Realizing your home entry system has begun malfunctioning can cause equal parts panic and immediate action to troubleshoot the issue. Was it a clicking noise coming from the garage, or did the entryway simply stop closing properly upon your return home from work? Mechanical issues can cause individuals to take matters into their own hands right away. However, unprepared amateur mechanics can cause a plethora of expensive issues while putting their own lives at risk. By learning common mistakes associated with residential garage door repair, property owners can avoid preventable damage and keep their families safe from potentially hazardous situations.
1. Disregarding warning signs of mechanical failure
One of the most common garage door repair mistakes is disregarding mechanical warnings that more maintenance is required. Sounds like grinding and other odd noises coming from the unit are typically indicators something is pressing against the rollers or the motor requires lubrication. Failure to address these concerns leads to a full-scale malfunction. Additionally, if an opener’s remote takes longer to respond than normal, it’s time to schedule a professional evaluation.
2. Trying to complete torsion spring repairs
When it comes to garage doors, one of the most hazardous mistakes a homeowner can make is attempting torsion spring repairs. Torsion springs are typically coiled at high tensions to allow the overhead panel to open and close smoothly. Using basic hand tools to attempt to loosen and remove these parts can cause the metal to snap back and strike the individual in the head or body with enough force to cause serious injury. The torsion springs require professional equipment to keep the metal under control throughout the repair process.
3. Failing to understand the weight of a garage door
Most people have little to no idea how much force is needed to open and close a garage door. A standard double-car garage door weighs several hundred pounds on average. When a property owner tries to manually open an off-track door, the large overhead panel can fall unexpectedly due to the lack of mechanical assistance.
4. Delaying lubrication and maintenance
When it comes to mechanical maintenance, waiting for a problem to arise before lubricating and inspecting the metal parts is a serious mistake. Failure to give the rollers, hinges, and other garage door components enough attention greatly reduces the system’s overall lifespan. Without routine maintenance, the metal parts can experience more friction and begin to degrade faster than normal.
5. Using petroleum-based products for lubrication
While it is necessary to keep metal components adequately lubricated, using the wrong materials for the task can contribute to more issues down the road. Lubricating garage door tracks and springs with heavy petroleum-based products can attract dirt, dust, and other outside elements. This combination can cause the tracks to stick and reduce the glide of the rollers.
6. Forcing open a derailed garage door
If one of the door’s rollers falls from the metal track, the overhead panel usually becomes stuck at an odd angle. One of the worst garage door repair mistakes in this scenario is using blunt force to push the panel back up. This type of force can permanently bend the metal track and cause several other issues, including damaged door sections and lifting cables.
7. Overlooking worn lift cables
Lift cables are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the garage door. Most people who make this common garage door repair mistake only focus on the tension springs and fail to notice frayed or compromised lift cables. The cables can loosen over time, especially if they are not regularly inspected and maintained. Allowing the cables to operate while damaged can cause an uneven weight distribution that places additional stress on the remaining intact rope.
8. Failing to maintain photo-eye safety sensors
Many modern automatic garage doors feature photo-eye safety sensors near the base of the entryway track. One of the most hazardous mistakes associated with residential garage doors is failing to keep these sensors clean and free of dirt and debris. The lenses must remain clear so the beam that detects potential hazards can remain unobstructed. If the sensor becomes dirty or misaligned, for instance, after accidentally bumping the panel with a lawnmower, the automatic opener will not continue closing until the obstruction is removed.
9. Overlooking simple electrical issues
If an automatic opener ceases to function correctly, most people who make this garage door repair mistake will immediately suspect a faulty motor. The simplest explanation for an opener malfunction is an interrupted power supply. This type of issue can occur when a circuit breaker is thrown, the system’s power cord becomes unplugged, or the batteries in the wall-mounted remote or keychain transmitter run out of power.
10. Hiring unprofessional repair services
Attempting to cut costs by hiring inexperienced professionals to complete garage door repairs is another dangerous mistake that puts lives at risk. Garage door technicians require specific training to safely inspect and repair door systems since they utilize large overhead panels and torsion springs under extreme tension. Many unprofessional repair technicians leave units improperly balanced, increasing the likelihood of future mechanical failures. The cost of these repair services is typically much higher considering the hazard they pose to the homeowner.
Why Professional Expertise Always Wins
Avoiding potentially dangerous garage door repair mistakes typically requires professional intervention. Garage doors are large overhead panels that create serious hazards if not repaired correctly. Fortunately, the technicians at Garage Door Repair VIP have the tools and experience needed to handle even the most challenging jobs with ease.
Final thoughts
Keeping a garage door in optimal working condition requires vigilance when it comes to observing mechanical changes. By avoiding hazardous garage door repair mistakes, such as trying to make torsion spring repairs and overlooking regular lubrication, property owners can increase the lifespan of their home entry system. In the event an unanticipated issue arises, be sure to contact Garage Door Repair VIP to receive fast and reliable assistance.