Is your garage door acting up? Don’t ignore the warning signs—what seems like a small issue today can become a major safety risk or expensive repair tomorrow. Las Vegas homeowners rely on their garage doors daily, and the desert climate can accelerate wear and tear. Here are 10 signs it’s time to call a professional right away.
1. Loud, Unusual Noises
Grinding, screeching, or banging sounds usually indicate worn-out rollers, loose hardware, or a problem with the opener. Any sudden noise changes deserve immediate attention.
2. Slow or Jerky Operation
If your garage door hesitates, lurches, or moves slower than usual, it could signal motor issues, track misalignment, or tension spring failure.
3. Door Won’t Open or Close Fully
A garage door that stops mid-way or refuses to move altogether could mean problems with the opener, sensors, or tracks—and could leave your home unsecured.
4. Sagging or Uneven Door
An unbalanced door puts stress on the opener and cables and could eventually collapse. It’s often caused by worn springs or misaligned tracks.
5. Frayed or Snapped Cables
Cables are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if they break. Visible wear or fraying is a red flag to call in the pros immediately.
6. Broken Springs
If you hear a loud bang in the garage and the door stops working, chances are a spring has snapped. This is one of the most critical issues and should be handled by a professional only.
7. Remote or Keypad Malfunctions
If your remote, keypad, or wall switch suddenly stops working, it could be a sign of electrical or wiring issues—especially common during Vegas summer surges.
8. Off-Track Door
A door that jumps off its tracks won’t function properly and is a major safety hazard. This usually requires realignment or part replacement.
9. Door Reverses Suddenly
Garage doors equipped with auto-reverse should not behave unpredictably. If the door reverses for no reason, your safety sensors might be dirty, misaligned, or faulty.
10. Visible Damage or Rust
Dents, cracks, or rust can weaken the door structure and affect alignment. In the dry Vegas climate, rust often forms around hardware after monsoon season dust is trapped.
Don’t Wait—Fix It Fast
Garage door problems can escalate quickly. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait until you’re stuck inside (or outside) your garage.