Only a person who has ever faced a broken garage door can empathize with how annoying such a situation can be. Whether it’s stuck down and refuses to budge, has off sounds while opening or closing, or simply will not shut completely, any garage door that refuses to work is a great disturbance to anyone’s schedule and may even be a possible threat to the house’s security. Luckily, one can take some really important steps to identify and rectify the problem.
This time, we will give you a simple guide on what to do in case of such problems. If you keep asking yourself, “My Garage Door is Breaking! What Should I do?” — do not panic. Practical solutions are here on how to fix a garage door problem promptly.
7 Things To Do To Fix Your Garage Door If It’s Breaking
Inspect the Door’s Hardware for Loose Screws or Bolts
If you notice your garage door collapsing and need repair, the first step would be the inspection of any hardware of the door to see if there are any screws or bolts left loose. Any part the door has to undergo physically tends to have the screws and bolts loosened after a period of movement leading to misalignment or a noisy operation of the door.
After this, check for hinges, bolts, brackets, and the like if any have come loose. In situations like this, where you find loose, fast-moving parts, safely use the right tools to turn those that need turning.
Lubricate All Moving Parts, Including Hinges and Rollers
If your garage door has begun to fail or become too old, one of the most straightforward and efficient solutions is lubricating all its moving components. In most cases, the movement parts of a garage door require lubrication for a smooth operation; otherwise, over time, there will be reliance on hinges, tracks, or rollers, which will grind or seize.
Pick a silicone grease or lithium grease and apply a thin layer on the hinges, rollers, and any other friction-prone moveable part. The same applies to the tracks, but no lubrication is needed. Rather, a thorough wash is needed.
Check the Door Opener’s Settings and Sensors
If your garage door is breaking or malfunctioning, you should first check the door opener’s settings and sensors. The opener settings control the door’s operation, including speed, force, and limits, which can be misadjusted over time.
Ensure these are properly calibrated to avoid issues like the door not opening or closing fully. Additionally, inspect the sensors near the bottom of the door frame, as they are crucial in detecting obstructions. Dirty, misaligned, or blocked sensors can prevent the door from functioning correctly, leading to safety concerns and operational problems.
Tighten or Replace Broken or Worn-out Cables and Springs
If your garage door is malfunctioning, one of the common issues may be broken or worn-out cables and springs, which are critical components for smooth operation. To fix the problem, inspect the cables and springs for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. If they appear loose, tightening them might restore the door’s functionality.
However, replacing cables or springs is necessary to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation if the cables or springs are broken or severely worn. Remember that working with garage door springs can be dangerous due to their tension, so it’s best to call a professional for assistance if you’re unsure about handling them.
Ensure the Tracks Are Aligned and Free of Debris
To fix your garage door if it’s breaking, one of the first steps is to ensure the tracks are properly aligned and debris-free. Misaligned tracks can cause the door to become stuck or operate unevenly, leading to further issues.
Begin by visually inspecting the tracks on both sides of the door and checking for gaps between the rollers and the track itself. Use a level to confirm alignment, and gently tap the tracks back into place if necessary. Additionally, clear any dirt, dust, or obstructions that may have accumulated in the tracks, as even small debris can interfere with the door’s smooth operation.
For a smooth garage door operation, garage cleanout experts can help clear debris and ensure your tracks are clean and free from obstructions that may cause alignment issues.
Test the Balance of the Door and Adjust Tension if Needed
To fix your garage door if it’s breaking, one of the first things you should check is the door’s balance. A properly balanced garage door should stay in place when lifted halfway without drifting up or down.
If the door is unbalanced, it can strain the opener and other components, leading to further damage. To test the balance, disconnect the door from the opener and manually lift it to the halfway point. If it doesn’t stay in position, it’s time to adjust the tension of the springs. Tension adjustments require careful handling, as springs are under high pressure.
Replace Damaged or Cracked Panels to Restore Functionality
If your garage door shows signs of damage, such as cracked or broken panels, replacing those panels is crucial in restoring its functionality. Damaged panels can affect the overall structure of the door, leading to alignment issues or difficulty opening and closing.
By replacing the damaged sections, you improve the door’s appearance and ensure that it operates smoothly and safely. It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and avoid potential safety hazards. Whether you handle it yourself or hire a professional, repairing or replacing faulty panels will extend the life of your garage door.
Why is It Essential to Fix Your Garage Door if It’s Breaking?
Fixing a broken garage door is essential for several reasons, primarily concerning safety, security, and functionality.
A malfunctioning garage door can pose significant safety hazards, as it may suddenly close or become stuck, leading to potential injuries.
Additionally, a broken door compromises the security of your home, making it an easy target for intruders and leaving your belongings vulnerable.
Furthermore, a properly functioning garage door enhances the overall convenience of daily routines, allowing for smooth access to your vehicle and belongings.
Conclusion
A malfunctioning garage door can be a major inconvenience and even a safety hazard, but addressing the problem early with the right steps can save time, money, and stress. By focusing on the seven essential fixes you can ensure your garage door remains in optimal working condition. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will not only extend the life of your door but also provide peace of mind, knowing that your garage is secure and functional.
