Why Your Garage Door Makes That Awful Noise (And How to Fix It)
A loud garage door can do more than just wake up the household or annoy the neighbors. Those grating, squealing, clunking, and strange garage door noises are often the first warning signs of deeper garage door issues.
Here in New Mexico, our dry desert air, constant dust, and dramatic temperature swings can speed up wear and tear on garage door components. A little squeak today could quickly turn into loud garage door noises or a costly repair tomorrow if ignored.
If your garage door makes excessive noise in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, or Santa Fe, don’t overlook it. It often means worn out parts, loose components, or a misaligned garage door system. As a family-owned business with over 14 years serving New Mexico, Unlimited Garage Door Services has seen it all. This guide explains why your garage door makes noise and how to fix it.
Common Causes of Noisy Garage Door Operation
From simple lubrication problems to serious garage door repairs, there are many reasons behind a noisy garage door. In New Mexico, dust, heat, and improper installation can accelerate problems. Here are the most common causes.
1. Worn Rollers or Squeaking Noises
The rollers guide your door along its track. Over time, metal rollers or worn rollers can create squeaking, scraping, or grinding sounds. Dry desert air worsens this by drying out bearings.
The Fix: A temporary solution is applying white lithium grease or silicone spray for lubrication. For a permanent solution, upgrade to nylon rollers, which reduce noise, require less routine maintenance, and allow for smooth operation.
2. Loose Chains or Belts on the Garage Door Opener
The garage door opener uses a chain or belt drive to lift the door. A loose chain often produces rattling or slapping noises, while a worn belt can cause increased noise levels.
The Fix: A professional technician can tighten or adjust the system. For quieter operation, consider upgrading to belt drive openers or chain drive openers designed to keep your garage door running more quietly.
3. Worn-Out or Broken Springs
Garage door springs, especially torsion springs, do the heavy lifting. Over time, temperature swings can weaken them, leading to popping sounds, creaks, or loud snaps. A broken spring or broken torsion springs are dangerous and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
The Fix: Spring replacement is never for DIY repairs. Always call a professional to replace garage door springs safely and restore balance.
4. Bent or Misaligned Tracks
If your door opens with jerky motion or makes scraping sounds, bent tracks may be the cause. Settling structures, impacts, or loose hardware can make your unbalanced door noisier over time.
The Fix: A professional garage door expert can perform a track adjustment or replacement to ensure everything is properly secured for efficient operation.
5. Old, Unbalanced, or Poorly Maintained Garage Doors
Steel doors, insulated doors, and overhead doors all need regular maintenance. Without routine maintenance, loose nuts, bearing plates, and other garage door parts can create loud grinding or banging noises.
The Fix: An annual thorough inspection and tightening loose components can extend the life of your garage door system. A technician ensures your garage door is balanced correctly for smooth operation.
When to Call a Professional Garage Door Expert
While tightening loose hardware or applying lubricant may quiet some garage door noises, persistent excessive noise usually indicates deeper garage door issues. Attempting complex fixes without training or tools can lead to more noise or even serious injury.
You should call a professional if:
- Your garage door makes grinding or rattling sounds even after lubrication.
- You hear a banging noise, popping sounds, or a loud snap, likely from failing springs.
- The door moves unevenly, or you notice it’s off balance.
- Unusual sounds continue despite attempted DIY repairs.
Unlimited Garage Door Services has experienced garage door technicians who can diagnose garage door noises, replace worn-out parts, and make your garage door quieter. As a local Albuquerque garage door company, we stock quality garage door parts to ensure faster repairs than larger franchises.
Restore Peace and Quiet to Your Garage
A noisy garage door is more than a nuisance; it’s a warning sign that your garage door system needs attention. Addressing unusual sounds early prevents further damage and protects your home.
With over 14 years serving New Mexico, Unlimited Garage Door Services provides expert garage door repairs and maintenance to help your garage door operate smoothly. Whether it’s replacing broken springs, adjusting a door opener, or balancing an unbalanced door, we deliver proper maintenance and dependable results.
If your garage door makes noise, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Trust Unlimited Garage Door Services for fast, professional repair and regular garage door maintenance to extend your door’s life. Call us today at (505) 447-9441 or request service online.