Signs Your Garage Door Motor Is Failing: What to Watch For

Written by Keith Bruss on September 2, 2025. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis. No Comments on Signs Your Garage Door Motor Is Failing: What to Watch For

Your garage door motor works hard every day, lifting and lowering hundreds of pounds with the simple press of a button. But like any mechanical system, it won’t last forever. Recognizing the warning signs early can save you from costly repairs, safety hazards, and the frustration of being stuck with a non-functioning door.

Most garage door motors show clear symptoms before they fail completely. By understanding these warning signs, Indianapolis homeowners can address problems before they escalate into major issues or safety concerns.

Unusual Noises During Operation

Strange sounds coming from your garage door opener are often the first sign that something’s wrong. A properly functioning motor should operate relatively quietly with minimal noise.

If you hear grinding, squealing, or clicking sounds, pay attention. These noises typically indicate problems with internal components like worn-out gears, stretched belts, or parts that need lubrication. Sometimes the issue stems from misaligned components that are creating unnecessary friction.

Don’t ignore these warning sounds. What starts as minor noise can quickly develop into complete motor failure if left unaddressed.

Inconsistent Door Movement

A reliable garage door should respond consistently every time you press the remote or wall button. When your motor starts failing, you might notice the door opens or closes only sometimes, or stops midway and reverses direction unexpectedly.

This erratic behavior often points to faulty motor sensors, wiring problems, or issues with the opener’s logic board. The safety sensors that prevent the door from closing on objects might be malfunctioning, causing the system to behave unpredictably.

Avoid attempting DIY fixes for electrical components. These systems involve complex wiring and safety mechanisms that require professional expertise to diagnose and repair safely.

Slow or Jerky Operation

When your garage door starts moving sluggishly or with noticeable jerks, it’s usually a sign that the motor is struggling. You might also notice higher energy bills as the failing motor works harder to operate the door.

Several factors can cause this symptom. An aging motor may lack the power it once had to lift the door smoothly. Physical obstructions like debris in the tracks, or damaged rollers can also force the motor to work harder than designed.

Regular maintenance can sometimes restore smooth operation, but persistent slow or jerky movement typically indicates the motor needs professional attention or replacement.

Door Gets Stuck or Stops Midway

Few things are more frustrating than a garage door that stops working partway through its cycle. This problem leaves your garage partially exposed and often requires manual intervention to move the door.

Motor overload is a common cause of this issue. When internal components wear out or the door becomes too heavy for the aging motor, the system may shut down to prevent damage. Broken springs, worn cables, or malfunctioning safety sensors can also trigger this protective response.

If your door regularly stops mid-cycle, schedule an immediate professional inspection. Continuing to operate a struggling system can cause additional damage and create safety risks.

Garage Door Opens or Closes on Its Own

A garage door that operates without being commanded poses serious security and safety concerns. This alarming symptom demands immediate attention to protect your home and family.

The problem often traces back to a malfunctioning circuit board or control system. Stuck buttons on remote controls, interference from nearby electronic devices, or programming issues can also cause spontaneous operation.

Start by checking your remote controls for stuck buttons and try reprogramming them. However, if the problem persists, contact a professional technician to inspect the opener’s electronic components and ensure your home’s security isn’t compromised.

Complete Motor Failure

When your garage door doesn’t respond to any commands and the motor makes no sound or movement, complete failure has likely occurred. This represents the end stage of motor deterioration.

Complete failure can result from severely damaged internal components, electrical problems, power surges, or simply age-related wear. While this situation is inconvenient, it’s often more predictable and manageable than intermittent problems.

At this point, motor replacement or complete opener installation becomes necessary to restore functionality. A qualified technician can assess whether repair is possible or if replacement offers better long-term value.

Don’t Wait for Complete Failure

Recognizing these warning signs early gives Indianapolis homeowners the advantage of addressing problems before they become emergencies. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to symptoms can extend your garage door motor’s life and prevent costly repairs.

Your garage door is more than just an entrance—it’s a crucial part of your home’s security and daily routine. When you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait for complete failure.

Experiencing issues with your garage door motor? Contact Garage Door Doctor at (317) 662-4049 for prompt, professional service. Our experienced technicians serve Indianapolis and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability.

The Average Cost of Garage Door Repair Services in Indianapolis

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on July 27, 2024. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis. No Comments on The Average Cost of Garage Door Repair Services in Indianapolis

The average cost of garage door repair services in Indianapolis ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the type and extent of the repair needed. Common repairs like spring replacements typically cost around $200, while more extensive repairs, replacements, or installations can be higher.

Understanding the average cost of garage door repair in Indianapolis is crucial for homeowners looking to avoid unwelcome surprises. Garage doors are a vital part of our homes, providing security, convenience, and curb appeal. However, like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to keep them functioning properly. In this article, we’ll delve into common garage door problems, the factors influencing repair costs, and provide a detailed breakdown of the average expenses you can expect when seeking garage door repair services in Indianapolis.

Common Garage Door Problems

In Indianapolis, homeowners often encounter a variety of garage door issues that require professional repair services. One of the most prevalent problems is broken springs. The average cost to replace broken springs in Indianapolis ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the type and size of the spring. Broken springs can render a garage door inoperable, making it essential to address this issue promptly. It’s important to note that spring replacement is a dangerous task due to the high tension involved, and it should always be performed by a qualified technician.

Another common issue is damaged panels. The cost to repair or replace garage door panels in Indianapolis can vary significantly based on the material and extent of the damage, typically ranging from $200 to $600 per panel. Damaged panels not only affect the appearance of your garage door but can also compromise its functionality and security.

Additionally, homeowners often face problems with faulty garage door openers. Repairing or replacing a garage door opener can cost between $100 and $400, depending on whether it’s a minor repair or a complete replacement. Misaligned or damaged tracks, which can cause the door to become stuck or operate unevenly, typically cost between $125 and $200 to fix.

Lastly, worn-out rollers and hinges, which can lead to noisy and rough door operation, usually cost between $100 and $200 to replace. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues, but when they do occur, understanding the average repair costs in Indianapolis can help homeowners budget accordingly.

Factors Influencing Repair Costs

Several factors influence the cost of garage door repairs in Indianapolis, making it essential for homeowners to understand what drives these expenses. The type of repair needed is one of the primary factors. For instance, replacing broken springs generally costs less than repairing or replacing damaged panels. The severity of the damage also plays a significant role; minor repairs will naturally be less expensive than major overhauls.

Additionally, the specific parts required for the repair, such as springs, cables, rollers, or panels, vary in price based on their quality and compatibility with your garage door system. Another crucial factor affecting repair costs is the labor involved. In Indianapolis, the average hourly rate for professional garage door technicians ranges from $75 to $125. Emergency repairs or services needed outside of regular business hours can incur additional charges. The company’s reputation and expertise can also influence the cost; established companies with highly trained technicians may charge more for their services but often provide higher quality work and better warranties.

Moreover, the type of garage door material—whether it’s steel, wood, aluminum, or composite—affects the cost of both parts and labor, as some materials are more expensive and difficult to work with. Lastly, the age and condition of the garage door can impact repair costs, with older doors potentially requiring more extensive and costly repairs due to outdated or hard-to-find parts.

Cost-Saving Tips

Managing garage door repair costs can be challenging, but there are several strategies homeowners in Indianapolis can employ to save money without compromising on quality. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly problems. Here are some practical tips to help you keep garage door repair expenses under control:

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for your garage door to catch and address minor issues before they become major problems. Lubricate moving parts, check the balance, and tighten any loose hardware.
DIY Minor Repairs: For minor issues like lubricating the rollers or tightening loose bolts, consider doing it yourself. However, always prioritize safety and leave more complex repairs to professionals.
Compare Quotes: Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Get multiple quotes from different repair companies to ensure you’re getting a competitive price for the necessary repairs.
Utilize Warranties: Check if your garage door or its components are still under warranty. Many manufacturers offer warranties that cover certain repairs or parts, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Home Insurance: Review your home insurance policy to see if it covers garage door repairs. Some policies include coverage for damage caused by accidents or natural disasters.
Preventive Measures: Invest in preventive measures such as weatherstripping to protect your garage door from environmental damage and reduce the likelihood of needing repairs.
Off-Peak Scheduling: Try to schedule non-urgent repairs during off-peak times. Some companies offer discounts for services performed during their less busy periods.
Bundle Services: If you need multiple repairs or maintenance services, ask if the repair company offers any bundle discounts. This can often reduce the overall cost.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage and reduce the cost of garage door repairs while ensuring your door remains in good working condition.

Choosing the Right Garage Door Repair Service in Indianapolis

Selecting the right garage door repair service in Indianapolis is crucial to ensure quality work and reliable service. One of the first steps in choosing a repair service is conducting thorough research. Start by reading online reviews and ratings on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Pay attention to customer feedback regarding the company’s professionalism, punctuality, and quality of work.

Additionally, seek recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences with local garage door repair services. Word-of-mouth referrals can provide valuable insights into a company’s reliability and customer service.

Another essential factor to consider is the experience and certification of the technicians. Look for companies that employ certified technicians with extensive experience in garage door repair. Certification from reputable organizations indicates that the technicians have undergone rigorous training and adhere to industry standards.

Moreover, inquire about the warranties offered on both parts and labor. Reputable companies typically provide warranties, which can give you peace of mind and protect you from future repair costs. Additionally, assess the company’s customer service. A responsive and professional customer service team can make the repair process smoother and more efficient. Ensure the company is transparent about their pricing, providing detailed quotes that include all potential costs.

By taking these steps, you can select a garage door repair service in Indianapolis that meets your needs and ensures the longevity and safety of your garage door.

Professional Garage Door Repair Services Near You

Understanding the average cost of garage door repair services in Indianapolis and knowing how to choose the right repair service can save homeowners time, money, and stress. By being aware of common garage door problems, the factors influencing repair costs, and practical cost-saving tips, you can better manage your garage door maintenance and repair needs. Regular upkeep, informed decision-making, and selecting a reputable repair service will ensure that your garage door remains reliable, secure, and functional for years to come. Don’t wait for a small issue to turn into a major problem—take proactive steps today to keep your garage door in top condition.

When it comes to reliable, high-quality garage door repair services in Indianapolis, look no further than Garage Door Doctor. With years of experience and a team of certified technicians, Garage Door Doctor is dedicated to providing exceptional service at competitive prices. Whether you’re dealing with broken springs, damaged panels, or faulty openers, they have the expertise to get your garage door back in perfect working order. Choose Garage Door Doctor for all your garage door repair needs in Indianapolis and experience the peace of mind that comes with working with Indianapolis’ trusted garage door experts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Door Repair

Garage Door Troubleshooting in Indianapolis, IN

How to Spot and Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on October 14, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Spot and Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems

Your garage door opens and closes approximately 1,500 times a year. With a weight exceeding 150 pounds, it can put a lot of pressure on the underlying mechanism. In this article, you’ll find tips on how to troubleshoot and fix your garage door.

Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

When the garage door does not open or close, troubleshoot the opener first. You can start by checking the condition of the batteries and replace them if they are dead. You can locate the batteries at the back of the transmitter.

It may also not be a fault from your transmitter but simply that you are merely out of range. The range for most transmitters is about four or five car lengths, or 50 feet, from the opener. Moving closer should get the door to open.

There could be barriers preventing the transmitter on the garage door from receiving the signal. When looking for obstructions, also make a point of checking for any signs of damage and schedule repairs if necessary.

It is also possible that the motor is defective. In that case, you should consult a repair technician to diagnose the garage door. Consider talking to Garage Door Doctor’s team for prompt garage door repairs in anywhere in or around Indianapolis.

Garage Door Opens but Does Not Close

If the garage door opens but does not close completely, the most probable cause is a faulty safety sensor. The photo eye sensors are usually on either side of the door. These devices prevent it from closing when there is an obstruction.

Start by examining the photo-eye sensors and ensure their alignment is correct. The easiest way to check for problems is to measure the height of the sensors. The distance from the floor should be the same for both if the alignment is correct.

Besides misalignment, another issue is dust on the lens. You can use a microfiber cloth to wipe off the grime and dust while taking care not to scratch the surface.

After cleaning and aligning the photo-eye sensors, test the door. If the door does not close, it may be a fault in another part of your system. You can call a garage door technician to troubleshoot and fix the opener.

Door Closes but Immediately Opens

If the door closes and then opens, it is probably an issue with the limit switch settings. It can happen when you have a new garage door installation or an old model that needs a reboot to work correctly.

The limit switch settings signal the door how far to move when closing. If the range is set too high, it will close and open again. The opener will conclude that something is obstructing the door and will initiate the safety mechanism.

The dials for the limit switch settings can vary depending on the model of your opener. You can adjust the limit switch gradually by turning the dial in small increments. Keep turning the dial until the door stops after it closes. You can consult the opener’s manual for the location of the switch for your model.

Garage Door Opens Partially

If there is a problem with the limit switch adjustment, your garage door may fail to open completely. The door may rise before stopping halfway. Incorrect limit switch settings may signal the opener to stop before the door ascends to the top.

If adjusting the limit switch does not solve the problem, the rollers could be a cause. The rollers might need lubrication, or they may be defective and require a replacement.

Another source of the problem might be a warped metal track. For the door to open and close properly, the alignment must be precise. Otherwise, it will open and close unevenly. With time, the problem will become worse as the heavy garage door moves along the defective tracks.

You will need a level to check if the alignment is correct. Typically, there will be rubbing sounds as the door moves past the point where the tracks have warped. You can unscrew the tracks and use a rubber mallet to push them back into position gently.

If it gets to the point where the door does not open at all, the damage may be too severe to fix. In such situations, you should consult a garage door professional. Garage Door Doctor has the knowledge and expertise to repair your garage door for you.

The Motor Is Running, but the Door Does Not Move

Sometimes, the motor will continue running, but the door does not move at all. In such instances, it could either be an issue with the limit switch or the belt.

If the issue is with the limit settings, the door may close while the motor keeps running. Most often, this is an installation problem. An adjustment of the switch should fix it.

If the motor is still running, it could also be an issue with the trolley. It often happens when someone pulls the emergency release rope. Pulling it upwards and towards the opener should re-engage the motor. You can consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions for your model.

If none of the solutions work, it could be a fault with the system. It is possible that the gears are worn out and cannot engage the motor properly. The emergency release rope may have gotten stuck. In either case, a professional should diagnose and repair your system.

Troubleshooting Unusual Sounds

If you have a noisy garage door, it is often an indication of a fault in the system. A vibrating sound when opening or closing indicates the nuts and bolts are loose. A high-pitched squealing noise is a sign of defective hinges. Squeaking can also indicate friction due to a lack of lubrication.

Banging and rattling noises are usually an issue with the door’s balance. You may also notice that it takes time for the door to open and close or that the movement is irregular. Ignoring the problem may damage the spring and cable assembly.

One of the sounds you should never overlook is a loud banging noise. You may hear this when the torsion springs break while you are at home. The springs have a lifespan of 10,000 cycles and may give in when they exceed their limit.

A broken spring can be dangerous to occupants of your home. Torsion springs also support the door’s cables. If you don’t address the issue in a timely fashion, these will also break. That’s why a prompt repair is crucial to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Tips for Preventing Garage Door Problems

Whenever you detect a technical problem, you should schedule repairs as soon as possible. You can troubleshoot and fix issues with the settings or alignment of the sensors. If components of the system are defective, however, you risk serious injury.

Approximately 30,000 people each year report sustaining injuries when trying to fix a garage door. You can prevent faults in the future by scheduling maintenance services at least every 18 months. Maintenance helps you save on repair costs while reducing the risk of accidents in your home.

For trusted and prompt garage door solutions in Indianapolis, you can rely on Garage Door Doctor. We have the experience to handle projects of any size or scope, and we’re accredited by the BBB. Our crew has earned top ratings on Google Reviews and Yelp thanks to our outstanding customer service. Contact us today for more information or an appointment.

Different Types of Garage Door Seals

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on December 24, 2020. Posted in Garage Door Installation, Garage Door Repair Indianapolis, Garage Door Replacement Indianapolis, Garage Door Services Indianapolis, Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on Different Types of Garage Door Seals

People are generally more familiar with garage door openers, springs, tracks, and other major components, but garage door seals are important as well. They help protect your garage door, keep it clean, and maintain its function. A type of weatherstripping, these seals come in several different types. Here is an overview of what they do and the kinds available on the market.

What Is a Garage Door Seal?

A garage door seal serves as a barrier against water, rain, snow, ice, and anything else the weather can throw at it. It helps prevent air leakage and keep heat inside while preventing bugs, leaves, dust, and other debris from getting in. The seal is essentially a piece of rubber that runs along the bottom and sides of the door. Every garage door has a bottom seal, so here is where we’ll start.

Garage Door Bottom Seals

Sealing gaps between the door and concrete floors, a garage door bottom seal helps weatherproof the garage. It is also called a gasket and is important in keeping your garage clean. Since concrete floors aren’t completely level, the seal helps close up any gaps. Therefore, a variety of problems can occur if the seal breaks.

Types of bottom seals include:

Bulb seals: Long tubular seals that are rounded at the bottom with a narrow “T” shape at the top. They push upward to spread out over an uneven surface.

J-Type seals: Installed on a single channel retainer, these seals form a hook shape, like the letter “J”, on each side of the garage door.

T-type seals: Similar to the J-type seal, these form an inverted “T” when viewed from the side and are installed with single channel retainers.

Beaded seals: These are also T-shaped but designed to fit into a circular groove and prevent water from seeping under the seal. Beaded seals are used for double channel retainers.

Threshold Seal

Threshold seals attach to concrete floors. They work in conjunction with the garage door bottom seal, providing a raised entrance that keeps out rainwater and debris. The seal is very strong; it can even hold up under the weight of a car. Different sizes and strengths are available.

Brush Seal

This kind of seal looks like a brush on the bottom of the garage door. It may be installed on the sides as well. Used most often for commercial garage doors, it’s typically preferred for high friction areas and on sheet doors/rolling seal doors that bend and flex during operation. Brush seals aren’t as effective at preventing water entry, but do well at keeping out hard debris.

Reverse Angle Mount Seal

A reverse angle seal is made of a hard rubber plastic material, configured as a track where the side of the garage door fits into. It is typically used only for heavy steel doors in commercial buildings. Providing a snug fit on both sides of the door, it forms a “U” shape and is best suited for garage doors that are too thick and heavy to use screws.

Contact Garage Door Doctor

A leading Indianapolis garage door service company, we offer professional repair and installation of commercial and residential garage doors. Our contractors can provide any type of garage door repair, and if you need garage door seal repair or replacement, you can depend on us as well. We are currently providing no contact service, allowing us to stay open during the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing, sanitization procedures, and use of masks/PPE are protecting our customers and technicians. Call (317) 342-4995 or request service online for a free estimate.

Newly-Built-Upscale-Stone-Home-in-Fall-with-White-Garage-Door

What to Do When Your Garage Door Cable Breaks

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on December 17, 2020. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis, Garage Door Services Indianapolis, Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on What to Do When Your Garage Door Cable Breaks

A garage door cable is strong enough to lift and lower a garage door weighing hundreds of pounds. The cables in your garage door system provide support and balance. Despite how strong they are, they do wear out over time, lose tension, fray, and break. If a garage door cable breaks or snaps, don’t try to fix it yourself; this is not a safe DIY option. Continue reading for more information about how these cables work and what to do about a broken or damaged cable. Call our Indianapolis garage door company to speak to a specialist!

How Do Garage Door Cables Work?

Garage door cables are not one size fits all. There are different types, determined by the springs installed. The two main types of garage door cables, made of strands of galvanized wire, are:

Lift cables: Installed on garage doors with torsion springs, these cables attach to the bottom corner of the door and connect to the torsion springs above it, helping to counterbalance the system.

Retaining cables: Are used in garage doors with extension springs and run vertically along each side of the door. When garage door springs break, retaining cables prevent them from flying or falling off.

When Cables Break, Avoid Using Your Garage Door

Wear and tear is the most common cause of cable failure. However, water or moisture near the bottom or sides of the door, corrosion, damaged pulley bearings, or improper track alignment can strain or degrade the cables. If you have a snapped or frayed cable, do not use your garage door. Additional damage may occur, leading to expensive repairs.

Depending on where it is, you might not see a broken cable. Signs one has snapped include a garage door lifting unevenly or moving faster than usual. The door may appear crooked when opening or closing, seem unbalanced, or make loud squeaking or other noises. It also may be impossible to lift the door manually.

The best option in these scenarios is to call a garage door repair professional. You could be seriously injured by attempting a DIY fix on your garage door; this happens to many people every year. Fortunately, an injury can be avoided by calling a technician.

How Can You Prevent Breaking Your Garage Door Cable?

Preventative maintenance can reduce the risk of having a broken garage door cable. You can prevent such a situation by:

Inspecting cables for frays, kinks, and buildup of debris or grime.
Regularly lubricate/oil your garage door cables and springs.
Removing debris that can stop a cable from working properly.

It also helps to replace older garage door parts. Doing so allows an automatic garage door opener to run more smoothly, putting less strain on the cables. This has many other long-term benefits regarding the operation, efficiency, and longevity of your garage door.

Contact Garage Door Doctor

The safest and most practical thing to do when a garage door cable breaks is to call a professional. At Garage Door Doctor, we perform garage door cable repair when you need it, as our team is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies. Garage door cable replacement will resolve your problem, protect other components, and enable your garage door system to run reliably for a long time. We remain open during the coronavirus pandemic. All guidelines for social distancing, sanitation, and use of masks/PPE are being followed and we’re providing no contact service to protect our customers and staff.

Feel free to request Indianapolis garage door service online or call (317) 342-4995 to speak with us directly about your garage door concerns.

Two-Level-Grey-House-with-Grey-Garage-Door-and-Driveway

How to Tell If Your Garage Door Sensor Is Out of Alignment

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on November 13, 2020. Posted in Garage Door Installation, Garage Door Openers, Garage Door Repair Indianapolis, Garage Door Replacement Indianapolis, Garage Door Services Indianapolis, Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Tell If Your Garage Door Sensor Is Out of Alignment

The garage door safety sensor is the reason your heavy garage door reverses if something is in the way. If it is misaligned, your garage door may not work properly. It might reverse for seemingly no reason or not work at all if the sensor fails. Dirt on the lens is a common issue, but it’s also possible for a sensor emitter or receiver, or both, to go out of alignment.

A garage door sensor, or photo-eye, consists of two devices. One sends a signal and the other receives it on the other side of the garage door opening. This creates an invisible beam that, if broken by anything in its path, triggers the garage door opener to reverse and return the door to its original open position.

What to Look For

If you believe a garage door issue is caused by a misaligned sensor, first check whether an object or stored item is obstructing the light beam between the two units. Perhaps you stored a toolbox nearby or a child’s ball rolled in the way. Remove any potential obstructions. If nothing is in the way, and there doesn’t seem to be damage to the sensors or their wires, then:

Find your garage door’s photo-eyes. One sensor is installed on the left-hand side and the other on the right. Both are mounted on the inside of the garage door opening, about six inches off the ground. The actual appearance, shape, and design differs depending on the sensor brand and manufacturer.

Determine the status of each sensor by looking at the LED light on its side. Each should have a steady green light. A flashing red light or no light on at all means there may be a misalignment. If the sensors are properly lit and the door still doesn’t work, check the lens for dirt, dust, or debris and clean off any you find with a soft cloth.

Measure the height of each sensor unit and use a level to determine if they are aligned. It’s important for both sensors to be at equal heights and facing each other. If not, they may have been installed improperly or the mountings may have been damaged. The best step is to call a garage door repair professional to find and fix the problem.

Can I Fix a Misaligned Garage Door Sensor?

You can adjust a misaligned sensor if there is no damage. First, loosen the screws on the pivot bracket. Then you can move the device up or down and direct one sensor to be in line with the other. Once the sensors are aligned, the LED light will come on.

Test the sensors after the adjustment is complete. To do so, place a cardboard box or other relatively soft object under the door and activate the switch to close it. The system should detect the object and stop the door. However, if a sensor problem persists, the door will close on or even crush the box or object. In this case, you should call a repair professional right away to service your garage door.

Contact Garage Door Doctor for Help

Serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas, Garage Door Doctor can help if your garage door sensors are misaligned, damaged, or not working. Our team of experienced service professionals can address your problem 24/7. We can service all types, makes, and brands of garage doors, openers, and parts. Call (317) 342-4995 today to request same-day service or contact us online to set up a free consultation.

What To Do If Your Garage Door Track Is Bent

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on August 26, 2019. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis.

If you have a garage, chances are your garage door sees some action each day. With extensive use, keeping your garage door system in tip-top shape is important. However, even with the utmost care and maintenance, your garage door system involves a lot of parts and components, and one small issue could cause the entire system to malfunction.

One common issue that can cause your garage door to not open and close properly is a bent garage door track. The tracks your garage door’s rollers ride through are two of the most important parts of the system, but its easy to overlook them. If they become bent or damaged, the rollers will not be able to roll through them as smoothly and could potentially lead to serious damage to your property and belongings stored within your garage. If you are dealing with a bent garage door track, contact Garage Door Doctor for same-day repairs! Until then, we’ll use this blog to help you figure out what you should do if you have bent garage door track.

How Do Garage Door Tracks Become Bent?

There are a variety of ways that the tracks of your garage door system can become bents. If any of the following events have occurred or you notice signs of a bent garage track, contact a garage door contractor to perform an inspection!

Collision

While it may seem silly, there are plenty of people that hit their garage door with their vehicle. Maybe it was an unlucky day, maybe it was dark outside, maybe they thought the door was already up — whatever the reasoning, colliding into a garage door is more common than most people would think but it happens, and when it does, your tracks can become misaligned or bent.

Broken Cable or Drum

The cables and cable drums are what is responsible for pulling and supporting your garage door. If one of them breaks or malfunctions, it will release a massive amount of unsupported weight onto your garage door tracks, causing them to bend or become misaligned.

Age

Just like most things, especially with extensive use each day, your garage door tracks may become rusty or corroded. Any damage to the structure of the tracks can — and likely will — cause them to bend or become misaligned.

Obstruction

Obstructions of any kind can throw off the mechanics of your garage door system. Sand, dirt, and other grit often accumulates in the tracks and can prevent the rollers and cables from moving, and the tension created can cause the tracks to become misaligned or slightly bent.

Signs Your Garage Door Track Is Bent or Misaligned

Ideally, you’ll be able to detect when your garage door track becomes bent or misaligned before it causes any damage to the rest of your garage door system. If you notice that your garage door has slowly become stiffer overtime, or doesn’t open and close as smoothly as it used to, this is a sign that the tracks have been damaged. If you suspect that your garage door tracks are bent, its best practice to contact a garage door repair company.

Can You Use Your Garage Door With Bent Tracks?

If you detect that your garage door tracks are bent or misaligned, you should halt any use of your garage door. Further use will likely cause the damage to spread and it could even lead to your garage door falling off its track. To prevent further damage and repair expenses, its best to not use your garage door until a professional can take a look at it.

When To Contact A Professional For Garage Door Repair

As soon as you notice that your garage door track is bent you should contact a garage door repair contractor to fix the issue. If the problem is addressed soon enough, your garage door contractor may be able to realign the tracks rather than completely replace them. Regardless, a professional garage door technician will be able to repair your tracks and keep you and your garage door system safe.

If you bent garage door tracks and need garage door repair in the Indianapolis area, contact Garage Door Doctor. Request a free estimate today!

Helpful Tips to Prevent Winter Damages for Your Garage

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on January 17, 2019. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis.

Midwest winters are pretty unpredictable. It can seem to be warming up one day, then the next day we are hit with a blanket of snow. During the winter season, we take the extra precautions to rid our driveways, sidewalks, and vehicles of snow and ice, but what about our garage doors?

When the temperatures fall and the snow starts to fall, it can have an adverse effect on your garage door as its operation. At Garage Door Doctor, we have seen many cases where snow and ice lead to costly garage door repairs. Don’t let the winter conditions affect the convenience and operation of your garage door, follow the tips below to avoid garage door repairs.

How Does Snow and Ice Damage Garage Doors?

Protecting your garage from snow and ice is important, especially in Indiana, where winters are often cold and windy, as both can cause issues for your garage door system. Letting snow and ice accumulate around your garage, the following issues are more likely to happen.

Garage door tracks can bend and become misaligned
The weight of your garage door can shift and become imbalanced
Wooden garage doors absorb moisture
Rubber and vinyl may harden and crack
The garage door opener is forced to lift a heavier load

Tips to Avoid Winter Damages For Your Garage

There are some simple things you can do to help ensure that your garage is operating safely through the winter season. Consider trying the following this winter:

Avoid piling snow. Try to keep snow from piling up on your garage doors threshold. Too much snow piled up against your garage door can cause it to dent or have difficulty opening. Plus, the debris in snow can damage the integrity of your garage door threshold, which can mean a lapse in energy efficiency the risk of potential damage to the door.
Remove ice. Ice can cause a serious problem for a garage door. Ice often forms along the threshold of your garage door. When ice accumulates on the threshold, your garage door opener has to work extra hard to pull the door away from the ice. This can cause damage to your door or your opener, so clear away the ice first.
Clear before closing. If your garage door has been opened long enough for snow or ice to develop along the threshold, clear it away before closing. If you close your door on snow and ice, the automatic reverse mechanism may kick in. Or worse, your garage door may close and be stuck.
Get a weather-resistant garage door. Weather-resistant garage doors can withstand the harsh winter conditions. These doors perform better over the long term and help homeowners avoid expensive repairs that come with cheaper alternatives.
Plow carefully. Make sure your plowing service knows to leave some space in front of your garage door. While plowing services are doing their best to do a good job, they aren’t always mindful about the fact that their work and their snow plows could damage your garage door.

Following the above tips will help you avoid garage door damage from ice and snow this winter. Keep in mind, when you need help repairing or maintaining your existing garage door, or choosing a new garage door that can withstand the harsh Midwest winters, contact Garage Door Doctor and our team of experienced technicians.