Your garage door is a significant entryway to your home, and when it malfunctions, it can lead to a cascade of issues. If your garage door refuses to open or close properly, it’s time to address the problem.
But why might your garage door not be functioning correctly? With numerous components involved, identifying the root cause can be challenging. In this article, we'll outline some common reasons your garage door might not be closing or opening, along with whether you might need professional assistance.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Before diving into potential causes, it’s essential to determine when it’s best to seek professional help. While some minor repairs can be handled independently, larger tasks often require expert intervention to avoid future complications. Throughout this post, we’ll clarify which repairs you can tackle yourself and which ones are better left to professionals.
Balancing Your Garage Door
In most cases, a garage door that fails to close properly is likely unbalanced. As part of routine maintenance, you can attempt to balance your garage door following proper guidelines. To do this, disconnect the door from the opener so it can only be manually operated.
A well-balanced door should remain stable and level without falling when partially opened. Before conducting the test, mark a spot halfway down the door. If the door slowly closes or becomes uneven, it indicates imbalance, suggesting the need for inspection and repair.
Why a Smoothly Operating Garage Door Matters
Once you’ve ensured your door is balanced and still facing issues, it’s time to explore the various components that could be at fault. Here, we’ll highlight common repairs that can restore your garage door to optimal performance.
1. Blocked Sensors
Safety sensors are designed to prevent your garage door from closing on people or objects. If anything obstructs the sensor’s path, the door won’t close completely. Cleaning the sensors is a quick fix. Usually, each sensor has a red and green light indicating proper alignment. If these lights aren’t visible, troubleshooting the sensors might resolve the issue.
2. Damaged Components
Garage doors consist of many moving parts, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem. Often, a part requiring repair is the culprit behind improper operation. Let’s look at some common components linked to this issue.
Inspecting the Springs
If your garage door lifts slightly and then halts, the springs might be faulty. Depending on your comfort level and experience, repairing or replacing the springs can be done yourself or by a professional.
There are two main types of springs:
- Extension Springs: These use resistance to stretch when the door closes and return to their original position to open the door. With regular upkeep, these can last up to 10,000 cycles.
- Torsion Springs: Located parallel to the door on the wall, they tighten when the door is closed and unwind as it opens. These typically last up to 20,000 cycles.
To replace a spring, first determine the required size using a simple formula: divide the door height by two. Next, estimate the weight by placing a scale under the door and closing it slowly.
While straightforward, this repair can save you labor costs. However, if you’re unsure, seeking professional help is advisable.
Checking the Cables and Chains
Cables assist in smooth door operation. If they’re damaged or frayed, the door might fail to open or become unbalanced. Such issues often require professional attention due to the potential for further damage. Replacing cables usually costs between $100 and $400, including labor.
Alternatively, loose chains can also cause problems. Indicators include excessive noise during operation, manual-only opening, and rising energy bills. Fixing loose chains is feasible for those comfortable with the task. Ensure the door is closed, power is off, and the emergency release rope is pulled.
Lubrication for Optimal Performance
Cold weather can cause metal tracks to contract, leading to stiffness. Regular lubrication is crucial to maintain smooth operation. Manually close the door, turn off power, and clean the tracks with a damp cloth. Apply lubricant while reopening the door, focusing on hinges rather than tracks. Silicone spray or white lithium grease are recommended choices.
Immediate Attention for Security and Energy Efficiency
An open garage door poses security risks and impacts energy efficiency. Burglars exploit vulnerabilities, and an open door allows outsiders to see inside. Additionally, energy escapes through even the smallest gaps, affecting indoor climate control.
Even though repairs can be costly, delaying them leads to higher expenses over time. Enhancing energy efficiency with modern features can offset monthly utility costs.
Updating Your Garage Door
Sometimes, a worn-out door simply needs replacement. Upgrading offers high returns on investment and allows customization to match your home’s aesthetic. Instead of focusing on initial costs, consider long-term benefits and design options.
By addressing these aspects, you ensure your garage door remains functional and secure, protecting both your property and wallet.
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