Your home garage can be something that you take for granted. In most cases, the garage is just there and won’t cause any problems…until it does. Even though most homeowners assume theirs will never stop working properly, the truth is that all mechanical devices are prone to breaking down at some point. If you own your home and have a garage, sooner or later you may begin to see signs of trouble lurking ahead. The question is: do you have the know-how and time to figure out and fix these issues yourself or should you opt for hiring service professionals to get the job done right?
What are the Signs Your Garage Door Needs to be Repaired?
There are a few key signs that indicate you should get your garage door professionally serviced sooner rather than later. No matter how minor these issues may seem, they can quickly escalate into more serious problems if you don’t address them quickly. Here are some common signs you should have your garage door professionally serviced:
- The door is sticking – A sticking door is a common problem among homeowners. It often happens when dirt, dust, and grime builds up on the tracks and wheels of the door, causing it to bind against the frame. If a garage door won’t open or close properly, it’s just a matter of time before it jams, breaks the track, burns out the opener’s motor, or becomes completely stuck.
- The door is making loud noises – If your garage door is making loud, grinding noises, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. It may sound like the door is about to fall off its tracks, or worse, drop down on you or your car. While garage door noises are common at times, loud grinding sounds are usually a sign of a major problem.
- The door is off its track – If your garage door is off its track, it’s time to call a professional to come out and fix the issue. If the door goes completely off the track, you run the risk of the heavy door falling on yourself, loved ones, or anyone using the garage. It really could be a lawsuit waiting to happen if, for instance, you invite a neighbor over and they’re injured by a catastrophic failure of the door.
The Dangers of DIY Garage Door Repairs
While DIY garage door repairs may seem like a good way to save money, it’s actually quite dangerous and can be fairly complicated. Garage doors are extremely heavy and usually connected to an electric opener, creating a hazard on two fronts if you don’t know what you’re doing.
There’s also the risk you’ll simply misdiagnose the problem, which can lead to more serious issues as time goes by, costing you more money in the long run. If you’re not completely sure what is going on with your door and how to repair that problem correctly, it’s best to call in a professional.
There Are Some DIY Repairs You Can Safely Do
Most garage door repairs are best left to professionals due to safety concerns. But there are still a few DIY overhead garage door repairs and maintenance tasks that can be safely accomplished with some basic tools and caution.
- Lubricating Moving Parts Regularly lubricate the moving parts of your garage door. This includes rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks. This easy task helps reduce friction and noise while prolonging the life of these components. Use a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant for best results.
- Tightening Hardware: Over time, nuts and bolts on your garage door system can become loose due to vibrations. Use a wrench to inspect and tighten any loose hardware, including brackets, roller brackets, and screws. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this can cause damage.
- Replacing Weatherstripping: Damaged or worn weatherstripping can allow drafts and water into your garage. Remove the old weatherstripping and replace it with a new seal to maintain insulation and weather protection. This task usually involves removing old adhesive and applying the new weatherstripping.
- Programming the Opener: You can consult your garage door opener’s manual for instructions. This is typically a straightforward process that doesn’t need specialized skills.
- Cleaning the Tracks: Keep the tracks clear of debris and obstructions. Use a brush or a damp cloth to remove dirt, leaves, and any other debris that might impede the door’s movement.
Always prioritize safety when performing DIY garage door repairs.
Hiring a Professional to Service Your Garage Door
When you own a home, it’s crucial to know who can help you get the most out of your investment. While some repairs, renovations, and repairs can be done by the homeowner, there are other services that can only be done by a professional. If you’ve been experiencing any of the issues above, you may want to consider hiring a professional garage maintenance service.
A reputable garage door service provider can help you avoid potential accidents, costly repairs, and prolonged issues with your door. Plus, they can get the job done much quicker than you can, saving you valuable time and money. Not to mention relieving any headaches caused by researching and, potentially, misdiagnosing a problem. Plus, you can feel confident that the job will be done correctly the first time by professionals with years of experience under their belts.