The typical modern garage door is made of steel and backed by rigid-foam insulation. The strongest garage doors feature 24-gauge panels. Embossed wood-grain patterns or smooth finishes are common, and most new doors come with baked-on primer and polyester topcoat. A limited lifetime warranty is standard for steel doors. However, these doors can be repaired by a homeowner, with some precautions. If the springs are broken or the hardware is damaged, a professional should be called.
If the springs are worn or torn, the first step is to inspect the door. Most professionals will recommend replacing both springs, since each torsion spring can handle at least 10,000 close/open cycles. This will save you around $50 in labor costs, and the new door will be more durable than the old one. Besides, replacing both springs will save you from having to pay an electrician to replace one. Most torsion-style springs are rated for at least 10,000 close/open cycles, and replacing both will help protect your door from rust, which can damage the finish.
To repair the springs of your garage door, you should use a mild detergent or soap with less than 0.5 percent detergent. The springs should stick out enough so that they don’t touch the inside shaft. You can adjust the tension of the torsion-style springs with an open-end wrench or spanner. For an even more detailed adjustment, you can use a drill to change the TorqueMaster One or two systems.
Besides cleaning the springs, you should also clean the exterior of the door to keep rust and grease from forming. Dirt and grease can clog the tracks and rollers of your garage door. It is therefore essential to wipe down the exterior door of your garage regularly to prevent corrosive substances from seeping into the tiny cracks. The best way to prevent this is to use a mild detergent with a low phosphate concentration.
To avoid damage, the door should be well-lubricated. A lightweight motor oil should be used. It should be applied to the torsion springs using a pencil. Extension springs don’t require any oiling. It is recommended to lubricate the tracks and rollers every six months. You should also clean the exterior of your garage door, as dirt and grime can clog the tracks and rollers.
If you need to hire a professional to repair your garage door, make sure they are licensed general contractors. The license is important for any garage door repair service. If the company is a sole proprietorship, there is no need for employees to be licensed. Nevertheless, all businesses must have insurance coverage and a good reputation. If you have a neighbor or friend who is currently satisfied with a company, it’s worth asking them for recommendations.