A garage door opens and closes using a set of wheels that glide up and down a metal track. If the tracks become clogged with dirt, sawdust, or rust this can make it harder for the door to move up and down.
Minor issues like dents can be repaired, but more extensive damage may require a panel replacement. Garage Door Repair Blanchard is not something that should be left to amateurs.
Broken springs can be a dangerous situation for those that are not prepared to work with them. Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause injury if not handled properly. It is very important for a homeowner in Brooklyn to contact an experienced professional if their garage door springs break. The professional can help the owner replace the springs safely.
A common sign that a garage door spring is broken is difficulty opening or closing the garage door. This is because the door will have less power without the working springs to assist with the lift. Another way to tell if a spring is broken is by inspecting it for a visible gap or separation.
When a spring is broken, it needs to be replaced immediately. If not, the remaining spring will soon wear out and become the next one to break. The expert technician from Entry Systems can install a pair of replacement springs quickly and efficiently. The technician will ensure that the new springs are matched to the specifications of the old ones and that they are correctly installed in the door.
There are several different types of garage door springs and they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Extension springs, for example, are long, skinny springs that run parallel to the horizontal tracks on each side of the door. These springs store energy and can be either open-looped or double-looped. Open-looped springs are the weakest style and rely on an open wire at the end to connect to the pulley and eyebolt. The stronger double-looped springs have two coils at the end that attach to the hook on the eyebolt and pulley.
Damaged Tracks
The garage door tracks are a vital part of the system. They bear the majority of the weight of the door and help it open and close smoothly. If the tracks are damaged in some way it can affect the overall functioning of your garage door. This is especially true if the tracks are misaligned, causing a variety of problems including noises during operation and extra wear on other components like rollers.
A garage door technician can help you identify the cause of your issues. They’ll start by examining the tracks to determine their condition. This will include checking for dents, loose bolts, and other signs of damage. They’ll also check to see if the track is properly aligned with the mounting brackets.
In some cases, you may be able to realign the door track yourself. This requires loosening the bolts holding the track in place and manually straightening it with a hammer or rubber mallet. In most cases, this is a quick and easy fix that shouldn’t require professional assistance.
Before attempting this step, make sure you disconnect the opener and manually raise and lower the garage door several times to ensure it moves smoothly along the tracks. It’s also a good idea to apply some lubricant to the tracks, rollers, and hinges to keep them working smoothly and reduce friction. This will also prolong the life of your garage door and reduce the need for frequent repairs. You can use a silicon-based lubricant to prevent dirt and debris from building up and causing further damage. The best thing you can do to protect your garage door is to implement a regular maintenance schedule that includes inspections and lubrication.
Damaged Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is one of the most important components of a garage door, as it provides a seal that keeps unwanted air, moisture, and critters out. If this material becomes worn or damaged, it can cause drafts and energy inefficiency around the garage door. Luckily, replacing this material is fairly easy and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time.
To start, it’s necessary to have the appropriate tools for the job. This includes a tape measure for accurate measurements, as well as adhesive that is suitable for the type of weather stripping you’re using. A cleaner like rubbing alcohol or a damp cloth is also useful for cleaning the surfaces you’ll be attaching your new weatherstripping to.
It’s also a good idea to have a small toolbox on hand, as you may need to use your wrench to release the old weather stripping from the surface it’s attached to. You’ll also want to have a screwdriver on hand, as this can be used to remove the screws holding the old weather stripping in place.
A few signs that it’s time to replace your weather stripping include if it is dried out, more rigid than you would expect for a rubber seal, or showing signs of discoloration. You should also replace the weather stripping if you notice a noticeable gap between it and the doorframe.
Lastly, it’s important to check your new weather stripping regularly for any loose areas or gaps that may need to be filled in. A professional service can provide advice about proper maintenance and help you prevent damage to your weather stripping in the future. They can also ensure that your garage door and frame are properly sealed to maximize energy efficiency and keep unwanted pests out.
Broken Cables & Springs
A garage door is heavy and requires the proper balance of springs, cables and opener to operate correctly. When these components fail or break, the door can come crashing down causing expensive damage and potentially harming cars or people inside the garage.
In many cases a broken cable or spring is a symptom of another issue that should be addressed by a professional. However, for those that are handy and have experience working with tools, repairing a broken garage door spring or cable isn’t as difficult as it may seem.
Depending on the style of your garage door, there will be one or two cables on each side of the door. First, set a ladder or step stool in front of the door and get comfortable with using your pliers and ladder to create slack in the cable. Next, disconnect the torsion spring by loosening each set screw with a 7/16” universal socket. Once all of the screws are loose the torsion tube can be pushed back, allowing you to remove the cable drum.
When it comes to extension spring cables, the procedure is very similar. With the door open as far as it will go, use your pliers to create slack in the cable and then disconnect the “S” hook that attaches it to the track on each side of the door. After the old cable is removed, install your new cable by placing it on the drum with the slot for the wire facing forward. Wrap the cable around the drum while tightening the set screws.
When replacing an extension cable it is important to take note of which direction the old cable traveled in the pulley as this will help you when installing the new cable. Following precisely the same path will ensure your new cable won’t twist during operation resulting in noise and shortening its lifespan. Once your new cable is installed, reattach the pin on the bottom of the door to the frame and test the operation.
Broken Bottom Seals
The bottom seal on your garage door serves a critical function, keeping dust, debris, water and pests out of the garage. However, over time it can wear down and become damaged. When this happens, your garage will feel drafty or cold and things like spiders, ants, and other insects can get inside. If you notice these issues, the garage door’s bottom seal may need to be replaced.
Assess the Damage
Begin by examining the seal and assessing its condition. Check for cracks, tearing or missing sections to determine if it can be repaired or needs to be replaced altogether. If the seal is in good shape, you may be able to simply remove any worn or damaged areas.
Remove the Old Seal
Once you’ve assessed the damage, remove the old seal by unscrewing or gently prying it out of the track. Clean the track and any remaining debris to ensure that the new seal adheres properly.
Lubricate the Seal
If you’re replacing a garage door seal, it’s important to lubricate it before installing it. Applying a few drops of dish soap or other lubricant to the rubber seal will help it slide into place. It’s also helpful to use a long-handled screwdriver or broom handle to push or pull the seal into place.
Once you’ve installed the new seal, be sure to close the door and test it. If you notice any gaps, install weatherstripping or doorstop molding along the sides and top of the garage door to keep it tight against the floor. By making these simple repairs and maintenance steps, you can save energy and protect your belongings from the elements. While many repairs are best left to the professionals, replacing a garage door seal is an easy DIY project that can help you save energy and money on your monthly utility bills.