What is that sound? Why won't your garage door close? It isn't always easy to figure out why your garage door isn't working, which is why I put together this website. I have been installing doors for several years, and I can tell you that garage door problems are some of the toughest issues out there to resolve. In addition to working with complicated motors and difficult panels, you might also find yourself struggling with remote control issues. On my blog, you can learn how to diagnose trouble, so that you aren't left trying to solve illusive, seemingly impossible problems.
Issues with your garage door track can lead to a poorly functioning door or a garage door that refuses to operate at all. Fortunately, you can often repair a track issue on your own, and if not, it is usually a simple fix for a professional repair tech. The following guide can help you find and fix any track issues.
Symptoms of track problems
The exact symptoms of an issue can vary depending on the track problem. The following are a few of the scenarios that can occur:
A sticking or stuck door. This can be caused by a bent track or by a track that isn't properly aligned, which can lead to an out-of-balance door.
Loud squealing or hitching movement. The common cause for this is either a dirty track or a bent track.
Uneven movement. In some cases, an improperly aligned track will result in the door moving more smoothly on one side. This can result in a door that is an inch or two higher in the track on one side when compared to the other.
Start with a good cleaning
The best place to start with any track troubleshooting or repair is with a good cleaning. With the door closed, sweep out the tracks with a broom or use the hose of a shop vacuum to remove dust, leaves, and debris. If the tracks are exceptionally dirty, wipe them out with a damp cloth.
Follow up this cleaning with a reapplication of a garage door lubricant. Place a drop or two on each of the rollers. Then, slightly dampen a clean shop rag with a small amount of the lubricant and wipe it down the inside of each track to encourage smooth movement.
Fix track damage
Next, check the tracks over for any visible damage. Sometimes a track gets a slight dent or bend in it, which you may be able to straighten out with a rubber mallet. Work slowly and use only gentle force when hammering out the dent. It's best if you can place a block of wood over the dent, and then bang on the wood to straighten the metal. The wood will disperse the force from the blows more evenly. If the track is badly dented or creased, you may need to get it professionally replaced.
Adjust the tracks
If the tracks are in good condition and clean, and the rollers on the door itself seem to be moving smoothly, the issue may be with a track that is out of alignment. In this case, you will need to find the clips that attach the track to the door. These have adjustment slots in them that allow you to loosen the screw holding them to the door frame and move them in ¼ or ½ inch increments. Put the garage door in manual mode and do a test opening and close after each adjustment until you find the one that leads to the door rising smoothly and properly.
If you need more help, contact a garage door repair company in your area like M & M Garage Doors and Service.
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