If you’re like many homeowners, you and your family may open and close your garage door several times a day. All this wear and tear can take a toll on your door and its various operating mechanisms.
Like any mechanical object, a garage door needs regular service to keep it in peak working condition and safe to operate. You can do your part by periodically checking the door to spot potential repair issues before they become significant problems.
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How to Inspect a Garage Door
At Crawford Door Sales, we’ve been providing expert garage door services in Minnesota’s Twin Cities region since 1958. Use our comprehensive garage door inspection checklist to assess the areas most likely require attention.
1. Photo Eye Sensors
These small devices are affixed to either side of the door’s opening about 6 inches above the ground. Their purpose is to stop the door from closing and cause it to reverse direction if it encounters an object.
To test the sensors, place a block of wood or another object that is more than 6 inches tall in the opening and begin the closing process. If the door doesn’t close, the sensors are functioning correctly.
2. Tracks and Rollers
These mechanisms enable the door to move freely and keep it open when you want it to remain that way. Inspect them by switching the opener into manual mode and moving the door into various positions by hand. The door should stay on track as you make these adjustments.
You should also check the rollers for signs of corrosion, cracks, chips or warping.
3. Springs
Springs are essential for raising and lowering the door and counterbalancing its weight. If the springs squeak during operation, apply a lithium grease or silicone spray to lubricate them. If you notice rust or other signs of damage, call a professional garage door technician to address the issue.
Spring repair is not a do-it-yourself project. The built-up tension in the springs can cause them to snap, which can lead to severe injuries.
4. Pulleys and Cables
Garage door systems have a series of pulleys and cables that lift the door and move it along the belt. Check them to ensure they move freely during operation and that the cables aren’t beginning to fray.
5. Weatherstripping
The rubber treads on the bottom and sides of your door provide a seal that makes the garage more energy efficient. Check the weatherstripping for obvious signs of wear and replace it if necessary.
How Do You Inspect a Garage Door Opener?
You should also know how to test a garage door opener to ensure your door will operate safely and efficiently. All openers manufactured after January 1, 1993, have a built-in auto-reverse mechanism that functions much like the photo eye sensors.
To test this feature, place a block of wood or another object at least 1.5 inches high at the door’s edge. Press the opener’s button to close the door. If the auto-reverse is working correctly, the door will stop and change direction.
Contact Crawford Door Sales for Additional Assistance
Crawford Door Sales can perform a fast, professional garage door inspection to ensure your door is functioning correctly. We can also handle any maintenance or repair issues we discover during our check. Contact us to schedule a convenient appointment today.