Most people open and close their garage doors on a daily basis. However, not everyone understands how the various parts of the system work to power the smooth movement of the mechanism. Here’s a brief guide of some of the major components and their functions.

The Anatomy of the Garage Door

1. Panels

The door itself is usually made of horizontal panels. These can improve your home’s curb appeal, boost energy efficiency by keeping hot air out, and keep you safe by deterring intruders. The panels can be completely solid for a minimalist look, or they can have intricate designs to provide some visual interest to the exterior of your property.

2. Hinges

The panels are connected by hinges. As the door opens, the hinges function to separate the sections so the material can “bend” as it moves along its path. Without the hinges, the component wouldn’t be able to shift seamlessly between its horizontal and vertical positions.

3. Tracks

The door moves along a path known as the track. It’s made of steel beams that are installed in both vertical and horizontal configurations. Small rollers on the track help guide the door open or closed. They often need lubricant to move without any issues.

4. Chain

When the door is opening or closing, most of the heavy lifting is done by the chain. Rather than simply hooking one end to the door and pulling it, this part acts much more like a bicycle chain.

It’s set up in a loop and often works with a torsion spring to balance the weight of the door. In some setups, screws or belts are substituted for the chain.

5. Operator

Attached to the ceiling, this box pulls the chain to move the door. Using a small motor inside, it functions as the centerpiece for an automatic garage door setup. It can be remotely activated with a handheld device or wall-mounted panel.

If your garage door needs any of these parts replaced, choose Pioneer Overhead Door, Inc, in Lincoln, NE. They offer the type of care and dedication you can only get from a locally owned family business. With 50 years working on commercial and residential garage doors, they can be your one-stop solution for door repairs, maintenance, and installations. To learn more, visit them online or call (402) 476-6539 for an estimate.