Common Causes of a Broken Garage Door and How to Fix Them

August 30, 2024
Broken Garage Door

A garage door is more than just a barrier between your vehicle and the elements; it’s an essential part of your home’s security. But what happens when your once reliable garage door suddenly refuses to work? Understanding the common causes of a broken garage door and knowing how to fix them can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
 

1. Broken Springs: The Usual Suspect

If your garage door won’t open or close, the culprit might be a broken spring. Garage door springs are under immense tension and are responsible for lifting and lowering the door. When they break, you might hear a loud bang, followed by a garage door that feels impossibly heavy.
 
How to Fix It:
Replacing a broken spring is not a DIY job. Due to the high tension in these springs, it’s best to call a professional service like Fix My Garage Door Services. They’ll safely replace the springs and get your door back in working order.
 

2. Misaligned Tracks: A Bumpy Ride

The tracks guide your garage door smoothly up and down. But over time, these tracks can become misaligned due to wear and tear or a bump from a car. A misaligned track might cause your garage door to stick, jerk, or even refuse to move.
 
How to Fix It:
Minor misalignments can be adjusted by loosening the screws holding the track and gently tapping it back into position. However, if the misalignment is severe, it’s time to bring in the experts from Fix My Garage Door Services to ensure everything is perfectly aligned.
 

3. Worn-Out Rollers: The Silent Stoppers

Rollers help your garage door glide smoothly along its tracks. When these wear out, they can cause the door to drag, making it noisy and difficult to operate.
 
How to Fix It:
To extend their life, you can lubricate the rollers with a silicone-based lubricant. If the rollers are too worn, it’s best to replace them. Once again, enlisting the help of Fix My Garage Door Services will ensure the job is done right, preventing further issues down the line.
 

4. Faulty Garage Door Opener: The Electronic Gremlin

Sometimes, the problem isn’t mechanical but electronic. A garage door opener that refuses to work or behaves erratically could have a dead battery, a problem with the remote, or even a glitch in the motor.
 
How to Fix It:
Start by checking the batteries in your remote and replacing them if necessary. If the issue persists, resetting the opener might help. Consulting a professional from Fix My Garage Door Services is the safest bet for more complex issues. They can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the faulty parts.
 

5. Cable Problems: The Unseen Dangers

The cables in your garage door system work alongside the springs to lift and lower the door. If these cables snap or become frayed, your garage door might suddenly drop, posing a serious safety hazard.
 
How to Fix It:
Cable repair is another job that should be left to professionals. Attempting to fix or replace garage door cables without the proper tools and expertise can be dangerous. A quick call to Fix My Garage Door Services will ensure that your cables are safely and effectively repaired.
 

6. Weather Effects: The Seasonal Struggle

Living in Canada means dealing with a wide range of weather conditions, from freezing winters to humid summers. These conditions can cause your garage door components to contract, expand, or even rust, leading to operational problems.
 
How to Fix It:
Regular maintenance is key. Lubricate all moving parts to prevent rust, and check for any signs of wear and tear as the seasons change. Fix My Garage Door Services offers seasonal maintenance packages to keep your door in top shape year-round, ensuring it can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way.
 

7. Sensor Issues: The Invisible Blockade

Modern garage doors are equipped with sensors that prevent them from closing on objects or people. If your door refuses to close all the way, the sensors might be misaligned or obstructed by dirt.
 
How to Fix It:
Clean the sensors with a soft cloth and ensure they are correctly aligned. If the problem continues, it might be time to call Fix My Garage Door Services to inspect and adjust the sensors or replace them if needed.
 

Prevention Tips: Keep Your Garage Door in Top Shape

  • Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your garage door for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables or rusted parts.
  • Timely Repairs: Address small issues before they become big problems. A squeaky roller today could become a broken door tomorrow.
  • Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling annual maintenance with Fix My Garage Door Services. Their experts can catch potential issues early, saving you from unexpected breakdowns.
  •  

    When to Call the Experts

    While some garage door issues can be fixed with a bit of DIY know-how, others require the expertise of a professional. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always better to call in the professionals at Fix My Garage Door Services. They have the tools, experience, and knowledge to handle any garage door problem, ensuring your door is safe and functional.
     

    Conclusion: Keep Your Garage Door Running Smoothly

    A broken garage door is more than just an inconvenience; it can be a safety hazard. By understanding the common causes and knowing when to call in the experts, you can keep your garage door running smoothly for years to come. So the next time you find yourself facing a stubborn garage door, remember that Fix My Garage Door Services is just a call away, ready to help you fix the problem and restore your peace of mind.