How To Fix Your Garage Door – Common Issues Solved

Is your garage door broken, dented, or just plain noisy? Whether your garage door won’t open, has gone off track, or making a squeaky sound, we’ll show you how to fix a garage door. Covering a range of common problems and their solutions.

Common Garage Door Issues and How to Fix Them

Broken or Dented Garage Door Panels

If your garage door panels are dented or damaged, you may be able to fix them with some simple DIY solutions.

1. For minor dents, use a plunger to suction out the dent. Place the plunger over the dented area and push down, then pull back to pop the dent out.
2. For larger dents, you can use a wooden block and a rubber mallet. Place the block on the dented area inside the garage and gently tap with the mallet to push the dent out.

If the damage is too severe you may need to replace the affected panel. Contact your garage door manufacturer or a local garage door repair company for assistance.

Snapped or Frayed Cables

Cables are crucial for the smooth operation of your garage door. If they’re broken or frayed, here’s how to fix them.

1. First, disconnect the power to your garage door opener and lock the door in place.
2. Loosen the set screws on the cable drum and remove the old cable.
3. Thread the new cable through the pulley system and attach it to the cable drum.
4. Tighten the set screws and test your garage door to ensure proper function.

If you’re unsure about any step of this process, it’s best to contact a professional garage door repair service.

Remote Control Not Working

If your garage door remote control isn’t working, try these troubleshooting steps.

1. Replace the batteries in the remote.
2. Clean the infrared sensor on the remote and the garage door opener unit.
3. Reset the remote by pressing and holding the “learn” button on the garage door opener until the LED light turns off, then press and hold the remote button until the LED light blinks.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, you may need to replace the remote control or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.

Squeaky or Noisy Garage Door

A squeaky or noisy garage door can be quite annoying. Here’s how to fix this issue.

1. Inspect the garage door tracks, rollers, and hinges for any signs of wear or damage.
2. Clean and lubricate all moving parts with a garage door-specific lubricant.
3. Tighten any loose bolts or screws.
4. Check the garage door opener chain or belt tension and adjust if necessary.

Broken Springs

Broken garage door springs can be dangerous and should always be replaced by a professional. If you suspect a broken spring, do not attempt to open or close the garage door and call a garage door repair service immediately.

Garage Door Sensors Malfunctioning

Garage door sensors help prevent accidents by stopping the door if something is in its path. If your sensors aren’t working properly, here’s how to fix them.

1. Check for any obstructions blocking the sensors.
2. Clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth.
3. Ensure the sensors are properly aligned, and adjust if necessary.
4. Check the sensor wiring for any damage and replace if needed.

Garage Door Won’t Open or is Off Track

If your garage door won’t open or has come off its track, try these solutions.

1. Inspect the tracks for any debris, damage, or obstructions and clear or repair as needed.
2. Check the alignment of the tracks and adjust if necessary.
3. Inspect the rollers and replace any that are worn or damaged.
4. Test the garage door opener and ensure it’s functioning properly.

For major track issues or if you’re uncomfortable attempting these repairs yourself, contact a professional garage door repair service.

Popular Garage Door Brands: Genie and Liftmaster

Both Genie and Liftmaster are well known and reputable garage door opener manufacturers. When troubleshooting issues with these brands, refer to the owner’s manual or contact their customer support for specific instructions and guidance.

Parts of a garage door

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I lubricate my garage door?

It’s recommended to lubricate your garage door’s moving parts every six months or as needed to reduce friction and prevent wear.

How do I know if my garage door springs are broken?

Signs of broken garage door springs include a loud bang when the break occurs, the garage door struggling to open or close, and visible gaps in the springs.

Can I replace just one garage door panel?

Yes, you can replace individual garage door panels. However, it’s important to ensure the replacement panel matches the existing ones in terms of material, color, and design.

Fast tips and tricks to fix a garage door not working

1. Check the remote control: Ensure that the remote control is properly functioning by checking the battery and ensuring it’s properly synced with the garage door.
2. Inspect the chain tension: If the door won’t open all the way, adjust the chain tension to ensure there’s about 1/4 inch of slack.
3. Examine the close-limit switch: If the door isn’t closing all the way, adjust the close-limit switch to correct the issue.
4. Check safety sensors: Ensure the safety sensors are clean and aligned properly to avoid the door reversing before hitting the floor.
5. Look for obstructions: Ensure there are no items or debris blocking the garage door’s path.
6. Examine the tension springs and cables: If the door closes too fast or unevenly, inspect the tension springs and cables for damage or wear.
7. Lubricate moving parts: Regularly lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks to ensure smooth operation.
8. Reset the opener: Unplug the garage door opener for 10 seconds, then plug it back in to reset the system.
9. Consult the owner’s manual: If none of the above tips work, consult your garage door opener’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps.

Fixing and securing a garage door can be done with the right knowledge and tools. Prioritize safety and always consult a professional garage door repair service if you’re unsure about any repair or if the issue involves dangerous components like springs.