Garage Door Repair OKC is a career that requires technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to interact with customers. It also includes a strong commitment to ongoing education.
A crooked or sagging door typically indicates a problem with the springs, which can be replaced instead of getting a new door. However, it is important to have the repairs done quickly before cracks spread.
A garage door’s springs provide the tension necessary to support the weight of the doors and allow them to open and close smoothly. Over time, hundreds or thousands of opening and closing cycles will wear down the springs to a point where they need replacing. A broken spring can be a serious hazard for homeowners because it will cause the cable to become slack and create an unstable situation.
You’ll know a torsion spring has snapped because it will make an extremely loud bang. This is because the tightly wound coils of a torsion spring contain a lot of bound energy that can release in a sudden burst.
Homeowners will also likely notice that the garage door is crooked when one of the springs breaks. The slack in the cable will cause the door to move unevenly when it’s opened or closed, which can result in the door becoming stuck or being difficult to operate manually or with a garage door opener.
When a homeowner notices the garage door is unbalanced, they should call a professional to replace a broken spring before it’s too late. A garage repair professional will also inspect the springs for signs of rust, which can significantly shorten their lifespan. A regular lubrication with a silicone-based spray can help to prolong their life.
A garage repair technician will usually recommend a pair of extension springs that are the same size as the existing ones to ensure proper balance when the door is operated. They will first remove the old springs by locking pliers or other tools to prevent them from falling on the homeowner and then loosen the setscrews holding the cable drums to the ends of the torsion bar. The technician will then remove the cable drums and set the torsion bar aside while removing the old spring. Once the new spring is in place, the technician will reinstall the cable drum and tighten the setscrews.
Replacing extension springs is slightly less complicated than replacing torsion springs, but it’s still a job best left to the pros. It requires disconnecting the power and clamping the track to keep it secure while you’re working, and it’s important that you carefully follow all of the safety precautions that come with a task like this.
Damaged panels
Garage door panels are the ‘face’ of the system and a common target for damage, whether it comes from weather or incidents like vehicle collisions. Depending on the nature and extent of the damage, there are several repair options to consider. For example, minor dents may be able to be corrected with dent pullers and filler, while more extensive damage might require panel replacement.
When deciding on a course of action, it’s important to consider the age and condition of the entire garage door as well as the cost and time implications of repairs versus replacement. For older doors with multiple panels damaged, it might be more practical to replace the entire unit rather than attempt repairs. In addition, addressing any damage in the early stages can prevent the problem from worsening and help ensure that your garage door has maximum functionality.
It’s also essential to take preventive measures to protect your garage door from future problems, such as by conducting regular inspections and implementing maintenance tasks. This can include tightening loose components, readjusting misaligned tracks, and lubricating moving parts to minimize friction and wear and tear. Incorporating safety features such as sensors, torsion springs, and hinges can also help keep your door functioning properly for longer.
Whether a garage door repair or replacement is required, a professional can help you determine the best approach to suit your specific needs and situation. They can offer advice on the best options for your situation, as well as provide the necessary expertise and specialized tools to perform the repair or replacement efficiently and effectively. Ultimately, ensuring that your garage door is maintained and repaired regularly can extend its lifespan and improve overall performance, making it a worthwhile investment for your home. For more information, contact a local garage door specialist today. They can provide a full range of services, including repair and replacement of panels, as well as complete installation of new doors. They can even provide a free assessment of your current garage door to help you decide the best solution for your home.
Misaligned tracks
Garage door tracks are a crucial part of the system. They distribute the weight of the doors evenly and help prevent damage to the springs and other components of the door. However, it’s not uncommon for them to become misaligned over time. When this happens, it can lead to a variety of problems, from difficulty opening and closing the door to increased wear and tear on other parts of the door. Luckily, misaligned tracks are relatively easy to fix, but it’s important to note that more serious issues may require professional attention.
There are many causes of misalignment in a garage door track, including impact from cars or bikes that are stored in the garage or even accidental contact with large tools. Another common reason is simply the natural aging of the track. The metal can rust and shift slightly over time, which can cause it to lose its alignment.
A misaligned track can often be identified by a rubbing sound when the door is opened or closed. This is caused by the wheels rubbing against the edges of the track and can be very loud. It’s also important to remember that if you notice new or strange noises in your garage door system, it’s always best to contact a professional.
In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire track if the damage is severe. If this is the case, it’s recommended that you call a professional to make sure that you are getting a high-quality replacement.
The first step to fixing a misaligned track is to loosen the bolts that secure the track to the wall. Once you have done this, it’s a good idea to use a level to check that the vertical tracks are plumb (perfectly straight). If they aren’t, it’s possible to simply tap them gently with a rubber mallet to move them into the correct position. Once they are aligned, it’s important to tighten the screws securely. Repeat this process for each track to ensure that they are all properly aligned.
Torn or ragged weather stripping
Weather stripping, the thin strips of spongy rubber that create a seal between your garage door and the frame of your home, is mission-critical to keeping the cold and rain out. Unfortunately, as time passes, it’s easy for weather stripping to degrade. If you have ragged, torn, or missing weather stripping, it’s important to replace it immediately to prevent moisture from getting inside the garage.
One easy way to tell if your weather stripping needs to be replaced is to close the door in the dark and shine a flashlight around it. Any light shining through the doorframe indicates an insufficient seal and will require a replacement.
You can purchase rubber, vinyl, or metal weather stripping from many hardware stores and some home improvement centers. Before installing it, be sure to read the instructions carefully to ensure you’re using the right type for your garage door and that you install it properly. Also, be sure to choose a product that can withstand temperatures above 50 degrees. Using the wrong product could cause it to deteriorate faster than expected and result in costly repairs.
If you’re installing adhesive-backed weather stripping, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Then, peel off the backing and press the strip to the doorstop. For screw-on weather stripping, set a putty knife under one corner and gradually work it up, pulling it away from the frame. After removing old caulk and glue from the area, wipe down the frame with a damp cloth and scrub it with soap and water to remove mildew or mold.
If you’re replacing rubber, vinyl or metal weather stripping, cut it to the correct length before you install it. You can usually measure your door’s width at the top and both sides with a tape measure. Be careful not to stretch the weather stripping or it may return to its original length, leaving gaps. Cut wood weather stripping with shears or a utility knife and metal types with tin snips. When installing, be sure the open side of V-shaped weather stripping faces outward to prevent moisture from entering.