Garage Door FAQs: What Vacaville Homeowners Need to Know Before Winter

As the weather cools down, garage doors across Vacaville start to get more use, and more wear. In fact, it's one of the most common places homeowners run into problems.

Here are answers to some of the top FAQs that Vacaville homeowners should know before winter. from our customers.

Why is my garage door so noisy?

A noisy door usually means moving parts need attention. Squeaking often comes from dry rollers or hinges, while grinding could point to worn rollers or misaligned tracks. Sometimes it’s just loose hardware. A professional tune-up can usually quiet things down quickly.

How often should I service my garage door?

Experts recommend having your garage door serviced once a year. Regular maintenance, like tightening bolts, lubricating parts, and checking springs, can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your door and opener.

Can I insulate my existing garage door?

Yes. If your garage door is in good condition, an insulation kit can be added to help keep heat in and cold air out. But for the best results, especially in older doors, upgrading to a factory-insulated door is usually the smarter long-term choice.

What’s the average lifespan of a garage door?

With proper care, most garage doors last 15 -30 years. Openers typically lasts 10 -15 years. Regular service and timely repairs go a long way in keeping both working well.

Why won’t my garage door close all the way?

If your door starts to close but reverses, the safety sensors may be blocked, misaligned, or dirty. It could also be an issue with the opener’s travel settings. If you’ve checked the sensors and it still won’t close, it’s time to call a technician.

What should I do if my garage door gets stuck in cold weather?

Cold temperatures can cause metal parts to contract and stiffen. Try gently clearing any ice or debris from the tracks. If the problem continues, don’t force the door, it could damage the opener or springs. A quick professional service call is the safest solution.

Is it safe to replace garage door springs myself?

No. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly. Spring replacement should always be done by a trained professional with the right tools.

How do I know if I need a new opener or just a repair?

If your opener is more than 10 years old, struggles to lift the door, or doesn’t have modern safety features like rolling code technology, replacement is usually the better option. For newer openers, many issues can be solved with a repair.

Your garage door is one of the hardest-working parts of your home. Knowing the basics can save you time, money, and stress.

Need service or advice? Contact us today for expert garage door repair and installation across Vacavillle.