We’ve all been there—trying to sneak out early in the morning or come home late at night without waking up the whole house with our squeaky garage door. It can be frustrating and even embarrassing at times, but don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll go over five helpful ways to fix that pesky squeak and get your garage door working smoothly again. So let’s roll up our sleeves, grab some tools, and get to work! Your neighbors will thank you for it.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
The first and most common cause of a squeaky garage door is lack of lubrication on the moving parts. Over time, the metal components can wear down and create friction, causing that annoying squeak. To fix this issue, simply grab some silicone-based lubricant or oil and apply it to all the moving parts such as hinges, rollers, and tracks. You can also use a rag to wipe away any excess lubricant. This should significantly reduce the noise and make your garage door run smoothly again.
This job should take no more than 10-15 minutes, depending on how much lubricant you need to apply and how many moving parts your garage door has. It’s a quick and easy fix that can prevent future issues with your garage door. Plus, by regularly lubricating the moving parts, you can extend the life of your garage door and save yourself from costly repairs down the line. So make sure to add this task to your regular maintenance routine.
Tighten Loose Hardware
Another common cause of a squeaky garage door is loose hardware such as screws, nuts, and bolts. As your garage door opens and closes, it can cause the hardware to loosen over time. To fix this, you’ll need to get into the hardware and tighten things up.
Before tightening any hardware, make sure to prep for the job by gathering all the necessary tools and materials. This may include a socket wrench or screwdriver, lubricant, a rag, and possibly a ladder if you have a high garage door. It’s also important to disconnect your garage door from the power source before attempting any repairs or maintenance to avoid any accidents. And if you’re not comfortable handling tools or don’t have the necessary experience, don’t be afraid to call a professional for help, such as someone at Shank Door.
Check for Worn-Out Rollers
If lubricating and tightening the hardware didn’t solve the issue, your rollers may be worn out and need to be replaced. Rollers bear the weight of the garage door as it opens and closes, so they can wear down over time. If you notice any cracked or chipped rollers, it’s a good idea to replace them. You can find replacement rollers at your local hardware store and easily install them yourself.
Rollers should last for several years, but it’s a good idea to regularly check and maintain them to ensure they are functioning properly. Just like with any mechanical component, wear and tear over time is expected, so it’s a good idea to replace your rollers every 5-7 years or as needed.
Inspect the Tracks
The tracks on either side of your garage door can also be a source of squeaking. Over time, they can become misaligned or even bent, causing the rollers to move unevenly and create noise. To fix this issue, use a level to check if the tracks are aligned correctly. If not, you can gently tap them back into place with a rubber mallet. If you notice any bends or dents in the tracks, it’s best to call a professional for repair.
If your garage door has fallen off its tracks, don’t panic. This issue can be resolved by carefully realigning the tracks and making sure they are securely attached to the wall. You may need to use a level and adjust the tracks with a rubber mallet to ensure they are properly aligned. If you’re not comfortable attempting this repair yourself, it’s best to call a professional for assistance. Attempting to fix a garage door that has fallen off its tracks can be dangerous, so be sure to prioritize your safety.
Replace the Springs
If none of the above solutions worked and your garage door is still squeaking, the springs may be worn out and need to be replaced. This can be dangerous to do on your own, so it’s best to call a professional for this type of repair. Springs are under a lot of tension, and if not handled properly, they can cause injury. A professional will have the necessary tools and expertise to safely replace the springs and get your garage door working quietly again.
Be sure to inspect your garage door springs often and replace them when necessary. As a general rule, most springs will need to be replaced every 5-7 years or after 10,000 cycles. However, this can vary depending on the usage and weight of your garage door. It’s always best to consult with a professional for an accurate assessment and replacement schedule. Waiting too long to replace worn-out springs can lead to a dangerous and expensive situation, so be sure to prioritize regular maintenance and replacement when needed.
Be sure to regularly maintain your garage door by cleaning and lubricating the moving parts. This will not only prevent future squeaks but also extend the lifespan of your garage door. If you’re dealing with a squeaky garage door, don’t ignore it and hope it goes away on its own. Use these five solutions to fix the issue and enjoy a quiet and smoothly operating garage door once again. Good luck!