Is your garage door not closing evenly, leaving one side higher than the other? This issue can be not only frustrating but also a potential safety hazard. A misaligned garage door can result from various problems, and it’s best to call a professional who can find out what’s going on. Here’s what to know about a garage door that’s not level when closed.
Is an Uneven Door Really a Big Deal?
Having a garage door that is not level when closed can lead to several problems and safety concerns.
- Garage door weatherstripping can’t do its job if the door isn’t flush against the ground. Gaps and misalignment in a garage door allow weather elements and pests to enter your garage, potentially causing damage to your belongings, creating an uncomfortable environment, and increasing your energy bill.
- Misaligned garage doors can put additional stress on the door opener and other components, leading to premature wear and tear. This can result in costly repairs or replacements in the future.
- A garage door that doesn’t close evenly can also leave your property more vulnerable to theft and break-ins. Potential intruders may find it easier to gain access to your garage and potentially your home.
Even if your garage door appears to be functioning properly, it’s best to call Precision if you notice that it’s not level.
What Causes an Uneven Door?
An uneven door could be caused by different issues that typically require a professional to diagnose. Here are some of the most common ones we see:
Misaligned or bent tracks – One of the most common causes of an unevenly closed garage door is misaligned tracks. The horizontal tracks on each side of the door should be perfectly parallel. If they become bent, warped, or misaligned, the door may not close evenly.
Worn or broken springs – Garage doors rely on tension springs to balance their weight. If one of these springs becomes worn or breaks, it can cause the door to close unevenly. This is a dangerous problem that should be addressed by a pro as soon as possible – never attempt to fix garage door springs yourself.
Damaged rollers – The rollers that guide the door along the tracks can become damaged or worn out over time. Damaged rollers can cause the door to move unevenly or get stuck. If the rollers have completely dislodged from the track, the garage door will probably not move at all. But, if they’re just incorrectly positioned, it can lead to misalignment or shaky operation.
Cable problems and lack of tension – The cables that lift and lower the door may become frayed, loose, or damaged. If a cable isn’t functioning properly, it can result in an uneven closing motion.
Track obstructions – Objects or debris lodged in the tracks can prevent the door from closing evenly. Even small obstructions can disrupt the door’s movement and lead to crooked closing.
Sometimes, the garage door is fine, and the foundation is simply uneven. A professional should be able to inspect your door system and rule out any problems if that’s the case.
Do I Need a Professional?
You should never attempt to repair an uneven garage door yourself – mainly for safety reasons. Garage doors are heavy and operate under tension, making them potentially dangerous to work on without the proper knowledge and tools. A misstep during a DIY repair could result in serious injury or property damage. Precision technicians are trained to handle these risks safely.
Plus, attempting repairs when you lack experience can lead to unintended consequences. You may accidentally worsen the problem or damage other components of the garage door system. Hiring a professional ensures that repairs are performed correctly the first time, reducing the risk of additional damage.
With Precision, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing that our work is backed by an industry-leading warranty.