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Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entrances in your home, but it’s easy to overlook its maintenance until something goes wrong. From stuck doors to loud noises, minor issues can quickly escalate if not addressed in time. Knowing the most common garage door problems—and how to prevent them—can save you time, money, and stress.
Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent garage door repair issues homeowners face in UK and how you can avoid them.
Broken Springs
The Problem:
Garage door springs, particularly torsion springs, are under immense tension to lift and lower the door. Over time, they can weaken or snap entirely, leaving the door inoperable.
How to Avoid It:
- Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional.
- Lubricate the springs every six months to reduce friction and wear.
- Replace old springs before they wear out completely—typically after 7-10 years of use.
Warning: Never attempt to replace springs yourself; they can cause serious injury if mishandled.
Worn or Damaged Rollers
The Problem:
Rollers help the door glide smoothly along the tracks. When they wear out or become damaged, the door may become noisy or jerk during movement.
How to Avoid It:
- Regularly inspect the rollers for signs of wear or cracking.
- Lubricate rollers every three months to ensure smooth operation.
- Replace damaged rollers promptly to prevent additional strain on other parts of the door
Misaligned Tracks
The Problem:
Garage door tracks keep the door aligned as it moves. If the tracks become bent or misaligned, the door can get stuck or fail to open altogether.
How to Avoid It:
- Check the tracks monthly for bends, gaps, or misalignment.
- Keep the tracks clean and free from debris.
- Call a professional for realignment if you notice uneven movement or gaps between the track and rollers.
Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener
The Problem:
The opener is the motorised system that raises and lowers your door. Common issues include electrical failures, faulty wiring, or worn-out gears.
How to Avoid It:
- Regularly test the door’s remote and wall switch.
- Replace remote batteries every six months.
- Have a professional inspect the motor and wiring annually.
Snapped Cables
The Problem:
Garage door cables work alongside springs to lift the door. Over time, they can fray or snap, which can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly—a serious safety hazard.
How to Avoid It:
- Inspect cables for signs of wear or fraying during routine maintenance.
- Replace cables as soon as any damage is detected.
- Schedule professional servicing at least once a year.
Frozen Garage Door (In Cold Weather)
The Problem:
In colder UK winters, garage doors can freeze to the ground or experience stiffened components due to low temperatures.
How to Avoid It:
- Apply a silicone-based lubricant to weather stripping.
- Use a de-icer if you notice ice forming around the door base.
- Install proper insulation to prevent temperature-related issues.
Noisy Garage Door Operation
The Problem:
Squeaking, grinding, or banging sounds can indicate several issues, from loose parts to lack of lubrication.
How to Avoid It:
- Tighten any loose bolts or screws.
- Lubricate moving parts like hinges, rollers, and springs regularly.
- Replace worn-out parts before they cause additional damage.
Preventative Maintenance Tips for a Trouble-Free Garage Door
Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected garage door breakdowns:
- Lubricate moving parts regularly to reduce friction.
- Check the door balance monthly by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door halfway—it should stay in place if balanced correctly.
- Clean the tracks and remove debris that could obstruct movement.
- Schedule annual professional servicing for a full inspection of all moving components
Final Thoughts
Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential for keeping your garage door functioning efficiently and safely. Ignoring minor issues today can lead to costly repairs or replacements in the future.
If you notice any signs of wear or malfunction, contact a professional garage door repair service for a thorough inspection and immediate repairs.
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