8 Reasons Why You Need a Garage Door Repair
Garage doors are an essential part of many homes, providing secure access to the garage and protecting vehicles and other belongings from the elements. However, if you’ve noticed your garage door making a high-pitched squealing noise when opening or closing, it could indicate a problem that needs garage door repair. There are several potential causes of a squealing garage door, and in this article, we’ll explore eight of the most common reasons. Understanding what’s causing the noise, you’ll be better equipped to address the issue and ensure your garage door operates smoothly and quietly.
1. Worn-out Rollers Which Need Garage Door Repair
Worn-out rollers are one of the most common reasons why a garage door squeals. Rollers are the wheels that help the garage door move up and down the tracks. Over time, these wheels can become worn out, which causes them to make a loud, annoying squeaking sound. You must replace the worn-out rollers with new ones to fix this issue.
First, unplug the garage door opener to replace the rollers to ensure it doesn’t accidentally turn on while you’re working on it. Then, remove the bolts that hold the roller brackets in place and slide the rollers out. Install the new rollers, and then reattach the roller brackets and bolts. However, this is not a DIY task since you can mess everything up. Contact garage door repair Visali experts for professional garage door repair.
Using the right type of rollers for your garage door is essential. Nylon rollers are popular since they’re quieter than steel rollers and require less maintenance.
2. Lack of Lubrication
Another common reason why a garage door squeals is a lack of lubrication. All the moving parts of your garage door, including the rollers, hinges, and springs, require regular lubrication to function correctly. These parts can rub against each other without proper lubrication, causing friction and noise.
Apply lubricant to your garage door’s moving parts to fix this issue. Use a silicone-based lubricant since it doesn’t attract dirt and dust, which can clog up the tracks and cause more problems.
Before applying the lubricant, wipe down all the parts with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, apply a small amount of lubricant to each part and move the garage door up and down a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.
3. Loose Hardware Which Indicates Need for Garage Door Repair
Loose hardware is another common cause of a squealing garage door. Over time, the nuts and bolts that hold your garage door together can loosen due to the constant movement and vibration. When this happens, the parts of your garage door can rub against each other, causing the noise.
Inspect all the nuts and bolts that hold your garage door together and tighten any loose ones to rectify the problem. Use a socket wrench to tighten the bolts and nuts to the appropriate torque specification. Be careful not to overtighten the bolts since this can cause damage to the parts or the tracks.
If you notice that any of the hardware is damaged or missing, replace it with new ones through the help of an expert garage door repair. Pay attention to loose hardware, as it can cause more significant problems in the long run, such as a misaligned door or even a dangerous garage door malfunction.
It’s essential to conduct regular inspections of your garage door hardware and tighten any loose bolts or nuts as soon as you notice them. This will help prevent further damage and ensure your garage door operates smoothly and quietly.
4. Worn-out Springs
Your garage door springs are responsible for lifting the door’s weight, making them a critical part of the system. Over time, the springs can become worn out, which can cause them to make a loud squealing sound when the garage door is in motion. If you suspect that the springs cause the noise, you should hire a professional to replace them, as they can be dangerous to work with.
Replacing garage door springs and general garage door repair requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Trying to replace them yourself can result in serious injury or even death. A professional garage door technician has the necessary tools and training to replace the springs safely and efficiently.
If you notice any signs of wear or damage to the springs, such as cracks or rust, replacing them before they break is best. Broken springs can suddenly cause the door to fall and be a safety hazard.
5. Misaligned Tracks
If your garage door is off track, it can cause a lot of noise when opening or closing. Misaligned tracks occur when the tracks are bent or become loose from the wall. This issue can also be caused by a damaged or worn-out roller.
You will need to inspect the tracks for any bends or damage to fix misaligned tracks. You can straighten the tracks using pliers or a hammer if the tracks are bent. However, if the tracks are severely damaged, it’s best to have them replaced by a professional.
Inspecting the rollers is also essential to ensure they’re not damaged or worn out. If you notice any roller issues, replace them immediately to prevent further damage to the tracks.
6. Damaged Hinges
Hinges are the components that connect the door panels to the track. If the hinges are damaged, they can cause a lot of noise when opening and closing the garage door.
To fix this issue, you will need to inspect the hinges for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any cracks or broken pieces, you will need to consult professionals who specialize in garage doors in Visalia. It’s best to replace all the hinges simultaneously to ensure they’re all the same size and material.
Use the appropriate size and material for your garage door when replacing the hinges. Using the wrong type of hinge can cause further damage to your garage door.
7. Malfunctioning Opener
A malfunctioning opener can also cause your garage door to squeal. If the opener is not working correctly, it can cause the door to move erratically or make a lot of noise when opening or closing.
To fix this issue, you will need to inspect the opener for any signs of wear or damage. Check the chain or belt for any signs of wear or stretching, and inspect the gears for any damage. If you notice any issues, you will need to replace the malfunctioning parts or the entire opener.
It’s also essential to make sure the opener is properly lubricated. Use a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the chain or belt and the gears to ensure they move smoothly.
8. Weatherstripping Issues
Weatherstripping is the rubber seal that runs along the bottom of the garage door. It helps prevent drafts, dust, and pests from entering your garage. If the weatherstripping is damaged or worn out, it can cause a lot of noise when opening or closing the garage door.
Inspect the weatherstripping for any signs of wear or damage to fix this issue. If you notice any issues, replace the weatherstripping as soon as possible. Weatherstripping is relatively easy to replace, and you can purchase it from your local hardware store.
When replacing the weatherstripping, make sure to choose the right type and size for your garage door repair near me. The weatherstripping should be snug against the ground when the door is closed.
