While it is normal for garage doors to make some noise while in use, loud screeching, banging, and clunking sounds are often a sign that the door needs repairs. These could range from simple issues like insufficient lubrication of parts to more serious problems such as a disconnected switch or misaligned photo eye sensors.

The Door Is Making Noises

No overhead door is completely silent, but when it starts making sounds like popping, banging, and rattling, that’s a good sign that it needs a professional inspection. Most often, these noises can be resolved by re-lubricating the hardware that lifts the garage door up and down.

If you hear a squeal, replace the hinges on the top brackets, which could have deteriorated or become loose. This issue can also lead to the door needing to be on balance.

A loud grinding sound can mean the rollers are worn out and need lubrication. Alternatively, they need to be replaced with quieter nylon rollers that require less lubrication. A trained Clopay Dealer or garage door repair Austin technician can help you make the best decision.

The Door Is Slow

The garage door comprises a complex system of tracks, springs, and rollers that work together to move your car in and out of the garage. It’s not uncommon for these hard-working parts to experience wear and tear due to normal use. If the door takes longer than usual to open, it could be a sign that it is time for a tune-up.

According to garage door spring replacement Austin, you should start by lubricating all the hinges and brackets to see if the door moves faster. Many garage door models also have speed-setting controls that may be adjusted. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on accessing this feature and changing the settings. Often, this is enough to make the door operate more quickly. However, if your door is also slow to close, this is a more serious issue and requires professional repair.

The Door Is Stuck

A stuck garage door is not only an inconvenience but also very dangerous. A door that isn’t moving up and down properly can fall, damaging your car or hurting anyone in its path. If you’ve tried lubricating the tracks, rollers, and other hardware and it still isn’t working, it’s time to call in a professional.

Often, a garage door gets stuck because the photo-eye safety sensors have been blocked or dirty. In other cases, a problem with the opener’s distance setting or snapped cables can cause it to stop working. Lubrication can sometimes resolve these issues, but other problems will require the help of a professional. 

The Door Is Unusual

In today’s Do-It-Yourself culture, trying to handle everything yourself can be tempting. But this can be dangerous when it comes to your garage door. A professional is the best way to ensure that any damage or wear and tear is repaired quickly before it causes further damage. For example, a damaged panel may be minor, but it’s essential to replace it so that cracks don’t spread or that burglars have an easy entry point into your home.

It’s also good to have professionals inspect your garage door for balance and tension issues. These problems can impact your home’s value, so promptly addressing them is a good idea. 

The Door Is Broken

Often, when people think they have a broken garage door, it becomes a simple issue. For example, a door that won’t close maybe because something is in the way of the photo-eye sensors. These safety sensors are on either side of the garage door, about six inches off the ground.

Gently wiping these down and checking that nothing is in the pathway can help. Other issues can include a remote battery that needs replacing or the opener sensitivity setting may need to be adjusted. A professional can also assist you with these. If your garage door is completely broken, it’s best to call a technician immediately.