Automated garage doors make coming and going incredibly convenient. Something we don't genuinely appreciate until things go wrong and we're stuck opening and closing the garage door manually until a technician can fix it. It's a scenario that is easily avoided by paying attention to the sounds your garage door makes. Knowing what sounds normal and what are signs of potential problems can save you from costly repairs. Here are five noises that should be a warning sign that now is the right time to call a garage door technician.
1. Grinding
A grinding noise usually means there’s metal-on-metal contact. Often, it’s a sign the door’s moving parts like rollers, hinges, or tracks require lubrication. Regular cleaning and lubricating of essential parts often fix this. However, it can also indicate more severe damage, such as worn-out rollers or bent tracks. If you’re unsure, it’s best to have a professional garage door technician investigate.


2. Banging
A banging noise during operation can stem from multiple issues, all requiring professional attention. In sectional doors, it might be loose panels knocking together. For any type of door, banging could mean the door’s balance is off. Left unchecked, improper balance places excessive stress on the opener and other components, leading to premature wear and more expensive repairs. To avoid this, have your garage door serviced by a technician every two years.
3. Squeaking
Squeaking commonly points to rusty springs or hinges that need lubrication. The noise is due to metal parts grinding against each other without sufficient lubricant. As with grinding, applying a high-quality silicone spray can often silence squeaks. If it persists, however, you should schedule a professional service. Rusty components, particularly springs, are dangerous to replace yourself and should only be handled by an experienced garage door technician.


4. Rattling
Never ignore a rattling noise when the garage door opens or closes. Rattling often indicates that nuts, bolts, or screws on the door or track system are loose. Neglecting to address this can lead to misalignment of the door, causing more serious problems and potential safety hazards. Having your door professionally serviced every two years ensures all components remain tightly secured.


5. Popping
If you have a torsion spring system, failing or malfunctioning springs can produce popping sounds. Torsion springs operate under significant tension, so this isn’t something you should inspect or fix yourself. Any work on torsion springs should be performed by a trained professional to avoid serious safety risks.


You rely on your garage door to open and close securely whenever you need it. Keeping an ear out for unusual noises—and responding quickly—helps ensure your door remains in top shape. While some minor issues can be fixed with a DIY approach, certain noises warrant the skill and expertise of a professional. B&D Garage Doors can help. Contact us to schedule a service or repair with a professionally trained garage door technician today.
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