As we all know, you can’t believe everything you hear or read online. You use your garage door every day, so it’s important to understand the basics of how your system operates and how to take care of it. Whether you were misinformed by a “professional,” Uncle Carl, or the internet, don't be fooled by these misconceptions about garage doors and their operating systems.
1. Noise is normal.
Garage door systems are designed to work smoothly. If your garage door is especially loud or noisy, your system may need some attention. Screeching or clanking is not normal, and it should not be ignored. Get your door checked out soon!
2. Garage doors are safe for kids to operate.
A garage door is a very heavy object, and if something goes wrong, it could end up crushing someone or something in its path. Don’t let your kids play with the garage door remote or play near the door when it’s in motion.
3. Maintenance is optional.
If you want to get the most out of your garage door, then maintenance is essential! While steel garage doors are virtually maintenance free compared to many other types of doors, they still require upkeep. The more persistently you perform regular maintenance, such as cleaning the door’s surface, lubricating moving parts, and performing visual inspections, the longer you'll keep your door running smoothly, no matter what type you have.
4. DIY is OK.
Some small repairs, such as adjusting photo eyes if they’re out of alignment, removing debris from the door's track, and replacing weatherstripping can easily be done by homeowners. Other repairs, however, like changing broken springs or cables, can be extremely dangerous and should always be left to a professional. Attempting to repair your door on your own could result in serious injury or death. You could also void your door's warranty or make the situation worse and end up having to pay for a professional to repair damage that you do.
5. Small repairs aren’t necessary.
A broken part here or there may not seem like a big deal, but unaddressed repairs can cause much more extensive damage to your garage door system and put your family in danger. If you suspect or know that your garage door needs to be repaired, call in a pro immediately.
6. Cheaper is better.
As with many things, when it comes to garage doors, you get what you pay for. Purchasing the least expensive garage door you can find is likely to get you subpar performance. You could end up with a drafty door that breaks down a lot and operates roughly. Before you buy, always look at the overall value of a garage door, including durability, energy efficiency, and impact on home value, rather than the price tag alone.
7. Professionals are trustworthy.
While we'd love to say that everyone claiming to be a "professional" is trustworthy, that simply isn't the case. Think twice before accepting service from someone who shows up at your door offering it. Research your garage door repair company beforehand, read customer reviews, and make sure they’re licensed, bonded, and insured. A trustworthy garage door repair company will help you select a good door that meets your needs and keeps you within your budget.
8. Your garage door can’t be broken into.
Unfortunately, many burglars have become experts at breaking into garages. By pulling the emergency release, they can unlock a garage door and easily push it up and enter. Another easy way burglars break in is by using remotes left in vehicles outside. Don’t be an easy target. Hide your remote, or better yet, don’t leave it inside your vehicle at all. Take safety precautions in your garage by securing your emergency release with a zip tie or adding a garage door deadlock. You can also enhance security by installing a smart garage door opener or incorporating MyQ technology, which alerts you when your garage door is being used or left open.
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