Garage doors are essential to our homes, providing security, convenience, and enhancing curb appeal. However, like any mechanical system, they can experience issues over time, especially in the unique climate of Las Vegas. Here are the top five garage door repair issues commonly faced by Las Vegas homeowners and some tips on fixing them.
1. Broken Springs
Issue:
Garage door springs do the heavy lifting each time you open or close the door. Over time, they can wear out and break, leaving your garage door inoperable or difficult to lift manually.
How to Fix:
It’s crucial not to attempt to replace the springs yourself due to their high tension, which can cause serious injury. Instead, contact a professional garage door technician to replace the broken springs safely. Regular maintenance checks can help identify worn-out springs before they break.
2. Misaligned Tracks
Issue:
The tracks guide the garage door smoothly up and down. If they become misaligned, the door may not open or close correctly, and you might hear grinding or squeaking noises.
How to Fix:
Inspect the tracks for gaps between the rollers and rail, bends, or misalignment. If you notice any issues, loosen the screws that hold the tracks in place and gently tap them back into the correct position. Ensure they are level using a spirit level before tightening the screws. For significant misalignment or damage, it’s best to call a professional.
3. Worn or Broken Rollers
Issue:
Rollers ensure the smooth movement of the garage door along the tracks. Over time, they can become worn or break, causing the door to get stuck or operate noisily.
How to Fix:
Regularly inspect the rollers for signs of wear and tear. Lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction. If the rollers are damaged, they will need to be replaced. If you are comfortable working with tools, this can be a DIY task, but a professional should handle the replacement for those not confident in their repair skills.
4. Faulty Garage Door Opener
Issue:
The garage door opener is the motorized component that operates the door. Problems such as the door not responding to the remote or wall switch or the motor running without the door moving can arise.
How to Fix:
First, check the power source and ensure the opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker is not tripped. Replace the batteries in the remote control. If the issue persists, inspect the opener’s wiring and sensors. Misaligned or obstructed sensors can prevent the door from closing. Clean the sensor lenses and realign them if necessary. Consult a professional technician for more complex issues, such as motor failure.
5. Noisy Garage Door
Issue:
A noisy garage door can be more than just an annoyance; it can indicate underlying problems such as loose hardware, worn rollers, or lack of lubrication.
How to Fix:
Tighten all nuts and bolts on the door and track system. Using a garage door lubricant, lubricate all moving parts, including the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using WD-40 as it is not designed for this purpose. If the noise persists, inspect the door for worn parts that need replacing.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance and timely repairs ensure your garage door functions smoothly and lasts longer. While some minor issues can be tackled with a DIY approach, it’s essential to know when to seek professional help to avoid potential injury and further damage. By promptly addressing these common repair issues, Las Vegas homeowners can keep their garage doors in top shape, providing reliability and peace of mind.
If you encounter garage door problems that are beyond your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to contact a professional service like Precision Garage Door Service of Las Vegas. Our experienced technicians can handle any repair or maintenance task, ensuring your garage door operates safely and efficiently.