If you have ever had a noisy or jerky garage door, you know how frustrating it can be. You might even wonder if something is wrong with your garage door. In many cases, the garage door alignment could be the issue. But don’t worry, you will find that this problem is not as complicated as it seems, and you can often fix it yourself.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about garage door alignment, from signs that your garage door is off-track to easy DIY steps for realigning it.
What Is Garage Door Alignment and Why Is It Important?
Garage door alignment refers to how well you position and align the tracks, rollers, and other components of the door system. When these parts misalign, your garage door may start to behave strangely. It might move unevenly, make grinding noises, or even get stuck halfway.
A properly aligned garage door ensures smooth operation, reduces wear and tear, and prevents more expensive repairs down the road. Plus, a misaligned garage door can create a safety hazard. Imagine the door coming down unevenly or suddenly jerking as it opens. That could damage your car or even cause an injury.
If you have noticed your garage door having trouble opening or closing, garage door alignment is likely the culprit. Check out our detailed blog on the importance of track alignment in a garage door system to learn more about the role of tracks.
Signs of a Garage Door Off Track
Before we dive into fixing the issue, it is important to know if your garage door really is misaligned. Here are a few common signs that indicate your door may need some attention:
- Uneven Movement: When opening or closing, the garage door might move unevenly, getting stuck or tilting to one side.
- Loud Noises: A misaligned garage door will often make grinding, squeaking, or scraping sounds as it moves along the tracks.
- Jerky Movement: If the door hesitates or jumps as it opens or closes, it could mean the tracks are out of alignment.
- Door Won’t Stay Open or Close Properly: If your garage door suddenly won’t stay open or is difficult to close completely, the tracks may be misaligned.
If you are dealing with any of these problems, don’t panic. Most of the time, they are easy to fix. Let us dive into how to realign your garage door.
Tools You’ll Need
Before starting, gather the right tools for the job. Here’s a basic list of what you will need:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Ladder
- Tape measure
- Pliers
These simple tools are all you need, even if you have never touched a garage door system before. In fact, these basic items you probably already have lying around are enough for most alignment fixes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Realign Garage Door
Now that you’ve got your tools ready, let us get into how you can fix your garage door alignment. If you live in Valley Village or nearby areas like Studio City or Burbank, correcting the alignment can save you time and money, especially if you are looking for an easy DIY solution. However, check out the CPSC’s safety rules for garage doors before you start on any garage door alignment. Staying informed helps prevent accidents at home.
1. Safety First
Before touching anything, disconnect the garage door opener. This step prevents the door from moving suddenly while you work on it. Also, ensure the door is fully closed and supported to avoid accidents.
2. Inspect the Tracks for Damage
The first step is to check the tracks carefully. Check for bends, gaps, or blockages. Even a small bend in the track can throw the entire system off. Use pliers to gently straighten minor bends or a hammer to tap the track into position.
3. Check the Roller Condition
Next, take a look at the rollers. Are they worn out or rusty? Worn-out rollers can cause your door to get stuck or move unevenly. Thus, replace the rollers if you see any damage. Make sure they glide smoothly in the track.
4. Adjust the Tracks for Proper Alignment
Using a level, check the alignment of the tracks. They should be perfectly vertical. If the tracks are tilted or angled, loosen the mounting bolts with a wrench, then move the tracks into place. Once they are straight, tighten the bolts again.
5. Lubricate the Tracks and Rollers
Once everything is aligned, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers. This step helps the door operate smoothly, reduces friction, and extends the system’s lifespan.
6. Test the Door Movement
Finally, manually open and close the door to check for smooth, even movement. If everything looks good, congratulations, you have fixed your garage door alignment.
Preventing Future Alignment Issues
Now that your door is properly aligned, you will want to keep it that way. Here are a few tips to maintain your garage door’s alignment:
- Regular Inspections: Inspect the tracks, rollers, and other components for wear and tear every few months.
- Lubrication: At least once a year, put lubricant on the rollers and tracks.
- Keep the Area Clean: Make sure no debris or dirt is blocking the tracks.
- Adjust for Seasonal Changes: Garage door alignment can be affected by temperature changes. If you notice any issues after a season change, check the tracks again.
If you are unsure about performing these tasks yourself, reach out to a local garage door technician at Fixxed Garage Doors for professional alignment service.
When to Call for Expert Help
Some garage door alignment issues are simple to fix, but there are times when calling in the pros is better. If your garage door is severely off-track or the tracks are beyond repair, call a professional for help. Search for “garage door repair near me” to find a reliable local expert who can resolve the issue quickly and safely.
In some cases, misalignment could be caused by an underlying problem, like a malfunctioning opener or damaged cables. If the DIY steps above don’t solve the problem, feel free to call a garage door alignment service in Studio City or a garage door track repair in Burbank. Investing in a professional repair is better than risking further damage to the door system.
Get Expert Garage Door Alignment & Repair Today
If you are searching for professional garage door alignment services, look no further. At Fixxed Garage Doors, we’ve earned a reputation for quality, backed by our Houzz Award and Yelp-verified status. Our team of certified technicians is here to help, whether you are in Valley Village, Studio City, or nearby areas. We are ready to get your garage door working like new again.
Call Fixxed Garage Doors at (323) 364-6764 now for fast, professional service that ensures your garage door is running smoothly.
Recent Comments