How to Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems Like a Pro Jun 25, 2025

When your garage door starts misbehaving, it can cause quite a bit of frustration. However, you'd be surprised how many common garage door problems can be resolved without calling a professional. At SUBLIME Garage Doors, we're here to empower you with the knowledge to troubleshoot these issues yourself, saving you time and potentially preventing costly repairs. Let’s delve into some frequent hiccups garage doors encounter and how you can address them like a seasoned pro.First, let's address the situation where your garage door refuses to open or close completely. Often, this issue arises due to something as simple as obstructed sensors. Garage doors rely on photo-eye sensors located on either side of the door's frame. If these sensors are blocked or misaligned, the door won't function correctly. Start by checking for items like dirt, spider webs, or other debris in front of the sensor. Use a soft cloth to clean them thoroughly and ensure they are directly facing each other. Another culprit for garage door glitches is a malfunctioning remote control. If your remote control isn’t doing its job, first replace its batteries. This simple step often resolves the issue. If not, check the remote’s manual to see if it needs reprogramming. For lost or outdated programming, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or consider seeking help from a garage door technician at SUBLIME Garage Doors for expert reprogramming.Let's move on to those annoying, squeaky noises. A noisy garage door can be not only a nuisance but also a sign that maintenance is needed. A straightforward solution involves lubricating the moving parts of the door, such as the rollers, tracks, and hinges. Use a silicone-based lubricant designed for garage doors to ensure optimal performance. Avoid using WD-40, as it’s not suited for this purpose. Regular lubrication can drastically quieten your garage door, contributing to a smoother operation.Another common issue is when the garage door's movement becomes erratic. This situation often stems from an imbalance problem, typically corrected by adjusting the garage door springs. However, adjusting garage door springs is dangerous and should not be attempted by yourself, as they are under high tension and can cause serious injury. Instead, call in a professional from SUBLIME Garage Doors to ensure this is done safely.If your garage door opens or closes slower than usual, it might be due to the buildup of dirt in the tracks. Cleaning the garage door tracks periodically can prevent this issue. Simply wipe away dust or grime with a damp cloth, ensuring the tracks are dry afterward. This can help maintain the door’s optimal speed.To sum up, many garage door issues can be tackled without calling in a technician, from aligning sensors and changing remote batteries to lubricating parts and cleaning tracks. Nonetheless, tasks involving spring adjustments or electrical issues should be left to professionals to avoid injury or further damage. By practicing regular maintenance, you can prevent many common issues and extend the life of your garage door.At SUBLIME Garage Doors, we're always ready to assist with more complex problems or guide you through maintenance routines, ensuring your garage door remains in perfect working order. Remember, a little knowledge can go a long way in keeping your garage door functioning smoothly—and safely.