Garage door malfunctions or damage are never fun, but some cases are more serious than others. Certain instances qualify as true garage door emergencies, while others are less time-sensitive.
Garage door emergencies typically fall into three categories: safety concerns, security risks, and significant disruptions to your routine. Knowing which situations fall into the “emergency” category can help you take prompt action to address them, keeping your property and family as safe as possible.
Safety Concerns
Any situation putting people at risk of bodily harm constitutes a garage door emergency. A door that doesn’t open or close correctly is one of the most significant safety concerns garage door owners face.
Malfunctions during closing put anyone near the door—especially children and pets—at risk of being caught under a door that closes unexpectedly. Garage doors can weigh upwards of 100 pounds, so any impact from a door can cause serious injury.
A door that won’t open is also a safety concern. It’s critical to be able to exit a garage in case of an emergency, whether from the home (for attached garages) or from the garage itself.
Issues with garage door performance have many causes. Some signs to look out for include:
- Malfunctioning sensors or remotes
- A damaged or broken garage door spring
- Visibly damaged or misaligned garage door tracks, cables, or other components
If you notice any of these signs or have other safety concerns, contact your local garage door contractor immediately. Garage door safety is serious business, and it’s best left to the professionals to ensure the issue is correctly diagnosed and resolved.
Security Risks
Freestanding garages often store important—and expensive—belongings such as tools, lawn care equipment, and sports equipment. Attached garages often contain similar items and also provide immediate access to your home. In both cases, keeping your garage secure is critical to protecting your personal property and the people in your home.
Garage door security issues can take many different forms. Some common security concerns are:
- A garage door that won’t close
- A broken or malfunctioning lock
- New damage (cracks, warping) that prevents the door from closing
The urgency of fixing garage door security issues is a matter of personal preference, but it’s best to deal with them as soon as possible. Prompt attention is critical if you live in an area where crime is a concern.
Significant Disruptions to Routine
Your garage door should work for you, not against you. A door that opens or closes exceptionally slowly, gets stuck, or otherwise causes problems in your daily life is troublesome in the moment and can also set the stage for trickle-down issues like lateness, distracted driving, and more.
If your garage door is malfunctioning in a way that negatively impacts your daily life or causes unnecessary stress, it can undoubtedly be considered an emergency. As with security issues, though, when to deal with garage door disruptions is up to you. The more the issue bothers you, the more urgent it probably is. The good news—your garage door contractor can help address the problem whenever you’re ready.
For help with garage door emergencies in Heathsville or the area, call Easy Open Garage Doors, LLC, today! We are your local garage door company dedicated to customer service and comprehensive garage door care. We offer a one-year warranty on workmanship and garage door installation projects, and we are available 24/7 to handle garage door emergencies. Easy Open Garage Door, LLC—Because life is hard enough!
