Common Garage Door Problems in Clearwater: Fix a Broken Garage Door

Garage doors, like all mechanical devices, wear out over time from constant use. Keeping up with routine maintenance is even more critical when you factor in Florida's salt-laden air and humidity. Whether you are in the heart of Pinellas, the growing communities of Pasco, or the coastal stretches of Hernando County, you can mitigate many potential problems by learning to recognize early signs of trouble before they become costly repairs.

The Gulf Coast Climate's Impact on Your Garage Door System

The Florida climate significantly impacts garage door systems across the region. The tropical environment requires durable materials such as high quality steel and aluminum, corrosion resistant coatings for door panels as well as the tracks and other components.  Although vinyl and fiberglass materials can perform well against the elements they do not typically provide the strength required to meet Florida windload and impact requirements and are not common materials for garage doors along the Florida coast.

• Intense heat: Prolonged direct sunlight and the accompanying high temperatures can warp steel doors due to thermal expansion and lead to aesthetic and operational issues. The expansion and contraction of the metal components can sometimes lead to premature fastener loosening. Insulated garage doors typically perform better as they limit the temperature fluctuations and provide a cooler indoor space. Note: many manufacturers limit the warranty on dark colored doors installed in high heat environments.
• Salty air and humidity: Coastal salt air and humidity can cause the metal components to rust prematurely. Even the galvanized components eventually succumb to the environment. In many cases there are powder coated options for these components which offer longer lifespans. Wooden doors are especially susceptible to high humidity which can lead to swelling and warping.
• UV damage: Intense direct sunlight and humidity can prematurely deteriorate garage door finishes in the form of discoloration or chalking and even blistering in extreme cases. Most garage door finishes can be cleaned periodically with a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Refer to your owner’s manual or contact your dealer before applying any chemicals to your door finish.
• High winds: structural damage such as bending or buckling may occur if the garage door is not hurricane rated. In extreme cases the door or portions of it may be separated from the track system. Always check to ensure your garage door meets the local Florida Building Code for wind resistance.

Early Warning Signs Your Garage Door Needs Attention

Some of the most common early warning signs that your garage door has an issue include unusual grinding or squeaking noises, slow or jerky movements, the door will not fully open or close, and a door that appears lopsided or slanted. The high humidity found throughout Pasco and Pinellas contributes to rusty springs and tracks, while the coastal climate may also create moisture damage and warping.

• Schedule preventative maintenance inspections every 6 months or at least annually.
• Don’t ignore early warning signs. Have issues repaired immediately to prevent more costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations.
• Maintain your door’s exterior with periodic cleanings to extend the life of its finish.
• Have the weather seals replaced as needed to maintain your door’s performance and help keep moisture out of the garage.

The Dangers and Limitations of DIY Garage Door Repair

DIY garage door repair is extremely dangerous due to high-tension springs and heavy doors that are common in Florida due to the wind-load requirements. Attempting to repair components such as torsion springs, cables, or drums without professional training can cause more costly damage, void manufacturer warranties and most importantly cause injury or death.

As a locally owned and operated company, we take pride in providing our neighbors in Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando counties with top-quality service. Contact us at Overhead Door Company of Clearwater to learn more about our reliable repair, maintenance, installation, and 24-hour emergency services.