Common Garage Door Problems and Faults

by Zap Garage Doors|6 January, 2023

When you enlist the services of a reputable garage door supplier, you can be sure that this investment will last you for many years to come.

A good quality garage door, which has been well maintained and installed by a professional, has a remarkably long lifespan.

However, they aren’t built to last forever. By far, the most common reason why someone would see problems with their garage door is due to age. But, there are a range of other issues that can be caused by a variety of other factors, including excessive force applied, weather damage, or uneven wear.

With that in mind, our team of specialists have listed the most common garage door problems and faults, alongside their causes, and suggestions to fix them.

Damage to garage door springs

Garage door springs go through a lot of heavy usage during their lifetime. Since these components are what actually open the door – and experience the highest degree of exertion – it’s largely inevitable that they will eventually incur some form of damage. This could mean that they weaken or completely snap.

The most common causes of damage to garage door springs are rust (due to insufficient lubrication), a door jam left ignored (which causes pressure to build on the spring), and insufficient maintenance (which would otherwise identify and address issues early on).

If you do notice that your springs have either rusted, worn down or completely broken, then you will need to get the spring replaced by a garage door repair specialist.

Damage to garage door tracks or rollers

As with the springs, garage door rollers incur regular and heavy usage. So, they are also particularly prone to damage.

The main cause of track or roller damage is simply wearing out over time. It is recommended that garage door rollers are replaced every five years, in order to prevent an expensive repair, as a result of broken rollers compromising the entire garage door.

The garage door frame becoming warped or damaged

This is most common in wooden garage doors. Warping or damage to the frame is predominantly caused by weather, particularly if the garage door is not (or incorrectly) treated. If the frame is exposed to wind and rain, the damage will develop over time.

So, the best way to avoid this is to ensure your garage door frame is weather treated, and that you continue to re-apply the treatment on a regular basis. And, if you do spot warping or damage, then you will need to get the door frame replaced.

The automated garage door won’t close

A door that is incorrectly closing is often caused by an issue with the safety sensors. This can occur if the safety sensors are accidentally moved or knocked, which would set them out of alignment.

So, if your garage door is not closing, then, we suggest adjusting the sensors, so that they are realigned.

The garage door is making a lot of noise

One of the most common garage door problems is loud noises, like squeaking or grinding, occurring when it is used.

Often, the solution to this issue is simple. The noises can usually be stopped by lubricating the door’s hinges and motor rails. However, if the issue persists, then you will need to get a specialist to identify the issue.

At ZAP Garage Doors, we offer a specific, focused repairs and spare parts service. We can work with you to identify and resolve any of the issues listed above, ensuring your garage door remains in perfect working condition, and achieves its entire predicted lifetime.

So, to find out more about any of our specialist garage door repair services, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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