Garage Door Repair Hampton
Tips & Tricks

Garage Door Off Track? DIY Tips and When to Call a Pro

Frank
Garage Door Repair Hampton

Signs Your Garage Door is Off Track

If your garage door is making strange noises or not running smoothly, it’s possible the door has gone off track. Some common signs include:

  • The door shakes or wobbles as it goes up or down. It may even stop midway.
  • You hear a grinding or squeaking sound coming from the tracks or roller area.
  • One side of the door is visibly higher or lower than the other side when closed.

DIY Track Alignment Tips

If your door is only slightly off track, there may be some things you can try at home before calling a professional. Here are a few easy DIY steps:

  • Inspect the tracks for any dirt, debris or damage that may be interfering. Clean out any buildup using a wire brush.
  • Check that the tracks are securely fastened to the ceiling and wall brackets. Re-tighten any loose hardware.
  • Examine the roller assemblies and make sure they are rolling smoothly inside the tracks without rubbing. Apply lubricant if needed.
  • Adjust the track brackets by loosening bolts and moving slightly left or right until the door balances evenly when opened and closed. Re-tighten securely.

When is it Time to Call a Pro?

In some cases, the tracks may be significantly out of alignment or damaged needing replacement. Garage Door Repair in Hampton can properly fix more serious issues. It’s also best to call a technician if:

  • Simple adjustments don’t correct misalignment. The problem keeps recurring.
  • Rollers are excessively worn down flat or broken.
  • There are visible dents, bends or cracks in the tracks that cannot be pounded out.
  • Springs or cables are worn, frayed or broken. These components should only be handled by a pro.

Safety First

Always use caution when inspecting or adjusting your garage door. The springs, tracks and moving parts can be dangerous if not handled properly. If you have any doubts, let the experts at a local garage door company make repairs and adjustments instead of risking injury. A minor tune-up can save you from more serious issues down the road too.

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