When it comes to garage door repairs, many fixes are good DIY projects. Others, however, are best left to the professionals due to safety concerns and garage door longevity. Here’s a rundown of which common garage door issues are DIY-friendly and which warrant a call to the pros.
DIY Garage Door Repairs
The team at Easy Open Garage Doors, LLC, wants homeowners to feel empowered to tackle basic garage door repairs and upkeep. If you’re ready to put in a little elbow grease, here are some everyday garage door issues that are usually safe to handle on your own. If you’re ever in doubt, though, don’t hesitate to call in an expert!
Rattling hardware: If your garage door is making rattling noises, the most likely culprit is loose hardware. The fix? Grab your ladder and your toolbox and go top to bottom tightening all the bolts, screws, and other hardware you can see.
Squeaks and creaks: If you notice excessive squeaking when your garage door moves up or down, the door mechanisms likely need to be cleaned and lubricated. Check your manual to see what kind of lubricant your door uses (usually silicone-based), then thoroughly clean and lubricate your door’s hinges, rollers, and tracks.
Weatherstripping: When the seal around the bottom of your garage door starts to break down, it can let in water and drafts as the outside environment makes its way inside. You can usually replace this component on your own. Just measure the length of your door, head to your local hardware store to get a replacement piece of weatherstripping, and switch out the old piece for the new one.
Professional-Only Garage Door Fixes
While going the DIY route is great for basic garage door maintenance, sometimes you need professional expertise. Many problems pose a safety risk if not handled correctly. It’s also possible to cause long-lasting damage to your garage door if you don’t handle certain repairs the right way. To keep you and your door safe, call in a professional for the following garage door issues.
Garage door spring repairs: Well-maintained springs are essential to proper garage door functioning. If there’s an issue with the spring, don’t try to handle it on your own. These springs are under a huge amount of tension and can cause severe injury or damage if not handled with the right equipment and training.
Cables: The cables that move your door up and down can become worn or frayed over time and may need replacing. As with garage door springs, you should not attempt DIY cable replacement. Call in an expert if you notice an issue with your cables so they can safely make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Dented or broken panels: If the face of your garage door is damaged, you may need to replace one or more door panels. This is a task best left to the experts. They can ensure that all the measurements are correct, the right materials are used, and the seams connecting the old and new panels are flush and stable.
If you need garage door repair help in Heathsville or the greater Middlesex County area, call Easy Open Garage Doors, LLC, today. We offer convenient weekday appointments as well as 24/7 emergency service. Our team provides outstanding customer service, fast turnaround times, and exceptional workmanship. Easy Open Garage Doors, LLC—because life is hard enough!