Garage doors, how complicated can they be? It seems like the concept of a door has been nailed down (or, perhaps more aptly, screwed down) in the last 150 years. Especially with the advent of the two-car home. But as it turns out, the age of automation makes everything slightly trickier. It’s probably also true that we don’t often learn the components that make everyday items function.
John’s Custom Garage Doors are the foremost expert for garage door repairs in Tigard. Because we know there are many important parts to a fully functioning overhead garage door system, we want to share that knowledge with you! From the springs and cables to the tracks and wall controls, each component is essential in providing you with reliable operation of your door.
For this blog post, we’re going to explore the 5 most important components to automate every garage door system. Ready to go? Then without further ado, let’s open sesame.
A garage door can’t open without functional tracks and rollers.
Garage Door Opener
Probably the most important part of any door is the part that opens the door. In the case of an automated garage, that responsibility garage door tumbles to the opener. The garage door opener is responsible for reading and responding to transmitters, wall controls and keypads.
There are multiple types of garage door openers on the market today, including:
- Chain Drive Opener: This opener utilizes a chain drive system to lift and close heavier models of garage doors. However, it is also much noisier due to the weight of the chain.
- Belt Drive Opener: This type of opener uses a reinforced belt to raise and lower the garage door. It operates at an almost silent level. Great for homes with multiple family members.
- Screw Drive Opener: This type of opener is powered by a steel rod and runs along the same track as the garage door itself. It requires minimal maintenance and usually operates in extreme temperatures.
- Direct Drive Opener: Direct drives are the new kids on the block of openers, combining the best of both worlds in both chain and belt drive models.
- Jackshaft Openers: These are the funkiest type of openers, typically mounted on the wall of your garage, and are great for garages with low ceilings.
Springs and Cables
The springs and cables are probably the most important components to providing a garage door with its balanced power distribution. The springs sit at the top of your door frame and provide tension to keep it in balance when going up or down. In addition, the cables attach through pulleys on either side of the door and work together with the springs to keep the door safe and secure. Broken cables are cause for emergency garage repair because, without these parts, your door will become increasingly difficult (or even impossible) to lift and a potential hazard if it is stuck open.
Tracks and Rollers
The tracks and rollers are what guide the garage door up and down along its path. The track itself is the part that actually supports the weight of your door as it moves, while the rollers provide a smooth glide for its movement. For optimal performance, these components should be kept clean and free from debris to prevent any snags. In addition, tracks should be inspected for any dents or bends that may cause your door to not work properly.
Wall Controls and Keypads
It’s true: we live in a wireless world now. Wall controls and keypads allow you to control your garage door from the comfort of your home (or even your car). While these nifty garage door accessories can be wired, wireless models are increasingly popular. These devices usually come with easy-to-follow instructions and can be mounted in multiple locations for convenient access. In addition, keypads can provide secure password protection to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to your garage.
Wait! What About The Door Itself?
Sometimes a patch can’t fix everything.
It’s funny, but one could argue the least important part of a garage door is the thing itself. That’s not to say it isn’t important at all, just that the door becomes an immobile unit without the opener, springs, tracks, and rollers. One would be successful in arguing that it’s just another wall with less insulation.
Nonetheless, there are components important to the formation of the door: the panels and the hinges. Garage door panels are used to build nearly every modern model. There are exceptions, but not usually. It means that when the door receives a dent or develops a hole, one only needs to patch the panel rather than replace the whole unit.
The garage door hinges, meanwhile, are perhaps even more important than the panels themselves. They attach the garage door to the tracks and rollers. Without them, the door wouldn’t be able to open and close anyways. These hinges come in different sizes depending on the size of the door, so it’s important for any competent garage door repairman to double-check those measurements before purchasing replacement parts.
Looking for Garage Door Repair in Tigard?
It should be said even with working knowledge of a garage door system, it is incredibly dangerous to work on these frankly, unwieldy and extremely heavy home products by oneself. That’s why it’s essential to call a professional service for any repairs or replacements.
John’s Custom Garage Doors has been providing the industry’s highest quality garage door services for 60 years in Washington County, Oregon. With four generations of experience, our family-run business provides comprehensive residential or commercial garage repair services—including replacing broken springs with a 4-year parts warranty. Customer satisfaction guaranteed!
If you’re in need of garage door repair in Tigard and the surrounding areas, call John’s Custom Garage Doors at (205) 537-9754 or contact us via our website for reliable service you can trust. We look forward to assisting you!