When it comes to garage door maintenance and repairs it can be a difficult call to make whether or not to DIY or hire a professional. Minor issues such as a rattling or squeaky opener can often be fixed with a few simple tools and a little patience. However, more complex problems such as a broken cable or spring require specialized knowledge and skill and should be handled by a professional.
Generally Safe to DIY These Repairs
Before attempting any repair, take the time to assess the situation. Even if the problem is something you feel comfortable tackling yourself always proceed with caution. Make sure you have the right tools and parts, and read up on the repair process. If, however, you’re unsure of how to fix the issue, then it’s best to call in a professional. With this out of the way let’s look at a couple common garage door issues you can likely fix yourself:
- Squeaking
A squeaky garage door is usually a simple matter of needing lubrication. Most hardware stores sell garage-door specific lubricants for this purpose which you can apply to your moving parts to see if that fixes the issue.
- Rattling
A rattling sound, especially in new installs or ones that have not been maintained in a while, are generally caused by a loose bolt somewhere. Use the emergency garage door opener pully and manually open the garage door. After that you can meticulously check every bolt to see if that solves your problem.
- Your Remote Isn’t Responding
Usually this can be resolved on your own pretty simply, and might not be worth the cost of hiring a technician to diagnose. There are a few issues this can be. First, make sure the garage is getting power. Next, check your batteries. If those are fine, make sure the receiver is clear of debris such as cobwebs or grease.
If you notice additional sounds, such as banging, or the problem do not resolve here, it’s probably time to call a service technician to diagnose the issue.
Always Call a Pro If You Notice These Issues
A professional can quickly identify the root of the problem and they’ll have the right tools and parts to get the job done right. They’ll also be able to provide advice and guidance on how to best maintain your garage door in the future. They may be able to spot potential problems before they become major issues, saving you time and money, or advice you if your garage door is becoming a safety hazard and should be replaced.
- Banging Sounds
Stop using your garage door immediately if you hear any sort of banging sounds coming from the door while operating it. This is a telltale sign of an unbalanced garage door and it is likely causing extreme stress on parts of your garage door opener that are not meant to handle that extra load. This can be a costly repair if not rectified immediately, and potentially dangerous.
- Rusty or Broken Springs and Cables
Though you may be able to diagnose these yourself on sight, do not under any circumstances attempt to change these out yourself. Stop all operation of your garage and call a professional. These parts are under high torsion and can cause injuries if handled improperly.
Only Hire Quality and Vetted Garage Door Technicians
By following these tips, you can ensure that your garage door remains secure and functional for years to come. When it comes to repairs, however, it’s almost always best to hire a professional. They’ll be able to quickly and efficiently diagnose and repair any issues, saving you time and money in the long run.
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