Having issues with your overhead garage door? Don't worry, you're not alone! Garage doors can develop many different problems that prevent them from opening and closing properly. Correctly diagnosing the issue will make the work of your technicians much easier when they arrive for an overhead garage door repair. Here's everything you need to know to diagnose overhead garage door problems.

Checking the Opener

Start troubleshooting by inspecting the electric garage door opener. If it's not getting power, the sensor eyes may be misaligned or obstructed. Test the remote clicker and keypad to ensure they are transmitting signals to the opener. Look for loose wires or broken parts like gears. If the motor sounds strained, it could need lubrication or replacement. You should also try cleaning the sensor eye to remove dirt and dust. If that doesn't work, it may be time to call in the experts.

Examining the Tracks

Check the metal tracks that guide the rollers. Make sure they are screwed tightly into place, aligned, and free of debris. Bent or warped tracks should be pounded back into shape or replaced and loose screws and hardware should be tightened. Clean the tracks with a water-dampened cloth to remove built-up dirt and lubricate them with a silicone spray.

Inspecting the Rollers and Cables

The rollers let the door move smoothly along the tracks. If they are worn out or broken, they won't rotate properly. Examine the cables that lift the door. Frayed or broken cables should be replaced right away before further damage occurs.

Calling in a Professional

While some home repairs can be completed on your own, garage door repairs require professional expertise to fix correctly and safely. Broken cables, springs, rollers, and improperly aligned tracks can be hazardous if not repaired properly. Contact a qualified garage door technician if you have any concerns about tackling repairs on your own.

A great way to ensure your garage door stays in operation is to contact a garage door repair company for annual inspections and tune-ups. According to Fortune Business Insights, most garage doors have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years. Investing in preventative maintenance now can help avoid more costly repairs down the road and can help extend the life of your garage door. If yours isn't working, let us help. Call Overhead Door Co of Grand Traverse today to get started with a free estimate!