Garage doors are sturdy, designed to withstand the elements and provide security for your vehicle and home. But as with any technology, once in a while, something can go wrong. The team at Tradewind Hawaii in Kailua-Kona is here to explain four signs you need garage door repair. 

4 Signs It’s Time to Fix Your Garage Door 

1. Slow Movement

The door should respond within a few seconds after you press the opener. A delay, especially one that increases over time, may indicate a problem with the remote batteries or a more significant issue. Some doors have motors that start slow and get faster; if the spring broke, it can prevent the engine from reaching its full speed. 

2. Trouble Opening or Closing

If the door doesn't budge, it may be because of a faulty power supply, such as trouble with the control panel or a blown fuse. If the garage door only opens partially before stopping, it’s likely a problem with the spring. The opener has a safety feature called force adjustment that activates to prevent the door from opening all the way or slamming closed when a spring is broken. If the door stops midway when opening or closing, the setting on the door limit may be incorrect.

3. Sagging Door Sections

Lower the door manually to see if it’s unbalanced. Sections like the springs or tensions can wear out over time because of normal wear and tear, extreme temperatures, or humidity. When this happens, the door can sag or bow. Call for repairs right away since faulty sections are a safety hazard.

4. Excessive Noise

All garage doors make some noise when operating, but unusual or excessive noise, such as creaking, grinding, or squeaking, may indicate a problem. Worn bearings, rusty hinges, or strained springs are likely culprits. 

Garage door repairs are not a DIY task. If you’re a Kailua-Kona resident, turn to the professionals at Tradewind Hawaii for your repair needs. In addition to garage doors, they provide a range of home products like custom cabinets, grills, and kitchen appliances. Call (808) 329-2310 to make a service appointment, and view their inventory online.