In the age of DIY tutorials and home repair videos, it’s easy to believe everything you read online — especially about garage doors. Unfortunately, some of those “quick tips” can lead to expensive repairs or even safety hazards.
To help you separate fact from fiction, we’re debunking some of the most common garage door myths that homeowners in Las Vegas still believe — and explaining what’s really true.
Myth #1: “If My Garage Door Still Works, It Doesn’t Need Maintenance.”
Reality: Just because your garage door opens and closes doesn’t mean it’s in good condition.
Garage doors rely on springs, cables, rollers, and sensors that experience wear over time — especially in the Las Vegas heat. Without regular tune-ups, these parts can fail suddenly, often at the worst moment.
How to Prevent it: Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to keep your system running smoothly. Precision Garage Door technicians inspect, align, lubricate moving parts, and test safety systems to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Myth #2: “I Can Fix My Garage Door Springs Myself.”
Reality: This is one of the most dangerous myths.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension — enough to lift a 200+ pound door. One wrong move can cause severe injury. Even removing the wrong bolt can send a spring flying.
Always leave spring and cable repairs to licensed professionals who have the tools and training to handle high-tension systems safely.
Myth #3: “Garage Door Openers Last Forever.”
Reality: The average garage door opener typically lasts between 10 and 15 years, depending on usage, brand, and maintenance.
If your opener is older, it may not have modern safety features, such as rolling codes, motion sensors, or smartphone control. Upgrading not only improves convenience but also enhances home security.
Pro Tip: Smart openers allow you to monitor and operate your garage door from anywhere — great for homeowners who travel or receive frequent deliveries.
Myth #4: “Las Vegas Weather Doesn’t Affect My Garage Door.”
Reality: Extreme heat and dust storms take a significant toll on garage doors.
- Metal expands in the heat and contracts in cooler nights, loosening bolts and springs.
- Dust buildup can block photo-eye sensors and jam tracks.
- UV exposure fades paint and damages weather seals.
Routine cleaning and lubrication are key to keeping your system running smoothly year-round in desert conditions.
Myth #5: “All Garage Doors Are Pretty Much the Same.”
Reality: Not even close.
Garage doors vary in terms of materials, insulation, wind resistance, and security features. For example, insulated doors can help reduce cooling costs by up to 20% in attached garages — a significant benefit in Las Vegas summers.
Choosing the right door for your home’s orientation and energy needs makes a huge difference in comfort and efficiency.
Myth #6: “The Garage Door Opener Lifts the Door.”
Reality: It’s actually the springs that do most of the heavy lifting — not the opener.
The opener guides the door’s movement. If the springs are broken, the opener can’t move the door properly, and trying to force it can burn out the motor.
If your door suddenly feels heavier than usual, stop using it and call for service immediately.
Myth #7: “A Small Noise Isn’t a Big Deal.”
Reality: That squeak, rattle, or clunk is your door’s way of telling you something’s wrong.
Unusual sounds often signal issues like:
- Loose hardware
- Worn rollers or hinges
- Unbalanced springs
- Failing bearings or opener gears
Addressing minor noises early can prevent larger mechanical failures later.
Myth #8: “My Garage Door Is Safe Because It’s Heavy.”
Reality: Weight doesn’t equal security.
Most intrusions happen through unlocked side doors or older openers that lack rolling code protection. A smart garage door system with encrypted signals and motion lighting offers far better protection.
If your opener is over a decade old, upgrading is one of the simplest ways to improve home security.
Myth #9: “Emergency Repairs Are Too Expensive — I’ll Just Wait.”
Reality: Delaying repairs can cost more in the long run.
A broken spring or cable can strain other components, leading to more damage. Emergency repair services — like those from Precision Garage Door of Las Vegas — are designed to prevent bigger failures, often with same-day service and transparent pricing.
Don’t Fall for Garage Door Myths — Get the Facts from Professionals
Garage doors are complex mechanical systems that require expert care. Whether you’re hearing strange noises, noticing slow movement, or want peace of mind, scheduling a professional inspection is the best way to ensure safety and reliability.
Precision Garage Door of Las Vegas offers comprehensive inspections, maintenance, and 24/7 emergency repairs — all performed by certified technicians and backed by same-day service options.
