Your garage door is one of the hardest-working systems in your home, opening and closing thousands of times a year. Over time, wear and tear can lead to unexpected issues — often at the worst times. Before you get stuck in your driveway, here are five of the most common garage door problems we see across Austin, plus what you can do to fix them.
1. Broken or Worn Springs
If your garage door won’t lift or feels unusually heavy, the culprit is likely a broken torsion or extension spring. Garage door spring replacement is one of the most frequent calls we get. Because springs are under extreme tension, always hire a professional — DIY attempts can be dangerous.
2. Misaligned or Blocked Sensors
When the door won’t close fully, check for debris near the bottom safety sensors. Even a leaf or speck of dust can break the infrared beam and stop operation. Gently clean both sensors and make sure they point directly at each other.
3. Noisy or Grinding Operation
A noisy door is often a sign of lack of lubrication or loose hardware. Apply garage door lubricant to rollers, hinges, and springs once every few months to keep things running quietly. If the noise persists, schedule a tune-up to inspect for worn bearings or bent tracks.
4. Faulty Garage Door Opener
If the motor hums but doesn’t move the door, your opener’s internal gears or travel limits may need adjustment. Modern smart garage door openers also feature self-diagnostic tools that can help pinpoint the issue — or automatically notify your technician.
5. Weather Seal Damage
Austin’s hot summers and sudden storms can wear down the bottom seal of your garage door. Replace cracked or brittle seals to keep out pests, moisture, and heat, improving insulation and efficiency.