Garage doors can last for a long time but they do need maintenance to stay reliable. Most homeowners can handle basic garage door repair and replacement, but if yours is noisy or has become more difficult to operate, it may need professional attention. Examine the hinges and rollers. Clean them thoroughly and lubricate them. The bearings in rollers can also wear out, so replace them if needed.

Visually inspect the photo eyes (the safety lasers that prevent a garage door from closing on children, pets or obstructions). They can easily get out of alignment and will often need to be reset. Look for a small light on each sensor that is on, indicating the sensors are working correctly. If the light is off, loosen the wing nut and gently adjust it until the light stays on — this can be done without moving the sensor frame itself.

Upgrading Your Garage Door: Enhancing Security and Functionality

Check the tracks with a level to make sure they’re properly aligned. Loose or misaligned track sections can cause the garage door to sag on one side. If you notice that the horizontal track slants slightly downward or that the vertical track is crooked, loosen but don’t remove the screws or bolts that hold the mounting brackets, and tap them back into place. Then tighten the hardware. This is a job that can be tricky, so it’s a good idea to call in a professional. They’ll have the right tools and experience to do it safely.