A smoothly operating garage door is something we often take for granted that is until it starts to malfunction. One common issue homeowners encounter is a garage door that will jerk open and close. This erratic movement can be not only annoying but also a sign of underlying problems that need attention. AAA Action Garage Doors will explore the various causes of a jerking garage door and provide some tips on how to address these issues.
Why is My Garage Door Jerking & Bucking
• Misaligned Garage Door Tracks: The tracks on either side of your garage door must be perfectly aligned for smooth operation. If they become bent or misaligned, your garage door may jerk or get stuck while opening or closing. Check for gaps between the rollers and the rail, and then look for bends or obstructions in the track.
• Worn Out Garage Door Rollers: Rollers help your garage door move smoothly along the tracks. Over time, these rollers can wear out or become damaged, causing the door to jerk or make grinding noises. Metal rollers can rust, while nylon rollers can crack and break. Regular inspection and lubrication can help. However worn rollers should be replaced.
• Damaged or Loose Garage Door Hardware: The hardware that holds your garage door together, such as hinges, brackets, and bolts, can become loose or damaged over time. This can cause the door to move unevenly, resulting in jerking motions. Regularly inspect and tighten all hardware to ensure everything is secure.
• Imbalanced Garage Door: A garage door needs to be balanced to operate correctly. If one side of the door is heavier than the other, it can cause the door to jerk as it moves. This imbalance is often due to issues with the springs. If you suspect an imbalance, it’s best to call a professional to adjust or replace the springs.
• Broken or Weak Garage Door Springs: The springs in your garage door system are under a lot of tension and can wear out over time. When springs become weak or break, they can cause the door to jerk or not open and close properly. Broken springs are a serious safety hazard and should only be repaired or replaced by a professional.
• Obstructions in Garage Door Tracks: Debris, dirt, or small objects in the tracks can cause your garage door to jerk or get stuck. Regularly clean the tracks to ensure there are no obstructions. Be sure to check both the vertical and horizontal tracks for any blockages.
• Faulty Garage Door Opener: Sometimes the issue lies with the garage door opener itself. A malfunctioning opener can cause the door to jerk or operate inconsistently. If you have ruled out other causes, have your opener inspected by a professional to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Poor Garage Door Lubrication: Lack of proper lubrication can cause friction between the moving parts of your garage door system, leading to jerking movements. Regularly lubricate the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks with a high-quality garage door lubricant to keep everything running smoothly.
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
A garage door that jerks open and close is not only inconvenient but can also be a sign of more significant underlying problems. By understanding the common causes and taking proactive measures, you can ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection, can prevent many of these issues and extend the life of your garage door system. Always seek the help of a professional to avoid injury and ensure the job is done correctly. For garage door repairs and more, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
