10 Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

Understanding and fixing garage door problems can save you time, money, and frustration.

1. Noisy Garage Door

Causes

Noisy doors often result from worn hinges, rollers, or tracks. Dirt, wear, or lack of lubrication can lead to squeaks or rattles.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Apply silicone-based lubricant to rollers, hinges, and tracks. Tighten loose bolts and screws.
• When to Call a Pro: If noise persists, worn rollers or a misaligned opener may need professional attention.

2. Misaligned or Bent Tracks

Causes

Tracks guide the door’s movement. When bent or misaligned, the door may stick or struggle to move.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Use a rubber mallet to gently fix minor bends. Tighten loose brackets to ensure alignment.
• When to Call a Pro: Severe alignment issues or bent tracks require expert help.

3. Broken Springs

Causes

Springs bear the door’s weight. Over time, they can wear out or snap from tension or age.

Solution

• DIY Tip: None. Fixing or replacing springs is dangerous due to high tension.
• When to Call a Pro: Only professionals should replace broken springs.

4. Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

Causes

Issues may stem from the opener, sensors, or broken springs.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Check remote batteries and clear sensor blockages. Clean dirty or misaligned sensors.
• When to Call a Pro: If problems persist, an opener or mechanical issue may need professional garage door repair.

5. Worn-Out Rollers

Causes

Rollers help the door move smoothly. Over time, they can wear out or crack.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Replace damaged rollers, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• When to Call a Pro: For tougher replacements, seek professional help.

6. Door Opens Unevenly

Causes

Uneven doors may result from issues with springs, cables, or tracks.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Check tracks for obstructions and alignment. Tighten loose hardware.
• When to Call a Pro: Broken springs or cable issues require expert repair.

7. Door Closes Too Quickly

Causes

Damaged springs or cables often cause this problem.

Solution

• DIY Tip: None. These safety components should only be handled by trained professionals.
• When to Call a Pro: Contact a technician immediately to fix this issue.

8. Broken Garage Door Opener

Causes

Electrical issues, worn belts, or motor problems can cause opener failures.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Check remote batteries and the opener’s power supply.
• When to Call a Pro: Seek professional help for motor or wiring issues to avoid further damage.

9. Slow Door Response

Causes

A slow-moving door may indicate opener maintenance needs or unlubricated tracks.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Clean tracks, apply lubricant, and check opener speed settings.
• When to Call a Pro: Persistent issues may require motor repairs.

10. Weather Seal Damage

Causes

Damaged seals can cause drafts, leaks, and higher energy bills.

Solution

• DIY Tip: Replace cracked or worn seals using a utility knife and a replacement seal.
• When to Call a Pro: For tough replacements or custom seals, consult a professional.