Understanding Off-Track Garage Doors: Causes and Risks
Written by Nir S. Garage Door Technician – B&W Garage Doors
Having an off-track garage door is inconvenient and frustrating.
Not only will it disrupt access to your garage, but it also poses a safety risk.
Here at B&W Garage Door Specialists, we specialize in getting your door back in working condition safely and fast.
What is an Off-Track Garage Door?
An off-track garage door is misaligned from the intended path within the garage door frame. The misalignment can happen for several reasons, and a door off-track can be more than an annoyance.
The door can get jammed or stuck, hindering access to the garage and damaging the door itself when you try to force it open.
It can create a safety hazard, as an unbalanced door can fall, posing a risk of injury to you and your family.
Lastly, the gaps between the door and frame can create security vulnerabilities, leading to break-ins.
What Are The Signs That Your Garage Door is Off-track?
If you notice any of the following signs, your garage door might be off track:
- Does the door appear crooked or perhaps uneven when you close it? If so, it indicates that the door is not following the intended track and is misaligned.
- Does your door jam stick or move with unusual resistance? This happens when the cables and rollers are misaligned.
- If your garage door makes a grinding, screeching, or other strange noise when it is used, it often indicates that the components are damaged or misaligned.
- Visible gaps between the door frame and panel indicate that the door is not properly secured on the track.
Common Causes Resulting in an Off-track Garage Doo
Several reasons can cause an off-track garage door.
One is a strong impact from hitting the door with your car, which can knock it off the track.
Even broken or worn-out parts like cables, rollers, and tracks can wear out with time. Lastly, poor installation or the lack of regular maintenance can result in the door becoming loose or misaligned over time.
The Importance of Having a Professional Repair Done
While attempting a DIY repair might seem tempting, there are several reasons why it’s best to leave an off-track garage door repair to the professionals:
- Safety Concerns: A heavy garage door can be dangerous to handle while off track. Professional technicians have the experience and equipment to maneuver and repair the door safely.
- Expertise and Tools: Our technicians have the necessary knowledge and tools to diagnose the problem, realign the door, and replace damaged components.
- Prevent Further Damage: A DIY attempt might further damage your door or compromise functionality. Professionals will address the root cause of the problem to prevent future issues.
B&W Garage Door Calgary’s Repair Process
When you contact B&W Garage Door Calgary for your off-track garage door repair, you can expect the following:
- Initial Inspection: Our experienced technician will first assess your garage door to identify the specific cause of the misalignment.
- Realignment and Repair: Once the cause is identified, the technician will safely realign the door within its track. Any damaged parts, such as rollers, cables, or brackets, will be repaired or replaced with high-quality components.
- Testing and Quality Assurance: Our technician will thoroughly test the door to ensure smooth and safe operation after completing the repairs. We want to make sure your door opens and closes before we leave.
Why Choose Us For Your Garage Door Repair
When it comes to garage door repairs, we have an experienced team of skilled technicians who can handle any off-track garage door repair efficiently and professionally.
We provide customer satisfaction and pride ourselves on ensuring an excellent track record with positive reviews.
We provide fast and reliable service to ensure your door is working in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the repair take?
The repair time depends on the severity of the problem. However, most off-track door repairs can be completed within an hour.
Is it safe to use the door if it's off track?
No, it’s not safe to use an off-track door. An unbalanced door can fall unexpectedly, damage other components if forced open, and create security risks due to gaps in the frame.
What should I do if my garage door goes off track?
You should stop using the door and disengage the automatic opener if you have one. Then contact one of our professional technicians to have it repaired.
Can I prevent my garage door from going off track?
While not foolproof, you can minimize the risk by having regular maintenance done by a professional. The technicians will inspect and lubricate the moving parts. They can also prevent unnecessary force from being placed on the door when you open/close it manually.
