If you ever have a garage door that does not close properly, sticks, or squeaks, you are not the only one. Often, uneven tracks are to blame, which is a common problem that is easy to miss. Do not worry, though. This guide will cover everything you need to know about garage door track alignment. So, let us get started on making your garage door glide like it never did before.
Common Signs of Garage Door Track Misalignment
The garage door track guides and supports the door as it opens and shuts. If the track is out of alignment, the door might not work right or at all. To tell if your garage door tracks are out of alignment, look out for these usual signs:
Difficulty in Opening or Closing
If your garage door is hard to open or close, it could be due to misalignment. When there is a perfect garage door track alignment, the door should move easily. If not, there can be resistance.
Noisy Garage Door Operation
Common signs of misalignment are strange sounds, like grinding, scraping, or squeaking. These noises happen when the garage door rubs against the sides of the track because of misalignment.
Obvious Gap or Misalignment
There is a clear sign of garage door track alignment problems when there are noticeable gaps between the rollers and the track. When this happens, it makes the door less stable and does not work as well as it used to.
Off-Balanced Garage Door
Does your garage door look uneven or sag on one side when it is closed or moving? You probably have misaligned tracks. This unevenness can put stress on other parts of the garage door system, which can cause more trouble down the line.
Rollers Come Off Track
The rollers can easily fall out of the track if the garage door track is not straight, resulting in off-track garage doors. This issue could stop the door from working at all or get stuck between open and closed positions.
Wear and Tear on Rollers or Tracks
Misaligned garage door tracks can make the garage door rollers experience uneven or more pressure. It can cause damage to the rollers and make the tracks bend or twist, which are both signs of wear.
Door Moves Slower Than Usual
If you have misaligned tracks, the garage door may move more slowly when opening or closing because of the extra resistance.
Helpful Tips for a Perfect Garage Door Track Alignment
Your garage door will work safely, quietly, and smoothly if it is in the correct alignment. Here are some helpful tips for achieving a perfect garage door track alignment:
Safety Precautions and Necessary Preparations
Before you start working on your garage door, be sure to turn off the power of your opener. You can work on the tracks with the door open by using clamps or locking pliers so it will not move.
Inspect the Garage Door Tracks
Look for any dents, bends, or damage in the garage door tracks. An easy way to fix small bends is to use a rubber mallet or a block of wood and a hammer. On the other hand, badly broken tracks might need a replacement.
Check for Loose Garage Hardware
Garage door hardware can come loose at some point. Make sure that all the bolts, screws, and mounting brackets are tight. Use a wrench or a socket set to fasten any loose hardware.
Align the Tracks
The tracks should be perfectly vertical and aligned with each other. Use a level to check the alignment of the tracks. If not aligned, loosen the mounting brackets and gently tap the tracks into position. Once aligned, retighten the brackets.
Adjust the Gap
There should be a small gap between the door and the track. This gap allows the door to operate smoothly without rubbing against the track. If the gap is too large or too small, adjust the track position. Loosen the mounting brackets slightly, adjust the track to achieve the correct gap, and then retighten the brackets.
Lubricate the Tracks and Rollers
Once the tracks are straight, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers. It will help the door move smoothly and reduce noise. Avoid using grease, as it can attract dust and debris, leading to more issues.
Test the Garage Door
After making adjustments, carefully remove any clamps or locking pliers and reconnect the power to the opener. First, lift the door up and down manually to make sure it moves easily. Then, test it with the opener to ensure it operates correctly and smoothly.
Regular Garage Door Maintenance
It is important to take care of your garage door regularly to avoid problems later on. Inspect the garage door more often and make sure all the screws and bolts are tight. Also, check if the door hangs evenly on both sides. Then, apply lubricant on the parts that move, like hinges and rollers, to keep them working smoothly.
Seek Professional Help
Call a garage door repair specialist if you are unsure about the alignment process or if the door still does not work properly after changes. They can find and fix any issues, ensuring your garage door works with ease and is safe to use.
By following this handful of tips, you can make sure your garage door track alignment is perfect. Doing so will help your garage door last longer, work better, and be safer to use. Remember to take care of your garage door regularly and fix any problems right away. All of these will make your garage door stay in great shape for many years.
Garage Door Repair Near Me
Are you having trouble with the garage door track alignment? Do not worry. Titan Garage Doors Lincoln NE is here to help with all your garage door repair needs. Whether you are dealing with a bent track or a broken garage door opener, we promise fast and effective solutions to get your garage door working like new. Our team offers top-notch garage door services in Lincoln and neighboring cities, including garage door track replacements and garage door spring installations. We aim to complete every job swiftly and thoroughly. Call us today for affordable rates and warranties.
