Just like any mechanical system, your garage door can experience issues over time. Understanding these problems and knowing how to address them can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s walk through some of the most common garage door issues, how to troubleshoot them, and when it’s time to call in the professionals at Mark’s Garage Doors for expert garage door repair in Santa Rosa.
Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
If your garage door won’t open or close, it could be caused by:
Broken Torsion or Extension Springs
The springs bear the weight of the garage door and help it move smoothly. If a spring breaks, the door may not open at all.
Blocked or Misaligned Sensors
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if an object is detected in its path. If the sensors are blocked or misaligned, the door may not close properly.
Disconnected or Malfunctioning Remote
Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as a dead battery in the remote or a remote that has become disconnected from the opener.
How to Fix
If you’re having trouble with this issue, consider the following steps to fix it:
Get the Springs Professionally Inspected
If you suspect a broken spring, it’s best to avoid using the door and call a professional like Mark’s Garage Doors for garage door repair in Santa Rosa. Attempting to repair or replace garage door springs on your own can be dangerous due to the high tension they’re under.
Check the Sensors
Ensure that there’s nothing blocking the sensors and that they are properly aligned. The sensors should be facing each other directly with no obstructions. If they’re misaligned, gently adjust them back into position.
Test the Remote
Replace the batteries in your remote and try to reconnect it to the opener. If the remote still doesn’t work, consult your opener’s manual for instructions on resetting the remote.
Garage Door Makes Loud Noises
If your garage door starts making loud noises, it could be caused by:
Worn or Rusty Hardware
Over time, the hardware on your garage door, including hinges, rollers, and tracks, can become worn or rusty, leading to squeaks, grinding, or banging noises.
Loose Parts
Vibrations from regular use can cause nuts and bolts to loosen, which may lead to rattling or other noises.
Improper Lubrication
Lack of lubrication on moving parts is a common cause of noise.
If you’re having trouble with this issue, consider the following steps to fix it:
How to Fix
Replace Worn Parts
If you notice significant wear on any parts, such as cracked or broken rollers, consider replacing them. It’s a good idea to hire a professional garage door repair company for this fix.
Tighten Loose Parts
Inspect the hardware and use a wrench to tighten any loose bolts or screws. Be sure to check the roller brackets, hinges, and track brackets.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply a garage door lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using WD-40, as it can attract dirt and dust. Instead, use a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant designed for garage doors.
Garage Door Moves Unevenly or Shakes
If your garage door is shaking, it could be caused by:
Bent Tracks
If the tracks are bent or damaged, the door may not move smoothly.
Worn Rollers
Rollers that are worn or damaged can cause the door to shake or move unevenly.
Poorly Balanced Door
A garage door that’s not balanced correctly will put extra strain on the opener, causing uneven movement.
How to Fix
If you’re having trouble with this issue, consider the following steps to fix it:
Inspect the Tracks
Look for any visible bends or damage in the tracks. If the damage is severe, the track may need to be replaced.
Check and Replace Rollers
Inspect the rollers for signs of wear or damage. If you notice flat spots or cracks, replace the rollers. Nylon rollers are a good option as they tend to be quieter and more durable.
Test Door Balance
Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release handle and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If it falls, the springs may need adjustment. This is another situation where it’s best to call a professional for garage door repair, as adjusting springs can be dangerous.
Garage Door Closes Too Quickly
If your garage door begins closing too quickly, it could be caused by:
Broken Torsion or Extension Springs
As mentioned earlier, springs play a crucial role in balancing the weight of the garage door. A broken spring can cause the door to close too quickly, creating a safety hazard.
Damaged Cables
The cables on your garage door work in conjunction with the springs to lift and lower the door. If a cable breaks, the door may close too fast or at an angle.
How to Fix
If you’re having trouble with this issue, consider the following steps to fix it:
Replace Broken Springs or Cables
Both of these repairs should be handled by a professional due to the potential danger involved. Attempting to replace springs or cables on your own can result in serious injury.
Check the Safety Sensors
If the door is closing too quickly, also check the alignment of the safety sensors. Misaligned sensors can sometimes cause the door to behave erratically.
Trusted Professionals in Garage Door Repair – Mark’s Garage Doors
By understanding common garage door issues and how to address them, you can keep your door functioning smoothly. However, for more serious problems, it’s always best to call in the professionals at Mark’s Garage Doors. With our expertise, quality parts, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re here to help with all your garage door needs. Don’t hesitate to contact Mark’s Garage Doors or give us a call at (415) 497-0459 for fast, reliable service that you can trust.
