On average a garage door weighs around 130 pounds (single door) to 350 pounds (double door), so that is a lot of weight that your garage door motor is responsible for lifting roughly twice a day. With all that weight to drag around, it is no surprise that your garage door lift motor needs some TLC every now and again. Here is what to do about a slow garage door.
How Long is Normal?
As a general rule, you could expect your garage door to open and close fully within twelve to fifteen seconds. Anything longer than that, and you have a slow garage door on your hands. More often than not, the issue is a simple fix, such as ensure your garage door has enough grease in the mechanics to roll properly. You can test this by greasing all the brackets and hinges then running your garage door and seeing if it moves any faster. Another thing to check would be your motor itself. Some models have a speed setting that can be easily adjusted.
Call In An Expert for Inspections
If you have tried both of those things and your door is still crawling along the track, then it is time to call Straight Up Garage Doors to have your garage door inspected. It could be that the pulleys are wearing out and need to be repaired or replaced. It could also be a worn-out spring slowing down your door. We do not recommend that you test these parts yourself, as they can be highly dangerous due to the sheer size and weight of the garage door. Only a trained professional who is experienced with this specialized equipment should examine and repair these garage door parts.
Regular Maintenance
If you want to prolong the life of your garage door and keep it running at its best, then it is a good idea to have it regularly serviced. At least once a year you should have someone come out to inspect the garage door for proper function and safety. They will ensure that all parts are serviced and in good working order. They will also give you some pointers on things you can do in between inspections to help keep your garage looking and working at its best.
To get your annual service and inspection, call Straight Up Garage Doors today. And if it is time for a new garage door, we can help you select the right style and options that will match your house while still fitting into your budget. Remember that your garage door takes up a good portion of the front of your home, so it is a huge part of your curb appeal and also a key point of safety and security for your home. Make sure that you are taking of your garage door, and it will take care of you for years to come.
