Overhead doors are durable and essential for many homeowners and businesses, but like any mechanical system, they can experience problems. Identifying and troubleshooting problems early can save you effort and expenses. Here are some common overhead door challenges and how to address them.
Stuck Garage Door
One of the most common problems is a door that won’t operate properly. First, check if the door’s tracks are blocked or if the rollers are misaligned. If the door seems stuck, inspect the power supply to the opener or the remote control batteries. Sometimes, a simple reset can fix the issue. If the problem persists, it may be due to a broken spring or motor, which requires professional repair.
Dealing with Noisy Doors
Strange or loud noises during operation, such as grinding, squeaking, or rattling, often indicate that the door needs maintenance. Inspect the tracks for debris or obstructions, and apply oil to moving parts, including wheels and hinges. If the noise persists, it could indicate that the springs or opener require attention. In some cases, worn parts may need replacing to restore quiet functionality.
Door Moving Unevenly?
If your garage door moves unevenly or one side of the door is lower than the other, it’s likely a problem with alignment. Check the tracks to ensure they are straight and clean. Uneven movement may also be caused by a broken spring, so inspect the springs for signs of damage. If the door continues to behave unevenly, contact an expert to evaluate the situation and avoid further damage.
Remote Not Working?
If your garage door remote isn’t working, start by replacing the batteries. If that doesn’t help, try resetting the connection by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that the receiver and antenna are not obstructed. If the remote still doesn’t function, it could be an problem with the wiring, and a professional technician should take a look.
Why You Need a Technician
While some troubleshooting steps can be DIY-friendly, certain issues, such as damaged tension components, malfunctioning openers, or major misalignments, should always be handled by a qualified expert. Overhead doors have complex mechanisms that can be dangerous to repair without proper expertise and tools. Don’t risk injury—if you’re not confident, it’s best to call a technician.
