Every time you press your garage door opener switch or remote, a complex dance of components springs into action. The overhead door tracks — those sturdy metal channels guiding your door’s ascent and descent — bear tremendous responsibility in this daily performance. And just like any hardworking mechanical system, these tracks endure constant wear and tear, eventually signaling the need for attention.
In this post, we’ll explore some signs of track fatigue that suggest a replacement is due:
- Crooked Overhead Door. If your garage door hangs unevenly or appears misaligned, it’s a strong indication of track misalignment. This may result from impacts to the tracks, loose hardware, or simply the gradual wear of the tracks over time.
- Visible Damage. Severe bends, dents, or cracks in the metal are also warning signs of weakened structural integrity that could have safety implications over time. Even minor damage can escalate quickly under the daily stress of normal operation; therefore, it’s important to inspect the tracks regularly for apparent physical damage.
- Rust and Corrosion. Environmental exposure, especially in humid climates, can lead to rust and corrosion on your overhead door tracks. Although surface rust might seem cosmetic, it can quickly deteriorate the metal’s structural integrity. Advanced corrosion weakens the tracks and creates rough spots that impede smooth door operation, necessitating an urgent track replacement.
- Excessive Noise During Operation. Your garage door should operate relatively quietly. If you notice grinding, scraping, or squealing sounds during operation, your tracks may be worn out or damaged. While some noise issues can be resolved with lubrication, persistent sounds often indicate more severe problems requiring professional evaluation.
If you’re still unsure whether your overhead door track needs replacing, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our team, and we’ll be happy to give you a professional opinion, as well as a complimentary estimate in case a repair or replacement is needed.