How to Conduct a DIY Inspection of Your Garage Door Tracks Jennifer Reynolds, May 3, 2024April 17, 2024 Garage door track misalignment can lead to uneven movements and potential safety hazards. Performing routine inspections and applying regular lubrication are key to avoiding misalignment issues. Visible gaps are a sure sign that your tracks have shifted out of their original alignment. While lubrication may provide a temporary solution, severely bent or creased tracks often require professional replacement. The 5 causes of garage door track misalignment and learn more about maintaining your garage door’s functionality. Click to see more. Check for Loose Hardware Loose bolts, screws and hinges are common culprits of track misalignment. During your inspection, locate these components and tighten them using a wrench or screwdriver. Loose bolts should also be removed and re-tightened after the tracks are properly aligned. It’s also important to inspect the bolts securing each track to the wall and ceiling brackets, as loose ones can contribute to track misalignment. Additionally, look for any sections of the tracks that are slightly bent. Identifying and correcting these issues can significantly enhance your garage door’s performance and lifespan. Other common signs of misalignment include rubbing or scraping noises, and jerky or uneven door movement. Detecting and correcting these issues early can prevent them from causing serious, costly problems. Similarly, lubricating your tracks regularly reduces friction and promotes smooth movement. However, major repairs or adjustments should always be left to professionals to avoid injury or further damage to the system. Check for Gaps Track misalignment is a common cause of garage door operating problems. It can range from minor issues like rubbing noises and jerky movement to more serious problems, such as the door coming off its tracks. Keeping the track properly aligned is essential for safety, extending the life of your door, and maintaining energy efficiency. When conducting your inspection, check for any gaps that may need to be corrected. Ensure that the track is tightly attached to both the wall and ceiling. A gap can also result in a draft, which can increase your energy bills. To fix a gap, start by loosening the bolts that secure each track to its lower track bracket. Then, tap the track gently with a rubber mallet until you’ve got a quarter inch or less of space between the track and molding. Once the track is in the correct position, tighten the bolts and use a level to ensure it’s straight up and down. Check for Bends Bent tracks can prevent the smooth operation of a garage door. If they’re left unattended, they can cause the entire system to become misaligned and put additional stress on other components. This can create a safety hazard and require costly repairs in the future. To avoid this, it’s important to inspect the tracks regularly for damage or misalignments. By tightening loose hardware, removing obstructions and lubricating properly, you can help your garage door track system last longer and operate more smoothly. When conducting a visual inspection, look for obvious bends in the track. You can also try running your hand along the track to feel for any inconsistencies in the alignment. If you do identify a bent section, loosen the hardware that holds it in place and gently tap it back into position with a rubber mallet. Once it’s straight, tighten the bolts and recheck the alignment. If you notice that the track is still uneven, consult with a professional to correct it. Check for Damage If you notice rust or other signs of damage, it is important to replace them before the problem gets worse. Rust and other damages can cause the track to shift, which will affect how your garage door moves. Dented tracks can also obstruct the smooth movement of your garage door rollers, which could lead to serious mechanical problems. Regular inspections can help you catch these issues before they become a major concern. It is also a good idea to lubricate your garage doors and other moving parts regularly, especially after a thorough inspection. A good quality lubricant will reduce friction and prevent damage to moving parts. blogs