What to Do If Your Garage Door Is Off Track

When your garage door is off the track, it doesn’t work the way it should. Learn the cause behind this issue and the steps to handle it so you can keep your door in working order.

Common Reasons Why Your Garage Door Came Off the Tracks

There are a few reasons why your garage door came off the tracks:

• Your car hit the door. Sometimes you’re late for work or hurrying home, and you pull in or out of your garage before the door is open all the way. It can happen to anyone, and if it does, it may bump a few rollers off the tracks.
• The tracks are a mismatch. If your tracks are not strong enough to handle the weight of your door, they start to bend and cause misalignment.
• Rollers or cables are broken. Rollers and cables wear out quickly. If your door is old, wear and breakage in these parts can cause it to go off the tracks.

Initial Safety Steps to Consider Before Fixing Your Off-Track Garage Door

Before attempting any repairs, it’s essential to take safety precautions:

• Disconnect the garage door opener: This will ensure the door doesn’t move unexpectedly while you’re working on it.
• Secure the door: Use clamps or sturdy objects to hold the door in place while you assess the situation.

How to Fix Off-Track Garage Doors

Your off-track garage door requires several steps to get it back in place:

Identifying the Issue

Start by inspecting the tracks and rollers:

• Inspect the tracks for bends, gaps or obstructions: Look for any visible damage or debris that may be causing the misalignment.
• Examine rollers for wear, misalignment or breakage: Check each roller for signs of wear and ensure they are correctly aligned.

Adjusting or Repairing the Track

To fix a garage door that is off track:

• Use pliers or appropriate tools to straighten bent tracks: Carefully adjust any bent sections to restore functionality.
• Tighten any loose brackets, bolts or screws: This creates stability and will help prevent future issues from arising.

Resetting the Rollers and Testing Manual Operation

Once you’ve addressed the track issues:

• Carefully guide the rollers back onto the track: Ensure all rollers are securely in place.
• Manually lift and lower the door: Test the door’s movement without the opener to confirm that everything is aligned correctly and opening smoothly.

Re-Engaging the Opener and Testing Automatic Function

After confirming manual operation:

• Reconnect the garage door opener following safety guidelines: Ensure all connections are secure and functioning properly.
• Test the door’s automated function: Observe how the door behaves when operated automatically to make sure it’s properly aligned.

When to Contact a Professional

If your attempts to fix the door are unsuccessful or if the damage seems extensive:

• Situations where extensive damage or repairs seem unsafe: If you are unsure about any part of the repair process, it’s always best to consult a professional.
• Regular maintenance tips to prevent future off-track issues: Schedule routine inspections and maintenance to keep your garage door functioning properly.

Contact a Professional Repair Technician at Hunter Door

Whether your repair didn’t go as planned or you’re not interested in a do-it-yourself fix, Hunter Door can handle the job. We specialize in fixing a range of garage door problems, including those times when it’s off the track. Request our services in southern Jersey today.