Garage Door
Help Center
Troubleshooting guides, seasonal tips, and DIY maintenance for Oklahoma homeowners.
Fix common problems yourself or know when to call a professional.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Fast solutions to the problems we hear about most
Why won't my garage door open?
Check these in order: (1) Opener plugged in? (2) Wall button works but remote doesn't = battery issue. (3) Door extremely heavy to lift manually = broken spring. (4) Motor runs but door doesn't move = broken gear or disconnected chain. Springs and gears require professional repair.
Why won't my garage door close?
Most common: Safety sensors blocked or misaligned. Check for obstructions in door path, clean sensor lenses (small lights near floor on each side), ensure sensors face each other directly. If sensors work but door still won't close: limit settings wrong, tracks need adjustment, or door binding on tracks.
Is a broken spring dangerous?
Yes - extremely dangerous to attempt DIY spring replacement. Torsion springs (cylinder above door) hold 200-400 lbs of tension. When they snap, they whip violently. Extension springs (side-mounted) can snap and fly across garage. Broken springs require professional tools, knowledge, and safety equipment. Never attempt to open door manually with broken spring - door weighs 150-300 lbs without spring assistance.
Why is my garage door so loud?
Common causes: Lack of lubrication (spray lithium grease on springs, bearings, hinges), worn rollers (replace with nylon rollers for quiet operation), loose hardware (tighten all bolts and screws), chain drive opener (upgrade to belt drive for quieter operation). Most noise issues fixable with basic maintenance. Grinding sounds indicate more serious problems - call for inspection.
How often should I maintain my garage door?
Professional maintenance: Annually (before winter). DIY maintenance: Quarterly. Quick quarterly checks: Spray lithium grease on springs/bearings/hinges, tighten all bolts, test safety reverse (place object in door path), visual inspection for frayed cables/bent tracks, clean sensors. Annual professional service includes spring tension adjustment, complete safety inspection, and preventive repairs that extend door lifespan 2-3x.
Should I repair or replace my garage door?
Repair if: Door less than 15 years old, only one failing component, repair cost under $500, structurally sound. Replace if: Door 20+ years old, multiple failing parts, repair costs exceed $800-$1,000, lacks insulation, not wind-rated (Oklahoma building codes now require 250 MPH rating), or if you want smart technology/modern design. We provide honest assessments - if repair makes sense, we'll tell you. If replacement is better value, we'll explain why.
Troubleshooting Guides & Resources
Detailed step-by-step guides for every garage door problem
Common Problems
- Door Won't OpenTroubleshoot why your garage door won't open - broken spring, dead opener, locked doorCheck yourself first
- Door Won't CloseSafety sensors, track obstruction, limit settings - common reasons door won't closeOften DIY fixable
- Noisy Door SolutionsSqueaking, grinding, rattling sounds - what they mean and how to fix themMaintenance needed
- Opener Not WorkingRemote won't work, wall button dead, motor runs but door doesn't moveMultiple causes
Emergency Guides
- Broken Spring - What to DoHeard a loud bang? Spring broke? Safety steps and what NOT to doCall professional
- Door Off Track GuideDoor jumped tracks and hanging crooked - dangerous situation, immediate stepsCall immediately
- Emergency Repair GuideHow to identify true emergencies vs. problems that can wait until morningAssessment guide
Seasonal Guides
- Tornado Season PrepOklahoma tornado preparation - wind-rated doors, emergency backup, safety protocolsPreventive action
- Winter Weather TipsIce storms, freezing temperatures - prevent winter garage door problemsSeasonal maintenance
- Maintenance ChecklistDIY annual maintenance checklist to keep your garage door running smoothlyHomeowner friendly
Important Safety Warning
NEVER attempt to repair or adjust garage door springs yourself. Torsion springs (cylinder above door) and extension springs (side-mounted) hold extreme tension - 200-400 lbs of force. When springs break or release unexpectedly, they can cause severe injury or death.
DIY-safe tasks: Cleaning sensors, lubricating moving parts, tightening loose bolts, replacing remote batteries, basic visual inspections.
Professional-only repairs: Spring replacement/adjustment, cable replacement, track realignment, opener gear replacement, off-track repair, panel replacement requiring disassembly.
When to Call a Professional
Some problems require professional tools, training, and safety equipment
Call Immediately If:
- Spring broke (heard loud bang, door extremely heavy)
- Door off track or hanging crooked
- Cable snapped or frayed
- Door won't close (security risk)
- Stuck inside or outside garage
- Storm/tornado damage
Schedule Service For:
- Opener motor runs but door doesn't move
- Door binding or sticking on tracks
- Excessive noise (grinding, screeching)
- Door opens slowly or unevenly
- Annual preventive maintenance
- Smart technology upgrade
Can't Fix It Yourself?
Professional garage door repair throughout Oklahoma • Same-day service • 24/7 emergency support
(405) 555-0365Licensed & Insured • Lifetime Spring Warranty • Honest Assessments
