DIY Tips To Inspect Your Own Garage Door

DIY garage door inspection reduces breakdown, malfunction, and wear and tear. Every homeowner should inspect their garage door on a regular basis. Regular inspections reveal problems that would otherwise go unnoticed.  You’ll eliminate the need for expensive repairs and replacements when regular inspections occur.

Unsure how to inspect your own garage door? You are not alone. Many homeowners avoid the job altogether because they’re not sure where to begin. Put that worry behind you as we offer the following DIY tips for a successful garage door inspection.

Inspect the Panels

Inspect the garage door panels. Look for signs of damage or wear and tear. Over time, weather elements and age cause damage and wear and tear to the garage door panels. This results in poor aesthetics but can also affect the operation of the door. Adding a garage door privacy screen can not only improve the appearance of your garage but also offer enhanced privacy and protection from elements that may lead to faster wear. The panels should be in good shape, free of bends, rips, tears, peeling paint, broken parts, or other abrasions.

Check the Garage Door Movement

Open and close the garage door while you stand back and observe. The door should open and close smoothly, free from any lurching or snags. If the garage door opens slowly, if it makes persistent noises, or if it doesn’t completely open and/or close, there’s a problem. At this point you may need a new garage door opener and it is best to hire professionals to complete the garage door opener installation so that is done right the first time. 

Making DIY repairs of the garage door moving parts is not advised which is why calling a professional is the best choice.. This job can be very dangerous. Find the #1 garage door specialist in Beaverton OR, or a garage door shop near you, to get efficient, safe repairs. 

Check the Garage Door Roller Tracks

Garage doors come off the track if the rollers are not straight. They’ll also come off the track if they’re bent or otherwise damaged. Such damage occurs before we realize what’s happened. We use the garage door so often, we don’t pay it much attention until there is a problem. 

This leaves plenty of room for damage to occur right under our nose. Regular inspections prevent garage door mishaps.

When the garage door comes off the track, it is difficult to operate and becomes dangerous. Tighten the brackets, make sure they’re secured to the wall, and straighten the track if the door is off its roller.

What’s That Noise?

Listen to your garage door. Unusual noises and sounds often suggest there’s a problem. Your garage door should offer quiet, noise-free operation for the most part. If it rattles, cracks, or otherwise makes noises, it is time to oil the garage door. 

WD40 or another similar lubricant takes care of this job. Apply the oil to the garage door to cease the noises and help prevent rust and other damage.  Apply the lubricant using a brush to get inside of all nooks and crannies of the garage door.

DIY garage door inspections prevent unnecessary wear and tear as well as added expenses. Not only do you avoid costs associated with professional service, but prolong the lifetime of the door. Keep the above tips in mind when inspecting the garage door every few months.