A garage door serves a crucial role in your home, providing both functionality and security. However, over time, wear and tear can cause the door to go off track, potentially creating a major inconvenience. If you’re facing a situation where your garage door has come off track, don’t panic. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix it, explain common causes, and help you determine when to call a professional.
What Causes a Garage Door to Go Off Track?
Before you dive into the repair process, it’s important to understand the common causes of a garage door going off track. Knowing what led to the problem can help prevent it from happening again in the future.
1. Derailed and Worn Rollers
Over time, the rollers that guide your garage door along the track can become worn out. These rollers are in constant motion as the door opens and closes, which means they can eventually lose their effectiveness. When this happens, they can derail, causing the door to become misaligned and potentially go off track.
2. Bent or Misaligned Tracks
If the metal tracks on which the door slides bend or misalign, they can cause the garage door to move unevenly. This may be the result of a car bumping into the door, extreme weather conditions, or even the door itself gradually shifting over time. Bent tracks are one of the most common causes of garage doors going off track.
3. Broken Springs or Cables
Springs and cables support garage doors and help with the movement of the door. If one of these components breaks or snaps, it can affect the balance of the door. In such cases, the door can come off track as it can no longer move along the tracks properly.
4. Impact from Vehicles or Objects
Accidents happen. Whether a car bumps into the door or something falls on it, an impact can easily cause the door to go off track. The force of a vehicle or heavy object hitting the door can damage the tracks or rollers, knocking the door out of alignment.
5. Loose or Broken Components
Sometimes, loose or broken parts, such as bolts, screws, or nuts, can cause the door to fall off track. If these parts are not tightened regularly, they can cause parts of the garage door system to shift, leading to misalignment.
6. Lack of Regular Maintenance
Consistent upkeep is crucial for keeping your garage door running smoothly.If you fail to lubricate the moving parts or neglect to check for wear and tear, it can lead to malfunctioning parts, which may cause the door to come off track.
How to Fix a Garage Door Off Track: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the common causes of a garage door going off track, let’s look at how to fix it. While you may be able to handle minor issues yourself, some repairs are best left to the professionals. If you’re unsure of your skills or feel uncomfortable making repairs, it’s always safer to call a garage door expert.
Step 1: Disconnect the Opener
The first and most important step is to disconnect the opener. This will prevent the motor from engaging while you’re working on the door. Disconnecting the opener will also help you avoid any injuries that could occur if the opener starts running while you’re making repairs. Most garage door openers have a red emergency release cord that allows you to disengage the opener quickly.
Step 2: Assess the Track and Rollers
After you disconnect the opener, assess the track and rollers. Look for any visible damage, such as bent or cracked tracks, misaligned rollers, or worn-out components. If the track bends or the rollers come off, carefully guide the door back into place. However, if there’s significant damage to the track or rollers, replacement may be necessary.
Step 3: Adjust and Lubricate the Rollers
If the rollers are the issue, you may need to adjust or replace them. To do so, gently remove any obstructions and carefully reposition the rollers back into the track. It’s also a good idea to lubricate the rollers with a garage door-specific lubricant. This will help reduce friction and allow the rollers to move smoothly, preventing them from coming off track again in the future.
Step 4: Realign the Track
If the track misaligns, realign it. Start by using a hammer or pliers to gently bend the track back into position. Be sure to do this slowly and carefully to avoid causing further damage. After you align the track, test it by manually running the garage door to ensure it slides smoothly.
Step 5: Replace Damaged Components
If you find any damaged parts, such as broken rollers, springs, or cables, replace them as soon as possible. Damaged components will only cause further issues down the line, so it’s important to address them before reassembling the door. For parts replacement, it’s always best to use high-quality components that are compatible with your garage door system.
Step 6: Test the Door
After you make all adjustments and repairs, test the door. Start by manually lifting the door to ensure that it moves smoothly along the track. If it does, reconnect the opener and test it by opening and closing the door a few times. If the door operates normally and doesn’t come off track, you’ve successfully completed the repair.
Step 7: Call a Professional (If Needed)
If you’ve followed these steps and your garage door is still off track or malfunctioning, it may be time to call in a professional. Garage doors can be complex systems, and certain issues, such as broken springs or severe track damage, require professional attention. A trained technician can assess the situation and perform any repairs that are beyond your skill level.
DIY vs. Professional Repair: When to Call the Experts
While fixing a garage door off track can be a satisfying DIY project, there are times when it’s better to call a professional. Here’s when you should consider professional help:
- Severe damage to the tracks or rollers: If the tracks bend beyond repair or the rollers wear out extensively, hire a professional to replace them.
- Broken springs or cables: Replacing broken springs or cables requires specialized knowledge and tools. Attempting to do this yourself can be dangerous.
- Safety concerns: If you’re unsure about the safety of performing the repair yourself, or if the door feels unstable, it’s best to call an expert.
Professional garage door repair companies have the right tools, parts, and experience to handle any issue efficiently and safely.
Garage Door Off Track Repair Cost: What You Can Expect
The cost of fixing a garage door off track depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage and whether you need to replace parts. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $500 for minor repairs, such as realigning the track or replacing rollers. If you need to replace more significant components, such as springs or cables, the cost could rise to $600 or more.
It’s also worth noting that if you hire a professional, you’ll be paying for both labor and parts. Always ask for an estimate before the work begins to avoid unexpected costs.
Contact Masters Garage Door Services for Expert Repair in Beaumont, TX
If you’re in Beaumont, TX, and need help fixing a garage door off track, don’t hesitate to call Masters Garage Door Services. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to provide fast and reliable repair services. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a major repair, we’re here to help you get your garage door back on track in no time.
We proudly serve Beaumont and the surrounding areas, offering emergency garage door repair services for when you need help the most. Contact us today to schedule a repair or request a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my garage door keep coming off track?
A garage door may keep coming off track due to worn rollers, bent tracks, broken springs, or impact damage. It’s essential to regularly inspect the door to prevent this issue.
What causes a garage door to go off track?
The most common causes include misaligned or bent tracks, damaged rollers, broken cables, or accidental impact. Weather and lack of maintenance can also contribute to this problem.
How do I put my garage door back on track?
First, disconnect the opener for safety. Then, assess the track and rollers. If the rollers are off, realign the track, lubricate the rollers, and gently guide the door back into position. If the track bends, realign it or replace it.
How much does it cost to repair a garage door off track?
The cost of repairing a garage door off track varies depending on the damage. Typically, repairs can range from $150 to $500, but more complex issues, such as roller or track replacement, could increase the price.
How to fix a garage door off track myself?
You can attempt to fix it yourself by disconnecting the opener, checking for track misalignment, repositioning the rollers, and lubricating the system. However, for severe damage, it’s best to consult a professional.
Can I fix a garage door that came off the track?
Yes, you can attempt a fix by realigning the rollers and track, but if the problem is severe (like bent tracks or broken components), it’s safer to hire a professional to avoid further damage.
How do I fix a garage door wheel off track?
If the wheel (or roller) is off track, you should first disconnect the opener. Then, carefully lift the door back into alignment, clean the track, and lubricate the rollers to ensure smooth operation.
Why does my garage door roller keep coming off track?
This could be due to worn-out rollers, misaligned tracks, or debris in the tracks. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent this issue.
What should I do if my garage door falls off track?
If your garage door has fallen off track, immediately disconnect the opener for safety. Then, check the track and rollers for damage. If the damage is minor, realign the door yourself, but leave major repairs to a professional.
Can I spray WD-40 on my garage door rollers?
While WD-40 can lubricate the rollers temporarily, it is not the best long-term solution. Use a garage door-specific lubricant designed for smooth, safe operation without attracting dirt.
