As a homeowner, understanding the terminology related to your garage door is important for effective communication with technicians. This basic knowledge ensures proper maintenance and helps you make informed decisions about repairs or replacements. Whether you’re considering an upgrade, encountering issues, or simply interested in learning more about your garage door system, here are terms every homeowner should know:
Panels
Panels are the individual sections that compose a garage door. They are joined together by hinges, enabling the door to bend as it moves along the tracks during the opening and closing processes.
Tracks
Tracks are the vertical and horizontal pathways on which the garage door panels move. They guide the door’s movement, ensuring smooth operation. Tracks may be made of steel, ensuring durability and stability.
Springs
Garage door springs play a crucial role in counterbalancing the weight of the door, facilitating its smooth movement. The two main types of springs are extension springs, located on the sides of the door, and torsion springs, situated above the door. Never touch these yourself and leave their repairs or replacement to the professionals. They’re under an enormous amount of pressure and can deal serious damage to you and your home.
Rollers
Rollers are wheels attached to the sides of the door panels that run within the tracks, allowing smooth and efficient movement. High-quality rollers contribute to quieter and more efficient door operations.
Opener
The garage door opener is the motorized device that automates the opening and closing of the door. It includes a motor, a track system, and various components like sensors and remotes.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping refers to the rubber or vinyl sealant along the bottom of the door. It prevents drafts, debris, and moisture from entering the garage, contributing to energy efficiency and protecting belongings from the elements. They’re easy to replace as a DIY fix if you’re interested.
Remote Control
The remote control is the handheld device you use to open or close the garage door remotely. This one is very self-explanatory. It sends signals to the opener motor, initiating the door’s movement. They’re easily replaceable and can be purchased at your local hardware store if you lose yours.
Safety Sensors
These sensors are installed near the bottom of the door and detect obstructions in the door’s path. If an object interrupts the sensor’s beam while the door is closing, it automatically reverses to prevent accidents.
Back Hangs
Back hangs are the horizontal supports located at the back of the garage door tracks, ensuring stability and supporting the weight of the door.
Cable
Garage door cables are responsible for lifting the door along with the springs. They are threaded through the springs and attached to the bottom of the door to maintain balance and facilitate smooth movement.
Drums
Drums are circular components located on the ends of the torsion spring shaft. Cables are wrapped around these drums, enabling the springs to lift the door.
Struts
Struts are reinforcing bars installed horizontally across the garage door panels. They provide additional support and reinforcement, especially in larger doors, enhancing durability and structural integrity.
Header
The header is the horizontal beam positioned above the garage door opening. It provides structural support and distributes the door’s weight evenly.
Jamb
Jamb refers to the vertical sections on either side of the garage door opening. Weatherstripping is often installed on these jambs to create a seal when the door is closed.
Emergency Release
An emergency release is a red cord that hangs from the garage door opener rail. Pulling this cord disengages the door from the opener system. This allows for manual operation in case of power outages or system malfunctions.
Trolley
The trolley is part of the garage door opener system that travels along the opener rail. It connects to the door via an arm and moves the door along the tracks when activated.
Photo-Eye/Safety Sensors
Photo-eye sensors are safety devices placed on each side of the door near the bottom. They project an invisible beam across the door’s path that detects any obstructions. It immediately sends a signal to halt the door’s movement if something interrupts the beam.
Lock Handle
Some garage doors feature a lock handle or manual locking mechanism. Turning the handle engages a lock bar that secures the door in place, preventing unauthorized entry.
Panel Styles
Different garage doors come in various panel styles, such as raised panel, flush panel, or carriage house designs. These styles offer aesthetic variations and can impact the overall look of the home’s exterior.
Hinges and Brackets
Hinges and brackets are essential hardware connecting the garage door panels. They enable their unique movement but can be a cause of misalignment. They allow the door to flex and bend as it opens and closes.
Understanding these fundamental terms equips homeowners with the knowledge necessary to communicate effectively with garage door professionals. They will also help you identify issues and understand how your garage door system works. Mastery of these terms empowers homeowners to make informed decisions and effectively maintain their garage doors.