Having a garage door off its track can be dangerous and inconvenient. If the door is off-track, it may not open or close properly, leading to potential security risks and making it harder to access your possessions in the garage.
An off-track garage door also puts extra strain on its components, leading to increased wear and tear over time. Learning to put your garage door back on track properly can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
One of the biggest advantages of learning to put garage doors back on track is saving money and energy. By doing this task yourself, you can avoid hiring a professional or repairman who may charge you more than your budget allows. In this blog post, You will learn how to put garage door back on track.
Tools You Will Need
- Torque wrench
- Hammer
- Socket set
- Pliers
- Tape measure
- Adjustable wrench
- Wrench extender
- Ladder or step stool (if needed to reach the tracks)
- Safety goggles, gloves
Step-by-Step Processes for How to Put Garage Door Back on Track
Step 1: Inspect the Tracks for Damage
The first step is to inspect the tracks for any signs of damage or wear, which could mean that they can no longer support your garage door correctly. If there is damage to the track, you will need to replace it instead of trying to repair it.
Step 2: Securely Attach Track Brackets
Before you begin to put your garage door back on the tracks, ensure all track brackets are securely attached to the wall. This can be done by using a torque wrench and screws.
The rollers should also be securely attached before placing them into their respective slots on the track. This can be done using a hammer and socket set to ensure each roller is properly attached.
Step 3: Place the Rollers in their Respective Slots
Once all the rollers have been securely attached, they can be placed into their respective slots on the top and bottom tracks. It is important to ensure that the rollers are sitting correctly in their slots, as this will prevent any further damage to the track and ensure a smooth opening and closing of your garage door.
Step 4: Adjust Track Position if Necessary
If the tracks have been slightly misaligned due to wear or other factors, you may need to use a tape measure and adjust them to be even. The tracks must be level before proceeding with the next step.
Once you have adjusted the tracks, you can securely attach them back onto the wall using a torque wrench and screws. Ensure that each screw is properly tightened to not become loose over time.
Step 5: Securely Attach the Garage Door Springs
The next step is securely attaching the garage door springs to the wall using a wrench extender and an adjustable wrench. Ensure that each spring is properly tightened, as this will prevent further damage to the track and ensure a smooth opening and closing of your garage door.
Step 6: Put the Garage Door on the Tracks
The next step is to place your garage door onto the tracks. Ensure that you place the rollers into their respective slots and that they are securely attached. You may need a ladder or step stool to reach the top of the track, so make sure you have one handy before beginning.
Step 7: Test the Garage Door
Once you have placed your garage door back onto the tracks, you can test it to ensure it is working correctly. Open and close the door several times to check for any sticking issues or problems that may arise due to misaligned tracks.
If you notice any sticking or misaligned tracks, you can then adjust the tension of the garage door springs using an adjustable wrench. This will help ensure that your garage door remains securely attached and operates correctly for years.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily put your garage door back on track and save time and money. Additionally, it can help prevent any further damage or wear to the tracks while ensuring that your garage door operates correctly for years to come.
Safety Tips for How to Put Garage Door Back on Track
- Always wear safety goggles and gloves when handling tools throughout the process.
- Ensure that all tools are in good condition and not damaged before use.
- Make sure you have a secure ladder or step stool to reach the tracks.
- Before beginning, double-check that each roller is securely attached.
- Ensure the tracks are level before attaching them back onto the wall.
- Always check the tension of the garage door springs using an adjustable wrench before putting it on the track.
- Test your garage door before assuming it works properly – open and close it several times to ensure there aren’t any sticking or misalignment issues.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that you take all the necessary precautions when learning how to put your garage door back on track. This will help prevent any potential injury or damage while allowing you to complete the task promptly.
How Often Should You Check Your Garage Door for Wear and Tear and Replace Any Necessary Components?
It’s important to check your garage door regularly for signs of wear and tear. The most common problems are worn-out rollers, broken springs, and damaged cables. To ensure these components function properly, you should inspect them at least every few months. If any components appear worn or damaged, it’s best to replace them as soon as possible. You can find replacement parts at most hardware stores, which can usually be installed easily.
In addition to these regular inspections, it’s a good idea to check the balance of your garage door once a year. Doing this will help prevent any issues with the opener’s motor or gearbox from occurring. You’ll need to disconnect the opener from the garage door and manually lift it to do this. If it’s too heavy or difficult to move, your springs may be too tight and should be adjusted.
What Other Maintenance Steps Should You Take to Keep My Garage Door Operating Efficiently and Safely?
Regular maintenance is important to keep your garage door operating efficiently and safely. Here are some tips for proper garage door maintenance:
- Clean your garage doors at least once a month with a nonabrasive cloth or cleaning solution.
- Check the alignment of your photoelectric sensors at least once every three months.
- Examine the tracks for signs of wear, debris, or rust. If any is present, use a soft cloth to clean it away.
- Check the springs for signs of corrosion or fraying. Replace them immediately for optimal performance if they show signs of wear and tear.
- Lubricate the hinges and rollers at least once every six months with a light oil such as WD-40.
- Make sure the door is properly balanced. If it feels heavier on one side than the other, adjust the tension accordingly.
- Test your garage door opener by activating it from a distance to ensure it functions correctly and safely.
- Check for any wear or damage to the cable wires and replace them if necessary.
- Ensure the tracks are free from any obstructions that could impede the movement of your garage door.
- Finally, if you have an automatic opener, replace the batteries in it at least once a year.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure your garage door runs smoothly and safely for years. Inspecting your garage door regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear is also a good idea. If you notice any, it’s important to have it repaired immediately before it becomes an even larger issue.
Are There Any Signs That Indicate the Need for a Professional Garage Door Repair Service?
Yes. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s best to call a professional garage door repair service:
- Your garage door is making noises when opening or closing that are more pronounced than usual.
- The movement of your garage door is slow and labored between open and closed positions.
- You see visible damage, such as worn-out parts or track gaps.
- Your garage door won’t open or close completely.
- Your remote control for your garage door opener needs to be fixed as expected.
It’s important to call a professional service when you notice any of the above signs because attempting to fix it yourself could lead to further damage and higher repair costs. A professional garage door repair service possesses the expertise and know-how to fix your problem and has access to all the right spare parts for your specific garage door model.
How Often Should You Inspect Your to Identify Potential Problems Early on?
You should inspect your garage door at least twice a year. This allows you to identify any issues early on and take the necessary steps to fix them before they cause more serious damage or pose safety risks. During your inspection, look for wear and tear in moving parts such as the rollers, tracks, springs, cables, etc.
Clean any dirt and debris off the tracks, lubricate moving parts, and ensure no missing or damaged components. You should also regularly test your safety mechanisms, such as reverse sensors, to ensure they work properly.
What Are Some Common Causes of a Garage Door Going Off Track?
It’s common for garage doors to become off-track due to normal wear and tear of the door itself, as well as improper installation or maintenance. Other causes of a garage door going off track include:
- An opener that is out of balance and not operating properly
- Uneven springs which can cause one side of the door to lift higher than the other
- Broken rollers or bent tracks, often caused by unseen objects in the way of the track
- Loose screws and bolts that are not properly tightened or secured
- Worn hardware that has become loose over time and is no longer able to provide stability.
If your garage door goes off track, addressing the issue immediately is important since a poorly functioning door can become a safety hazard. Fortunately, with simple troubleshooting, you can quickly get your garage door back on track.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to put your garage door back on track is important. Whether you own or rent a home, having a functioning and safe garage door is essential for keeping belongings safe and secure from the elements or potential burglars. To ensure that your garage door operates correctly at all times, it is important to periodically inspect the tracks and rollers for any signs of wear and tear.
If you find any issues, contacting a professional for repairs or replacement is best before attempting to put the garage door back on track. This article has been beneficial for learning how to put garage door back on track. Make Sure the preventive measures are followed chronologically.