The Most Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them Yourself

The garage door is one of the most used parts of any home, so it’s no surprise that garage door problems often arise. As homeowners, we want easy access to our garages but hate when things start acting up. The good news is that many common garage door issues can be fixed yourself with some basic tools and knowledge. Let’s take a look at some of the most prevalent garage door problems and their DIY solutions.

Broken Springs

One of the most dangerous garage door problems is broken springs. The springs that help lift and lower your garage door are under extreme tension and can cause serious injuries if they snap. Over time, springs may start to weaken and break. You’ll likely notice signs like a door that’s getting harder to open or close or that won’t stay in the open position. It’s best not to try to fix broken springs yourself as they require special tools and expertise. Call a pro garage door technician for a spring replacement.

Noisy Door

Squeaks and squeals coming from your garage door are never fun to listen to. Often the issue is simply a lack of lubrication. Squeaky hinges, rollers, and tracks can usually be quieted down with some lubricating oil. Spray or drip oil onto all moving parts like hinges, tracks, and rollers. Raise and lower the door a few times to work the oil in. This simple fix can save you from needing a more expensive repair.

Sticking or Binding Door

If your garage door is getting stuck while opening or closing, the first thing to check is whether the tracks are clear of debris. Leaves, dirt, cobwebs, and other buildup can cause the door to bind. Clean out any debris from the tracks with a broom or shop vac. Also check for any misaligned or bent tracks and rollers. Adjust or straighten as needed for smooth operation. Apply lubricant as mentioned above to help prevent future sticking.

Remote Not Working

Dead or unresponsive garage door remotes are another common complaint. First, replace the batteries in the remote. Check that the remote code matches the receiver code in the garage door opener. If those don’t solve it, the remote may need to be reprogrammed or replaced altogether. Most openers have instructions for programming a remote yourself.

In summary, many garage door problems have simple DIY solutions. With some basic tools and know-how, homeowners can fix squeaks, sticking, and other issues themselves. But always use caution, as some repairs like broken springs require professional spring repair. With regular maintenance like lubrication, many garage door problems can be prevented altogether.

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