How to Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Issues with Confidence Mar 07, 2025

For many homeowners, a garage door is more than simply a convenience; it is an essential component of daily life. Yet, like many pieces of machinery, garage doors can occasionally become a source of frustration if they start to malfunction. Armour Contracting Services is dedicated to empowering its clients with the knowledge needed to tackle some of these common garage door issues confidently. Let's explore some typical problems and their solutions.One frequently encountered issue is the garage door not opening or closing properly. This could stem from a malfunction in the remote control or wall switch. Before jumping to conclusions, check the batteries in your remote. Dead batteries are a common culprit and can be easily replaced. If the problem persists, inspect the wall switch. A malfunctioning switch may require the expertise of a garage door technician to ensure safe and proper repair.Sometimes, your garage door may start to make unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking. These sounds usually signal a mechanical issue. Begin by examining the rollers. Over time, rollers can wear out, leading to increased noise levels. Lubricating these moving parts can often quickly resolve the issue. However, if the noise continues, consider checking the tracks. Bent or misaligned tracks can disrupt the smooth operation of the door, and it may be necessary to realign or replace them.A garage door that won't fully close can be quite alarming, as it poses a security risk. In many cases, this issue is related to the photo-eye sensor malfunctioning or becoming misaligned. These sensors, located near the bottom of the door tracks, help detect objects in the door's path. To troubleshoot, ensure these sensors are clean and free of dirt or debris. A quick wipe with a soft cloth can often clear up any obstruction. Also, make sure the sensors are aligned properly. If the problem persists, consult with a professional to inspect the circuitry.Another common concern is the garage door reversing before it fully closes. This is often due to the sensitivity settings on the opener being too high. Most garage door openers have a safety mechanism that can reverse the door if it senses too much resistance. Check your owner's manual to adjust the sensitivity settings—usually labeled as "up force" or "down force." Decreasing this setting slightly can often solve the issue.Finally, if you notice that your door is uneven when opening or closing, it's likely a problem with the spring system. Garage door springs balance the heavy weight of the door, ensuring smooth operation. If they become worn or broken, the door may open unevenly or not at all. Repairing or replacing springs is not a DIY project, as it involves significant risk. Contact Armour Contracting Services to have a trained technician handle this complex and potentially dangerous repair.In conclusion, while some garage door issues can be resolved with a little DIY expertise, others require the specialized skills of a professional garage door technician. Regular maintenance, such as lubricating parts and checking for alignment, can prevent many issues from occurring. If a problem seems beyond your scope or involves complex components, do not hesitate to reach out to the experts at Armour Contracting Services for safe and efficient solutions. By understanding these common issues, you're well on your way to feeling confident in troubleshooting your garage door challenges.