Apart from being inconvenient, a broken garage door can also be dangerous and security-threatening. While some small issues might seem easy to rectify with a few tools and an online YouTube video, many situations need the knowledge and experience of a professional garage door specialist to prevent worsening. If problems like damaged springs, bad cables, or broken sensors are not addressed promptly, they can turn dangerous very rapidly.
At first, it’s common to feel confident about DIY, but we often overlook hidden problems that show up later. We have produced this guide to assist you in determining when it is safe to attempt a fix on your own and when it is preferable to hire professionals. So, keep reading and find out when to take action on your own and when to bring in expert help.
Risks of Doing Repairs by Own
Before diving into the common fixes, it’s important to understand attempting repairs without the right knowledge can result in:
- Injury from snapped springs or falling doors
- Further damage to key components
- Voiding your home warranty
- Higher repair costs down the line
- Security vulnerabilities
- Improper alignment or calibration
- Damaged opener system
It is recommended to assess whether the issue is truly simple to fix on your own. In case you find it’s not then calling professional garage door specialists is the smarter, safer choice from the start.
Common DIY-Friendly Fixes
Below are some of the few basic issues that you can try to fix on your own as long as you take proper precautions:
Lubricating Hinges and Tracks
If your door is noisy or squeaky, a silicone-based lubricant can help smooth things out. Avoid using heavy oils or WD-40 as they can attract dirt and cause buildup.
Tightening Loose Screws
These doors have many moving parts, and over time, nuts and bolts can loosen. Regularly check and tighten these to avoid shaking or misalignment.
Replacing Remote Batteries or Reprogramming
If your remote suddenly stops working, try changing the battery or resetting the opener using the manufacturer’s instructions.
When to Call a Garage Door Specialist
Pay close attention to the issues listed below as these are common problems that are strongly recommended to be handled by professionals only:
Broken or Worn-Out Springs
These door springs are under intense pressure. If one breaks, your door may become stuck or dangerously unbalanced. Replacing springs requires specific tools and training. Never attempt this on your own as it’s one of the most common causes of garage door injuries.
Cable Issues
If your door is hanging unevenly or won’t open smoothly, it could be due to worn or frayed cables. These are critical for safe operation and should only be replaced by trained professionals.
Track Misalignment or Damage
A door that sticks, squeaks, or comes off track could be dealing with alignment issues. Forcing it to move could cause more damage or even lead to a full derailment.
Sensor Malfunctions
Your safety sensors can be clogged or misplaced if your door won’t close all the way or reverses at random. While cleaning them is a quick fix, deeper wiring issues should be diagnosed by a pro.
Why Choose a Professional Help?
Do-it-yourself repairs may seem cost-effective at first, but they can lead to unexpected complications. A professional garage door specialist can:
- Diagnose the problem correctly the first time
- Offer safe, long-lasting solutions
- Provide accurate quotes without hidden fees
- Help you avoid repeat issues or safety risks
- Preserve your manufacturer’s warranty
Conclusion
It’s totally acceptable to undertake routine upkeep and small repairs by yourself, but avoid taking excessive chances when dealing with major technical problems. Relying on a reliable expert is always safer and wiser when in doubt. Are you trying to find professional garage door specialists? Speak with Garage Door Works! Our staff has over 15 years of experience in anything from little tweaks to complete system replacements.