If you own a home or business with a garage, you’ve likely experienced at least one of the most common garage door problems. From a door that won’t open to one that makes loud, grinding noises, to broken springs or cables, we’ve seen it all. These issues can be frustrating, inconvenient, and sometimes even unsafe. Understanding the causes of common garage door problems and knowing a few quick troubleshooting tips can save you time and money, and help you determine when it’s time to call a professional like The Door Company for expert assistance.
- Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
Possible Causes: Unbalanced power source disruption, misaligned or blocked safety sensors, broken springs or cables.
Quick Fixes: Check if the opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, clean and align the safety sensors to ensure they’re unobstructed. If you suspect broken springs or cables, stop using the door and call a professional immediately as these parts can be dangerous to handle on your own.
- Noisy Garage Door Operation
Possible Causes: Loose hardware, worn rollers, or insufficient lubrication.
Quick Fixes: Tighten bolts and screws on tracks and hinges, apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, springs, and hinges. If the noise persists, it may be time for roller replacement or track adjustments. Don’t forget to schedule garage door maintenance at least annually, or more for older models.
- Garage Door Opens Unevenly
Possible Causes: Track misalignment, damaged springs, or obstructions in the tracks.
Quick Fixes: Inspect tracks for bends, debris, or gaps, remove any obstructions and gently straighten small bends with pliers. Major misalignments or broken springs should be handled by a professional.
- Remote or Keypad Isn’t Working
Possible Causes: Dead batteries, signal interference, or other programming issues.
Quick Fixes: Replace the batteries in your garage remote or keypad. Check for objects that might block the signal. If none of these fix the issue, reprogram your opener according to the manufacturer’s instructions or call an expert for help.
- Garage Door Closes Too Quickly
Possible Causes: Broken springs or worn cables, faulty opener settings.
Quick Fixes: If you notice frayed cables or damaged springs, stop using the door and call an expert immediately, as these are serious safety hazards. Otherwise, check your opener’s force and limit settings to ensure they’re properly adjusted to your garage door.
The Door Company is Here for All Your Garage Door Emergencies
Dealing with common garage door problems doesn’t have to be stressful. By identifying the cause early and trying a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can often get your door working smoothly again. However, some issues like broken springs, severe track misalignment, or a door that’s come off its rails require the expertise and tools of a trained technician. At The Door Company, we’ve specialized in repairing and maintaining all types of garage doors for over 30 years. We are here to help you ensure your home or business stays secure and functional. If you’re facing any of these common garage door problems, contact us today for fast, professional service you can trust in California.