Your garage door tracks play a big part in the smooth operation of your garage door. These metal tracks guide the door as it opens and closes, ensuring it moves safely and efficiently. When the tracks become misaligned or bent, it can cause a variety of issues, from inconvenient operation to potential safety hazards. AAA Action Garage Doors will explore the key signs of misaligned or bent garage door tracks and what you can do to address these problems.
Uneven or Crooked Door Movement
One of the most noticeable signs of misaligned or bent tracks is the uneven or crooked movement of the garage door. If the door appears to wobble, tilt, or move unevenly as it opens or closes, it’s a clear sign that the tracks are no longer properly aligned. Stop using the garage door immediately to avoid further damage. Have a professional inspect and realign the tracks.
Grinding or Screeching Noises
A properly functioning garage door operates smoothly and quietly. If you hear unusual grinding, screeching, or squealing noises during operation, it could mean that the rollers are rubbing against misaligned or bent tracks. These noises are a sign of friction and should not be ignored. Lubricate the rollers and tracks to minimize friction, but if the noise continues, call a professional to check for alignment issues.
Gaps Between Rollers & Tracks
The rollers should glide smoothly within the tracks, with no visible gaps. If you notice that the rollers are not fully inside the track or there are noticeable gaps, the tracks may have shifted out of alignment or become bent. Inspect the tracks for visible bends or misalignments. If gaps are present, stop using the door and call a technician to adjust the tracks.
Garage Door Sticks or Gets Stuck
Misaligned or bent tracks can cause your garage door to stick or stop moving altogether. This occurs because the rollers cannot travel smoothly along the tracks, leading to jams. Avoid forcing the door open or closed, as this can cause additional damage. Have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Visible Bends or Dents in the Tracks
Take a close look at the tracks. If you see visible bends, dents, or warping, this is a clear sign of damage. Even minor bends can affect the smooth operation of the door and may worsen over time if not addressed. Light bends may be fixable with a rubber mallet, but significant damage will require professional attention and possibly track replacement.
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
Misaligned or bent garage door tracks can lead to a host of problems, from noisy operation to complete system failure. Recognizing the signs early such as uneven movement, unusual noises, or visible damage, can save you time, money, and hassle. While minor adjustments can sometimes be made at home, it’s best to call a professional for repairs to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your garage door. For help repairing your garage door track system and other repairs, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.