As a homeowner, one of the most significant investments you make is your garage door. It protects your car, your tools, and other belongings, making it an essential part of your property. However, like any other mechanical device, garage doors require maintenance and repairs to keep them in excellent condition.
Adjusting a garage door is a crucial part of garage door maintenance. Adjusting your garage door not only makes it operate smoothly but also helps in prolonging its lifespan. In this guide, we’ll show you how to adjust a garage door with ease.
Before we dive in, let’s first understand what causes garage doors to misalign.
What Causes Garage Doors to Misalign?
Garage doors can misalign due to various reasons. One of the most common reasons is wear and tear. When you use your garage door regularly, it’s natural for some of its components to wear out. Another reason is the changes in temperature, which can cause the metal components to expand or contract, leading to misalignment.
Additionally, improper installation, poor maintenance, or an accident can also cause your garage door to misalign.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we start adjusting the garage door, you’ll need some tools to get the job done. Here are some of the tools you’ll need:
- A ladder
- A screwdriver
- A socket wrenches
- A level
- A plier
- A hammer
- A C-clamp
- Lubricant spray
Step-by-step guide on how to adjust a garage door
Follow these steps to adjust your garage door and get it back to operating smoothly:
Step 1: Check the Alignment of The Tracks
The first step is to check the alignment of the tracks. Use a level to check the vertical alignment of the tracks. If the tracks are misaligned, loosen the screws holding the tracks in place and tap them gently to align them. Once the tracks are aligned, tighten the screws back in place.
Step 2: Adjust The Tracks
The next step is to adjust the tracks. Use a plier to bend the tracks slightly inward to align them with the rollers. Ensure that the tracks are level on both sides.
Step 3: Check the Rollers
Check the rollers for any damages or wear and tear. If you notice any damages, replace the rollers. If the rollers are in good condition, lubricate them using a lubricant spray.
Step 4: Adjust the Spring Tension
The spring tension plays a significant role in the operation of your garage door. If the tension is too high, the door will be challenging to close, and if the tension is too low, the door will be challenging to open. To adjust the spring tension, use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the tension rod in place. Move the tension rod in the direction required to adjust the tension, then tighten the bolts.
Step 5: Check the Cables
Check the cables for any damages or wear and tear. If you notice any damage, replace the cables. If the cables are in good condition, adjust the tension using a C-clamp.
Step 6: Lubricate the Moving Parts
Finally, lubricate all the moving parts of your garage door, including the tracks, hinges, rollers, and springs. This will help reduce friction and noise and prolong the lifespan of your garage door.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when adjusting your garage door:
- Always disconnect the power supply to your garage door opener before adjusting the door.
- Use caution when working with garage door springs as they are under high tension and can cause serious injuries if mishandled.
- Don’t attempt to adjust your garage door if you’re not confident in your ability to do so. Contact a professional if you’re unsure or if you encounter any difficulties.
Keep Your Garage Door in Top Shape with These Easy Adjustments
Adjusting your garage door is a simple task that you can do yourself with the right tools and guidance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can get your garage door back to operating smoothly and prolong its lifespan. Remember to take safety precautions and don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you’re unsure or encounter any difficulties.
Keeping your garage door well-maintained and adjusting it regularly will not only help it function smoothly but also help prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line. By investing a little time and effort into your garage door, you can ensure that it continues to serve its purpose for years to come.
