You’ve got an overhead garage door that’s acting up, huh? And now you’re wondering how to fix overhead garage door? Don’t fret, you’re not alone. Garage doors can sometimes be a pain, but with this guide, you’ll learn how to fix common issues yourself.
Packed with easy-to-follow instructions and handy tips, you’ll soon have your door running smoothly again. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started.
It’s time to become your home’s hero and conquer that pesky garage door!
Understanding Overhead Garage Door Mechanism
Before you can tackle any repairs, you’ve got to understand the basic mechanism of an overhead garage door. It’s not rocket science, but it’s not child’s play either.
Firstly, know that the door moves on a set of tracks that are attached to the garage walls. The heavy lifting is done by a set of high-tension springs and cables, meaning you don’t need to be a bodybuilder to lift your garage door. It’s a system of balance and leverage working in harmony.
Next, the power unit, your garage door opener, merely guides the door’s movement. It doesn’t do the heavy lifting. That’s the springs’ job. The opener includes a motor that drives a trolley along a rail. The trolley is connected to the door and as the trolley moves, it pulls or pushes the door.
Understanding this setup is crucial. Why? Because if you’re planning on fixing your garage door, you need to know which parts to check. Is the door not moving? Maybe the tracks are misaligned. Door too heavy? The springs might need adjusting.
Now that you’ve got the basics, you’re ready to dive deeper.
Common Overhead Garage Door Problems
Now that you’ve got a handle on the mechanics, it’s time to delve into the common problems that can plague an overhead garage door.
First up, you might encounter a door that won’t open or close fully. This could be due to misaligned tracks, worn out springs, or a faulty opener.
Another frequent issue is the door reversing before it fully closes. This safety feature is meant to prevent accidents, but it can be triggered by something as simple as a misaligned sensor.
You may also face a problem with your remote control. If you’re pressing the button and nothing’s happening, the issue could be a dead battery, an out-of-range remote, or a problem with the antenna on the motor unit.
Finally, noise is a common complaint. If your garage door is making a racket, it could be due to loose hardware, worn rollers, or a need for lubrication.
Each of these issues can be frustrating, but with a little know-how, you’re well-equipped to tackle them. Remember, knowing the common problems is the first step in fixing your overhead garage door.
Basic Tools Needed for Repairs
Armed with an understanding of the common issues, you’ll need several basic tools to start tackling these garage door repairs. You don’t have to be a professional handyman, but having the right tools on hand will make the job easier and safer.
First up, you’ll need a set of wrenches. Adjustable wrenches are versatile and can handle a variety of nuts and bolts sizes. A socket wrench set can also be useful for those hard to reach places.
Next, you’ll need a good set of screwdrivers. A set that includes both flat head and Phillips head is ideal. These will come in handy when dealing with screws on the door and the opener.
A sturdy ladder is another must-have. It’s essential for reaching parts of the door that are higher up. Make sure it’s in good condition and stable before you climb on it.
You should also have a hammer, pliers, and a tape measure on hand. Finally, don’t forget safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself while working.
Replacing Garage Door Remote Batteries
If your garage door remote’s acting up, it’s likely time for a battery replacement. Don’t worry, it’s a simple task you can handle yourself. Here’s what you need to do.
Firstly, you need to identify what type of battery your remote uses. Look at the back of your remote for this information. Typically, garage door remotes use coin-sized lithium batteries. These are readily available at most supermarkets or electronics stores.
Once you’ve got your new battery, it’s time to pop open your remote. Usually, there’s a small screw on the back that you’ll need to loosen. Some models might just have a sliding panel instead. Once open, you’ll see the old battery.
Take out the old battery and make a note of how it was positioned. You’ll want to put the new battery in the same way. Once the new battery’s in place, just close up the remote and tighten the screw or slide the panel back into position.
And that’s it! Test your remote to make sure it’s working properly. If it’s still not functioning as it should, there might be a bigger issue at play. But fret not, we’ll cover troubleshooting in the next subtopic.
Adjusting Door Sensitivity
Even after replacing the remote batteries, your garage door might still be acting fussy, indicating it’s time to adjust the door sensitivity. The sensitivity setting tells your garage door how far it should move, and if it’s not set correctly, your door mightn’t close all the way, or it could reverse for no apparent reason.
Start by finding your door opener’s sensitivity adjustment screws. They’re usually located on the back or side of the unit. Then, you’ll need a flat head screwdriver to turn the adjustment screws. Typically, turning the screw clockwise increases sensitivity, making the door close with more force. If you turn the screw counterclockwise, you’ll decrease sensitivity, and the door will close with less force.
But be careful not to overdo it. If the door closes too forcefully, it can damage your car or, worse, injure someone. On the other hand, if it doesn’t close with enough force, it mightn’t close properly, letting in unwanted elements or intruders. So, it’s important to strike a balance. Adjust the settings a little at a time, testing the door after each adjustment, until it’s just right.
And remember, safety first!
Fixing a Broken Garage Door Spring
Moving on from adjusting the door’s sensitivity, you’ll sometimes run into a broken garage door spring that needs fixing. First, ensure you’ve unplugged your garage door opener to prevent any possible accidents. Then, gather your tools: a set of winding bars, a sturdy ladder, and a new garage door spring. Remember, it’s crucial to buy the correct spring. Garage door springs aren’t one-size-fits-all.
Next, climb your ladder and locate the broken spring. It’ll be overhead, attached to a bar running across the top of your garage door. You’ll need to unwind this broken spring using your winding bars. It’s a tricky and potentially dangerous task, so take care.
Once unwound, you can remove the broken spring and replace it with the new one. Wind up this new spring the same way you unwound the old one. Make sure it’s secure and properly attached. Then, reconnect your garage door opener and test the door to ensure it’s working correctly.
Repairing a broken garage door spring can be a daunting task, but with caution and the right tools, you’ll have your garage door up and running in no time.
Regular Maintenance Tips for Overhead Garage Doors
After you’ve tackled fixing a broken spring, there are several other regular maintenance tasks you should perform to keep your overhead garage door in top shape. A well-maintained garage door can last for decades, saving you the cost and hassle of frequent replacements.
Here are some tips to ensure your garage door remains functional and durable:
Lubricate Moving Parts
You’ll want to keep hinges, rollers, and tracks well-lubricated. It reduces friction, allowing smooth movement and preventing wear and tear.
Tighten Up Hardware
Over time, the door’s hardware can loosen. Regularly check and tighten all bolts and brackets.
Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping
The weather seal at the bottom of your door can crack or wear out. Replace it promptly to protect your garage from elements.
Check Door Balance
If your door isn’t properly balanced, the opener has to work harder, shortening its lifespan. You can check balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway.
Clear Tracks
Ensure the tracks on either side of your door are free from debris. You can clean them out with a soft cloth or a brush.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Now you’ve got the know-how to tackle common issues with your overhead garage door. From replacing remote batteries to adjusting door sensitivity, and even fixing a broken spring, you’re all set.
Just remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your garage door running smoothly. Don’t let small problems turn into big ones. And if you need more information, don’t hesitate to consult a professional garage door service company. Contact Geaux Overhead Door in Monroe, LA today to know more about the proper maintenance of your garage door.
With a bit of effort, you can keep your garage door functioning perfectly for years to come.
