When it comes to home improvement, the garage door often gets overlooked. However, it plays a crucial role in your home’s security, energy efficiency, and overall aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, many homeowners make common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary repairs and expenses. Here, we’ll explore the top five mistakes homeowners make with garage doors and how to avoid them.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
One of the most significant mistakes homeowners make is failing to perform regular maintenance on their garage doors. Just like any other part of your home, garage doors require attention to keep them functioning correctly.
Why It Matters
Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. A well-maintained garage door can also extend its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
What to Do
Inspect Regularly: Check the door for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, dents, or misalignment.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a silicone-based lubricant on the rollers, hinges, and tracks to ensure smooth operation.
Test Safety Features: Regularly test the auto-reverse feature to ensure it’s functioning correctly. This is crucial for safety, especially if you have children or pets.
Here at The Garage Door Company, we offer a range of maintenance services to keep your garage door in top condition. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a maintenance check today!
Ignoring Unusual Noises
Another common mistake is ignoring unusual noises coming from the garage door. If your door is making grinding, squeaking, or rattling sounds, it’s a sign that something may be wrong.
Why It Matters
Ignoring these noises can lead to more severe problems, such as a malfunctioning motor or broken springs. Addressing these issues early can save you from expensive repairs down the line.
What to Do
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the sounds your garage door makes when opening and closing.
Identify the Source: If you hear a specific noise, try to determine where it’s coming from. This can help you pinpoint the issue.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re unsure about the cause of the noise, it’s best to consult a professional. Our team at The Garage Door Company can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
Attempting DIY Repairs Without Expertise
While DIY projects can be rewarding, attempting repairs on your garage door without the necessary expertise can lead to more harm than good.
Why It Matters
Garage doors are complex systems that require specific knowledge and tools to repair. Incorrect repairs can not only damage the door further but also pose safety risks.
What to Do
Know Your Limits: If you’re not confident in your ability to fix a problem, it’s best to call in the professionals.
Use Quality Parts: If you do attempt a repair, ensure you’re using high-quality parts that are compatible with your garage door.
Consider Professional Assistance: If you’re installing a new garage door, consider hiring a professional. Proper installation is crucial for the door’s performance and longevity.
Here at The Garage Door Company, we have decades of experience in garage door repairs. Let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy peace of mind.
Misaligning Safety Sensors
Safety sensors are a critical component of your garage door system, designed to prevent the door from closing on objects or people. However, many homeowners overlook their importance.
Why It Matters
Misaligned safety sensors can lead to accidents and injuries. If the sensors aren’t functioning correctly, the door may not reverse when it encounters an obstruction, posing a significant safety risk.
What to Do
Check Alignment: Ensure the sensors are aligned correctly and that there’s nothing obstructing their path.
Clean the Sensors: Dust and debris can interfere with the sensors’ operation. Regularly clean them to ensure they’re working properly.
Test the System: Periodically test the safety sensors by placing an object in the door’s path to ensure it reverses as intended.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your safety sensors, our team at The Garage Door Company can perform a thorough inspection and make any necessary adjustments.
Overloading the Garage Door
Many homeowners make the mistake of placing too much weight on their garage doors, whether through heavy items stored above or using the door as a support for other objects.
Why It Matters
Overloading the garage door can lead to premature wear and tear, causing components to fail and potentially leading to a complete breakdown.
What to Do
Limit Weight: Avoid placing heavy items on or near the garage door. This includes storage above the door or leaning items against it.
Regularly Check Springs and Cables: These components bear the weight of the door, so ensure they’re in good condition and not under excessive strain.
Consider Upgrading: If you frequently use your garage for heavy-duty storage, consider upgrading to a more robust garage door system that can handle the load.
Here at The Garage Door Company, we offer a variety of garage door options designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you need a standard door or a heavy-duty model, we’ve got you covered.
Keep Your Garage Door in Top Shape
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you maintain a safe, functional, and visually appealing garage door. Regular maintenance, paying attention to unusual noises, seeking professional help when needed, ensuring safety sensors are aligned, and avoiding overloading your door are all essential steps in keeping your garage door in top shape.
If you’re looking for expert advice or services related to garage doors, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at The Garage Door Company. Use our free online quoting engine today to get a quote tailored to your garage door needs!
