If you own a home, chances are you own a garage. And if you own a garage, you should have at least a basic understanding of the various garage door parts — what they are and what they do. Here’s a brief guide that breaks down all the components and why they’re important to a smooth functioning door.
Garage Door Springs
There are 2 basic types of springs to garage doors: extension and torsion. Your extension springs are mounted on each side of a garage door wall. These springs are under extremely high tension — that’s what provides the mechanics that make lifting a several hundred pound door feel so easy. Torsion springs also contain an enormous amount of tension. These are the springs that wind up as the door is closed.
Brackets, Rollers & Hinges
The brackets, rollers and hinges are what hold each section of the door together. Overtime and use, brackets and hinges tend to become loose which can make your door noisier. It’s a good idea to tighten these down with a wrench from time to time. Rollers will eventually wear out and need replaced. It’s a good idea to visually inspect the rollers from time to time so your door runs smoothly. By taking the time to inspect and maintain the brackets, rollers, and hinges, you can prolong the lifespan of your garage door’s parts. Simple maintenance tasks can help reduce the risk of your parts breaking that could result in more significant repairs. Regular visual inspections and proactive maintenance will keep your door running. Simple work that can enhance the longevity and prevent expensive repairs on your garage door’s systems.
Tracks
Your garage door tracks are the metal parts on either side of the door that provide an area for the rollers to run. It’s important that your tracks are in a vertical position and not bent. A bent or slanted track can cause the door to go off track, which will need to be fixed. When a garage door goes off track, you need to repair it promptly to prevent further damage keep the door running. In such cases, professional assistance may be needed. A professional will have to realign or repair the tracks to restore the door to working order. Regular inspections and maintenance of the tracks can help identify any issues early on. Catching things early can prevent more significant problems from arising and keep your door repair costs down.
Safety Sensors
Safety sensors, also known as photoelectric sensors, are critical parts of a garage door system. These sensors are installed near the bottom of the garage door on each side, facing each other. They’re safety measure that detect obstructions in the door’s path as it closes.
When the overhead door is in motion and an object, person, or vehicle obstructs the sensors’ beam, the sensors send a signal to the door opener to stop. This prevents accidents, injuries, and property damage by stopping the door from closing on anything in its path. Safety sensors are a vital feature that enhances the safety of your garage door system.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping serves as a vital protective barrier for your garage door. This part consists of rubber or vinyl seals placed along the garage door’s edges and bottom. Its primary role is to create an effective seal that prevents outdoor elements from infiltrating your garage.
Weatherstripping acts as a shield against drafts, rain, snow, dust, and pests. It keeps your garage interior comfortable and clean. By reducing air infiltration, it also aids in energy efficiency. This seal helps maintain temperatures inside your garage and lowers heating or cooling costs. Weatherstripping ensures that your garage remains a well-insulated and secure space. It protects both your belongings and the structural integrity of the door.