Garage Door Repair Norman OK technicians must have a wide range of skills. This includes technical knowledge, problem-solving skills and the ability to understand and use diagnostic manuals. They also need physical dexterity and the willingness to work with customers.
Check the vertical metal tracks for crimps, folds and dents. If you find serious damage, use a track anvil to straighten the track.
The weather stripping around a garage door is designed to keep dirt, water, and other unwanted elements out of your garage. It also helps to seal out the cold and warm air, saving you energy and money. Over time, however, the rubber strips that make up this important component may become dry, brittle or even crack. In these cases, it’s important to replace your garage door’s weather stripping as soon as possible.
One of the easiest ways to check your garage door’s weather stripping is to look for gaps. A visual inspection should take place at least once or twice a year. During this inspection, you should pay attention to the areas where the door meets the side jambs as well as the bottom of the door (which is typically affixed to an aluminum “boot”). If you see sections of weather stripping that are cracked, flaking or brittle in texture, it’s likely time to replace them.
It’s also a good idea to periodically clean your garage door’s weather stripping. A regular rinse and dusting can help keep the rubber polymers flexible, which will ensure a tighter seal. In addition, lubricating the weather stripping with a silicone-based product will also keep it in top condition.
If you’re considering replacing your garage door’s weather stripping, it’s a good idea to hire a professional for the job. This will help to ensure that your new weather stripping is properly installed and aligned with the garage door so it works effectively. A qualified professional can also perform a complete inspection of your garage door and make any necessary repairs. This can help to extend the life of your garage door.
Rollers
Rollers are small wheels that guide your garage door along its tracks, making it easier to open and close. They’re a vital component of the overall operation, but they can also become worn and damaged over time. Replacing them is a cost-effective way to improve your garage door’s performance.
There are several different types of rollers, and each has its own advantages. Sealed ball bearing rollers, for example, reduce friction and offer a longer lifespan than other options. They are also available in a variety of sizes to fit your specific garage door.
Steel rollers, on the other hand, are durable and work well in high-moisture environments. However, they tend to corrode over time and must be lubricated regularly or you can expect them to start squealing.
Polyurethane rollers are a good option for those who want a combination of durability and low-noise operation. They are designed to last longer than steel rollers and are a great choice for homeowners who live in hot, humid climates.
Finally, there are plastic rollers that are a good choice for those who want to minimize their maintenance expenses. These rollers won’t rust, and they’re also less expensive than metal ones.
While you can replace your garage door rollers yourself, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional before beginning. Taking this step will ensure that the job is done correctly and that your garage door operates safely and efficiently. A professional will be able to provide you with the right rollers for your specific situation, as well as advise you on proper maintenance procedures. These may include regular lubrication or tightening of bolts and screws. It’s also important to remember that never attempt to remove or adjust a spring while it’s under tension, as this can be dangerous.
Spring
There are several different types of garage door springs, but all of them are under extreme pressure and can pose a serious danger when they break. Trying to repair or replace broken springs can be a dangerous DIY project, especially for someone without the proper tools or know-how. A professional can safely handle these delicate parts and get the job done quickly.
The lifespan of a spring depends on how often the door is opened and closed, as well as its weight and how high it can be lifted. Generally, they last around 7-9 years or 10,000 cycles, but this can vary depending on usage. During regular maintenance, a garage door specialist can check the springs and determine if they need replacing or need to be high-cycled.
If the springs aren’t replaced on time, the garage door can fall suddenly and cause damage to cars or people standing underneath. The best way to prevent a spring from breaking is with regular maintenance and safety inspections.
There are a few signs that the springs need to be replaced, such as excessive squeaking or if the garage door is hard to open and close. In addition to replacing the springs, a professional garage door specialist can perform an inspection and apply the necessary lubricant to reduce friction and wear.
There are many benefits of hiring a professional to fix a garage door issue, including their knowledge and expertise in the industry, as well as their tools that are specifically designed for these tasks. In addition, a repair service can save you the hassle of having to find the right tools, search YouTube for “how to” videos and wait for the parts to arrive in the mail.
Cables
Garage door cables are under constant tension, making them prone to wearing out or breaking. When they do, they can cause serious damage to the system. Regular inspection and lubrication can help extend their lifespans, but they will eventually need to be replaced.
If your cables show signs of fraying, they should be replaced immediately. Rust and corrosion can also weaken cables, increasing the risk of breakage. Similarly, if your garage door has changed its load capacity, new cables may be needed to support it safely.
Before starting any cable replacement work, it’s important to disconnect power and secure the garage door in an open position. It’s also crucial to have the proper tools for the job, such as vice grips and locking pliers to keep parts securely fastened. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a step ladder handy to help you reach the upper tracks.
If you’re a confident do-it-yourselfer, it’s possible to replace your own cables. However, this is a task that requires significant skill and knowledge of how your system works. It’s also dangerous to attempt without the proper safety equipment. A professional should be used if you’re uncomfortable or inexperienced with this type of work. Before you start, familiarize yourself with the specific cable and pulley type your garage door uses. The cable’s diameter should be compatible with the pulley groove size and the end loop must be compatible with the bottom bracket anchor point. In addition, the cable length must match your door’s overall height. These details will ensure a seamless, safe cable installation. If you’re ready to tackle this project, we offer a complete kit with a cable cutter and crimper.
Hinges
Those little hinges may seem like the tiniest of components in your garage door, but they play a big role. Without them, your door won’t open and close. If they’re rusty, loose or broken, your entire door system may become unbalanced and start to wear out prematurely. It’s best to fix or replace your hinges right away if you notice that one of them has become worn or rusty.
A good set of hinges will support your garage door and keep it aligned with its tracks. It’s also important that your hinges are sturdy enough to hold the weight of your door and not buckle or break under pressure. Hinges are usually rated in gauges, so make sure you’re getting something that is strong and durable for your specific door type and size.
Another important function of your hinges is distributing the weight of your door evenly across its panels. This prevents any single panel from bearing too much weight, which could damage it or cause it to warp over time.
It’s also a good idea to lubricate your hinges regularly, using silicone-based lubricant (never WD-40; that’s cleaner, not a lubricant). You can find lubricant at most hardware stores or online. Spray the hinges where they bend to allow smooth opening and closing, and be sure to lubricate the rollers and the lock as well. This will help your garage door move smoothly, and also keep it in good working order for a long time to come.