Why DIY Garage Door Repair Is a Bad Idea
Many homeowners enjoy the challenge of do-it-yourself home improvement projects. Taking on the right job independently can save you money and provide entertainment, as well as a sense of accomplishment. However, some projects are best left to professionals — garage door repair is one of these.
When garage door problems arise, you might be tempted to try and fix it yourself, but DIY garage door repairs can be both difficult and dangerous. Here are four serious reasons you should call a professional instead of trying this project on your own.
1. You Could Make the Problem Worse
Garage door openers are complex mechanisms. Unless you’re trained as a garage door repair technician, you likely don’t have the knowledge and experience necessary to tackle this type of home improvement project. Incorrectly installed components like garage door springs can cause major damage to your garage door cables and other components posing major safety risks and increased financial requirements.
If you try to repair your garage door yourself and accidentally use the wrong parts or methods, you could end up making the problem worse. Some mistakes could even ruin your garage door and require you to buy a new one. It’s best to hire a professional with the experience necessary to get the job done right the first time.
2. You Might Not Have the Proper Tools
Repairing a garage door takes specialized tools and components. If you try to fix the door with what you have on hand, you risk damaging the door, as well as your own tools.
Without the proper tools, garage door repair will be difficult, if not impossible. A good technician can provide all the tools necessary to fix the problem without hassle or risk.
3. You Could Lose Your Warranty
When you first purchased your garage door, you were likely given a warranty for a certain amount of time. That warranty can help you pay for repairs and replacement if something goes wrong before the specified time has passed.
When you attempt do-it-yourself repairs on your garage door, you give up any warranty you may have had. This is because warranties are not meant to cover any modifications consumers make to the product after it’s installed. To keep your warranty — and maybe even make use of it — you should only allow a professional repair company to work on your garage door.
4. You Could Get Hurt
The biggest reason you shouldn’t try to DIY repair your garage door is that it’s dangerous. Garage doors weigh several hundred pounds, and it can come down with enough force to cause serious injury. Technicians know how to work with these heavy doors carefully, but most homeowners don’t.
The springs used in garage door systems also pose a significant danger. To hold up such a heavy door, overhead springs hold a lot of tension. If these springs break during repair, they release that tension and send pieces flying with a force that could be fatal. So, you should never try to fix or replace a torsion spring on your garage door by yourself. While other garage door parts may seem less dangerous like your cables, keep in mind these parts all work in unison to support the weight of your garage door and shouldn’t be seen as a light repair.
Get Help From a Repair Professional
Because repairing a garage door can be difficult and dangerous, it’s a good idea to get help from a professional instead of tackling the project yourself.
At Blankenship Garage Doors, we’re dedicated to providing our clientele with excellent service. We proudly serve Bend, La Pine, Madras, Redmond, and surrounding areas of Central Oregon. Our experienced team can repair your garage door safely and quickly. Call Blankenship today to learn how.