Learn how to maintain, repair, or replace your garage door vertical track with our expert tips to ensure smooth operation and safety!
The garage door vertical track helps your door move up and down the right way. If it is bent, loose, or out of place, your door might get stuck or move unevenly. Look for signs like loud noises or rough movement to know when it needs fixing.
To repair the track, turn off the power and check for damage. You can tighten bolts, clean out dirt, or gently tap the track back into place. But if it’s badly bent, cracked, or rusty, it’s better to replace it for safety and better performance.
In this guide, you’ll learn all about garage door vertical track repair and replacement. Whether you enjoy doing minor fixes yourself or plan to call a trusted garage door repair service, this article shares valuable tips to help your garage door work correctly and safely.
What Does the Vertical Track Do on a Garage Door
The garage door vertical track helps your door move up and down safely and smoothly. You’ll notice signs that shouldn’t be ignored when it’s damaged.
1. Loud Noises
If your garage door makes grinding or scraping sounds, the garage door vertical track might be bent or dirty. These noises are warning signs. Quick garage door repair and track cleaning can stop the damage early and keep your door running smoothly.
2. Jerky Movement
A garage door that sticks or shakes may have a bent or blocked garage door vertical track. This stops the rollers from moving correctly. Getting a garage door repair quickly helps the door move better and protects the opener from wearing out.
3. Roller Gaps
If you see a gap between the rollers and the garage door vertical track, something’s off. A bent track or loose parts might be the cause. A fast garage door repair can fix this issue before it leads to more serious damage.
4. Track Damage
Look for rust, dents, or bending on your garage door vertical track. Even small damage can cause problems when opening or closing the door. Early garage door repair prevents bigger issues and keeps your system working as it should.
5. Opener Strain
When your garage door vertical track is damaged, the opener has to work harder. This can lead to faster wear or even failure. Getting a professional garage door repair helps reduce strain on the system and extends the life of your opener.
Top Reasons for Garage Door Vertical Track Damage
Garage door vertical track damage often comes from things we overlook. Knowing the leading causes helps you act early and avoid big repair bills later.
1. Physical Impact
Hitting the garage door vertical track with a car, ladder, or tool can bend or dent it. Even minor bumps can make the track uneven. If not fixed immediately, this can lead to roller issues, poor door movement, and more repairs.
2. Rust and Corrosion
Rust can form when the garage door vertical track is exposed to water or moisture. Over time, the metal becomes weak and may crack or break. Keeping it clean and dry helps prevent rust and keeps the door working well.
3. Poor Installation
If the garage door vertical track is not set up straight, it puts extra pressure on rollers and brackets. This can lead to fast wear and more damage. A poorly installed track often makes the door move unevenly or get stuck.
4. Lack of Lubrication
The garage door vertical track needs smooth-moving rollers. Without oil or grease, rollers drag instead of gliding. This puts pressure on the track and can cause damage. Regular lubrication helps the door move easily and keeps the track from bending or breaking.
5. Normal Wear and Tear
The garage door vertical track wears out with daily use. Over time, the brackets may loosen and parts shift out of place. This can make the track uneven. Checking it often helps keep your garage door working safely and smoothly.
How to Repair a Damaged Garage Door Vertical Track
Before considering a complete replacement, assess whether a repair is possible. Here’s how you can fix minor issues:
1. Realigning the Track
If your garage door vertical track is a little out of place, you can fix it. Loosen the screws holding it to the wall. Gently tap the track with a rubber mallet to move it. Use a level, then tighten the screws.
2. Fixing Minor Dents or Bends
Pliers or a hammer can fix minor dents in the garage door vertical track. Gently push the track back into place. Don’t hit too hard, or you might crack the metal. For safety, consider calling a garage door repair expert.
3. Lubricating the Track
If your garage door vertical track is dry or noisy, clean it with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Then spray silicone-based garage door lubricant inside the track. Do not use WD-40 because it collects dust and can cause more problems.
4. Tightening Loose Hardware
Loose screws or bolts can make the garage door vertical track move out of place. Check all the fasteners with a screwdriver or wrench. Tighten them well and replace any missing or damaged parts to keep the track steady and strong.
When to Replace the Garage Door Vertical Track
Some signs that indicate the need for a replacement include:
- Severe bends or cracks that cannot be straightened
- Extensive rust that compromises structural integrity
- Persistent misalignment despite adjustments
- Repeated operational issues after attempted garage door repairs
Replacing the garage door vertical track is a more involved process, but it ensures long-term functionality.
How to Replace a Garage Door Vertical Track Easily
Replacing a garage door vertical track can fix misalignment and restore smooth operation. This guide shows simple steps and tools to help you do it safely and correctly.
1. Get Your Tools Ready
Before starting, make sure you have the right tools:
- Matching vertical track
- Screwdrivers and wrenches
- Drill (if needed)
- Level
- Safety gloves and goggles
2. Turn Off the Power
Unplug the opener or turn off the power switch. This will prevent the door from moving while you work and keep you safe.
3. Lift and Hold the Door
Open the new garage door all the way. Use locking pliers under the rollers to keep it in place. This stops it from falling while you replace the track.
4. Remove the Old Track
Loosen the bolts with a wrench or screwdriver, then gently remove the old vertical track. Try not to bend the rollers or other parts.
5. Line Up the New Track
Put the new garage door vertical track where the old one was. Make sure it’s standing upright by using a level. This helps the door move up and down the right way.
6. Attach the New Track
Use screws or bolts to secure the new track. If needed, drill new holes. Make sure the track is tight so the door works well.
7. Test the Door
Take off the locking pliers and slowly lower the door. It should move smoothly on the new garage door vertical track. If it sticks, recheck the track.
8. Turn Power Back On
Plug the opener back in or flip the breaker switch. Put away your tools and clean the area. Your garage door is now ready to use.
How to Prevent Garage Door Problems
To extend the life of your garage door vertical track, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Keep the Track Clean
Wipe the garage door vertical track with a clean cloth to remove dirt and dust. Do this regularly to stop the buildup. A clean track helps your door open and close smoothly without getting stuck or making loud noises.
2. Add Lubricant Often
Put garage door spray on the rollers and vertical track every few months. Use silicone spray, not grease. This makes the parts move smoothly and keeps the garage door quiet. It also stops the track from wearing out too fast.
3. Look for Damage
Check your garage door vertical track now and then. Look for rust, dents, or loose screws. If you find problems early, they’re easier and cheaper to fix. Doing quick checks helps keep your door working the right way.
4. Call a Pro Once a Year
Have a garage door expert check your garage door vertical track and other parts once a year. They can find small problems early before they turn into big ones. This helps your door stay safe and last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Garage Door Open Vertically?
Yes, some garage doors open straight up instead of going back along the ceiling. These are called vertical lift garage doors. They are mostly used in shops or garages with tall ceilings where extra space is needed for storage or large equipment.
What Are Garage Door Tracks Called?
Garage door tracks are called vertical tracks and horizontal tracks. Vertical tracks go up the sides of the door, and horizontal tracks go back into the garage. These tracks help the door move up and down smoothly when opening or closing.
How Do I Change the Code on a Garage Door Keypad?
Hold down the “Learn” button until you see the light blink. Then go to the keypad, type your new code, and press Enter. If the light blinks again, your new code is saved. This works for most openers.
Are Garage Door Tracks Universal?
No, garage door tracks are not all the same. They come in different sizes for different doors. Always check the brand and model of your door before buying new tracks. Using the wrong track can stop your door from working right or safely.
Can You Replace the Track on a Garage Door?
Yes, you can replace a garage door track if it’s bent or broken. You need the correct track that fits your garage door. Since garage doors have strong springs, calling a pro is safer if you’re unsure how to do it. You can contact CCM Overhead Doors in Oklahoma City for a secure and smooth fix.
Conclusion
We know how important a working garage door is for your home’s safety and comfort. When the garage door vertical track gets damaged, your door may stop working smoothly or get stuck. Fixing or replacing the track on time helps avoid bigger and more costly issues.
If your garage door feels off track or makes loud noises, it’s a sign that something is wrong. A bent or loose track can affect the entire system. Our trained team is ready to check, repair, or replace the track to keep your door running correctly daily.
Count on CCM Overhead Doors in Oklahoma City for expert garage door repair service. We handle all garage door track issues with care and precision. Fix the issue before it gets bigger. Contact us today to book fast, reliable help at a fair price.
End Note
If you need garage door vertical track replacement, CCM Overhead Doors in Oklahoma City offers strong, smooth-operating options. Whether it’s a new install or upgrade, we’re ready to help. Visit our site to explore high-quality solutions that fit your home perfectly.
Learn more about our team and values on the About Us page and see our projects in action through the Video Gallery. We serve Midwest City and nearby areas, offering expert garage door maintenance, premium Amarr garage doors, and durable specialty dock levelers.
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CCM Overhead Doors
1000 NW 80th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73114, United States
+14055638982
