Is It Safe to Repair a Garage Door Yourself?

Our garages get a lot of wear. At just a few uses per day, the average garage doors open and close over 1,500 times per year. Even with regular use, your garage doors will eventually require maintenance or need a repair.

Depending on the required service or level of damage, it may be something you can manage yourself. However, it’s always a good idea to call a professional to service or repair your garage. 

Garage doors are heavy, containing springs and components under high tension. In any instance, professional garage door repair will always be more affordable than property damage or personal injury. That said, with some basic DIY skills and simple tools, you can prolong your garage’s lifespan and correct several minor problems, should they come up. 

Is Your Repair DIY’able? 

Taking care of your home is essential, but so is taking care of yourself. Knowing when something calls for a DIY solution — and when it’s time to call the professionals — can save you time and help to prevent serious injury. In any case, any garage repair is only DIY if you feel comfortable and safe performing it.

Damaged Panels and Weather Seals

Whenever your garage door’s panels are damaged from an accident or worn weather seals are letting water and unwanted visitors in, you can typically fix it yourself. DIY garage door repair includes replacing panels and the seals with new products. 

Broken Cables or Drums

Cables and drums are under incredible tension, and replacing them can lead to serious injury. We recommend working with a professional who can stay safe while fixing your cables and drums. 

Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener

If you can no longer use your garage door opener, first check to see if the batteries in your remote need replaced. You can replace those yourself for a quick DIY garage door repair. However, if your garage door opener is broken, you will need professional repair. 

Broken Door Springs

Never attempt to repair or replace your garage door springs. This is one of the most dangerous garage door repair tasks, and it should only be done by a trained professional. 

Loose Nuts and Bolts 

Prolonged use and shifts in temperature can work your hardware loose. Try tightening the nuts and bolts yourself first. If that doesn’t make a difference, you may want to seek out additional garage door repair. 

What other garage door repairs are you wondering if you can DIY? Let us know in the comments!

Professional Garage Door Repair in Lakeside

If you’re having trouble with your garage, call Easy Open Door of Lakeside, CA. For 39 years, we’ve served homeowners across San Diego county, including El Cajon, La Mesa and the surrounding area. Each of our employees has over 15 industry experience. No residential or commercial garage door service is too big or small. For most repair services, we can have a technician at your home or business within 24 hours and weekend service is available. For more information or to schedule a repair, call us or contact us online.