Garage doors are subject to regular wear and tear from vehicles, kids’ toys, the weather elements and other factors. Minor dents and dings can be repaired, but over time the door’s function and aesthetics can suffer.
Is it time to replace your garage door? Here are 6 things you need to know about repair and replacement.
1. The Right Tools
Having the right tools for garage door repair is essential to ensure that all repairs are done properly and safely. This is especially true for specialized tools like clamps, locking pliers and lubrication.
The torsion springs in most garage doors are packed full of built-up energy and can cause serious injury if tampered with. The mechanical auto-reverse feature can also be dangerous if not working correctly.
Performing an inspection of these safety features is easy with household objects. Simply wave a broom under the garage door as it is closing to test the photo sensor and place a wood plank or brick under the bottom of the door to test the mechanical auto-reverse feature.
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2. Safety First
Garage doors are designed to be sturdy and withstand repeated use. However, repeated repairs can cause structural damage and reduce the life expectancy of your garage door.
Using the wrong tools can create additional problems. Attempting to fix a problem without the right knowledge and expertise can also lead to more costly repairs in the future.
There are several ways to learn how to repair a garage door, including through apprenticeship programs and classes.
These programs typically involve learning through hands-on experience, while classes usually include lectures and discussions on technical topics. In either case, you should consider your safety first.
3. Don’t Try to Do It Yourself
Unless you’re a natural-born DIYer, it’s best to steer clear of trying to do it yourself when it comes to garage door repair. Attempting to fix your own garage door is dangerous and could lead to serious injury or death. Ladder use is responsible for thousands of injuries and deaths each year, and climbing up on a ladder to try to make a garage door repair can be incredibly dangerous.
Plus, if your garage door is still under warranty, you’ll likely void the terms of that warranty by making DIY repairs. Hiring professional technicians ensures that your warranty is kept intact and can help you avoid more expensive repair costs in the future.
4. Get a Warranty
A warranty can save you money in the long run. If you have a warranty in place, any problems that occur within the specified time frame of installation are covered by the company.
A garage door is a complex mechanical system. It is not uncommon for parts to break down, especially after regular use.
In most cases, a warranty will require you to perform routine maintenance services on specific intervals. This includes testing the photoelectric sensor and mechanical auto-reverse features.
Performing these tasks will ensure that your garage door is safe to operate. A visual inspection should also be conducted for frayed or broken cables, which are a safety hazard to anyone who uses the door.
5. Don’t Overpay
While many mechanics are honest, a few bad apples pad their bills and make people pay more than they should. This can happen with garage door repairmen as well.
For example, if your garage doors are in need of overhauling, the first company you call may recommend a full replacement, even though the underlying components are still good. A second opinion can save you money by ensuring that the repairs are necessary.
The bottom line is that you should never feel rushed into signing a contract. Do your research and ask for referrals to find a trustworthy and reputable company. This way you can rest assured that your home’s garage doors will be in safe hands for years to come.
6. Hire a Professional
A professional service provider is the best way to keep your garage door in top condition. They will have the tools, skills and training to handle a wide range of problems. They will also be able to perform a thorough annual inspection that can help prevent future issues.
When selecting a garage door repair company, be sure to check their online reviews and ratings. Also, ask friends and family for recommendations. They’ll give you an honest opinion without any skin in the game. They may even warn you about companies to avoid. Choosing the right company in Mesa garage door repair will save you time and money in the long run.