A garage door is one of the most frequently used components of your home, yet it’s often taken for granted—until something goes wrong. A malfunctioning garage door can be frustrating and even pose safety risks. Understanding the common reasons behind garage door failures can help you take proactive steps to avoid expensive repairs and keep your door running smoothly.
Common Reasons Garage Doors Fail (and How to Prevent Them)
1. Broken Springs
Why it happens:
Garage door springs do the heavy lifting every time you open or close the door. With frequent use, these springs wear out and may eventually snap, making it difficult—or even impossible—for the door to operate.
Prevention tips:
• Schedule professional maintenance to check spring condition.
• Replace springs every 7–10 years or sooner if signs of wear appear (e.g., gaps in coils, loud snapping noises).
• Never attempt DIY spring replacement—these components are under high tension and require professional handling.
2. Worn Rollers and Hinges
Why it happens:
Rollers and hinges help the garage door glide smoothly along the tracks. When these components become worn, rusted, or misaligned, they can create friction and cause the door to stick or jerk during operation.
Prevention tips:
• Lubricate rollers and hinges every few months using a silicone-based lubricant.
• Replace damaged or noisy rollers and hinges promptly.
3. Misaligned or Damaged Tracks
Why it happens:
The metal tracks guide the garage door as it opens and closes. If they become bent, dirty, or misaligned, the door may not function correctly—or worse, it could derail.
Prevention tips:
• Inspect tracks regularly for debris, dents, and alignment issues.
• Keep the tracks clean and straight.
• Call a professional if you notice any damage or irregular movement.
4. Faulty Garage Door Opener
Why it happens:
The opener is the motorized unit that allows the door to operate automatically. Problems with the opener can be caused by worn-out gears, electrical issues, or misaligned safety sensors.
Prevention tips:
• Check the opener’s sensors and battery levels regularly.
• Clean the sensor lenses and make sure nothing obstructs their path.
• If the motor starts making strange noises or the door operates inconsistently, schedule a service appointment.
5. Frayed or Broken Cables
Why it happens:
Cables work in tandem with the springs to lift and lower the garage door. When cables fray or snap, it can cause the door to hang unevenly or stop working altogether.
Prevention tips:
• Check the cables regularly for signs of fraying, rust, or damage.
• If you notice any wear, have them replaced by a professional immediately.
6. Weather-Related Damage
Why it happens:
Weather can take a toll on your garage door. Moisture, extreme temperatures, and debris can cause warping in wood doors or rust in metal ones.
Prevention tips:
• Install weatherproof seals to guard against moisture and temperature changes.
• Clean and repaint metal doors regularly to prevent rust.
• Inspect wood doors for signs of warping or rot and treat them with appropriate finishes.
Final Thoughts
Garage door issues are often the result of wear and tear over time, but most problems can be avoided with regular maintenance. By scheduling routine inspections and addressing minor concerns early, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door and avoid costly repairs down the road.
If you're currently facing garage door issues, don’t wait for them to become major repairs. Whether you're in Rockville, MD or Silver Spring, MD, BWI Garage Doors is here to help.
Call us today at +1 888 388 1847 to schedule a repair or maintenance visit.
Comments
Post a Comment