In many cases, you can troubleshoot the garage door repair issue and fix it without having to call in a professional. Here are some steps to follow to repair a garage door.
Disconnect the Opener
Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure to disconnect the cable of the opener from the door. This will ensure that no one accidentally operates remote button of the garage door while you’re working on it, which could cause injury or damage to the door.
Check Your Door First
Take a good look at mounting hardware on the garage door itself. Are there any visible signs of damage or wear and tear? Check the hinges, tracks, and rollers to make sure they’re all in good condition. If you notice any damage, you may need to replace the affected parts.
Open the Door
If your garage door won’t open at all, try opening it manually. This will help you determine if the problem is with loose hardware on the door itself or with the opener. If the garage door system opens smoothly when you do it manually, the issue is likely with the opener.
Symptom: The Remote Works But the Wall Switch Doesn’t
If your garage door opener works with the remote but not with the wall switch, the problem could be with the switch itself. Try replacing the switch and see if that solves the problem.
Damaged Tracks
If your car or garage door is making strange noises or won’t open or close smoothly, the tracks could be damaged.
Check the tracks for any dents or other signs of damage. You may be able to fix minor damage with a rubber mallet, but if the metal tracks themselves are severely damaged, you’ll need to replace them.
Symptom: You Have Power to the Outlet, But There’s No Sound or No Lights When You Push the Wall Switch and Remotes
If you’re not getting any response at all from your garage door opener, the issue could be with the power source. Check the outlet to make sure it’s getting power, and try resetting the circuit breaker.
Unsynced Garage Door Remote
If your garage door remote isn’t working, it could be out of sync with the opener. Try reprogramming the new garage door remote by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair a Garage Door?
The cost of repairing a garage door will depend on the type of garage door repair is needed and the extent of the damage. Minor repairs to garage floor like replacing a broken roller or hinge can cost as little as $50, while more extensive repairs like replacing a garage door opener can cost several hundred dollars.
Misaligned Rollers
If your garage door is making strange noises or won’t open or close smoothly, the rollers could be misaligned. Check the rollers for any signs of wear and tear or misalignment, and replace them if necessary.
Broken Garage Door Wall Opener
If your garage door opener is mounted on one side of the wall and isn’t working, check the wiring to make sure it’s connected properly. If the wiring is fine, you may need to replace the plug in the opener.
Symptom: Everything Works Fine Except the Lights
If everything else is working properly but the lights on your garage door opener aren’t turning on, the issue could be with the light socket. Try replacing the bulb first, and if that doesn’t work properly, replace the socket.
Symptom: The Trolley Carriage Moves But Garage Door Doesn’t Open
If the trolley carriage is moving but the garage access door isn’t opening, the issue could be with the chain or belt. Check the chain tension to make sure it’s not too loose to pull, or too tight, and adjust it if necessary.
Broken Garage Door Springs
If your garage door won’t open at all, the springs could be broken. This is a dangerous issue that should only be handled by a professional. Broken garage door springs can cause serious injury or damage to the other garage door openers, so it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible.
Symptom: The Opener Makes a Grinding Noise But the Door Doesn’t Move
If your garage door opener is making a grinding noise but the door isn’t moving, the issue could be with the gears or sprockets. These parts may need to be replaced, which is another serious maintenance job best left to a professional.
Is It Safe To Repair Your Garage Yourself?
While some garage door repairs can be done by a homeowner with basic tools and knowledge, it’s important to remember that garage doors can be dangerous. Springs, bolts, cables, and other parts are under high tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
If you’re not comfortable with the repair, or if the repair involves replacing major components like the motor, the opener or tracks, it’s best to call in a professional company, such as Majestic Garage Door.
Garage Door Off Its Track
If your garage door has come off its track, stop operating it immediately. Attempting to force the door closed could cause further damage or injury. Call a professional to have the garage door tracks repositioned and the track repaired.
10 Common Garage Door Problems and How To Fix Them
Garage doors can develop a variety of issues over time. Here are 10 of the most common problems and how to fix them:
· Garage door won’t open all the way: Check the chain tension
· Garage door won’t open with a remote: Try reprogramming the remote
· Garage door won’t respond to either the remote or the wall switch: Check the power source
· Strange noises when opening or closing: Check the rollers and tracks for damage
· Garage door opens or closes too quickly: Adjust the opener’s speed settings
· Garage door opens and closes randomly: Replace the opener’s circuit board
· Garage door opens but won’t close: Check the safety sensors
· Garage door won’t stay open: Adjust the limit switches
· Garage door is uneven: Adjust the tension on the springs
· Garage door is stuck: Check for obstructions in the tracks or wheels
Everything You’ll Need To Repair a Garage Door
Before you start repairing your garage door, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll likely need:
· Replacement parts like rollers, hinges, and tracks
· Basic tools like a screwdriver, pliers, and a socket set
· Lubricant for the rollers and tracks
· Safety equipment like gloves and safety glasses
FAQs About Broken Garage Doors
Here are some common questions homeowners have about repairing broken garage doors:
How long do garage doors last?
A well-maintained garage door can last up to 30 years.
Can I replace just one spring on my garage door?
It’s not recommended. Springs and screws should be replaced in pairs to ensure even wear, correct position and balance.
How often should I have my garage door serviced?
It’s recommended to have your garage door serviced annually to keep it in good working condition.
What should I do if my garage door is making strange noises?
Check the tracks and rollers for damage or misalignment, and lubricate and tighten them if necessary. If the noise persists, call a professional.
