What Are the Most Common Replacement Parts?

Your garage door is not just a functional part of your home; it’s also a crucial component when it comes to security, convenience, and even curb appeal. However, like any mechanical system, garage doors are subject to wear and tear over time. When your garage door starts showing signs of malfunction, it’s essential to diagnose the issue promptly and replace any worn-out or damaged parts. In this comprehensive guide, Express Garage Parts will explore the most common garage door spare parts that homeowners frequently need to replace.

Understanding the Crucial Role of Garage Door Spare Parts

Before we explore the specific components that make up your garage door, it’s important to grasp the significance of having a basic knowledge of these parts. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn-out or damaged components can:

Ensure Safety: A malfunctioning garage door can pose significant safety risks to you, your family, and your pets. Knowing which parts need replacement can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Prolong Lifespan: Replacing worn parts as needed can extend the life of your garage door system, potentially saving you from the costly expense of a full replacement.

Enhance Security: A well-maintained garage door is a formidable deterrent to potential intruders. Faulty parts can compromise the security of your home.

Save Money: Addressing minor issues with spare parts promptly can prevent major breakdowns, ultimately saving you money on extensive repairs or replacements.

Now, let’s take an in-depth look at the most common garage door spare parts that homeowners often need to replace.

1. Springs: The Backbone of Your Garage Door

Garage door springs are arguably the most critical and commonly replaced spare parts. They are responsible for bearing the weight of the door and assisting in its smooth operation. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the door and wind up to store energy. When you open or close the door, the stored energy is released, making the process smoother. Torsion springs typically have a lifespan of 10,000 to 20,000 cycles and need replacement when they break or wear out.

Replacing torsion springs is not a DIY project due to the high tension involved. It’s essential to hire a professional garage door technician for this task. Attempting to replace torsion springs on your own can lead to serious injuries or accidents.

Extension Springs

Extension springs, on the other hand, are mounted on the sides of the door and stretch when the door is in motion. Just like torsion springs, they have a limited lifespan and must be replaced when they break or lose their tension.

While replacing extension springs is less complex than dealing with torsion springs, it’s still recommended to seek professional assistance to ensure safety and proper installation.

2. Cables

Garage door cables work in conjunction with the springs to lift and lower the door. These cables are under a significant amount of tension and can fray or break over time. If you notice that your garage door is uneven when opening or closing, or if you see visible damage to the cables, it’s time for a replacement.

Replacing garage door cables is another task best left to professionals due to the risk involved. Mishandling cables can lead to serious injuries and damage to your door.

3. Rollers: Keeping Things on Track

The rollers on your garage door are responsible for guiding the door along the tracks during operation. They are typically made of steel or nylon and are subject to wear and tear. If you hear a loud grinding noise when your door is in motion or if the door is not moving smoothly, it’s likely that the rollers need replacement.

Roller replacement is a task that can be tackled by some DIY enthusiasts. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of rollers for your door and ensure they are installed correctly for optimal performance.

4. Hinges: The Joints of Your Garage Door

Hinges are what allow your garage door panels to pivot as the door opens and closes. Over time, hinges can become rusty or worn, leading to squeaky or stiff door movement. If you notice that your garage door is making unusual noises or not opening and closing smoothly, it might be time to replace the hinges.

Replacing hinges is a relatively straightforward task that many homeowners can handle themselves. However, make sure to choose high-quality hinges to ensure long-lasting performance.

5. Weatherstripping: Keeping the Elements Out

Weatherstripping is the rubber or vinyl seal that lines the bottom of your garage door and the sides of the frame. Its primary purpose is to prevent drafts, moisture, and debris from entering your garage. Over time, weatherstripping can become cracked or worn, compromising its effectiveness.

Replacing weatherstripping is a simple DIY project that can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your garage and keep unwanted elements out.

6. Tracks: Guiding the Way

The tracks are the channels on either side of your garage door that guide it as it moves up and down. If the tracks become misaligned, bent, or damaged in any way, it can cause your door to malfunction. You may notice that your door is getting stuck or not closing evenly if there’s an issue with the tracks.

Adjusting or replacing tracks is a task that should be performed by a professional technician. Proper alignment and positioning are crucial to ensure your door operates smoothly and safely.

7. Panels: Cosmetic and Structural Considerations

Garage door panels serve both cosmetic and structural purposes. While they’re not the most common replacement parts, they may need attention if they become damaged due to accidents or extreme weather conditions. Damaged panels can affect the appearance and insulation of your garage.

Replacing garage door panels is a job that’s best left to professionals, as it requires specific tools and expertise to ensure the replacement matches the existing door’s style and dimensions.

8. Opener Components: The Heart of Automation

If you have an automatic garage door opener, there are several components that may need replacement over time. These can include:

Remote Control Batteries

The batteries in your remote control can wear out, leading to unreliable operation. Replacing these batteries is a simple DIY task that can improve your opener’s performance.

Wall-Mounted Control Unit

The wall-mounted control unit in your garage can also experience wear and tear. If the buttons become unresponsive or if the unit malfunctions, it’s relatively easy to replace.

Sensors

Garage door sensors are crucial for safety. They prevent the door from closing if there’s an obstruction in its path. If your door won’t close, or if it reverses when closing, it could be due to sensor issues. Cleaning or replacing the sensors may resolve the problem.

Opener Motor

The opener motor is the heart of your automatic garage door system. If it starts making unusual noises, struggles to lift the door, or fails to operate, it may be time for a motor replacement. Replacing an opener motor is a job that should be done by a professional technician, as it involves electrical work and adjustments.

9. Locks and Handles: Security Matters

While locks and handles on garage doors are not as common to replace as other components, they are essential for security and access. If your garage door lock or handle is damaged, it can compromise the security of your home.

Replacing locks and handles is generally a straightforward DIY task. However, make sure to choose high-quality hardware for added security.

10. Lubricants and Maintenance Items

While not technically spare parts, lubricants and maintenance items are essential for prolonging the life of your garage door components. Regularly lubricating hinges, rollers, and tracks can help reduce wear and tear and ensure smooth operation.

Make sure to use a high-quality garage door lubricant recommended by your door’s manufacturer. Regular maintenance checks can help identify issues before they become major problems.