When you have a roll-up garage door system, it needs extra care and maintenance from time to time. Without that attention, a strong Santa Ana windstorm can easily knock the system off its track alignment. Dust, dirt, pebbles, and other debris can get inside and cause serious safety or security concerns.
At SoCal Garage Door & Gates, we provide garage door repair in Los Angeles that often includes realigning the garage door with the track or ensuring the rollers move freely. Here is some advice on how to detect if your system is off track before it causes additional damage.
Common Reasons Your LA Garage Door is Off Its Track
Life around Los Angeles is pretty great. You have bright, sunny days with only occasional rainstorms, along with all the amenities you could ever want for food, entertainment, shopping, and lifestyle engagement. The only problem is, when something goes wrong, it’s a pain. Your garage door might stop working if there is:
- Sudden wind kicks up dust, dirt, and debris into the track
- Someone accidentally slams into the doors to disrupt their flow
- The rollers are too worn, or the guide is bent from delivery equipment
- An earthquake aftershock sends hardware vibrating loose
- Hot summer days expand the system when in use
What should I do when my roll-up garage door slips off track? To start, never force your LA garage door open or closed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and pull the emergency release. That should allow you to close it for safety before calling our team.
Take the Time to Inspect Your LA Garage Door Rollers
A roll-up garage door has tracks along both sides. Try to schedule a visual inspection in your calendar every few months. You’re looking for warping in the track or buildup of dust and dirt.
If you see cracking or hear grinding, you might have a mechanical issue. Loose hardware on the floor after use could also indicate that the rollers are loose or that the system needs oiling and some replacement parts.
Look for Hanging Sections
Roll-up garage doors around LA are heavy, even for residential properties. They can, from time to time, tilt to one side or bunch up by accident. Odds are you are seeing one side lower or higher than the other because of loose fasteners or busted brackets.
We cannot emphasize how important it is to be careful when this happens. If you’re under that door when it’s partially suspended, you’re in for some serious harm. The same is true for your car, pets, or kids’ bikes.
What About a Manual Test?
You can manually open and close your garage door when it’s off track, but go slowly. You’ll want to flip off any electric motors or systems and check the owner’s manual for advice first.
Go very slowly and stop moving the door if you detect any resistance. If you can hear loud metal-on-metal grinding or what sounds like scraping, stop immediately. You’re testing for resistance to find something stuck in the track, not to force the door one way or the other.
Still Need Help? Trust Our Team for Garage Door Repair in LA
Once you’ve visually inspected your roll-up garage door, run a manual test, and still have an issue, it’s time to call our team at SoCal Garage Door and Gates. We can be at your local residential or commercial property, offering precision garage door repair in LA with clear estimates and fast turnaround times.
At SoCal Garage Door & Gates, we ensure you have all the help your home or business property needs. We are a fully licensed and insured provider with years of experience helping properties just like yours. Contact us today at (800) 897-6858 to book your next appointment.
