Understanding Garage Door Parts: A Guide to Maintenance and Repair
Garage doors, like any other mechanical system, require regular maintenance and repair to function optimally. Understanding the different garage door parts will make it easier to identify and fix problems when they occur. In this blog post, we will discuss essential garage door parts, their functions, and how to maintain and repair them.
1. Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are essential parts of the door’s mechanical system. They help to counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. Most doors have two types of springs; torsion and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door and are wound tightly when the door closes. Extension springs run along the door’s sides and stretch as the door opens.
To maintain torsion springs, spray them with a lubricant and ensure that they are tightened appropriately. For extension springs, you should check the cables regularly to ensure that they are not worn or frayed. If you notice any problems with your garage door springs, it’s best to get them repaired by a professional garage door technician.
2. Garage Door Rollers
Garage door rollers are the parts that help the door to move up and down the tracks. They come in various materials, with the most popular being steel, nylon, and plastic. Steel rollers are durable but noisy, nylon rollers are quieter but less durable, while plastic rollers are less expensive but not as durable as the other two types.
To maintain garage door rollers, lubricate them regularly with a silicone spray or white lithium grease. As they age, the rollers can become worn, leading to misaligning of the tracks or making the door hard to open. If you encounter these problems, consider getting new rollers installed.
3. Garage Door Tracks
The tracks are the channels along which the rollers move when opening and closing the door. They are usually made of steel or aluminum and are susceptible to bending and other types of damage. If your garage door is making strange noises or is hard to open, the tracks could be misaligned or bent.
To maintain the door tracks, make sure they are clean and free from any debris. You should also check them regularly to ensure that they are level and free from any dents or misalignments. If you notice any of these problems, contact a professional garage door technician to repair them.
4. Garage Door Opener
The garage door opener is the part that allows you to open or close the door easily. It’s a motorized device that helps to lift and lower the door. Garage door openers have safety features such as the auto-reverse function, which stops the door from closing if an object is in the way.
To maintain garage door openers, replace the batteries regularly in the remote openers, clean the sensor eyes, and ensure that the moving parts are adequately lubricated. If your garage door opener is malfunctioning, it’s best to call a professional for repair or replacement.
5. Garage Door Cables
Garage door cables help to raise and lower the door. They work in conjunction with the springs to ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly. Cables are usually made of steel and are susceptible to becoming worn or frayed as they age.
To maintain garage door cables, check them regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice that the cables are becoming worn, contact a professional garage door technician for replacement.
6. Garage Door Weatherstripping
Garage door weatherstripping is the rubber strip that seals the door to prevent air and moisture from entering your garage. It is located at the bottom of the door, around the sides, and at the top of the door. Weatherstripping helps to lower energy bills and reduce the amount of noise entering your home.
To maintain garage door weatherstripping, clean it regularly to remove dirt and debris. If you notice any tears or damage, replace the weatherstripping promptly.
7. Garage Door Hinges
Garage door hinges are the parts that allow the door to move smoothly along the tracks. Hinges are usually made of steel and can become worn or rusted over time.
To maintain garage door hinges, lubricate them regularly to prevent rust and ensure that they move smoothly. If you notice signs of wear and tear, replace the hinges to prevent further damage.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining and repairing your garage door can prolong its lifespan and ensure that it works smoothly. From springs to weatherstripping, understanding the different parts of your garage door can make the maintenance process easier. You should also seek professional assistance for any complicated repairs or problems beyond your expertise. A well-maintained garage door is not only functional but also adds to the overall curb appeal of your home.