Common Causes of Garage Door Section Damage and How to Prevent Them

Your garage door plays a key role in keeping your home secure and your vehicles protected. But over time, wear and tear (or a simple accident) can lead to damage in sections of your garage door. Understanding what causes this damage can save you time, hassle, and even the need for a full garage door section replacement. Let’s explore the most common causes of garage door section damage and how to keep your door in great shape.

Why Do Garage Door Sections Get Damaged?

Garage doors are durable but not indestructible. Here’s a breakdown of the main issues that can lead to section damage.

1. Accidental Impact

Ever accidentally bumped your garage door with your car? Don’t feel bad, it happens to the best of us. Accidental impact from vehicles, bikes, or even sports equipment can cause dents, cracks, or deformities in specific sections of your garage door. Even a small accident can weaken the structural integrity of the door over time.

2. Weather-Related Damage

Bad weather can also take a toll on your garage door. Extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall, or high winds can cause sections to warp, rot (if made of wood), or rust (if made of metal). For homes in coastal areas, salty air can accelerate metal corrosion.

3. General Wear and Tear

Garage doors are constantly opened and closed, sometimes multiple times a day. This repetitive motion, along with natural aging, leads to wear and tear over time. Hinges may loosen, and certain sections may weaken, requiring attention or replacement.

4. Improper Maintenance

Neglecting regular maintenance is a major factor in garage door damage. Dirty tracks, lack of lubrication, or worn-out parts can accelerate section damage. When small maintenance issues are ignored, they tend to grow into bigger (and more expensive) problems.

How to Prevent Garage Door Section Damage

Now that you know the potential hazards, here’s how to protect your garage door from unnecessary damage:

1. Keep the Area Clear

Avoid storing items like bikes or tools near your garage door. Even lightweight objects can dent or scratch the surface. Teach kids to play away from the garage area to minimize accidents.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

Just like any other part of your house, your garage door needs some TLC to work efficiently. Schedule regular inspections and apply lubrication to moving parts to prevent wear and tear. Tightening loose hinges or screws also goes a long way in keeping the door sections stable.

3. Protect Against Weather

If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, consider weatherproofing your garage door. Applying sealants, rust-proof coating, or even investing in weather-resistant doors can help tackle damage caused by the elements.

4. Replace Damaged Sections Promptly

If a section is already damaged, don’t wait until it worsens. Opt for a garage door section replacement instead of a full door replacement. It’s a more cost-effective way to restore functionality and keep your garage door looking great.

Key Takeaway

Preventing garage door section damage doesn’t have to be complicated. Being mindful of potential causes and staying on top of regular maintenance will help your door last longer. However, when damage does occur, a garage door section replacement can save you money and hassle compared to replacing the entire door.

Got questions about garage door repairs or replacements? Call a professional garage door technician at Local Garage Door Repair Company today to help you with your specific needs.