Understanding What Causes a Garage Door to Come Off Track

Posted Wednesday, November 15th, 2023

Off-Track Woes: Understanding What Causes a Garage Door to Come Off Track

Introduction:

A smoothly operating garage door is crucial for convenience and security. However, there are instances when your garage door might come off its tracks, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards. In this blog post, we’ll explore the common factors that can lead to a garage door coming off track and provide insights into how to prevent and address this issue.

**1. Misalignment:

One of the primary reasons for a garage door coming off track is misalignment. The tracks that guide the door need to be perfectly aligned to ensure smooth movement. If the tracks are bent, dented, or not properly aligned, the door might veer off course during operation. Regular inspection of the tracks and addressing any misalignment promptly can prevent this issue.

**2. Obstacles and Debris:

Obstacles or debris on the tracks can interfere with the door’s movement, causing it to derail. Small objects, such as rocks or leaves, can accumulate on the tracks over time. Make it a habit to regularly inspect and clean the tracks to ensure unobstructed movement.

**3. Broken Rollers:

Rollers are essential components that help the garage door glide smoothly along the tracks. If the rollers are worn out, damaged, or broken, they can cause the door to come off track. Regular inspection of the rollers and replacing them as needed is crucial for maintaining proper door operation.

**4. Spring Tension Issues:

Garage door springs provide the necessary counterbalance to lift and lower the heavy door. If the springs are not properly tensioned or if they break, it can lead to uneven movement and cause the door to come off track. Springs should be inspected regularly by professionals and replaced when necessary.

**5. DIY Repairs and Adjustments:

Attempting to repair or adjust your garage door without proper knowledge and tools can lead to more harm than good. Mishandling components like the tracks, cables, or rollers can cause the door to derail. Always rely on trained technicians for repairs and adjustments to ensure the safety and functionality of your garage door.

**6. Impact or Accidents:

Accidental impacts, whether from a vehicle or other heavy objects, can knock the garage door off its tracks. Even a minor collision can lead to misalignment and cause the door to come off track. Exercise caution when operating vehicles near the garage and address any accidents promptly.

Conclusion:

A garage door coming off track can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation. By understanding the common causes and taking preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of derailment. Regular maintenance, professional inspections, and careful operation of your garage door are essential to ensure its smooth and safe operation. If your garage door does come off track, it’s best to call in experienced professionals to assess and rectify the issue, ensuring that your garage door is back on track in no time.

The Residential Seattle Garage Door Team at Cressy Door and Fireplace is available Monday through Friday from 7 am to 4 pm. We are happy to assist you with your questions relating to sales, installation, maintenance, and repair of your home’s garage doors in the Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Kent, Everett, and Renton areas. Please give us a call or fill out the form to the right, and one of our Residential Team members will respond promptly.

If you have a garage door emergency, give us a call 24x7x365 and we’ll send one of our certified Seattle home garage door repair technicians to assist you.

Kent (253) 887-9135.  Shoreline (206) 632-0533

Serving the Puget Sound Community since 1952.