Are you having trouble opening and closing your garage door? If so, it may be due to a broken garage door spring. Depending on the type of spring system you have in place, either torsion or extension springs, they can weaken or fail over time. A broken spring can prevent you from accessing the area inside your garage conveniently. If you suspect that there’s something wrong with your garage door springs but aren’t sure what it is, here are some common signs for you so that you know whether or not an inspection and repair are necessary to ensure things keep running smoothly.

The door sticks when you try to open and close it:

If you’ve been having trouble opening or closing your garage door lately, it could be due to a broken garage spring. This issue is particularly common if your garage door moves but then gets stuck in one position. The good news is that fixing a broken spring is reasonably straightforward, and you don’t need to be particularly handy to do it. There are plenty of tutorials online that can guide you through the process, or you can call in a professional. Either way, it’s essential to address a broken spring quickly, as it can cause further damage or even be dangerous if left unattended.

Your garage door makes loud noises, or the motor is struggling:

If you’ve been noticing that your garage door is making louder-than-usual sounds when you open and close it, or if the motor seems like it’s struggling to move the door, you might have a broken garage spring. Garage door springs are responsible for lifting the weight of the door, and if they snap, your garage door can become inoperable. In this case, it’s best to seek help from a professional garage door technician who can diagnose and fix the problem. Ignoring the problem can lead to more significant issues down the line, so it’s essential to get it addressed as soon as possible.

Parts of your garage spring door are hanging off or broken on the ground:

A garage spring door with broken or hanging-off parts can be not only frustrating but also dangerous. When pieces of the door are not securely attached, it can lead to the entire door malfunctioning or falling off completely. It is crucial to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any accidents or further damage.

Worn and Torn Garage Door Springs And Cables:

Your garage door plays an essential role in protecting your home and its contents, but over time, wear and tear can create problems. One of the most common issues is visible signs of wear and tear in the springs and cables. These components work together to lift and lower the door, and if they’re damaged or worn out, it can create safety hazards and cause the door to malfunction. Signs of wear and tear may include frayed cables, rusted coils, and broken springs. If you notice any of these issues, it’s crucial to address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your garage door is operating safely and efficiently.

Your electric bill has gone up noticeably:

Have you recently noticed a significant increase in your electric bill? If so, it may be due to a problem with your garage spring door. When a garage spring door is not functioning correctly, it can cause your electric bill to skyrocket as it puts unnecessary strain on the garage door opener. This strain can lead to increased energy usage, which in turn results in higher electric bills. To avoid this issue, it’s essential to have your garage spring door regularly inspected and maintained by a professional. By doing so, you can ensure that your garage door is functioning at its best and minimize any potential spikes in your electric bill.

There are gaps between the panels of your garage spring door:

Your garage spring door is an essential part of your home, serving as a protective barrier between your indoor space and the unpredictable elements of the outside world. However, if you’ve noticed gaps between the panels that were once sealed tightly, it’s time to take action. These gaps can occur due to a variety of factors, such as wear and tear, weather damage, or even age. Leaving the gaps unattended can not only compromise the security of your garage but can also lead to unwanted pests and insects making their way inside. Please don’t wait until it’s too late; call a professional to assess and repair your garage spring door today.

Why Choose Overhead Door of Houston?

In the Houston area, we offer a full range of garage door maintenance options. When you call us, we’ll send someone out to inspect your door and ensure its safe working condition. With regular maintenance, it’s easy to spot small problems before they get out of hand.

As the days get longer and summer is officially here, it’s time to start thinking about how the hot weather affects your garage door. While most people enjoy soaking up some sunshine during their time outdoors, unfortunately your garage door isn’t quite so lucky. With the air temperature rising, it can have an adverse effect on the functioning of your garage door if certain precautions aren’t taken. In this blog post, we will discuss why you should be aware of how summer heat impacts your garage doors and what steps you need to take in order to help prevent any problems from arising as a result of this seasonal change.

Warning Signs to Watch Out For

During the summer months, your garage door may be subject to increased wear and tear. The hottest temperatures can cause the springs and other components to stretch or become misaligned, leading to decreased performance of the door. Warning signs to look out for include loud noises when it opens or closes, sticking when trying to open or close, jostling in tracks during movement, a slow response time, inconsistent movement that starts and stops abruptly, or jerks while it is opening. Paying attention to changes in performance could improve safety by preventing an unexpected breakdown that could lead to injury or damage. Make sure to keep up with annual maintenance checks on your door too!

How to Insulate Your Garage Door Against Heat Damage

Insulating your garage door against heat damage is essential for protecting the integrity and longevity of your garage. It is not recommended to use conventional insulation applications due to fire hazards, so it’s important to identify more suitable options. Consider using a three layered roller system which consists of a reflective bubble wrap layer, a foam board layer, and an air gap between them. Another option involves wrapping exterior grade aluminum foil onto the door to reflect incoming radiant heat. Additionally, replace any doorstops that crack or shrink in extreme temperatures with neoprene-based flexible seals as they are designed to expand and contract without breaking down. With these useful tips in mind, you can rest assured that your garage doors will be effectively insulated against heat damage.

What To Do When Your Garage Door Is Already Damaged

If your garage door is already warped or damaged from the often unpredictable summer weather, there are several things you can do to improve it. First, inspect the door for any holes in the insulation that could be allowing more heat into your garage. If this is an issue, fill these holes with caulk or spray foam and then make sure your weather stripping is properly working. Additionally, applying a fresh coat of paint to panels can extend its life by acting as a barrier between the elements and metal components. Finally, check if you have a manual or automatic mechanism in place to close and open your garage door – if not, that may be something worth looking into since automated models are far better equipped against periods of extreme temperature changes than manual doors.

How Regular Maintenance Can Help You Avoid Unnecessary Damage

Regular maintenance of your garage door is an important part of making sure it lasts longer and doesn’t require expensive repairs. An annual lubrication and clean can help to ensure that all moving parts function properly, as this will reduce friction and avoid any potential unnecessary damage. If left unfixed for too long, eventual issues with the rollers, springs, or other components may result in serious damage that could have been prevented if caught early. Also check the weatherstripping around the edges which should be replaced if compromised. Taking care of your garage door can ensure it serves you faithfully for years to come without extra expense or hassle.

Install an Automatic Garage Door Opener for Summer Protection

Summer is a great time to install an automatic garage door opener in your home, not only for convenience and ease of access, but also for extra protection. Automatic openers provide the increased safety of being able to enter and leave your home without having to step outside. The auto-locking feature ensures that the door is locked after each opening and you don’t have to worry about leaving it ajar accidentally. They are also energy-efficient since they open very quickly and can be programmed with a timer so they close automatically after a certain amount of time has passed. In addition, most systems include surge protection features which ensure there is no risk of power spikes or other power surges damaging the system components or your vehicle stored inside. An automatic garage door opener is a simple way to enhance the security of your home while also simplifying your life with its added convenience.

Your garage door is an essential part of your home, and you rely on it every day. Whether you’re coming home from a long day at work or heading out to run errands, you expect your garage door to open and close smoothly.

When it comes to your garage, you want to make sure that it is always in top shape. After all, this is where you store your car, your tools, and other vital items. So, if you notice any problems with your garage door, it is essential to get them fixed as soon as possible. Otherwise, the situation could worsen and become even more expensive to repair.

Here are some signs that your garage door needs repair as soon as possible:

1. Your garage door is making strange noises.

If your garage door starts making strange noises, such as grinding, creaking, or squeaking, then this is a sign that there is a problem. The noises could be caused by loose hardware or worn-out parts. Either way, it is best to have a professional take a look at the door to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

2. Your garage door won’t open or close all the way.

If your garage door only opens partway or doesn’t close all the way, it could be due to a problem with the sensors. Something might be blocking the sensors, or they might need to be adjusted. It could also be an issue with the tracks or the springs. Again, it’s best to have a professional take a look at it and make the necessary repairs.

3. Your garage door opener isn’t working correctly.

If you find that your garage door opener isn’t working as well as it used to or that it isn’t working at all, it’s time to call in a professional for repairs. It could be a simple issue like replacing batteries or reprogramming the opener, or it could be something more serious like replacing worn-out parts. Whatever the problem may be, a professional can help get your opener working correctly again.

4. Your garage door is off track.

If you notice that your garage door is off track, then this is definitely a sign that it needs to be repaired. This problem can usually be fixed by simply adjusting the tracks. However, if the tracks are severely damaged, then they will need to be replaced. Either way, it is best to have a professional take care of this problem for you.

5. Your garage door isn’t balanced correctly.

If your garage door isn’t balanced correctly, then it could come crashing down unexpectedly. This is obviously a very hazardous situation that needs to be fixed immediately. The problem could be with the springs or another part of the door. Again, it is best to have a professional take care of this problem for you.

6. You see cracks or gaps in your garage door.

If you start seeing cracks or gaps in your garage door, this is definitely a sign that repair is needed. These cracks and crevices can let in drafts and pests, so it’s essential to take care of them right away. In some cases, these cracks can also lead to structural damage, so it’s best not to ignore them.

Call or Click Today for Prompt, Professional Garage Door Repair Service

Your garage door is one of the building’s most significant access points. Because the door keeps your family and property safe, shouldn’t it always be in good working order? Whether you’re looking for routine door maintenance, emergency repairs, or new door installation, we have you covered.

At Overhead Door Company of Houston, we believe that customers should know the cost of the job before work begins. To provide the most accurate estimates possible, we ask our customers to fill out our online service request form. One of our experts will get back to you right away to arrange an inspection and an estimate. With our no-obligation estimates, you’ll always know how much you’ll pay. Contact Overhead Door Company of Houston today to schedule a service estimate. We look forward to serving you!

Your garage door not working could be more than an inconvenience. Depending on the reason behind the malfunction, it could be a dangerous situation. You should be aware of the possible reasons behind a garage door not working and how to get an idea of what’s causing the problem.

1. Dead Batteries

The transmitter or remote may have dead batteries. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions on battery replacement. Only use approved brands of batteries. After confirming that the remote control isn’t the problem, you should press the transmitter inside your garage to see if it opens the door. This will let you know if you need to try changing the car transmitter’s batteries or the wall’s. Check the owner’s manual to know how to change the batteries.

2. Blocked, Dirty or Damaged Photo Eye

Your door’s photo eye might be blocked or damaged when it doesn’t open. The photo eye detects when there is a person or an object in the way of the door for safety purposes. If its cord is cut or damaged, then you’ll need to schedule a repair. The photo eye could also be dirty or out of alignment, which would interfere with accurate sensing. This may result in the door refusing to either open or close. An insect nest on the sensor could also cause issues with the door functioning correctly.

You can clean the photo eye with a soft cloth and a mild, streak-free cleaner. Be careful to not scratch it because it’s sensitive to damage. As for alignment issues, you can check with a level. They should point in the same direction at the same angle.

3. Worn or Broken Torsion Spring

Your door has one or two springs. When one or both of the springs are damaged, the door will struggle to open. A broken garage door spring is dangerous, so you should promptly schedule a repair. If you hear a loud sound when you attempt to open or close the door, then this usually means that a spring is broken. Don’t try to open or close the door when you suspect a spring is damaged. You’ll need to wait on it to be repaired.

4. Snapped Cable

Snapped door cables are also dangerous, so you need to immediately schedule a service call in this situation. When the door cables are snapped, your vehicle or wall could become damaged as well. The cables usually snap when a spring breaks.

One warning sign that a cable is snapped is the garage door closing too quickly. This fast closing could injure someone or a pet who gets underneath it. Another problem is the force of the closure could damage your car and anything else in the garage. Cables can fly out of the structure when they snap, which is another risk of injury and damage. You must avoid using the door until it’s fixed.

5. Misaligned Sensitivity

This issue is more common after a garage door installation. If you just got a new garage door, then its sensitivity might have been set too high or low. You can check the owner’s manual for instructions on how to check and align the sensitivity.

6. Broken Remote

Dead batteries in the remote aren’t the only possible problem you could experience with it. Sometimes, a component in the remote, such as the motor’s antenna, is faulty.

7. Misaligned Limit Setting

If your garage door pops open after closing, then it may have a misaligned limit setting. You can check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to adjust it. The limit setting might require a few tweaks before you find the sweet spot.

8. Unhooked Disconnect Switch

Your garage door opener has a disconnect switch to allow you to manually open the door during a power outage. If the disconnect switch has become unhooked, then the door won’t open. You are able to rehook it on your own, following your user manual’s instructions. A sign that you have an unhooked disconnect switch is the sound of the door opener running yet no movement of the door.

9. Blocked Track

If debris has gotten into the door track, then this will cause issues with proper opening and closing of the door. You can examine the track for obstructions or damage. Even dirt in the track can cause problems. If it’s dirty, you can wipe it clean with a dry cloth. The door may start to open, then reverse when there’s an obstacle in the track.

10. Misaligned Track

It’s possible for the door track to become misaligned. Opening and closing the door is dangerous when the track is out of alignment. When you inspect the track, watch for bends and gaps. A professional garage door repair company will need to fix this issue.

Sometimes, it’s a simple, easy-to-fix reason behind your garage door not working. Other times, you need to call a professional who has the necessary training to safely repair your garage door.

A few simple and inexpensive steps can prevent your garage door from freezing during the next day of frigid temperatures. While the snow creates a beautiful blanket of white, the wind and ice that come with it can damage your garage entry system. Proper winterization of your garage can ensure that it serves you well when you need it the most. Overhead Door Company of Houston can help you resolve any garage door issues that cause trouble.

1. Starting with Clearing the Accumulation of Snow

A burdensome job that no one likes, the removal of any snow that accumulates in front of your garage door takes the highest priority. The best results come from clearing it every morning because ice tends to build up overnight. Even if you do not plan to use your car, the snow still needs clearing to prevent melting and refreezing. By keeping snow and ice out of the tracks and away from where the door rests, you can avoid conditions that can cause it to freeze shut.

2. Salting the Area Under the Door

Ordinary table salt has a less corrosive effect than some other salts, and it prevents ice from locking your door in place during the frigid days of winter. By sprinkling it liberally on the floor where the seal rests on the concrete, you make the snow melt faster and prevent refreezing. However, make sure that your driveway and garage floor have the protection of a quality sealant. It can help prevent dynamic stresses of freezing and thawing that can fracture the concrete.

3. Lubricating the Weather Seal

A silicone spray can help prevent ice from sticking to the rubber weatherstripping that lines the bottom of your door. Routinely keeping summer rain and winter snow out of your garage, the weather seal needs protection from the elements to perform efficiently. Regular use that pushes it firmly against a hard surface can require a replacement approximately every five years. A silicone lubricant requires a lower temperature for freezing, giving you reliable use of your door in winter. Regularly lubricated weather stripping can assist your efforts to prevent it from sticking to ice. You may use cooking spray or vegetable oil if you do not have silicone spray on hand.

4. Adding Insulation to Your Garage to Prevent Your Door From Freezing

A little more work than other preventive measures require, the addition of insulation to your garage walls and door can provide desirable benefits. It provides a comfortable environment for DIY projects or working out, In addition, it helps prevent conditions that freeze your door shut. The warmer interior temperature keeps your door warmer too. You can prevent stress on your garage door opener by not asking it to lift a door stuck to the ice. You can count on Overhead Door Company of Houston to provide a new door that suits the Texas climate and meets your needs.

5. Providing Gas or Electric Heat

A strategy that improves your enjoyment brings warmth to the garage and lowers the chance of frozen doors involves installing a heater. Space heaters come in gas-powered or electric models. Electric heaters cost more than gas to purchase, but they allow a simpler installation. Gas heaters require professional installation for a supply line and an exhaust vent. Both can provide the warmth that lets you use your garage in the winter while preventing the stress and frustration of a frozen door. As with any heating device, maintain caution when you use a space heater.

6. Warming Up on the Driveway

The temporary convenience of remotely starting your car inside the garage in the morning may cause annoying difficulties later. The heat it creates can melt the snow and ice lying outside the door. When the moisture refreezes, it can make your door adhere to the ice. Your garage door opener cannot break the ice, and potential damage to the motor may occur if you force it.

Finding Prompt Assistance to Prevent Your Door From Freezing

At Overhead Door Company of Houston, we understand the frustration and stress of dealing with a frozen garage door. If your door does not work correctly after it freezes, our team of experts can provide quick and efficient service to correct any issue. Call us at (713) 667-1757 to schedule an appointment or request a free estimate. We can help you protect your garage door from winter’s effects.