A garage door relies on multiple components to operate smoothly and efficiently. If any of these parts break or get damaged, it can cause the whole system to malfunction.
Continuing to use your broken garage door can lead to bigger problems and even be dangerous. So, you should call a professional right away!
Broken Torsion Coil Spring Replacement
The springs are an essential part of the system that offsets and supports the weight of a garage door. When the torsion springs are broken, the entire system is out of balance, and the door becomes difficult to open or shut. While some homeowners can complete this work on their own, it is a dangerous task, and it is strongly recommended that you have a professional perform the same day garage door repair Apple Valley since working with springs under tension is very risky.
If the torsion springs are still intact, you can re-wind the existing springs to restore the function and balance of your garage door. To do this, first remove the old springs and the cable drums. Purchase a new pair of torsion springs that match the existing ones regarding wire size, inside diameter, and winding direction (right or left). Ensure the end of the new spring points upward when the wire is pointed toward the anchor bracket installed above your garage door.
Broken Cable Replacement
Your garage door operates over a system of pulleys and cables. Over time, regular wear and tear can cause these cables to degrade, resulting in fraying or rusting. When left unchecked, these damaged or broken cables can snap and stop your garage door from opening or closing.
When a cable breaks, it must be replaced immediately. Attempting to operate a broken garage door without a functioning safety cable can lead to unforeseen property damage and personal injury.
To replace a broken cable:
Place a pair of locking pliers or C-clamps under each of the lower wheel guides on each track. This will prevent the garage door from slamming closed unexpectedly and allow you to remove the broken cable safely.
Locate the winding drum on either side of your garage door and look for a cable with a looped end resting in a notch on the bottom of the drum.
Carefully undo the old cable and unwind the new one, following the same path.
Broken Safety Sensor
Your garage door’s sensors use infrared light to communicate with each other. They signal that the door can close only when there is an uninterrupted line of sight between them. If a person, bike, or car blocks that line of sight, the sensors will send a reverse signal and keep the door from closing.
The sensor lenses can become dirty over time, causing the system to malfunction. Using a soft cloth, gently wipe the lens until it is clean.
The electrical wires that connect the sensors to power can also suffer from wear and tear from frequent use, pest infestation, or weather damage. Check for any visible problems, like pinched wires, and replace them if necessary. After replacing the wires, test the sensors by putting a large cardboard box before them. If the sensor lights are blinking, the sensors may need to be realigned. If the lights are steady, then you have fixed the problem!
Broken Garage Door Parts
Your garage door is a big investment, and you want to ensure it gets the best performance from your home. That is why it is so important to keep up with regular maintenance and replacement parts as they wear out.
For example, the bottom weather seal is a critical component that prevents heat loss and keeps out water, dirt, and pests. If you notice it is cracked, broken, or missing completely, contact us for a replacement.
Similarly, your garage door’s springs make it roll up and down so smoothly. If you hear them making popping noises or feel that one side is heavier than the other, it may be a sign that they need more lubrication. It is crucial to contact an expert for these repairs to ensure they are properly completed to avoid injury and further damage. A well-repaired garage door will last for years to come. Commercial establishments especially rely on their garage doors for smooth operations, and any disruption can result in financial losses, frustrated customers, and damage to the business’s reputation.
