A garage door that isn’t level when closed can be frustrating for homeowners.
It affects the door’s performance and can lead to issues with insulation, security, and even cause more damage if left unresolved.
In this guide, we’ll explain why your garage door may be unlevel and how to fix it, restoring smooth and safe operation.
Why is my garage door not level when closed?
If your garage door isn’t level, it might be caused by loose springs, tracks, or the opener. Tighten components or call a professional to ensure proper alignment and function.
Key Takeaways
- A garage door that isn’t level can be caused by various issues such as misaligned tracks, spring problems, or worn-out components.
- Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent issues with a garage door being uneven when closed.
- Fixing an unlevel garage door may require DIY solutions or the help of a professional depending on the severity of the problem.
Why Is It Important for a Garage Door to Be Level?
A garage door that is level when closed ensures it functions properly, creating a tight seal along the bottom and sides of the door.
This is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency, protecting your garage from the elements, and keeping pests and debris out.
An uneven garage door can also put undue stress on the door’s components, leading to quicker wear and more expensive repairs.
Common Causes of an Unlevel Garage Door
There are several potential reasons why your garage door may be out of alignment when closed. Identifying the root cause is key to fixing the problem and restoring proper functionality.
Below are some common causes:
1. Misaligned Tracks
One of the most common reasons for an unlevel garage door is misaligned tracks.
If the tracks that guide the door become bent, warped, or otherwise misaligned, the door may not sit evenly when it’s closed.
Misalignment can occur due to wear and tear, impact from objects, or simply because the tracks were not properly installed in the first place.
Solution: If you suspect misalignment, you can visually inspect the tracks for bends, gaps, or damage.
You can try gently tapping the tracks back into place with a rubber mallet, but if the damage is severe, it may require professional repair or replacement.
2. Damaged or Broken Springs
Garage doors are equipped with torsion springs that help balance the weight of the door. These springs counteract the gravitational pull, ensuring the door opens and closes smoothly.
If one or both of these springs are damaged or broken, it can cause the door to become uneven when closed.
Solution: If you suspect a broken spring, it’s important not to try fixing it yourself as it can be dangerous.
Garage door springs are under high tension, and handling them improperly can result in injury. It’s best to call a professional to inspect and replace the springs.
3. Worn Out Rollers
The rollers on your garage door help it move smoothly along the tracks. Over time, these rollers can wear out or become damaged, leading to issues with the door’s alignment.
Worn-out rollers can cause the door to drag, preventing it from sitting level when closed.
Solution: Check the condition of the rollers by inspecting them for visible damage or excessive wear.
If the rollers appear worn or damaged, they should be replaced. This can be done as a DIY project or by a garage door professional.
4. Uneven Lifting Cables
Garage doors rely on lifting cables to help raise and lower the door evenly. If one of the lifting cables is more stretched than the other, the door may not lift or close evenly.
Uneven cables can be caused by wear or improper adjustment.
Solution: Adjusting or replacing the cables is a job best left to professionals. Attempting to adjust lifting cables on your own can be dangerous, as they are under significant tension.
Call a professional to inspect and fix the cables if necessary.
5. Incorrect Tension
The tension of the garage door springs is crucial to ensuring the door opens and closes evenly. If the tension is uneven between the springs, the door may become unlevel.
This can occur if one spring is wound too tightly or too loosely compared to the other.
Solution: Adjusting the tension of garage door springs is a delicate task that requires the proper tools and expertise.
It’s recommended to hire a professional to adjust the spring tension safely and effectively.
How to Fix an Unlevel Garage Door: DIY Solutions
While some causes of an unlevel garage door require professional help, there are a few DIY solutions you can try before calling in an expert.
1. Check the Tracks and Clean Them
Ensure that the tracks are free of debris, dirt, and grime. Any buildup can obstruct the movement of the rollers and cause the door to become misaligned.
You can clean the tracks with a soft cloth and lubricant to keep everything running smoothly.
Step-by-Step:
- First, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway.
- Inspect the tracks for debris and clean them carefully.
- Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers.
2. Tighten Hardware
Over time, the hardware that holds the tracks, rollers, and springs in place can become loose, contributing to the misalignment.
Check all bolts, screws, and fasteners on the door and tighten them using a wrench.
Step-by-Step:
- Check the fasteners on the tracks, hinges, and brackets.
- Use a wrench to tighten any loose bolts or screws.
- Check the rollers and make sure they are securely attached.
3. Manually Adjust the Door
Sometimes, you can correct minor misalignment by manually adjusting the door. Try lifting the door evenly on both sides and check if it becomes level.
If it does, you may just need to adjust the tracks or springs slightly.
Step-by-Step:
- Open the garage door and manually lift it to see if it sits level.
- If one side is lower than the other, attempt to adjust the tension or springs as needed.
Preventing Future Garage Door Issues
Once your garage door is level and functioning properly, it’s important to take steps to prevent future issues. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your garage door in top condition.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regularly inspect the garage door, tracks, rollers, and springs for signs of wear. Having your door serviced once a year can prevent issues like misalignment from occurring.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
To keep the door running smoothly, lubricate the rollers, tracks, and springs with a silicone-based lubricant.
This will help reduce friction and prevent the parts from wearing out too quickly.
3. Avoid Overloading the Door
Be mindful of the weight limit of your garage door and avoid placing excessive weight on it.
Overloading the door can put unnecessary strain on the components, leading to misalignment or other issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my garage door is misaligned?
If your garage door is not closing evenly or if there’s a visible gap along the bottom when it’s closed, the door is likely misaligned. You can also check if the door opens and closes smoothly.
2. Can I fix a misaligned garage door myself?
For minor misalignment, you can try tightening hardware and cleaning the tracks. However, issues with springs, cables, or damaged tracks require professional repair.
3. How often should I maintain my garage door?
It’s recommended to inspect and maintain your garage door at least once a year to prevent issues like misalignment, wear, and tear. Regular maintenance helps keep the door in good working condition.
Conclusion
A garage door that is not level when closed can cause a variety of issues, from energy loss to potential safety hazards.
Understanding the causes of misalignment and knowing how to fix or prevent it is key to keeping your garage door in top condition.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help avoid costly fixes down the road and ensure that your garage door continues to function smoothly for years to come.
