13 Garage Door Repairs That Are Best Left to Professionals
Your garage door is one of the most important components in keeping your home safe and functional. Not only does it provide security for your belongings, but it also serves as a barrier against weather and other outdoor elements. However, with regular use and wear and tear, garage doors can experience issues that require repairs.
The worst mistake you can make when confronted with garage door repair issues is trying to fix them alone. Hiring our garage door repair service in Wichita is the best way to ensure your door is fixed properly and efficiently. Our team of professionals has the expertise and equipment to handle any garage door repair, big or small.
Read on to learn about the top garage door repairs that are best left to professionals.
Bent Tracks
One of the most noticeable signs of a problem with your garage door is difficulty opening or closing it smoothly. If the door gets stuck or moves unevenly, it may be due to bent tracks.
You might also hear unusual noises like grinding or squeaking when operating the door. These issues indicate that the tracks are misaligned or damaged, and they can seriously disrupt the function of your garage door.
Hiring a professional garage door repair service in Wichita is important to address track problems. Aligning and repairing tracks requires precision and specialized tools to prevent further damage.
Attempting to fix bent tracks alone can lead to incorrect adjustments, potentially worsening the issue. A professional can quickly assess the situation and ensure your garage door operates safely and effectively.
Broken Panels
Visible cracks or dents in garage door panels indicate necessary repairs. These issues affect the door’s appearance and can reduce insulation effectiveness, leading to increased energy costs.
Here are some telling signs that your garage door panels may be damaged:
- Cracks and Dents: Look for any visible damage on the surface of the panels.
- Temperature Changes: Noticeable temperature differences inside your garage can signal reduced insulation.
- Warping: Panels may become warped due to water damage or extreme temperatures.
- Operational Issues: If your door struggles to open or close, damaged panels may be the culprit.
Replacing panels is a task best left to professionals. They know to match materials correctly, ensuring the new panels blend seamlessly with the existing door. Experts can verify that the integrity and functionality of the garage door remain intact, preserving both safety and aesthetics.
Broken Torsion Springs and Cables
Loud bangs when opening or closing your garage door can signal that torsion springs or cables are broken. These parts work together to support the weight of the door, allowing it to lift smoothly. If you notice your garage door not lifting properly or moving unevenly, it may be due to a malfunction in these components. Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage and more costly repairs down the line.
Replacing broken torsion springs and cables is a complex task that should be left to professionals. These elements operate under high tension, which can cause serious injuries if mishandled. Professionals are trained to safely manage these repairs, ensuring the garage door functions properly while reducing the risk of accidents.
By hiring our garage door repair service in Wichita, you can trust that your garage door will be repaired correctly and efficiently.
Damaged Garage Door Openers
A garage door opener that does not respond or operates intermittently may indicate serious issues needing prompt attention. If you press the opener’s button and the door does not move at all, or if it only works sometimes, these are clear signs of a problem.
Issues like these can stem from faulty wiring, a bad motor, or other electrical components within the opener itself. These problems can prevent your garage door from functioning properly, which can create safety concerns.
When dealing with garage door openers, it is crucial to have professionals diagnose the situation. They can accurately determine the cause of the failure, whether it is an electrical issue or a mechanical failure. They also have the expertise to safely install replacements, ensuring your garage door opener operates effectively and safely.
Garage Door Warping
Gaps around your garage door or uneven movement while opening and closing are signs of warping. These issues can lead to problems with insulation and security, making it crucial to have a professional assess the situation. Structural issues require accurate evaluation and repair to prevent further warping and misalignment of the door.
Moisture Exposure
Consistent exposure to moisture can cause materials to swell, leading to warping. This commonly occurs in wooden doors that are not properly sealed.
Temperature Fluctuations
Extreme temperature changes can impact the garage door’s materials, causing them to expand and contract. This regular stress can ultimately lead to warping.
Poor Installation
Inadequate installation can cause the garage door to hang unevenly. This misalignment can create gaps and further exacerbate warping.
Lack of Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your garage door functioning well. Small issues can develop into significant structural problems without it, leading to warping over time.
Hiring a professional garage door repair service in Wichita is the best way to fix a warped garage door. With their assistance, you can address the underlying causes and ensure proper repairs are made to restore the door’s functionality and appearance.
A Jammed Emergency Release
During a power outage, one critical sign that your garage door needs professional attention is the inability to open it manually. If the emergency release cord is jammed or unresponsive, it can prevent you from using the door when needed. This situation can be distressing, especially in emergencies where quick access is necessary.
It is crucial to have professionals address the issue to ensure your garage door functions as intended. They can safely disengage and re-engage the emergency release mechanism, ensuring it operates correctly in case of a power outage or other emergencies.
Attempting to fix the problem alone can lead to further damage and potential accidents. Hiring professionals ensures your garage door is safe and dependable in any situation.
Overstretched or Broken Extension Springs
If your garage door appears uneven, struggles to open, or slams shut, it may be a sign of overstretched or broken extension springs. These springs play a crucial role in the door’s operation by providing the force to lift and lower the door smoothly.
If they are damaged or not functioning properly, it can lead to safety hazards and further complications.
To identify issues with extension springs, look for the following signs:
- Visible Damage: Check for any signs of wear, such as cracks or spring gaps.
- Door Performance: Notice if the door opens slowly or doesn’t open completely, which can indicate spring problems.
- Unusual Noises: Listen for loud bangs or pops when operating the door. These are signals that springs may be failing.
- Uneven Door Movement: Observe the door as it opens and closes; if it shifts to one side, the springs may be unevenly tensioned.
Handling high-tension springs is dangerous without the proper expertise and tools. Professionals have the training to safely replace or repair extension springs, which prevents injuries and ensures your garage door functions correctly.
Worn Out Motors or Gears
Another common issue that can affect your garage door is worn-out motors or gears. These parts power the door’s movement and can experience wear and tear after years of use. Signs of a faulty motor or gear include slow operation, grinding noises, or complete failure to open the door.
Replacing these components requires precise disassembly and replacement, which is best left to professionals. Attempting to fix them yourself can lead to further damage and expensive repairs. Professionals have the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure your garage door operates smoothly with new motors or gears installed correctly.
Misaligned or Off-Track Doors
If your garage door appears crooked or struggles to move smoothly, it may be misaligned or off track. This can lead to frustrating performance issues and safety concerns. When a door is misaligned, it can create gaps that allow pests and debris to enter your garage, compromising its security and integrity. Therefore, calling a professional to address this problem is essential.
Assessment of the Situation
Professionals start by assessing the entire door system. They check for any visible signs of misalignment and look for components that may be worn or damaged. This assessment helps them determine the best course of action for repairs.
Adjustment of Tracks and Rollers
Next, they will adjust the tracks and rollers, ensuring they are aligned correctly. This process may involve loosening screws, repositioning brackets, and tightening everything back into place. Proper alignment will allow the door to move smoothly without obstruction.
Inspection of Springs and Cables
Professionals will also inspect the springs and cables for any signs of wear. If any of these components are damaged, they may need to be adjusted or replaced. This ensures the door operates effectively and maintains balance during opening and closing.
Testing the Door Functionality
Garage door repair professionals will test the door’s functionality after making the necessary adjustments. This includes watching how the door opens and closes to ensure it operates smoothly. Their expertise guarantees that the door will function safely and efficiently, providing homeowners peace of mind.
Faulty Wiring
When your garage door opener fails to respond or only works occasionally, faulty wiring may be the culprit. This situation can cause frustration and safety concerns, as you may find yourself unable to open or close the door when needed.
Signs of faulty wiring include flickering lights on the opener, a humming sound without movement, or the remote not registering commands. These issues often occur due to frayed wires, loose connections, or damaged electrical components. It’s essential to address these problems promptly to restore the functionality of your garage door opener.
Trained technicians can effectively diagnose and repair faulty wiring, ensuring everything is up to code. They also have the expertise to handle electrical repairs safely, reducing the risk of malfunctions or hazards.
Broken or Worn-Out Hinges
It may be time to check the hinges when you notice difficulty in your garage door’s movement or hear squeaking noises while it operates. Broken or worn-out hinges can cause the door to become misaligned, making it struggle to open and close smoothly.
Squeaking sounds often indicate that the hinges are lacking lubrication or are experiencing wear and tear. Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage, ultimately requiring more extensive repairs down the road.
Hiring professionals to replace broken or worn-out hinges is essential for maintaining your garage door’s structural integrity and ensuring it operates smoothly. Experts understand the specific requirements for installing hinges correctly, which helps avoid future complications.
Sensor Alignment Issues
A common issue with garage doors is when they reverse before fully closing. This can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem, especially if you have small children or pets around. Often, this issue can be caused by misaligned sensors.
Garage door professionals are trained to properly align sensors, ensuring that the door closes safely and efficiently. They have the necessary tools and knowledge to adjust the placement of sensors accurately, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the proper functioning of your garage door.
Broken or Worn-Out Weather Seals
Drafts, water leaks, and increased energy bills are all signs of worn-out or broken weather seals. These seals provide insulation and protection from the elements by preventing cold air, water, and debris from entering your garage.
Having professionals replace damaged weather seals ensures that your garage remains properly insulated and protected. They can identify where the gaps are located and install high-quality seals to keep out drafts and unwanted elements.
Contact Our Garage Door Service in Wichita!
Don’t wait to address these common garage door issues. Love Garage Doors is here to provide reliable and efficient repair services in Wichita. Contact us today!