What Are the Common Ways for a Garage Door to Break?

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Common Causes of Garage Door Damage

Since an automated electric garage door has moving parts, these parts will inevitably break. That is why they must be maintained, examined and installed properly to prevent accidents from happening. Of course, it is preferable to have a professional do any repairs or maintenance work.

Not enough oil

Hinges and other moving parts of the door’s opening mechanism need to be lubricated in order to function. A clear sign of a lack of lubrication is your garage door gets squeaky and harder to open or close. This can damage shafts or cables and cause the door to drop down hard. If regular lubrication is properly applied, you will have a garage door that functions perfectly for years to come.

Worn down by oxidation

As many parts of a garage door are made out of metal, there is always the risk of severe oxidation damaging them. This is especially true if you live in a humid or tropical climate. Most metal parts will have a protective layer of paint, but it is not guaranteed to last forever nor can it completely protect the part from rust.

If essential parts become rusted, like springs or hinges, you can count on your door malfunctioning. You should avoid washing with pressure washers or harsh chemicals so that any protective finishes don’t strip off. If rust does appear, it can be safely washed with vinegar and a cloth.

Incorrect installation

The most important step in preventing downtime of your garage door is having it installed properly in the first place. This may especially be the case with the intricacies of an automated garage door opener.

Hiring a company experienced in garage installation in Las Vegas is recommended over doing it yourself. The professional touch is definitely noticeable years later and will give you peace of mind.