Misaligned Garage Doors: Common Causes and Solutions

Imagine your home as a well-oiled machine, each part working in harmony to create a safe, comfortable space for you and your family. One crucial part of this machine is your garage door, which is often overlooked. It stands guard, protecting your vehicles and belongings while providing easy access to your home. But what happens when this faithful guardian stumbles? Misaligned garage doors can throw a wrench in the smooth operation of your daily life, causing inconvenience and even potential danger. 

In this post, we are going to unravel the mystery behind misaligned garage doors. We will concentrate on some common problems and provide effective solutions. Ready to restore balance to your home’s functionality? Let us dive into the world of garage door alignment.

What Are the Common Causes of Misaligned Garage Doors?

Your garage is one of the most used parts of your home, and so are your garage doors. With daily use, these doors are likely to experience problems. Discover the top reasons behind misaligned garage doors:

Misaligned or Loose Hinges

Over time, garage door hinges can become loose or misaligned, which can make the door droop.

Misaligned Door Tracks

The door can become uneven if the garage door tracks guiding it become misaligned.

Impact Damage

Many use their garages to store cars. That is why the forceful impact of cars is often the cause of garage door accidents. Note that even a light hit can cause the door to become slightly misaligned.

Normal Wear and Tear

The parts of your garage door system can get worn out after a while. These normal wear and tear events can throw off the alignment of hinges, rollers, tracks, and cables. It could lead to parts coming loose, making it more difficult to open and close the door.

Accidental Damage

Accidents can cause significant damage to your garage door, leading to misalignment.

What Are the Common Signs of a Misaligned Garage Door?

Here are some common signs of a misaligned garage door:

Loud or Unusual Noises

If you hear screeching, grinding, or banging noises when operating the garage door, it could be a sign of an alignment issue.

Visible Gaps

Check for gaps between the rollers and the track or between the door and the ground. These visible gaps are clear signs of misalignment.

Uneven Movement

If the garage door moves unevenly or appears slanted while opening or closing, it is a clear sign of misalignment.

Stuck Door

A door that gets stuck during operation or does not open or close completely is likely misaligned.

Binding or Crooked Door

If the door rubs against the stop molding, appears crooked, or is out of balance, it is a sign that the door tracks need realignment. 

Remember: It is important not to ignore these signs, as misalignment can lead to further damage or safety hazards. If you notice any of these signs, we recommend addressing the alignment issue at once.

Effects on Other Garage Door Parts

A misaligned garage door can cause further damage to the door itself, as well as other components of the garage door system. Here are some potential risks and possible damages that can occur:

Excessive Wear and Tear

When a garage door is out of alignment, it puts an additional strain on certain parts of the door, such as the tracks, hinges, and rollers. That can speed up wear and tear, making these parts break down faster than usual.

Track Damage

A misaligned garage door can cause the door to scrape or rub against the tracks. Over time, this friction can damage the tracks, making them uneven or bent. Damaged tracks can further exacerbate the misalignment issue and make it more difficult for the door to operate smoothly.

Cable Issues

Misalignment can also affect the garage door cables that help lift and lower the garage door. In this case, the cables may become twisted or frayed. It compromises their strength and could cause them to break.

Motor Strain

A misaligned garage door can put extra strain on the garage door opener motor. The motor has to work harder to lift or close the door, which can lead to premature motor failure or damage. 

Safety Sensors

Today’s garage doors have safety sensors that stop the door from closing if they sense an object in the way. Misalignment could likely stop these sensors from working correctly. Thus, the safety features of the garage door system might not work as well as they should.

It is important to address misalignment issues promptly. That prevents further damage. It ensures your garage door operates safely and efficiently.

How to Fix Misaligned Garage Doors

When it comes to addressing garage door misalignment, there are several solutions you can try. The approach you take will depend on the severity of the misalignment and your level of comfort with DIY repairs. Here are some common solutions to deal with misaligned garage doors:

Tighten Loose Hardware

Begin by checking the hardware, such as hinges, brackets, and screws, that hold the garage door together. If you see any loose components, tighten them using a wrench or screwdriver. This simple step can help realign the door.

Adjust the Tracks

Inspect the garage door tracks on both sides of the door. If you notice any gaps or misalignments, you can try adjusting them. To release the track, kindly loosen the screws that are holding it in place. To ensure proper alignment, use a rubber mallet to tap the track gently. Then tighten the screws again.

Replace Damaged Rollers

Worn-out or damaged rollers can contribute to misalignment. If you notice any rollers that are cracked, chipped, or not rolling smoothly, consider replacing them. Remove the old rollers and install new ones according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

To avoid repeated misalignment, remember that prevention is key. Check your garage door often and lubricate any moving parts. Get it serviced by a trusted garage door service provider to keep it running smoothly.

When Do You Need Help From an Expert Garage Door Tech?

DIY solutions can resolve some minor misalignment issues. Yet, certain signs show it is time to call an expert garage door technician. Here are some signs that show you should seek professional help:

Severe Track Damage

If you notice significant damage to the tracks, such as bending, warping, or other structural issues, it is best to leave the repairs to a pro. Attempting to fix severe track damage on your own can be challenging and may require specialized tools and expertise.

Broken or Damaged Hardware

If you discover broken or severely damaged hardware, such as hinges, brackets, or cables, have them repaired or replaced by a professional. They have the knowledge and experience to handle these repairs with precision and care.

Repeated Misalignment

If you have tried DIY solutions multiple times and the misalignment problem keeps coming back, it may indicate underlying issues. These may need professional attention. A skilled technician can thoroughly assess the situation, identify the root cause of the misalignment, and provide appropriate solutions.

Remember, professional garage door technicians have the necessary training, tools, and expertise. They can handle complex repairs, such as doors getting misaligned. With these experts, you can ensure your garage door is safe and reliable.

Garage Door Tune Up Near Me

Ready to say farewell to the frustration of a misaligned garage door? Look no further than Omaha Garage Door Repair for all your garage door maintenance and tune-up needs. Our expert team is well-versed in addressing misalignment issues so your garage door runs without a hitch. Trust us to provide exceptional garage door repair services backed by warranties. Do not let misaligned garage doors disrupt your daily routine any longer. Experience the convenience and reliability of a well-maintained garage door with Omaha Garage Door Repair. Contact us today and get free estimates.