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Here is a List for Homeowners to Keep a Garage Door Running Correctly
A functioning garage door isn’t something you think about often but is absolutely necessary. It’s used multiple times every day and when you push the button or enter your code, it’s expected to work. But what if it doesn’t and needs some work? Here is a checklist for you to go over in case your garage door starts acting up:
Are You Doing a Visual Inspection?
Before you do anything, close your garage door and inspect while standing on the inside of the garage. Look over the rollers, cables, springs and all of the other components and look for signs up wear and tear or fraying. If something doesn’t look right, make a note of it and contact a garage door professional immediately.
Start with Lubrication
One of the most important things you can do in garage door maintenance is make sure all of the components are properly lubricated. Every 6 months or so it is recommended you apply a small amount of spray lubricant on your door’s rollers, tracks, and hinges.
Test Your Photo Eyes
In 1993, federal safety laws mandated that garage doors be equipped with a reverse mechanism and a photo eye sensor. To run a test, open the door and push the button to close it. While it’s closing, stick an object in front of the photo eye to see if the door reverses as it should.
Reversing Mechanism Test
If your door is having trouble opening and closing correctly, place an item such as a wooden board on the ground under the center of the door. Push the button to close the door. When the door closes on the wooden board, it should reverse. If it doesn’t, immediately call a garage door technician.
Check for Rust
While many quality garage doors are treated to prevent rust from forming, it’s still possible. You can use a simple piece of steel wool to rub out the rust and then use cleaning supplies to wipe the area clean.
Door Balance Test
Disconnect your automatic opener system (assuming your door has one). Now, lift the door manually and confirm that it lifts smooth and with little resistance. Be sure that the door is able to remain fully open. If it’s not opening smoothly or doesn’t remain open, the door is out of balance and needs service.
How’s Your Weather Stripping?
Weather stripping is important because it keeps your garage sealed from outside elements. Be sure to check your weather stripping and replace it if it’s looking worn or is missing altogether.
How About Your Torsion Springs?
A torsion spring is a coiled spring that controls the door’s lift. Essentially, it works to allow the door to be light enough for you to lift it by yourself or for the opener to raise it easily. Don’t try replacing a spring is on your own – be sure to contact a professional so the job is done right.
Test the Force Setting
The force setting is basically what tells the garage door to stop if something is in the way. To test this setting, you can place a board on the ground under the middle of the door. The door should slightly strain (leaving no marks or dents) when it touches the board. Adjust the setting if needed so the pressure is correct.
Once you’ve looked into these options, hopefully, your door is as good as new. However, that might not be the case. So, call a professional to take care of it so you don’t have to worry about your garage door.
Contact our team of experts or call us at 317-860-0806 to get your garage door issues diagnosed and fixed today!