Garage door repairs: your top questions answered

Before you get started, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about residential garage doors and common repair issues.

How Do I Program My Garage Door Remote?

 

If your remote has been lost, stolen or broken you may need to program a replacement garage door remote. Universal remotes are available for some models. Replacement remotes can also be purchased to match the model and radio frequency requirements of your door, without having to source from its manufacturer. General guidelines to reprogram the remote can be found online but may be different for your model. Check your manual or call a professional if you need assistance.

What is the Best Automatic Garage Door Opener? 

 

Garage door openers come in multiple styles. Chain drives, belt drives and screwdrives are the most common, with the latter being the best for heavier double doors and lower noise requirements. Weigh up the functions and lifting mechanisms of each, along with maintenance and budget, to determine which is right for you. 

Can I Use my Smartphone to Operate my Garage Door Opener?

 

Yes. Some models can be controlled via a garage opener app paired with your smartphone. These systems generally work both iPhone and Androids. Not all garage door openers have joined the smart home movement. However, some companies including Chamberlain Australia’s MyQ range, have used encrypted technology to securely connect homeowners to the control hub of their garage doors. When connected, you’ll be able to receive notifications when the door is used and set up features to program the door. 

How to Fix a Derailed Garage Door?

 

Fixing a derailed garage door is a relatively easy DIY project. Tracks fall out of alignment through lack of lubrication, dirt build-up or damaged and lose anchors. If your garage door is derailed or dented, stop operating it immediately to avoid further damage. 

How to Know When to Replace the Garage Door Rollers?

 

If your garage door is making loud noises, it may be a sign the rollers are due to be replaced. Typically, rollers should be replaced every two years. For better durability and operation, all moving parts including ball bearings will need to be inspected. Rollers that are left too long can cause friction in the door’s mechanics and potential long-term damage. 

What Should I do if my Garage Door Cable Came Off?

 

Detached garage door cables are a common garage door repair problem. 

As they age, cables can become twisted into the pulley or broken from loose spring tensions. This leads to weight distribution problems when operating the garage door. Depending on the cause of it coming off, you may be able to re-secure the cable. However, broken cables will need to be replaced. 

How to Know if I Should Adjust my Garage Door Springs?

 

Unbalanced garage doors may be a sign of spring tension problems. 

Check whether the springs need to be adjusted or replaced. If you’re unsure, you can test for a spring repair by disconnecting the automatic opener and opening the garage door manually. The door should stay in an upright position with little movement and without you needing to hold it up. 

If you cannot manually position the door halfway or the door feels heavy under the weight, the springs may be close to breaking. 

How to Open my Garage Door when the Power Goes Out?

 

Automatic garage doors are equipped with an emergency cord. 

During a power outage, garage doors may still be operated by pulling the emergency cord (usually red) to disconnect the door from the automatic opener and operate manually. 

Is it Safe to DIY Repair a Garage Door?

 

It’s inevitable that your garage door will need to be repaired or replaced over time. Garage door DIY repairs can be dangerous if you’re unsure or inexperienced. Bad torsion extension springs, for example, are notorious for being a problem to repair without a professional. Homeowners without DIY or garage door repair experience should focus on annual upkeep instead and leave repairs to the professionals. 

Can I Replace a Section of my Door?

 

Some repairs can be achieved without needing to replace the entire garage door. If you are unsure whether your garage door requires a repair or a replacement, contact your local garage door repair professionals for an inspection. 

How to Choose the Right Garage Door?

 

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best garage door for your home. Aside from budget, materials and design, weigh up the property’s style, colours and purpose. Safety features and smart home connections are also important to keep in mind. 

Garage doors are a big investment. To keep yours running smoothly, it’s recommended to have it serviced annually by a qualified technician. 

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About the Author

 

This article is written by Jayde Ferguson, who recommends Pinnacle Garage Doors – Perth specialists in garage door installation, service and maintenance. You can catch her on Google+.