Shaky Garage Doors: Potential Problems and Ways to Fix
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Garage doors are essential in any home, offering you convenience and security. But when you have a shaky garage door, it can lead to concern, not to mention frustration.
Beyond being noisy, the wobbly door can signal underlying problems that, when left unchecked, can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. Luckily, Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers are here to help.
Why is My Garage Door Shaking?
A shaky garage door indicates that something is not aligned or worn out.
Several factors can contribute to the issue:
Loose Hardware
A common cause is loose hardware, causing your garage door to shake.
Over time, the bolts, hinges, and screws holding the door in place become loose due to the constant vibration of daily use.
When you have loose components, the door starts to wobble or shake during use, affecting the use.
Worn Rollers
The rollers guide the door along the tracks, ensuring that it works. Still, as the rollers age, they become chipped or cracked, leading to damage and uneven movement. It leads to the door shaking and struggles to open or close.
Misaligned Tracks
Another cause of a shaky garage door is misaligned tracks. The tracks need to be aligned for the door to work. If the tracks are bent or not positioned correctly, the door yanks or shakes while moving, creating a noise.
Damaged Cables or Springs
The cables and springs carry most of the weight of the door.
They cannot support the door when damaged and worn out, leading to instability.
Lubrication
If the door is not lubricated, it impacts the garage door. The moving parts like hinges, rollers, and tracks need proper lubrication to help reduce friction.
Without it, these parts grind against each other, resulting in a shaky door making loud noises.
Identifying the cause of the shakiness is essential to implement the right solution.
How We Fix a Shaky Garage Door
When it comes to a shaky garage door, there are some steps you can take as follows:
Inspect and Tighten Loose Hardware
Over time, bolts, hinges, and screws can loosen due to regular use. You can inspect the hardware and use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten the loose parts. Be careful not to overtighten, as it can damage the parts.
Replace Worn Rollers
The rollers provide movement, and you can inspect the rollers for signs of cracks or chips. If the rollers are damaged, you can replace them or give us a call at Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers to provide you with high-quality rollers.
Realign the Tracks
If you notice a bent or misaligned track, the door can shake. You can loosen the screws holding the tracks in place, then adjust them back into alignment and retighten the screws. Use a level to ensure the tracks are straight.
Inspect the Springs and Cables
The cables and springs are always under high tension and can become dangerous when worn out. You need the correct tools and expertise to replace them. If you suspect damage, contact one of our technicians to replace or repair them.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
Regular lubrication can help reduce friction to ensure the garage door works well. You can use a silicone-based product or a specifically designed garage door oil on the following:
- Rollers
- Hinges
- Tracks
- Springs
We do not recommend grease, which attracts debris and dirt, causing more problems.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To help keep your garage door working in tip-top condition, you can do the following:
- Schedule regular inspections: Check hardware, tracks, and rollers every few months.
- Keep the tracks clean: Remove debris or buildup obstructing the door’s movement.
- Test the balance: Disconnect the opener and raise the door halfway using your hands. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment.
- Listen for unusual noises: Squeaking or grinding sounds could signal a need for lubrication or repairs.
- Hire a professional for annual tune-ups: A technician can catch potential problems early and ensure your door functions optimally.
When to Give Us a Call
While there are some fixes you can handle, certain repairs are best left to professionals.
- The springs or cables are damaged.
- The door continues to shake after addressing the above issues.
- You notice unusual wear on components that are difficult to access or replace.
- The opener system struggles when operating the door.
Our garage door technicians have the tools to ensure a safe repair.
The Importance of a Working Garage Door
A functioning garage door helps improve the curb appeal and ensures your family is safe. Addressing a shaky garage door can prevent issues from escalating into expensive repairs.
Maintaining your garage door helps with home security and longevity.
If you have problems with your garage door, contact Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers for help.
