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As a garage door opener specialist, I have seen many garage doors that make unpleasant noises when closing. A squeaky garage door can be a sign of a problem, and it’s important to address it before it becomes worse. In this article, I’ll explain the reasons why your garage door squeaks when closing and how to fix it.
Common Reasons Why Your Garage Door Squeaks When Closing
A squeaky garage door can be caused by many different issues. Here are some of the most common reasons why your garage door squeaks when closing:
1. Worn-out Rollers
The rollers on your garage door are responsible for moving it up and down the tracks. Over time, these rollers can become worn-out or damaged, which can cause them to squeak when the garage door is closing.
2. Dirty Tracks
Dirt, debris, and other particles can accumulate in the tracks of your garage door over time. When this happens, the garage door can become difficult to open and close, and it may also start to squeak.
3. Lack of Lubrication
All of the moving parts on your garage door need to be properly lubricated in order to function properly. If the moving parts are not lubricated, they can become dry and start to squeak when the garage door is closing.
4. Loose Hardware
The hardware on your garage door, including the hinges, screws, and bolts, can become loose over time. When this happens, the garage door can become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
5. Bent Track
If the track that your garage door runs on becomes bent, it can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
6. Tension Issues
The tension in the springs that are responsible for lifting your garage door can become uneven over time. This can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
7. Misaligned Rollers
If the rollers on your garage door become misaligned, it can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
8. Damaged Springs
The springs that are responsible for lifting your garage door can become damaged over time. This can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
9. Worn-out Hinges
The hinges on your garage door can become worn-out over time. This can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
10. Chain Problems
If your garage door opener uses a chain drive, the chain can become loose or damaged over time. This can cause the garage door to become misaligned and start to squeak when it is closing.
How to Fix a Squeaky Garage Door
Now that you know the common reasons why your garage door squeaks when closing, it’s time to learn how to fix it. Here are the steps you can take to fix a squeaky garage door:
1. Clean the Tracks
Use a clean cloth to wipe down the tracks of your garage door. Remove any dirt, debris, or other particles that may be causing the garage door to squeak.
2. Lubricate the Moving Parts
Use a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate all of the moving parts on your garage door. This includes the rollers, hinges, springs, and any other moving parts.
3. Tighten the Hardware
Use a wrench to tighten any loose hardware on your garage door. This includes the hinges, screws, and bolts.
4. Replace Worn-out Rollers
If the rollers on your garage door are worn-out or damaged, replace them with new ones.
5. Check the Chain
If your garage door opener uses a chain drive, check the chain to make sure it is tight and not damaged. If it is loose or damaged, replace it with a new one.
6. Replace Damaged Springs
If the springs on your garage door are damaged, replace them with new ones.
7. Align the Rollers
If the rollers on your garage door are misaligned, adjust them so that they are properly aligned.
8. Straighten a Bent Track
If the track on your garage door is bent, use a pair of pliers or a hammer to straighten it out.
9. Replace Worn-out Hinges
If the hinges on your garage door are worn-out or damaged, replace them with new ones.
10. Adjust Tension
Adjust the tension in the springs on your garage door to make sure that it is evenly distributed.
Related: Garage Door Squeaks Only When Opening
Conclusion
A squeaky garage door can be a sign of a problem, and it’s important to address it before it becomes worse. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can fix a squeaky garage door and ensure that it operates smoothly and quietly.
FAQs
1. Why does my garage door only squeak when closing?
Your garage door may only squeak when closing if there is an issue with the rollers, track, or tension in the springs.
2. Can I use WD-40 to lubricate my garage door?
It is not recommended to use WD-40 to lubricate your garage door, as it can attract dirt and debris and cause further problems.
3. How often should I lubricate my garage door?
It is recommended to lubricate your garage door every six months.
4. Can I fix a squeaky garage door myself?
Yes, you can fix a squeaky garage door yourself by following the steps outlined in this article.
5. How much does it cost to fix a squeaky garage door?
The cost to fix a squeaky garage door will vary depending on the specific issue and the cost of replacement parts.
6. What should I do if I can’t fix my squeaky garage door?
If you are unable to fix your squeaky garage door yourself, contact a professional garage door repair service to assist you.