How to Level a Garage Door
How to Level a Garage Door
An unbalanced garage door is not only an eyesore, but it can be dangerous too! Unbalanced garage doors can often close too quickly making it a hazard for pets and young children and can put stress on various related parts.
What’s the most common reason for an unlevel garage door?
Typically, the torsion springs (the overhead springs). Each spring is made of tightly wound metal to ensure the door can open and close properly. They wind and unwind to pull the garage along its track and if they are damaged will cause the weight to be unevenly distributed. If left unchecked, the problem could affect other parts and require a new door completely.
Signs Your Garage Door is Unlevel:
– The door looks uneven when opening or closing
– The door hangs slanted or sags when fully open
– The door makes unusual sounds when opening or closing
– The door takes longer than usual to open or close
– The door won’t budge at all
Here are a few tips to level your garage door so it looks as good as the day it was installed!
1. Keep the Garage Door Open
Take pressure off the garage door by using a stool or ladder to prop it open a few feet.
2. Adjust the Spring Within Track Hanger
Make sure the springs are free of any tension before you remove them. If the door is closing too quickly, move the spring over to the next hole that you see on the bracket. If it was opening quickly then you’ll move it to a lower hold. Do the same for both sides in the same way.
3. Make Sure the Door Closes Evenly
Close the garage door and use a level tool to make sure both sides are touching the ground evenly. If it still doesn’t, adjust the spring tension on both sides until it does.
4. Adjust the Lift Cable
Finer adjustments to alignment can be made by lifting the cable and not the spring. The cable can be found attached to the S-hook which attaches to the track support. Keep the door open, then take the S-hook out of the built-in support mechanism to tighten, or you can loosen the cable as required. You will want to do this in a very minor way.
If you need help aligning your garage door or if you think you might need a replacement, get in touch! Our experts will help you problem solve your way into the perfect solution.