How to Level Garage Door – Ultimate Guide

Understanding the importance of a level garage door

Having a level garage door is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that the door operates smoothly and efficiently. When a garage door is not level, it can cause the opener to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear on the opener and the door itself. Additionally, an uneven door can cause the door to bind, making it difficult to open and close, and can also cause the door to come off its tracks.

A level garage door also helps to ensure the safety of the door. If the door is not level, it can cause the door to close unevenly, which can lead to damage to the door or the opener. Additionally, an uneven door can cause the opener to work harder, increasing the risk of the opener malfunctioning or breaking down.

Checking for levelness

Before you can level your garage door, you need to determine whether or not the door is level. The easiest way to check for levelness is to use a spirit level or a laser level. Place the level on the top of the door and check to see if the bubble is centered. If the bubble is not centered, the door is not level. You can also check the door by closing it and observing how it sits on the track. If the door is not level, it will sit unevenly on the track.

Adjusting the hinges

If your garage door is not level, the first step in leveling it is to adjust the hinges. To adjust the hinges, you will need to loosen the bolts that hold the hinges to the door. Once the bolts are loose, you can adjust the position of the hinges to make the door level.

Start by adjusting the hinges on the side of the door that is lower. To raise the side of the door, move the hinge inward towards the center of the door. To lower the side of the door, move the hinge outward away from the center of the door. Once you have adjusted the hinges on one side of the door, repeat the process on the other side of the door.

Adjusting the springs

If adjusting the hinges does not level your garage door, the next step is to adjust the springs. Garage door springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, and if they are not adjusted properly, the door will not be level.

To adjust the springs, you will need to locate the adjustment points on the springs. These will typically be located near the base of the springs, and they may be covered by a plastic or metal cap. Once you have located the adjustment points, use a wrench to turn the adjustment points clockwise to raise the door or counterclockwise to lower the door.

Final tips for maintaining a level garage door

After you have leveled your garage door, it’s important to keep it level by performing regular maintenance. This includes checking the level of the door periodically, adjusting the hinges and springs as needed, and lubricating the moving parts of the door. Additionally, it’s important to keep the tracks of the door clean, as dirt and debris can cause the door to bind and become uneven.

It’s also important to note that if the garage door is still not level after adjusting the hinges and springs, it may be a sign of a more serious problem such as a bent track or a worn spring. In this case, it’s best to call a professional for help.

Finally, It’s important to be cautious when attempting to level your garage door. If you are unsure about your ability to level the door safely, it’s best to call a professional. Improperly leveling a garage door can cause serious injury or damage to the door and opener, so it’s important to proceed with caution.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, it is also important to regularly check the balance of your garage door. An unbalanced door can cause the opener to work harder and will put more stress on the door and opener. To check the balance of your garage door, you can disconnect the opener and manually open and close the door. If the door is difficult to open or close, or if it feels heavy, it may be unbalanced and need adjustments.

To maintain a level garage door, it is also important to be aware of any changes in your home’s foundation or any severe weather conditions that may affect the garage door’s levelness. Over time, the foundation of a home can shift, and this can cause the garage door to become uneven. In case of severe weather, high winds or heavy rain can also cause the garage door to become misaligned. If you notice any changes in the level of your garage door, it is important to take action and adjust it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure smooth operation.

In conclusion, having a level garage door is important for the smooth operation and safety of the door. To keep your garage door level, you should check the levelness regularly, adjust the hinges and springs as needed, lubricate the moving parts and maintain the cleanliness of the tracks. If you’re unsure about your ability to level the door safely, it’s best to call a professional. Regular maintenance and timely adjustments will help ensure that your garage door is always level and operating smoothly.