Why won't my garage door close?

Common reasons include: misaligned safety sensors, obstructions in the door path, broken springs, stripped gears in the opener, or issues with the close limit settings. Check the safety sensors first - they should both have steady lights.

Should I repair or replace my garage door?

Consider replacing if: the door is over 15-20 years old, has significant rust or structural damage, panels are severely damaged, or you want to upgrade to an insulated door. Many issues like springs, cables, sensors, and openers are cost-effective to repair.

What do the blinking lights on my garage door opener mean?

Blinking lights indicate error codes. For LiftMaster/Chamberlain: 1 blink = sensor wire issue, 2 blinks = sensor wire short, 3 blinks = door control wire issue, 4 blinks = sensor misalignment, 5 blinks = motor issue. Use our error code lookup tool for specific diagnosis.

How do I calculate what torsion spring I need?

To calculate the correct torsion spring, you need: door height, door width, door weight, track type, and number of springs. The formula involves IPPT (Inch-Pounds Per Turn) = d^4 × E / (10.8 × D × Na). Use our spring calculator for accurate results.

Can I replace a garage door spring myself?

Torsion spring replacement is dangerous and recommended only for trained professionals due to the extreme tension (over 200 lbs of force). Extension springs are safer for DIY but still require proper safety precautions and tools.

Garage Door Off Track

Advanced DIY1-3 hours (professional)

A garage door that has come off its track is a serious safety issue. Stop using the door immediately—don't try to force it. This usually happens from impact damage, broken rollers, or track obstructions. Minor derailments can sometimes be fixed DIY, but serious cases need professional repair.

Common Symptoms

Door hanging at an angle
Rollers visible outside the track
Door won't move or is stuck
Loud grinding or scraping sounds
Gap between door and track

Possible Causes

•Vehicle impact while door was down
•Broken or worn rollers
•Bent or damaged track
•Obstruction in track
•Broken lift cable
•Forcing a stuck door

How to Fix It

STOP using the door

Do not press any buttons or try to move the door. Unplug the opener. An off-track door can fall unexpectedly.

A falling garage door can cause serious injury. Do not stand under or near the door.

Assess the damage

From a safe distance, look at where the door has derailed. Note which rollers are out and if the track is bent.

Check for cable or spring issues

Look for a gap in the torsion spring (break) or loose/dangling cables. These indicate a more serious problem.

For minor derailments only

If just one roller has slipped slightly and track is intact, you may carefully guide it back while lifting the door to reduce pressure.

Call a professional

For any significant derailment, bent track, or if cables/springs are involved, this is a job for professionals.

When to Call a Professional

•Door is hanging at an angle
•Multiple rollers are out of track
•Track is bent or damaged
•Cables are loose or broken
•You're unsure about the severity
•Spring appears broken

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fix an off-track door myself?

Only very minor derailments where one roller has barely slipped. If the door is at an angle, cables are involved, or you're unsure—call a pro. This repair involves spring tension and falling door risk.

What caused my door to go off track?

Most commonly: hitting the door with a vehicle, worn rollers finally failing, or something getting stuck in the track. Sometimes a cable breaks, causing one side to drop.

How much does it cost to fix an off-track door?

Costs vary depending on the extent of the damage. If track sections or multiple rollers need replacement, the repair will be more expensive. Get quotes from local professionals.