Basic Garage Door Inspection & Maintenance Tips

Garage doors are one of the most frequently used moving systems in a home, yet many homeowners have never performed even basic inspections. While major garage door repairs should always be handled by professionals, simple visual checks and light maintenance can help you identify problems early and avoid costly damage.

If you notice your garage door operating unevenly, making noise, or sticking, the following steps can help you understand what may be wrong before calling a professional.

Inspect the Garage Door Tracks

Begin by inspecting the metal tracks inside the garage. These tracks guide the garage door as it opens and closes.

• Look for bends, dents, or gaps in the track profile

• Loose tracks can cause instability and uneven movement

• Check the wall mounting brackets where the tracks attach to the wall

Minor dents may be visible from the inside of the garage, where lighting is lower and shadows highlight imperfections. Any serious damage or severely bent tracks should be addressed by a professional technician.

Check Track Alignment

Proper alignment is critical for smooth garage door operation.

• Vertical tracks should be perfectly plumb

• Horizontal tracks should slope slightly toward the back of the garage

A standard level can help you determine whether the tracks are aligned correctly. Small adjustments may be possible by loosening mounting bolts slightly—but major realignments should always be handled by a professional to prevent further damage or safety risks.

Clean the Tracks and Rollers

Dirt, hardened grease, and debris can build up over time and affect performance.

• Use a household cleaner to remove dirt and old grease

• Wipe down tracks and rollers with a clean cloth

• Avoid heavy lubrication inside the tracks

Routine cleaning helps reduce wear and allows the garage door to move more smoothly.

Inspect and Tighten Hardware

Garage door movement can loosen hardware over time.

• Check screws and bolts on hinges, brackets, and track supports

• Tighten any loose fasteners

• Pay close attention to swing-up doors and hinged sections

Loose hinges can cause the door to sag, making it difficult to close properly. If you notice cracked or damaged hinges, they should be replaced—not patched—by a qualified technician.

When to Call a Professional

While light inspection and cleaning are safe for homeowners, never attempt repairs involving springs, cables, or door tension systems. These components are under extreme force and can cause serious injury if handled improperly.

If your garage door:

• Is off track

• Makes loud snapping or grinding noises

• Won’t open or close fully

• Appears unbalanced

…it’s time to call a professional.

Professional Garage Door Repair in Los Angeles

If you need expert help, Garage Door and Gate Repair Los Angeles provides reliable, professional garage door inspection, repair, and maintenance services throughout Los Angeles.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a professional garage door repair or inspection and keep your system operating safely and smoothly.