. Cost-Effective

Smart garage doors are practical and reasonably priced to buy and install.

They are an excellent steal when you consider all they have to provide and what they mean to a family with a few vehicles, kids who store their bikes in the garage, and parents who are worried about security.

9. Low Maintenance

A smart garage door opener has the advantage of requiring less maintenance. Still, you should maintain yours following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it always functions as intended.

Conclusion

A smart garage door opener provides a great deal of value to many individuals, whether they want to know when their garage door is closed, have a physical condition that prevents them from opening their door themselves, or want to save a few seconds each day.

When you utilize your garage regularly, what appears to be an unnecessary amenity becomes a daily essential.

More than just a convenient addition to your life, a smart garage door opener is a safe, secure, and cost-effective addition to your home. Call our specialists now to schedule an installation if you believe a smart garage door opener is perfect for you!

Is your garage door uneven or sagging more towards one side? Chances are it’s off-balance. When you have a ton of other tasks on your to-do list, you might be tempted to ignore the problem if your garage door still opens and closes just fine.

It’s important to repair an uneven garage door sooner rather than later. Uneven garage doors continue to wear down until they are completely out of commission. As Round Rock’s trusted garage door repair services, we have seen this scenario play out numerous times before.

The truth is, garage doors can last for decades. A high-quality garage door can last up to thirty years with proper care and routine maintenance. Being on the lookout for performance issues like an off-balanced garage door is key to extending the life of your garage door.   Keep reading or reach out to us by phone today to learn more.

How Can You Tell if Your Garage Door Is Uneven?

When the tensions in the spring system adequately support a properly balanced garage door, the door easily slides up and down the track when opened and closed.

An unbalanced garage door won’t operate as smoothly. When the garage door is uneven, the springs either provide too much or not enough tension, preventing the devices from sufficiently counterbalancing the door’s weight.

Here are a few clear signs that indicate that your garage door is uneven or imbalanced:

•     The garage door slants or sags towards one side when open
•     The garage door makes unusual noises when opening or closing
•     It takes longer than usual to open or close the door
•     The door won’t move at all or is too heavy to move

Consider Performing a Balance Test

If you’re still unsure if your garage door is uneven or off-balance, you should consider performing a balance test. The test takes only a few minutes to complete.

Take a look at the following steps:

1. Begin by closing the garage door from inside.
2. Disconnect the opener from the door. You can do this by pulling down the manual release rope on a standard belt or chain drive opener. If your garage door opener has a T-shaped rail, you’ll have to pull the manual release rope down and toward the motor piece.
3. Test the garage door by manually opening and closing it. If the door is balanced correctly, it will move freely. However, if the door is too heavy to move, this indicates a problem. The door may be out of balance.
4. Lift the door until it’s halfway open. If it stays in place, the springs support its weight which means that it’s even. If the door falls shut forcefully, the garage door is out of balance.

It’s understandable to feel intimidated by manually testing your garage door’s balance. For this reason, we recommend always choosing a professional inspection over any DIY fix.

Why Is Your Garage Door Uneven?

Unbalanced garage doors that sag or are uneven is a common problem that typically affects older garage setups. There are several reasons why a garage door moves out of alignment, including:

The Extension Springs Are Worn

The garage door springs are bound to get weaker as they age. When they wear, gaps between the coils will appear. As a result, the extension springs will lose their power.  In some instances, adjusting the springs can restore some pulling power. Installing new springs on both sides of the door is best.

Torsion Springs Have Slipped

The torsion springs offset some of the garage door’s weight, making it easier to lift and lower the door. A winding and mounting cone holds the torsion springs in place. When the winding cone loosens, the torsion springs slip, significantly affecting the garage door’s balance.

Broken Torsion Springs

Perhaps one of the torsion springs in your garage door is broken. If this is the case, the garage door opener is likely pulling up half of the door’s weight, which is why the door appears to be uneven.

Improper Insulation

Often, homeowners insulate their garage doors with DIY kits. The insulation can add fifteen to twenty pounds to your garage door. The extra weight will throw your door off balance and affect its operation.

What Happens If the Garage Door Is Uneven?

When the garage door is unbalanced and uneven, it puts enormous stress on the garage door opener. The automatic opener is one of the most critical garage door components because it allows you to open and close the door with just a push of a button.

Over the last few years, we’ve come to rely on automatic door openers strongly. Garage doors are hefty and require a lot of power to operate. Garage door openers are a lifesaver because they help manage a significant portion of the door’s weight.

An uneven or imbalanced garage door will also prematurely strip the sprockets, drive gears, and the couplets on the opener, causing it to wear faster than usual.

Finally, another possible consequence of an uneven garage door is that the spring or cable can snap at any moment. A worn garage door opener, cables, or springs can take your garage door out of service until a professional can fix it.

Get Professional Help Today

Since an uneven garage door usually points to a problem with the springs, you shouldn’t tackle the problem independently. Avoid the hazard of failing garage door springs by trusting professionals to get the job done.

If you suspect that your garage door is out of balance, getting the professional repairs you need doesn’t have to be a hassle. The experts here at Gator Garage Door Repair are here to help! Our technicians will perform a thorough inspection of your garage door, the spring system to ensure track support, and the automatic opener. Explore our website to read more about garage door issues, or call us at 512-518-5544 to get started with a consultation or emergency services today.

Professionally installed, well-maintained garage doors last for many years, improving the value and function of any residential or commercial space. Just like numerous common household appliances, though, even the best garage doors can fail. When this happens, it puts homes and businesses at risk for security issues, weather damage, space inaccessibility, and more.

The Gator Garage Door Repair team believes in helping every customer make informed decisions about their garage door investment. In this blog, we talk about the most common garage door issues owners face and how professional maintenance and repair services can help.

For more professional advice on everything from window styles to paint colors for garage doors, reach out to Gator Garage Door Repair at 512-518-5544 today.

Common Garage Door Issues

1. Noisy Movement or Parts

As garage doors age, bearings and other mechanical parts may lose lubrication or grease. When this happens, both motorized and hand-operated garage doors may become noisy and difficult to operate.

While it may be tempting to try a DIY fix for a screechy or noisy garage door, doing so may damage the door further or cost unnecessary money. Professional garage door mechanics know the signs and symptoms of part and bearing wear. These experts quickly resolve the issue with any necessary lubricants or part replacements, saving property owners time and frustration.

2. Uneven Movement

For property owners who notice a garage door is moving unevenly, the problem could be as simple as an obstructed track. First, visually inspect the garage door tracks to check for any foreign objects or obstructions.

If cleaning and wiping the tracks is impossible or does not help, contact a professional garage door maintenance service as soon as possible. Experts like those you’ll find at Gator Garage Door Repair will inspect all components of your garage door and quickly resolve the problem, potentially preventing further damage to the door or its parts.

3. Failure To Open All the Way

Another common garage door issue that owners often face is a failure to open all the way. This problem can arise for several reasons, including obstructed tracks, faulty sensors, bad garage door springs, and more.

If you do not see any obstructions, it’s best to have a garage door expert take a look. They have the experience needed to quickly hone in on common sources of this problem and offer affordable solutions for restoring the function of a garage door.

4. Slow Movement

Of all the garage door issues property owners faces, slow movement emerges as one of the most common. Over time, residue and other organic material can build up on the tracks of garage doors, making door movement slow during the opening and closing process.

If garage door tracks have been properly cleaned and maintained, the issue could lie with the extension springs or the garage door’s speed setting itself. Never try to repair these issues yourself. Contact a qualified professional to protect yourself from risk, stress, and higher repair costs.

5. No Movement at All

If your garage door has stopped responding at all and will not open or close, there may be a serious underlying problem. Though it may be tempting, do not attempt DIY fixes for a frozen garage door. Doing so may result in more damage to the door or its mechanical structures.

Reach out to experienced repair professionals to resolve a garage door that has suddenly stopped moving. These trained mechanics will start from small and work their way to big, checking everything from your garage door opener batteries to the motor, circuit breaker, and beyond.

6. Damaged Seals

Beyond movement-related garage door issues, silent problems such as damaged seals can cause unchecked damage in garage and warehouse spaces. Over time, seals wear down due to use, exposure to the elements, and other reasons. When cracks form in these seals, it can put indoor garage and warehouse spaces at risk for damage from water, rodents, and other problems.

Trained garage door mechanics make replacing or repairing these seals a breeze. After an assessment, garage door seals can be replaced or fixed in as little as a single visit.

7. “Phantom” Movement

Does it seem as though your garage door may be “possessed”? Any property owner who notices their garage door opening and closing without input should take immediate action. This behavior could indicate a short somewhere in the garage door wiring. Immediately cut off the circuit breaker to the garage door and call in the professionals.

After an initial assessment, qualified garage door repair technicians will quickly diagnose the problem and provide an affordable repair, making sure the garage door opens and closes as it should.

8. Moving Too Fast

If your garage door opens too fast or slams shut when you operate it, it may be an issue with the torsion springs, cables, or garage door speed. In some cases, these issues could render the garage door inoperable.

The Gator Garage Door Repair team advises against trying to force the door open or using any DIY repairs for this issue. Instead, save time, money, and stress by letting an expert quickly identify and remedy the problem.

9. Faulty Sensors

Faulty sensors can create a number of different problems in the operation of a garage door, from limited opening to closing without being operated. If your garage door behaves strangely and you see no visible obstructions in the tracks or other issues, your sensors may be to blame,

Garage door technicians will locate and thoroughly clean each sensor, checking them for correct operation and replacing as necessary.

Find Reliable Garage Door Repair in Austin

Garage doors add improved aesthetics and functionality to any residential or commercial space. With professional, informed upkeep and repair, the average garage door can last many years, paying for itself in convenience, property value increases, and more.

If you’re a property owner facing garage door issues, trust affordable garage door services by Gator Garage Door Repair. Call our friendly staff at 512-518-5544 to get started with a consultation today.