Garage Door Hazards
A garage door, like other appliances in your home, must be properly maintained. Many home-owners tend to think as long as their garage door is working, it doesn’t need service. But did you know you and your family could be at risk if your garage door isn’t regularly maintained? If your garage door is noisy, slow, or just old, it may be time for a tune-up or garage door replacement.
Let’s start with the numbers. Did you know a garage door can weigh up to 300 lb. depending on the size and material? While your garage door opened is designed to lift 350 to 400 lb., it can also close the door with the same amount of weight and that’s when it becomes dangerous! Imagine you or your children standing under an open garage door when a spring breaks or a safety-device malfunctions. Major risk!
Garage Door Springs
If your door feels heavy (more than 10 lb.) or is difficult to open and close, your springs may need to be replaced or adjusted. This is NOT a DIY project. These springs carry a lot of tension and should only be adjusted by garage door professionals.
Mechanical Hardware
Noisy garage door? Over time, nuts and bolts can loosen on different parts of your garage door system, including around the hinges and tracks. If you can identify these loose parts, a simple tightening may do the trick. If you’re unsure, call a professional for an inspection and service!
Are you rolling?
Pay attention to the rollers on your garage door. Are they actually rolling through the track or just sliding? If your rollers have flat edges or are off the shaft, they pose a threat. This is a common replacement for garage doors, but an important one. New rollers will help ensure the longevity of other parts of your garage door too.
Lubricate metal components
Lubrication on crucial metal components is necessary. It will help your garage door perform better and help prevent rust. If your garage door or any of its parts begins to rust, it could lead to accelerated deterioration of the garage door system.
Call the pros
Our top concern is garage door safety. We want that door to work properly and for a very long time. Don’t forget to schedule your regular maintenance to catch problems quickly. If you want to DIY your garage door repair, please consult with a professional before you begin. Garage doors are the largest moving object in your home and are deceivingly dangerous if not used or repaired correctly. Let us help!