Garage Door Is Making Noises — What Could It Be?
Your garage door is something you rely on every day, but when it starts making strange noises, it can be both annoying and concerning. A noisy garage door is more than just a nuisance—it’s often a warning sign that something isn’t working quite right. At OnTrac Garage Doors, we’ve seen it all, and in this post, we’ll break down what those sounds might mean and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Common Garage Door Noises and What They Might Mean
Different sounds can point to different issues. Identifying the type of noise your garage door is making is the first step in diagnosing the problem.
1. Grinding Noise
Possible Cause: Worn-out rollers or misaligned tracks
If your garage door makes a grinding noise as it opens or closes, the rollers may be worn down or the metal tracks may be out of alignment. This causes friction between parts that should move smoothly. Left unaddressed, this can lead to more serious damage.
2. Squeaking or Squealing
Possible Cause: Lack of lubrication or aging parts
This is one of the most common complaints and is usually a sign that the moving parts (like springs, rollers, or hinges) need lubrication. Squeaky sounds could also indicate wear and tear on older components that may need replacing soon.
3. Banging or Popping
Possible Cause: Tension issues with the springs or panels
If you hear a loud banging or popping sound, especially when the door is in motion, it could be an issue with your torsion springs or panel sections shifting. This sound can also occur if the door is slightly off-balance and straining as it moves.
4. Rattling
Possible Cause: Loose hardware or components
Rattling typically means some of the nuts, bolts, or brackets have become loose over time. This can be an easy fix, but it’s important to tighten everything correctly to avoid more severe damage or injury.
5. Clunking or Thudding
Possible Cause: Worn rollers, broken springs, or damaged panels
These heavier sounds may indicate something more serious, like a roller jumping off the track or a spring that is no longer holding tension. A thud could also signal that a section of the garage door is misaligned or compromised.
Should You Be Worried About Garage Door Noises?
Yes—unusual noises are often the first sign that your garage door system needs attention. Ignoring these sounds can lead to breakdowns, damaged components, or even safety hazards if something like a spring fails unexpectedly. Early intervention is the best way to keep your garage door functioning smoothly and avoid costly repairs.
What Can You Do About a Noisy Garage Door?
Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using WD-40, which is a cleaner—not a true lubricant.
Inspect for Loose Hardware: Carefully tighten bolts and screws on the door and track system, but don’t overtighten.
Check the Rollers and Hinges: If they look cracked, rusty, or worn, it may be time to replace them.
Schedule Professional Maintenance: If you’re unsure about the source of the noise or don’t feel comfortable working on the door yourself, it’s best to call a garage door professional for a full inspection.
Call OnTrac Garage Doors for Expert Garage Door Service
A noisy garage door is more than just an irritation—it’s often a signal that something isn’t right. At OnTrac Garage Doors, we offer prompt, expert service to diagnose the issue and get your door back to quiet, smooth operation. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a major repair, our skilled technicians are here to help.
Call us today at (704) 764-1080 to schedule your garage door inspection or maintenance service. Let’s put those strange noises to rest for good.