Garage doors are one of the most potentially dangerous parts of your home, yet they are often the most overlooked – until there is a serious problem like the door won’t open or someone gets hurt. Not only does the door have great weight, the door and all its moving parts are under constant enormous tension. If something breaks unexpectedly, it could cause serious injury or even death.
To avoid potential problems, garage door experts recommend regular inspections and maintenance of your door. Routine garage door service by a professional garage door repair company, it typically costs around $100, a pittance considering it may avoid more costly repairs and buy you some peace of mind. At the bare minimum, a professional inspection should include the following:
1. Check all parts – the springs, rollers, hinges and safety devices – to make sure they are fastened correctly and working properly.
2. Check the balance of the door. This is done by raising the door a few feet and releasing it. If the door moves in any direction more than a few inches, it could mean the springs need to be adjusted or replaced.
3. Inspect the cables and pulleys. If they show signs of wear, replace them immediately.
4. Tighten all loose screws and brackets. Garage doors can be opened and closed more than a thousand times a year. With all that weight and tension, screws are bound to become loose, creating a potential safety hazard.
5. Lubricate springs, rollers, pulleys, bearings and the garage door opener chain and sprockets, if you have a chain driven opener.
6. Troubleshoot any issues, including unusual squeaks or stuttering. These are often signs of more serious trouble with springs or hinges and should be resolved with adjustment or replacement right away, due to safety risks.
