How To Adjust A Garage Door That Is Crooked?

A crooked garage door can be an inconvenience and a potential safety hazard. If your garage door isn’t closing evenly or is visibly misaligned, it can cause strain on the door’s mechanisms and potentially lead to further damage or even accidents. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to adjust a crooked garage door to ensure smooth operation and longevity.

Understanding the Causes of a Crooked Garage Door

Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s essential to understand why your garage door may be crooked. Common causes include:

Uneven tension in the torsion springs: These springs are responsible for lifting the door. If one side has more tension than the other, the door will rise unevenly.

Worn or damaged cables: Over time, cables can wear out or snap, causing one side of the door to hang lower than the other.

Track misalignment: The tracks guide the door’s movement. If they are bent or not properly aligned, the door can become crooked.

Obstructions: Objects or debris in the tracks can prevent the door from closing evenly.

Identifying the root cause is the first step in correcting the issue. Once you have determined the cause, you can proceed with the appropriate adjustments.

Safety Precautions Before Adjustment

Working with garage doors can be dangerous due to the high tension in the springs and the weight of the door. Before making any adjustments, take the following safety precautions:

Disconnect the power: Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental activation.

Secure the door: Use clamps or locking pliers to secure the door in place, especially if you need to work on the springs or cables.

Use appropriate tools: Ensure you have the correct tools for the job, including winding bars, adjustable wrenches, and pliers.

Wear protective gear: Safety glasses and gloves can protect you from potential injuries.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting a Crooked Garage Door

Step 1: Inspect the Door and Components

Begin by inspecting the entire garage door system. Look for visible signs of wear or damage on the springs, cables, and tracks. Pay close attention to the balance of the door. Disconnect the door from the opener and manually lift it. If the door doesn’t stay in place or feels heavy, it indicates an imbalance that needs correction.

Step 2: Adjust the Torsion Springs

If the issue is due to uneven tension in the torsion springs, you’ll need to adjust them. This process can be dangerous, so proceed with caution:

Locate the torsion springs: These are usually mounted above the garage door.

Secure the door: Ensure the door is in the down position and secured with clamps.

Loosen the set screws: Using a winding bar, carefully loosen the set screws on the winding cone of the spring that needs adjustment.

Adjust the tension: Insert the winding bar into the winding cone and turn it slightly to increase or decrease tension. Typically, one-quarter turn can make a significant difference.

Tighten the set screws: Once the desired tension is achieved, tighten the set screws securely.

Repeat on the other side: If necessary, repeat the process on the other spring to ensure even tension.

Step 3: Check and Adjust the Cables

If the cables are worn or damaged, they can cause the door to hang unevenly. Here’s how to address cable issues:

Inspect the cables: Look for frayed or broken sections.

Replace damaged cables: If you find any damage, replace the cables with new ones of the same type and length.

Adjust cable tension: If the cables are intact but uneven, adjust the tension by tightening or loosening the cable drum. Ensure both sides have equal tension.

Step 4: Align the Tracks

Misaligned tracks can cause the door to bind and become crooked. Follow these steps to align the tracks:

Loosen the track bolts: Using a wrench, loosen the bolts that secure the tracks to the wall or ceiling.

Realign the tracks: Adjust the tracks so they are parallel to each other and properly aligned with the door. Use a level to ensure accuracy.

Tighten the bolts: Once the tracks are aligned, tighten the bolts securely.

Step 5: Remove Obstructions

Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as an obstruction in the tracks. Inspect the tracks for any debris or objects that could be causing the door to hang unevenly. Clean the tracks thoroughly and remove any obstructions.

Step 6: Test the Door

After making the necessary adjustments, it’s crucial to test the door to ensure it operates smoothly:

Reconnect the opener: Plug in the garage door opener and reattach the door.

Operate the door: Use the opener to raise and lower the door several times. Observe its movement and listen for any unusual noises.

Check the balance: Disconnect the door from the opener and manually lift it. The door should stay in place when lifted halfway.

When to Call a Professional?

While many garage door adjustments can be done by homeowners, some situations require professional assistance:

Complex spring adjustments: If you’re uncomfortable working with high-tension springs, it’s best to call a professional.

Extensive damage: If the door or its components are severely damaged, professional repair or replacement may be necessary.

Persistent issues: If the door remains crooked after adjustments, a professional can diagnose and fix the problem more effectively.

Conclusion

Adjusting a crooked garage door involves a series of inspections and adjustments to ensure the door operates smoothly and safely. By understanding the causes and following the proper steps, you can correct many common issues. However, always prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed to prevent injury or further damage. Proper maintenance and timely adjustments can extend the life of your garage door and keep it functioning reliably.

A1 Garage Doors is providing maintenance and installation services related to garage doors and their parts. If you’re looking for a trustworthy service by skilled technicians you can count on, give us a call at 343-309-9964 for a free quote.