Have you ever experienced your garage door jerking when opening or closing? If yes, then you are not alone. This is a common issue faced by many homeowners and can be quite frustrating to deal with. But what causes this problem? Is it something serious that needs immediate attention or can it be fixed easily?
In this article, we will discuss the reasons behind why your garage door jerks when opening and closing, and provide you with some solutions to help fix this problem. So let’s dive in!
Understanding Your Garage Door Mechanism
Before we get into the reasons behind the jerking of your garage door, it is important to understand how your garage door mechanism works. Your garage door is made up of several moving parts such as springs, rollers, cables, and tracks. These parts work together to lift and lower your garage door smoothly.
The springs are responsible for providing the force needed to open and close the heavy garage door. The rollers help in moving the door along the tracks while the cables ensure that the door stays balanced. Any issue with these components can cause problems with the functioning of your garage door.
Now let’s take a look at some possible reasons behind the jerking of your garage door.
Misaligned Tracks
One of the most common causes of a jerky garage door is misaligned tracks. If the tracks are not properly aligned, it can cause friction and make it difficult for the rollers to move smoothly. This can lead to your garage door jerking when opening or closing. To fix this issue, you can try adjusting the tracks using a rubber mallet or calling a professional to help realign them.
Damaged Springs
Another common cause of jerky garage doors is damaged springs. Your garage door springs are under constant tension and over time they can wear out, causing them to lose their strength. When this happens, your garage door may not open or close smoothly, resulting in jerking motions. Replacing damaged springs is a job best left to the professionals as it can be dangerous if not done correctly.
Loose Hardware
Regular use of your garage door can cause the hardware to become loose over time. This includes bolts, screws, and other components that hold your garage door together. When these become loose, it can cause your garage door to jerk when opening or closing. Tightening the hardware is a simple fix that can be done using basic tools.
Worn Out Rollers
Rollers are an integral part of your garage door mechanism and they help in the smooth movement of your garage door along the tracks. However, over time these rollers can become worn out due to constant use, causing them to lose their efficiency. This can result in your garage door jerking when opening or closing. Replacing worn-out rollers can help solve this issue and ensure smooth functioning of your garage door.
Lack of Lubrication
Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth operation of your garage door. Without proper lubrication, the moving parts of your garage door can create friction, causing the door to jerk when opening or closing. Make sure to regularly lubricate all moving parts of your garage door to prevent this issue.
Solutions for Jerky Garage Doors
Now that we have covered the possible causes behind jerking garage doors, let’s take a look at some solutions to help fix this problem:
- Regular maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining your garage door can help prevent any issues that may lead to jerking.
- Proper lubrication: As mentioned earlier, proper lubrication is key for the smooth operation of your garage door. Make sure to use a high-quality lubricant recommended by the manufacturer.
- Tighten hardware: Keep an eye on loose hardware and tighten them if necessary to ensure smooth functioning of your garage door.
- Replace damaged parts: If any components of your garage door are damaged or worn out, make sure to replace them to avoid further issues.
- Call a professional: For more complex issues, it is always best to call a professional who has the knowledge and experience to fix the problem safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
If your garage door is jerking when opening or closing, it can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. By understanding the possible causes and following the solutions mentioned in this article, you can ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and safely. Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your garage door to prevent any potential problems in the future. So, if your garage door is jerking, don’t ignore it and take the necessary steps to fix it. Your garage door plays a crucial role in the security and convenience of your home, so make sure to keep it in good working condition!
FAQs
Can I fix a jerky garage door on my own?
It depends on the cause of the problem. Simple issues like loose hardware or lack of lubrication can be fixed by homeowners, but for more complex issues, it is best to call a professional.
How often should I inspect and maintain my garage door?
It is recommended to inspect and maintain your garage door at least once every six months to ensure it is in good working condition.
How long do garage door springs last?
On average, garage door springs last for about 10,000 cycles, which translates to approximately 7-9 years with regular use.
What type of lubricant should I use for my garage door?
It is best to use a high-quality silicone-based lubricant recommended by the manufacturer for the smooth operation of your garage door.
Is it safe to replace garage door springs on my own?
No, replacing garage door springs can be dangerous as they are under high tension. It is best to leave this job to professionals who have the proper knowledge and tools to do it safely.
