- Find out why a squeaking garage door may be more serious than you think
- Learn the most common reasons why your door could be squeaking
- Know when to DIY and when to call Balanced Garage Doors
A squeaking garage door is more than just a daily annoyance. It can also be a warning sign of deeper maintenance issues that shouldn't be ignored. What may begin as a mild noise can quickly escalate into a costly problem if not addressed promptly.
So, what's causing the squeak—and how do you fix it?
Let's explore three of the most common reasons your garage door might be squeaking and walk through some practical steps for a garage door squeak repair. Whether it's a simple case of dry hinges or a more complicated issue with the squeaky garage door spring, understanding the cause is the first step to resolving it.
4 Reasons Why Your Garage Door is Squeaking
There are many reasons why garage doors may be making noise, but three of the most common issues and ways on how to fix squeaky garage doors are:
Worn-Out or Dry Hinges and Rollers
Hinges and rollers are essential for your garage door's smooth operation. Over time, however, these components can wear out, dry up, or accumulate dirt and debris, which can cause your garage door to squeak. The buildup on the rollers creates friction, leading to the annoying noise. Regular lubrication is key to ensuring these parts move effortlessly and quietly.
How to fix it: Lubricate the hinges and rollers of your garage with a high-quality garage door-specific lubricant. Make sure to only use garage door-specific lubricant, as other types can attract more dirt and grime. Wipe away any excess debris before applying the lubricant to ensure it penetrates effectively. Regular lubrication not only silences squeaks but also prolongs the life of your garage door components.
Loose bolts, nuts, and screws
Check your hardware. Garage door consists of numerous components that can become loose over time due to frequent use and vibrations. Loose bolts, nuts, or screws can cause parts of the door to move unevenly, leading to squeaking noises.
How to fix it: After lubricating the moving part as mentioned above, check the hardware for any loose screws, bolts, or nuts. Tighten them as needed to ensure that everything is securely in place. This will reduce vibrations and help prevent further squeaking.
Start from the bottom of the door and work your way around. Inspect each part of the door's hardware and tighten any loose bolts, nuts, or screws you find. This simple garage door squeak repair tip can significantly reduce or eliminate a squeaking garage door.
Worn out or misaligned tracks
The tracks that guide your garage door's movement can become worn or misaligned, causing the door to squeak as it operates. If you notice that the door moves unevenly or hear a grinding sound in addition to the squeak, the tracks may be the culprit.
How to fix it: Check the tracks for signs of wear and ensure they are properly aligned. Thoroughly clean them to eliminate any debris that could be causing friction. If the tracks are misaligned, you may need to adjust them, and iIf they are bent or damaged, it may be necessary to replace them.
Tracks can be a tricky component of garage doors. For more complex issues, consider reaching out to professionals at Balanced Garage Doors to avoid further damage.
Springs at the wrong tension
Another common culprit for a squeaking garage door are faulty springs. Springs operate under significant tension and may gradually wear out, resulting in squeaks and even dangerous malfunctions.
How to fix it: Due to their high tension, garage door springs are the most dangerous component of garage doors. Handling garage door springs can be hazardous without the proper tools and expertise.
If you suspect that your springs are the source of the noise, it's best to contact Balanced Garage Doors for a professional inspection and repair.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing a squeaky garage door and keeping it operating smoothly. By lubricating moving parts, tightening hardware, and inspecting components like springs and tracks, you can minimize noise and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Play it Safe and Call Balanced Garage Doors
While many squeaking garage door issues can be resolved with basic maintenance, some problems require professional attention. If the squeak continues despite your efforts or if you notice other concerns like uneven movement, grinding sounds, or the door getting stuck, it's time to call in the experts.
Balanced Garage Doors offers comprehensive garage door services, from garage door squeak repair to garage door springs to full system inspections and repairs. Ensuring your garage door is in top condition not only improves its lifespan but also enhances your home's safety and convenience.
To learn more about garage door maintenance or to schedule a service, call Balanced Garage Doors today. Our team of professionals is ready to ensure your garage door operates smoothly and quietly for years to come.
