When maintaining a healthy garage door system, balance is an important element. A balanced garage door is not only a sign of a healthy garage door system, but you can also prolong the life of your garage door and ensure safety. An off balanced garage door needs to be corrected as soon as this problem is detected. AAA Action Garage Doors would like to share the importance of a balanced garage door and what signs to look for if you suspect your garage door is off balance.
Why Does a Garage Door Need to Be Balanced?
A garage door that is out of balance can be dangerous. It may close unexpectedly or even slam shut, posing a risk to people, pets, and property. Additionally, a balanced garage door reduces strain on the other door’s components, especially the opener. An unbalanced door makes the opener work harder, shortening the life of the operating systems. Next, an unbalanced door might not fully close or seal, leaving gaps. This can let in pests, rain, or cold air, affecting the garage’s internal environment. Lastly, an imbalanced door wears down components like springs, cables, and the opener faster. Regular checks and balance adjustments can prevent more major and more expensive repairs down the road.
How Do You Balance a Garage Door?
As a homeowner, it is important to periodically check your garage door and make sure it is balanced. To see if your garage door is in balance follow these steps.
Disconnect the Automatic Garage Door Opener: If you have an automatic garage door opener, the first step is to disconnect it. Usually, there is a red emergency release cord you can pull to disengage the opener.
Manually Move the Garage Door: With the opener disconnected, try to lift the garage door manually. A balanced door should lift smoothly without much resistance and should remain fully open on its own. If it is hard to open, or will not stay open, it is likely out of balance.
Check the Mid-Level Hold: Open the door halfway. It should stay in place without rising or falling. If it drifts or drops, it is a sign that your door is not balanced.
Inspect Garage Door Springs: Torsion springs which is located horizontally above the door or extension springs which is running parallel to the track are responsible for balancing the garage door’s weight. Look for signs of wear, rust, or gaps in the torsion springs, or uneven stretches in extension springs.
Conduct the 2×4 Test: Place a piece of 2×4 lumber flat on the ground where the door would close. Now, try to close the door. A well-functioning door will reverse upon touching the obstacle. If it does not, it might be out of balance or have an issue with its safety features.
How Do You Rebalance a Garage Door?
If you discover that your door is out of balance, it is highly recommended to call a professional rather than attempting to fix it yourself. Adjusting garage door springs can be hazardous due to the high tension they are under.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
The balance of your garage door can say a lot about your garage door. An unbalanced garage door can point to a problem that needs immediate repair. For garage door services, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
