5 Common Garage Door Problems With Easy Fixes

(Image source)

Home repairs may be quite common. Your home may need a bit of repairing and maintenance here and there to improve its functionality. However, some of these repairs can cost you a lot.

Some fixes may need expert supervision. However, there are many repairs around the house that you can do on your own. Your garage door is one such place.

An automatic garage door sure makes life easier. With just a push of a button, you can take your vehicles out and park them inside without stepping out from them. These automated devices can be quite handy and time-saving in our fast-paced lives. They provide protection and security to our vehicles. However, garage doors are susceptible to repairs due to daily use.

Garage doors are mechanical devices that can encounter problems here and there. It may be that your garage door is not opening smoothly or making a sound while opening or closing. These problems are quite common and may have simple fixes.

Most of the problems of the garage door may be quite minor, which may not need expert repairs. The idea is to find out the exact problem and try to resolve it on your own. If you do not think you are confident enough with your toolbox, we will tell you some simple fixes to repair a garage door.

Here are 5 common problems that you may encounter with your garage door and some easy ways to fix them.

1)  The garage door is not opening properly-

This is the most common type of problem that you may face. If you find that your garage door is not opening or closing as smoothly as it should, you need to find the exact cause. The batteries of the door may need replacing. If you have recently changed the batteries, you may try lubricating the rails of the garage opener. Your garage door may also not be functioning properly due to the transmitter issues. So, make sure to replace it with fresh batteries as well.

2)  The photo-eyes are not working properly

The latest garage doors have sensors that prevent them from closing in on anyone or anything in their way. This mechanism helps prevent serious injury. Sometimes, your garage door may not close. This may be due to an obstruction in the photo-eyes. First, locate the photo-eyes. They are usually placed on both sides of the garage wall. Then, you can try to clean their surface using a soft cloth. The photo-eyes work just like a camera lens to detect any object. Once the lens is clean, your garage door may function normally. If not, you can try to check if they are aligned properly. Photo-eyes need to face each other at the same angle. If they cannot detect each other, they assume that something is on the way, and this prevents the closing of the door. Once you align them, your garage door should function normally.

3)  Your garage door isn’t opening all the way-

(Image source)

Sometimes, you will see that your garage door isn’t opening all the way, or is having trouble opening at all. Though you are sure that the transmitter and the remote are working fine, the door is having trouble going up. This may be due to your torsion springs being broken. These powerful springs are responsible for lifting the heavy garage door. You may hear a loud bang when one of these breaks. If not, your garage door making a noise but not opening is an indication that your garage door springs are broken. Most springs have a limited life cycle, after which you should replace them.

4)  Water entering into your garage

Your garage door contains a weather sealant that keeps water and air out of your garage. If you notice that there is water leaking from your garage door, you may have to repair it immediately. Leaking water may cause irreparable damage to your garage door. To avoid it, you can replace the weather sealant on your garage door. It is advisable to keep an eye on this part of your garage door and replace it when you notice any cracks in it. You can further use a waterproof cement or filler to close any holes as well.

5)  Your garage door isn’t closing properly

If you find that your garage door closes and then opens up again, there may be problems in setting your garage door limits. This problem usually persists on a newly installed or replaced garage door. You need to set a limit on the garage door for it to close properly. If the limit is too high, the door may hit the ground and open up again, thinking that it has hit something. If the limit is too low, the door may not close properly. You may have to do some trial and error before you can set the correct limit on your garage door, for it to function smoothly.

Conclusion

These are some common problems that you may face with your garage door and how you can fix them without calling in for expert repairs. However, these solutions are perfect for minor repairs. If your garage door is having persistent problems, you may have to get help for the experts. Carrying regular maintenance of your garage door will ensure that it is running without any issues. If you are looking for garage door replacement hardware, consult Ideal Security Garage Door Hardware section with hinges, brackets, rollers, side-locks available in zinc plated or powder-coated black finishes.

---

Author’s Bio

Derek Edison Is an Interior Decorator and a passionate writer who loves to write about creating an aesthetic and ambient living environment for everyone. He focuses on sharing ideas and techniques learned from his experience as an Interior Decorator in a concise manner so that it can be used by everyone to make their surroundings beautiful to live in. Currently, he’s working with Elitetech Garage Door Repair.

6 Great Ways Enhance Your Curb Appeal

A striking front entrance makes a statement about you and your home. It serves as a greeting point for guests and gives the first impression about what to expect inside. And if you have future plans to sell your property, real estate agents agree that it’s one of the best ways to attract buyers and increase your home’s value. Impress your friends and neighbors with these ideas to spruce up your home’s front entrance.

1. Upgrade the Front Door

The front door is the main focal point of your home’s entrance. A front door in shoddy condition can detract from the appearance of the whole house. Washing, refinishing or repainting it using an eye-catching color is a simple and easy project that will make a dramatic difference. Another simple improvement is replacing your door’s hardware. Replace both the doorknob and storm door handle with shiny new ones. Consider adding or upgrading accessories such as house numbers, a door knocker, and a mailbox. If your front door is in poor condition, you’ll get a good return on investment by replacing it. Add a pretty seasonal wreath and a tasteful doormat.

2. Add Charm With Paving Stones

Paving stones are perfect for creating a charming and inviting entry. Install either a paver stone porch or patio, walkway, or paver stairs separately, or go all the way paver stone with all three. Paver stones come in a variety of shapes and colors and go well with any architectural style from traditional to modern. Paving stones are also durable and slip-resistant for active families. The visual appeal and value of your property will instantly increase without a large investment.

3. Create a Seating Area

Outdoor living areas are most often reserved for the backyard. Do away with this tradition and add a conversation area on or near the front porch. This can be accomplished with something as simple as a pretty wrought iron bistro set. The front yard will be more functional as you’ll have a place to sit and enjoy your morning coffee or cold drink in the afternoon. You’ll make the statement that you want to invite guests to sit and chat.

4. Repaint the Trim

Refresh your home’s facade by repainting the trim around windows, fascia, porch railings, awnings, and the front door. It’s another easy and affordable way to spice up your home’s entry. Make the job easier and quicker by using the same color. But don’t be afraid to change the color to complement or contrast with the rest of your home. Be sure to scrape and sand peeling paint first.

5. Plant Flowers and Shrubs

Seasonal flowers add a dash of interest and color to your home’s entry, and shrubs provide year-round greenery. Plant them in beds or large containers. The foundation of a home is usually the most unattractive part. If it’s visible, camouflage it with flowering shrubs such as azaleas and hydrangeas. Choose plants that grow three to four feet in height. Add a good mulch around flower beds and shrubbery for a neat and finished look. You can find sites online with hundreds of flower options. Just find the right ones for you!

6. Practice Good Lawn Care Habits

If your lawn is weedy, overgrown, has brown patches or bald spots, it will be hard for everything else you’ve accomplished to shine. Lawn care is a science and an art. Learn the ways to make your lawn look its best. This includes best practices for watering, fertilizing, and mowing for each season. If lawn care is just too much to keep up with, or if you live in a drought-prone area, consider alternatives such as artificial turf or hardscaping.