You rely on your garage door opening and closing easily every time you need to park your car or take it out. But over time, the moving parts of the garage door can wear down. Knowing when to call for garage door repairs can prevent more expensive problems down the road. According to Fortune Business Insights, as of 2021, the global garage and overhead doors industry had a market size of $6.79 billion. Here are some signs indicating it is time to contact a professional garage door technician.

1. When Openers Struggle to Lift the Door

Most garage door openers should last many open and close cycles. But if you notice the opener struggling to lift the heavy door or making straining noises, it could mean the springs are fatigued. Tension springs help counterbalance the door to make lifting easier. Replacing worn garage door springs as part of repairs can restore normal operation.

2. When the Door Is off Track

The rollers on the sides of the door travel along metal tracks when opening and closing. If the garage door binds, sticks, or scrapes against the tracks, it could have shifted out of alignment. This friction can damage the rollers or tracks. Getting garage door repairs to fix issues like minor track alignment problems early is smart.

3. When Cables Are Fraying or Broken

Cables running through the spring system connect to the garage door and counterbalance it. When these cables fray or break, the door may not open or close properly. Damaged cables put more strain on the garage door opener too. Replacing damaged cables is one of the most essential garage door repairs.

4. When There Is Inconsistent Door Movement

You probably expect the garage door to open and close at a consistent pace with smooth movement. If you notice hesitations, sudden drops, or the door opening unevenly, worn extension springs could be the culprit. Having repairs done to replace worn springs can restore proper balance and door control.

Don't put up with hard-to-open garage doors or uneven movement. Noticing signs of an aging garage door system early and getting repairs makes sense. Well-maintained garage door systems operate better through all kinds of weather. Getting issues addressed with timely garage door repairs improves safety and prevents more headaches down the road. Paying attention to problems and calling a knowledgeable garage door company at the first signs of trouble can get your garage door working like normal again. If you notice one or more of these signs, call us today at Barrett Overhead Doors to schedule a repair appointment.