Time for Garage Door Repair?

When you think of the all of the moving parts in your home, do not forget the largest of all, the garage door. If all is working well with the garage door, you just push the button and the door opens. Not only does the door move, but there are many moving parts that make up the door. All of the moving parts require regular inspection and maintenance to prevent larger garage door repair bills.

On a regular basis, you need to inspect all moving parts of the garage door. This preventative maintenance can minimize your need for garage door repair. Keep a keen eye for rusted or worn parts. These should be replaced. Replacement parts are available at most hardware stores.

Lubrication prevents wear of moving parts. Regular lubrication increases the lifespan of the garage door. Use a good penetrating oil to lubricate the moving parts. Allow a few drops to drip onto each friction point. Allow to stand for a few minutes, then wipe off all excess oil to prevent staining of clothing that may come in contact with the part. By using proper lubrication, the parts will wear less and require less frequent replacement.

Even with the best maintenance schedule, there are parts that will eventually wear out. The torsion spring is one of these parts. Located at the wall and over the garage door, this spring helps to lift the weight of the door when it opens. The usable life of a torsion spring is around five years. Fortunately, these springs have a built in audible warning system when they break, a very loud bang.

It is a somewhat difficult job to replace a torsion spring. The spring is under high pressure, and some people say that do-it-yourselves should not attempt garage door repair job. If you have never replaced a torsion spring and question your ability to work with the high pressure, then you should call a professional for help.

Garage door openers are popular in most newer homes. In many older homes, homeowners have also opted to add garage doors openers. These handy devices not only offer convenience, they add security to your home. When a garage door is closed with an electric garage door opener, it is essentially locked. Additionally, the driver does not have to leave his car to open or close the garage door. This is much appreciated when rain or snow is falling.

For problems with garage door openers, be sure that you consult with your owner's manual. There you will find troubleshooting directions as well as directions for fixing the problem.

Manuals are available online for those who cannot locate their original manual. There you will find directions to adjust the door opener so that the problems can be solved.

There are many smaller parts that may be involved with garage door repair. The photoelectric sensor is responsible for many of the problems with electric garage door openers. Anything blocking or moving the sensor or reflector may cause problems with the door closing or remaining closed. All the vibrations of a garage door opening and closing can also change the force settings. See the manual for directions to adjust this setting.