Do you know that an off-track garage door leads to property damage and higher risks of injuries? That’s why fixing them on time is so important.
But what causes the garage door to derail? And how will you know if your garage door has come off the track? Let’s find answers to these questions and understand the value of an emergency garage door repair.
Reasons Behind an Off-Track Garage Door
Noticing Structural Damage– Incorrect installation or the impact of your vehicle can cause structural damage to your garage. And that can cause the rollers, cables, or tracks to come out of their position. These issues demand the need for an emergency garage door repair.
Problems with Misaligned Tracks– Tracks that face misalignment will likely cause your garage door to come out of track. Lack of lubrication and regular wear and tear are the common reasons behind track misalignment.
Wear and Tear of the Rollers– As rollers start slipping out of their bearings, they lead to uneven movement of garage doors. And the chances of your doors coming off the track increase.
Brackets and Bolts Become Loose– What keeps the garage door tracks in their position? It’s the bolts and brackets. Excess stress because of the door’s overuse makes them loose, causing track misalignment.
Damage to Cables or Springs– Your garage door cables and springs may malfunction due to excess use of the door. Frayed cables and worn springs will likely cause the doors to come off the track. In these situations, a professional garage door repair becomes necessary.
How Can You Spot an Off-Track Garage Door?
Spotting Gaps– Gaps between the track and rollers indicate door misalignment.
Movement Issues– Garage doors that don’t move smoothly suggest something is wrong.
Doors Get Stuck– Doors getting stuck and failing to operate are likely off their tracks.
Hearing Weird Noises– Screeching, grinding or other strange noises hint toward a problem.
Warped or Bent Tracks– Tracks that are warped or bent indicate track misalignment.
Fix a Derailed Garage Door in Emergency
If you have the right tools and a proper approach, you may go for a DIY approach. However, it’s vital to consider safety measures. The steps include disconnecting your garage door opener and having the door in its down position. That avoids the chances of movements during the repair.
Start with a Careful Inspection– The first step involves inspecting the door’s tracks on both sides.
Loosening the Bolts– Now, loosen the bolts and remove them partially.
Bring Rollers Back on Track– After that, reposition the rollers using pliers or a flathead screwdriver if the rollers are stubborn.
Secure the Tracks– Using an adjustable wrench, tighten the bolts and ensure proper alignment of tracks.
The Final Test– Manually move the door up and down and notice how smoothly it operates. If everything seems good, connect back the automatic door opener.