A garage door that has come off its track can be more than just an inconvenience—it can also be dangerous. If your garage door is no longer moving smoothly or gets stuck halfway, it may have come off its tracks. Here’s how to handle the situation safely and effectively, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again.
Signs Your Garage Door Is Off-Track
Before you panic, check for these signs that indicate your garage door is off track:
Jerky Movements: If the door moves unevenly or seems to get stuck, it could be off its tracks.
Loud Noises: Grinding, squeaking, or scraping sounds during operation are a strong indicator that something is wrong.
Visible Misalignment: If the rollers look uneven or aren’t seated correctly in the track, the door is likely off track.
Door Stops Halfway: When a garage door goes off track, it may not be able to complete its movement, stopping midway.
Why Does a Garage Door Go Off Track?
There are several reasons why a garage door might come off track:
Obstructions in the Track: Small debris or objects can block the path, forcing the door to come off track as it attempts to move.
Worn Rollers: Over time, rollers can wear out or break, causing them to slip out of the track.
Impact Damage: If a car or another heavy object bumps into the door, it can knock the door off its track.
Cable or Spring Failure: If the cables or springs responsible for balancing the door snap, it can cause uneven movement, leading to the door going off track.
What to Do When Your Door Is Off-Track
Stop Using the Door Immediately
Continuing to use a door that’s off track can cause more damage to the door and its components. Stop using the door and avoid trying to force it back onto the tracks.
Inspect for Visible Obstructions
Check the tracks for any debris or obstacles that may have caused the misalignment. If you find something, clear it out carefully, but don’t attempt to move the door manually.
Do Not Attempt a DIY Fix
It might be tempting to try and fix the door yourself, but garage doors are heavy and under high tension. Attempting to reset the door without the right tools and experience can be dangerous. Instead, call a professional for a comprehensive Meridian ID garage door repair.
How to Prevent Future Off-Track Issues
You can avoid the frustration of an off-track garage door by keeping up with regular maintenance:
Keep the Tracks Clean: Regularly inspect and clean the tracks to ensure there’s no debris or buildup that can obstruct the rollers.
Lubricate the Moving Parts: Lubricate the rollers, hinges, and springs to reduce friction and wear, which can prevent parts from slipping out of alignment.
Inspect Rollers and Cables: Keep an eye on the rollers and cables for any signs of wear or damage. Replacing these parts before they fail can help avoid bigger problems.
Let Us Handle the Fix
If your garage door has gone off track, don’t risk injury or further damage by trying to fix it yourself. At Garage Door Store Boise, we have the expertise to safely get your door back on track. Whether it’s caused by worn-out parts or an accident, our technicians will restore smooth operation quickly and efficiently.
Call us today for fast, reliable Meridian ID garage door repair services, and let us get your garage door back on track!