When your garage door opens and closes, there are a lot of moving parts involved. As a result, it shouldn't come as a surprise that there's no such thing as a whisper-quiet garage door or garage door opener. Still, strange noises coming from your garage door during operation should be investigated to ensure they're not indicative of a more serious underlying maintenance problem. If your garage door seems particularly noisy, there are some possible explanations to consider depending on the specific noise you're hearing.
Squeaking During Operation
Does your garage door emit a high-pitched squeaking sound when being opened or closed? If so, then there's a good chance that some moving part somewhere on the door (or opener assembly) is in need of lubrication. This could refer to the exterior frame weatherstripping of the door itself or even the chain that carries your garage door up and down. Either way, the good news is that this is a simple maintenance task you can handle yourself without the need to bring in a garage door repair professional.
Thumping and Clinking
Any thumping or clinking/clanking noises coming from your garage door will likely warrant a little more investigation, however. Start by trying to pinpoint exactly when the noises are occurring during operation. If the noises are loudest when the door is being opened or closed, there's a good chance you're dealing with bad springs. Often times, for example, a broken spring will cause a loud "thumping" noise to be emitted from the door when it is opened or closed. In some cases, springs that are rubbing against each other may also make a clinking or clanking noise.
Regardless of whether your garage door springs need to be repaired or totally replaced, be aware that this is always a project for an experienced garage door professional. These springs are under a great deal of tension and are extremely dangerous to tamper with if you don't know what you're doing.
Grinding and Ringing
Finally, be on the lookout for any grinding or ringing noises coming from your garage doors—especially if these noises are constant during operation or have a metallic-type sound to them. Often times, these kinds of noises are explained by problems with your garage door opener chain. It's possible that there is too much torque being used by your garage door opener, which is a quick and simple fix that any garage door professional can assist you with. It could also be that your garage door opener chain is too loose, in which case it will need to be tightened and repaired.
Repair or Replace?
If your garage door or door opener is in disrepair and is more than five years old or needs an extensive repair, then it may make more sense to completely replace it. At Wholesale Garage Doors, you can find great deals on brand new garage roller doors, openers, garage door remote components, and more. Shop our wide range of quality Panelift™ doors (including Panelift® Icon™), B&D roller doors, and more today.