Blog Garage Door Safety Checks You Can Do Yourself: Tips from Gateway Pros Aug 18, 2024

Garage doors play a crucial role in ensuring the security and functionality of your home. Routine maintenance and safety checks are essential to keep your garage door operating smoothly and safely. While it is always recommended to hire a professional for complex repairs, there are some simple safety checks you can do yourself to ensure your garage door is in good working condition. Gateway Garage Door Services, your trusted garage door repair experts, have put together some tips to help you perform basic garage door safety checks. Here are some easy steps to ensure your garage door is safe for daily use: 1. Visual Inspection: The first step in ensuring your garage door is safe is to perform a visual inspection. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables, loose hardware, or misaligned tracks. Check the garage door springs and rollers for any signs of damage. Make sure the garage door opener is functioning correctly and listen for any unusual sounds during operation. 2. Test the Safety Features: All garage doors are equipped with safety features such as sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms. To test the sensors, place an object in the path of the garage door and close it. The door should reverse immediately upon contact with the object. Test the auto-reverse mechanism by placing a small item like a piece of wood on the ground in the path of the door. If the door does not reverse upon contact with the object, it may indicate a problem with the safety sensors. 3. Check the Balance: An unbalanced garage door can put unnecessary strain on the motor and cause premature wear and tear. To check the balance of your garage door, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door to waist height. The door should stay in place when released and not fall or rise on its own. If the door does not stay in place, it may need to be adjusted by a professional. 4. Lubricate Moving Parts: Proper lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of your garage door. Use a high-quality garage door lubricant to grease the rollers, tracks, springs, and hinges. This will help reduce friction and eliminate any squeaking or grinding noises during operation. 5. Test the Remote Control: Test the remote control to ensure it is functioning correctly. Replace the batteries if needed and check the range of the remote to make sure it is operating the door from a safe distance. By following these simple safety checks, you can ensure your garage door is in good working condition and safe for daily use. If you encounter any issues during the inspection, do not hesitate to contact Gateway Garage Door Services for professional help. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to assist you with any repairs or maintenance needs. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when it comes to your garage door. Stay proactive and schedule regular inspections to keep your garage door in optimal condition. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities at Gateway Garage Door Services.