Your garage door is an essential part of your home’s functionality and security. However, over time, various issues can cause damage to the door’s sections, leading to problems with opening, closing, and overall efficiency. Understanding the common causes of garage door section damage can help you address the issues quickly and effectively. In this article, we’ll explore the main causes of garage door section damage and provide tips on how to fix them.
1. Dents from Impact
One of the most common causes of garage door section damage is dents caused by accidental impact. Whether it’s a car backing into the door, a heavy object being dropped, or kids playing in the driveway, these impacts can leave unsightly dents or even cracks in the door sections. These dents can interfere with the door’s ability to open and close properly, affecting the overall operation.
How to Fix It:
If the dent is shallow, you may be able to repair it yourself. Start by using a hairdryer to heat the affected area, softening the metal. Once the area is warm, use a plunger or a rubber mallet to gently pull or tap the dent back into place. For deeper or more severe dents, it’s best to consult a professional for garage door repair, as they may need to replace the damaged section.
2. Misalignment Due to Lack of Maintenance
Misalignment is another common issue that can lead to damage in garage door sections. Over time, the door’s tracks can become misaligned due to normal wear and tear, poor maintenance, or a sudden jolt or impact. Misalignment can cause the door to become stuck, making it difficult to open or close smoothly.
How to Fix It:
To fix misalignment, start by inspecting the tracks to check for bends or gaps. If the tracks are crooked, use a wrench to loosen the mounting bolts and carefully adjust the track to ensure it’s straight. Tighten the bolts once you’ve aligned the track. If you’re not comfortable with this, it’s best to call a professional technician to adjust the tracks and ensure proper functionality.
3. Worn-Out or Broken Springs
Garage door springs are under a lot of pressure and can wear out or break over time. Broken springs can cause a garage door section to become misaligned, leading to further damage. When the springs break, they can make the door heavy and difficult to open, causing strain on other components, including the door sections.
How to Fix It:
Fixing broken springs is not a DIY task, as they are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle. It’s best to call a professional technician to replace the broken springs safely. If you notice that the door isn’t opening properly or if the springs look worn, have them replaced promptly to avoid further damage to the sections.
4. Weather-Related Damage
Weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or humidity, can affect the materials of your garage door sections. Wood garage doors, for example, can warp and crack when exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. Metal doors can also suffer from rust or corrosion if not properly maintained or sealed. The expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes can also cause the door to become misaligned.
How to Fix It:
If your garage door sections are made of wood and have warped, you may need to replace the affected sections. For metal doors, regular maintenance such as cleaning, sealing, and applying rust-resistant coatings can help prevent weather-related damage. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, consider installing a more weather-resistant garage door material, like steel or fiberglass.
5. Damaged Rollers or Tracks
The rollers and tracks play an important role in the smooth operation of your garage door. Over time, they can become worn, rusted, or damaged due to friction, dirt buildup, or lack of lubrication. When this happens, the door sections may get stuck or become misaligned, causing further damage.
How to Fix It:
Inspect the rollers and tracks regularly for any signs of damage. If the rollers are worn or damaged, they should be replaced. You can do this by unscrewing the rollers from their mounts and replacing them with new ones. For the tracks, remove any dirt or debris using a damp cloth. If the tracks are misaligned or have significant damage, they may need to be adjusted or replaced by a professional.
6. Faulty or Broken Cables
The cables are responsible for helping the garage door move smoothly along the tracks. If one of the cables breaks or becomes worn, it can cause the door to become unbalanced, leading to damage in the sections. This problem can also put extra strain on the springs and other components of the door.
How to Fix It:
If you notice that the cables are frayed or broken, it’s important to call a professional to replace them. Garage door cables are under high tension, and working with them without proper knowledge and tools can be dangerous. A technician will safely replace the cable and ensure the door is properly balanced.
7. Improperly Balanced Door
An improperly balanced garage door can cause uneven wear and tear on the sections. If one side of the door is heavier than the other, it can cause the sections to bend, warp, or even break. This can happen if the springs are not properly calibrated or if there’s an issue with the rollers, tracks, or cables.
How to Fix It:
If your garage door seems unbalanced, it’s important to address the issue quickly to avoid further damage. To fix it, the springs may need to be adjusted, or the rollers and tracks may need to be repaired. This is another issue that should be handled by a professional, as improper adjustments can cause additional damage or even lead to injury.
8. Overuse or Improper Use
Overuse of the garage door or improper use, such as forcing the door open when it’s stuck or trying to operate the door with malfunctioning parts, can lead to damage in the sections. Constant strain on the door can cause it to become misaligned, cracked, or dented.
How to Fix It:
To prevent overuse-related damage, ensure that your garage door is regularly maintained and that all components are functioning properly. Avoid forcing the door open if there’s an issue, and instead call a professional to diagnose and repair any problems.
Conclusion
Garage door section damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including impact, misalignment, worn-out parts, and weather-related issues. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential to keeping your garage door functioning smoothly and extending its lifespan. Whether it’s fixing dents, replacing broken springs, or realigning the tracks, addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the road. For complex repairs, it’s always a good idea to call a professional to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
