Most Important Components of Your Garage Door

Garage doors are beneficial for a home’s security, aesthetic appeal, and functionality. However, many homeowners overlook the importance of maintaining its key components until something goes wrong. Understanding the most important components of your garage door can help you keep it in top shape and avoid costly repairs.

The Flexible Hinges

Hinges connect the various sections of your garage door, allowing it to bend and flex as it opens and closes. You may notice your door stiffening and creating unpleasant sounds if the hinges wear out. Regularly lubricate the hinges with a silicone-based spray to ensure they can move smoothly. If you notice rust or wear, replace them immediately to prevent further damage.

The Powerful Springs

Garage door springs bear the immense weight of the door, making them some of the most critical components. The two most common types of springs are extension and torsion springs.

Torsion springs are above the door, while extension springs go along the sides. Both are under high tension and can be hazardous if they break. No matter what type of spring you have, you should pay attention to signs of broken garage door springs, including strange noises as the door operates. Without springs, you risk having a useless door that won’t open or close properly.

The Stable Tracks

Some of the most important components of your garage door are the tracks that allow the door to glide smoothly up and down. If your door is jerky or gets stuck, it may have misaligned or dirty tracks.

Regularly clean the tracks with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Check for bends or dents, and use a rubber mallet to straighten them. Securely fasten the tracks to the wall, as loose tracks may result in the door derailing.

The Reliable Opener

The garage door opener does the work by controlling the opening and closing mechanisms. A reliable opener ensures the door operates efficiently and safely.

Modern openers have various features like remote controls, keypads, and smartphone integration to make operation more convenient. Regularly check the opener’s settings, and make sure the safety sensors are functional. If you have trouble opening your garage door with the remote, you may need to replace the batteries or recalibrate the sensors.

Understanding and maintaining these key components can prolong the life of your garage door, enhance its performance, and ensure the safety of your home. With this knowledge, you can hopefully avoid costly repairs after parts start to wear down.