Garage Door Repair: Simple Fixes You Can Do

Aug 4
08:29

2010

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Garage door repair is an area that is usually best left to a professional company. There are a few simple fixes anyone can do around the house, however, to keep it working smoothly.

mediaimage
When it comes to garage door repair,Garage Door Repair: Simple Fixes You Can Do  Articles much of the work is best left to the professionals. When it comes to complicated electrical problems or any problems you feel are out of your scope, do not mess around with it yourself. Call a professional and let them do the work safely and efficiently. Having said that, there are a few simple fixes anyone can do on their own.

One of the most common problems in the world of garage door repair is that it won’t close or open. This obviously defeats much of its purpose, meaning it needs to be fixed right away. One of the first things to check with an electric opener is the keypad. Make sure that the electric component is working. If there is no power or the keypad has somehow lost compatibility, it will be a job for the professionals. Don’t attempt to fix the wiring yourself unless you have specific training in that area of electronics. Make sure you check the mechanics of the sliding mechanism as well. Sometimes the hinges and springs can become loose, preventing the mechanism from opening or closing. This can usually be fixed without calling anyone. Replace worn hinges or springs as needed.

Another problem that can arise requiring some garage door repair is the mechanism sticking when its being closed or being opened. This is usually not as serious a problem and can often be fixed by adding some lubrication. Get some WD-40 or some machine oil and take it to the moving parts. This includes the hinges and any other parts that are used in the opening process. Also pay close attention to the tracks and clean and oil them as necessary. This can usually prevent or fix any problems with opening or closing.

Garage door repair also includes maintaining the outside. The surface, especially on wood, can become decayed after many years of facing the harsh elements. A good preventative maintenance plan includes repainting every few years to make sure the contraption not only stays looking nice, but has a good protective coating. If there is actual damage to the wood, it might be time to replace it altogether.

For anything more complex than what has been noted, its usually a good idea to go ahead and call in a professional company to do the fixes. It may cost more up front, but it will give you the security of knowing the job has been done well.