Scheduling regular service for garage doors is a proactive measure to decrease the risk of potential problems and safety hazards. At least four times a year, and preferably once a month, you must check the regular functioning of your garage door to make sure it is in proper working order. Before you call a professional for a tune-up, see if your doors pass the following assessments.
The Noise Test
If your door makes screeching noises when lifting or lowering, it’s time for an oiling of the pulleys and tracks. After applying a light, synthetic oil in an even coating, test to see if the noise persists. If so, you should contact a garage door technician, as your door may be out of alignment or a spring might need a replacement.
The Balance Test
An out-of-balance garage door can put an enormous strain on your automatic garage door opener, and eventually cause the lifting mechanism to break, possibly injuring a person or causing damage to your vehicle. To test the door’s balance, disconnect the automatic opener and attempt to open the garage on your own. If the door does not go up and down smoothly with no resistance, the springs could be imbalanced.
The Safety Test
A lowering garage door should sense objects in its path and reverse direction. This functioning characteristic ensures the safety of toddlers, objects, or pets that may be in the way. Open your garage door and place a piece of wood on the driveway where the door normally meets the ground. It could be better if your concrete driveway has a smooth surface instead of jagged, full of cracks flooring. If it’s not, you can look for a contractor in your close vicinity. Lower the garage door and observe if this important safety feature kicks in as soon as the bottom edge touches the object. Repeat the test and wave your hand in the door’s path as it lowers. Your garage door should respond to both contact and non-contact obstructions. Get professional service immediately if your garage fails to pass this important test, as all automatic openers are required by law to have working safety sensors.
The Visual Test
Perhaps the simplest of all is the visual test. Look over every section of the door: the inside and outside surfaces, the seal around each edge, the tracks, the rollers and the springs. If you notice loose hinges on the inside of the door, tighten each screw. Make it a point to consider replacing worn cables before they break. You should also regularly refer to the owner’s manual for specific advice for your garage.
Schedule an Annual Professional Tune-up
If you notice anything abnormal and are hesitant to take on the dangerous job of repairing the door alone, talk to a trained expert about the issue. You should get service for garage doors on an annual basis and maintain peace of mind about the gateway protecting your home.
