DIY vs. Professional Garage Door Repairs: What You Should Know

Did you know that what the man in this picture is doing could be EXTREMELY DANGEROUS? Most people don’t understand which components of a garage door are under extreme tension and loosening the wrong fastener at the wrong time can result in very serious injury or even death. Some things are completely safe to do and others definitely are not. Simple maintenance like lubricating the door and checking the alignment of the safety eyes can easily be done by most homeowners. Anything beyond that is best left to the pros.

Garage doors are essential for home security and convenience. These systems consist of springs, cables, tracks, and openers, with each part requiring specific tools and expertise to adjust or repair. That’s why knowing when to tackle repairs yourself and when to call a pro can save time, money and stress.

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons to help you make an informed choice for your garage door repairs.

When DIY Garage Door Repairs Make Sense

Some garage door issues are simple, cheap, and safe to fix without expert help. If you’re comfortable with tools and basic maintenance, certain repairs might be manageable. Here’s when tackling repairs yourself might make sense:

● Minor adjustments: Tightening (never loosening) loose bolts or lubricating squeaky hinges and rollers are simple tasks.
● Sensor alignment: Misaligned safety sensors can often be fixed with basic tools.
● Weatherstripping: Replacing worn-out weather seals is straightforward and affordable.
● Basic maintenance: Regular cleaning and lubrication can prevent bigger problems.
● Lubricating moving parts: Reduce friction and noise by applying the right lubricant to hinges, rollers, and springs.
● Replacing remote batteries: If your garage door opener stops responding, fresh batteries often solve the problem.
● Cleaning the tracks: Dust and debris can interfere with smooth movement. A quick clean might restore proper function.

That said, while these DIY repairs are on the easy side, they work best for homeowners with some technical skills and the right tools. These repairs can extend a garage door’s lifespan and improve performance—just make sure you prioritize safety and consult your garage door manual for guidance.

Also, remember that knowing when to call a professional is just as important. As garage doors are heavy and are under high tension, attempting certain adjustments on your own can be dangerous:

● Springs and cables can cause serious injury if mishandled.
● Incorrect repairs may void your garage door warranty or even damage it.
● Errors can lead to more expensive repairs down the line.
● Without experience, repairs can take longer than expected.

When to Call a Professional

Certain garage door issues require expert attention. Here’s when hiring a pro is the smarter choice:
● Broken springs: Torsion and extension springs, cables and all related components are under high tension and are dangerous to replace.
● Track misalignment: Even when they’re just bent, tracks tend to need more specialized tools and expertise.
● Opener malfunctions: Electrical issues with garage door openers are best handled by professionals.
● Major damage: Significant damage from accidents or wear often requires professional repair.
● Door off its tracks: If the door comes off its tracks, forcing it back in place can be very dangerous and may cause structural damage.

Professionals have the training, tools, and experience to handle complex repairs safely and efficiently. On top of that, hiring them instead often simplifies the repair process and offers the following benefits:

● They are trained to handle a range of issues with precision while reducing risks of further damage.
● They use industry-standard materials and equipment for repairs of better quality and durability.
● Hiring an expert means your garage door gets fixed promptly, which means you can focus on other priorities.
● Trained technicians follow strict safety procedures.
● Professionals assess and address both immediate problems and underlying issues for long-term functionality.

Wrapping Up

Just a few more safety tips for those who intend to DIY their garage door repairs: unplug the power, use proper tools, avoid high-tension parts, and follow the manual. And, when in doubt, it’s best to consult an expert.

If you decide to hire a professional, be sure to check reviews, credentials, quotes, and warranties.

We can help you get started—contact us at The Door House today for expert advice on all things garage doors and expert repairs.