Garage Door Problems: Can You Fix Them Yourself?
Garage door repair can either be a very simple DIY project, or can end up being an inconvenient job that needs to be handled by a professional contractor. Most homeowners are going to try and solve their problem (or at least find it) on their own before paying a professional. This article should help homeowners decide whether it might be possible to fix the problem themselves, or if they should just call a contractor.
Your Garage Won't Open
If your garage isn't opening, the most likely problem is that the motor does not have power. So, if your motor has a light connected to it, you should test to see if the light turns on. If the light turns on but the garage is still not opening, then you might have a more complicated electrical problem within the opener. But if the light does not turn on, it could simply mean that you blew a fuse, something became unplugged, your clicker needs new batteries, or a wire was cut. Start off by following the wire that is connected to your garage door motor all the way to the button mounted on the wall. This button won't have a battery, so it should work if it is connected to a working motor. If this button works, but your clicker doesn't, then your clicker just needs a new battery.
Physical Damage
If there is actual physical damage to your garage, it might be easier to repair than you think. That is, most garages are mostly modular so repairing or replacing a damaged panel or frame might not be too difficult. A vinyl panel that is chipped can be repaired with a patch from a home improvement store.
Chains and Pulleys
If your garage sounds really loud and awkward when it is opening and closing, it could have something to do with the chain or pulley system. This is something you should not mess with on your own. These need to be calibrated and adjusted using special tools and devices that contractors will have. It is essential that the garage has the right torque and is properly calibrated for the weight of the panels and the power of the motor.
With most garage door repairs, you might need to inspect your system before deciding how to have it repaired. It is often easy to do your own repairs, but you also don't want to take on a project that is going to be too complicated for your tools and skillset. If after reading this you decide to hire a garage door company, contact a company like Guaranteed Door Service to aid you further.
