Like everything else in your home, your garage doors will need to be repaired from time to time. After all, they do have a number of moving parts, they receive lots of use and they are constantly subjected to the elements. If your garage doors are in need of repair you might be wondering if you should attempt to fix them yourself or hire a professional to do the job for you. Well, the best answer that I can give you is “maybe”.
If you happen to be mechanically inclined and are able to carefully and accurately follow instructions, you’re probably a good candidate for making “do it yourself” garage door repairs. If not, I would strongly suggest hiring someone to do the job for you. Here are a few things to consider before making your decision:
1 – Garage doors are heavy and the massive springs used to assist in raising and lowering them can be extremely dangerous to work with unless you know how to do it safely. There are a number of online guides to DIY garage door repair available as well as numerous books, so you can learn how the job is done if you so choose. Just be aware that one slip-up can cause you all kinds of pain and grief.
2 – Garage doors, openers and the associated hardware to make them work together do not come cheap, therefore a simple mistake could end up costing you more than hiring someone to make the repairs for you in the first place.
The above caveats notwithstanding, garage door systems are relatively simple and straightforward and most anyone with a mechanical aptitude can learn to repair them. If you feel comfortable tackling the job yourself, first go online or visit your local library or bookstore and learn how garage doors work and the steps required to safely make any necessary repairs to them. Then, and only then should you visit your local home improvement store or shop for the parts you need online. And always remember…safety first!
About the author: Gene Halliday is a home-builder and garage door expert. He and his crews have built and repaired hundreds of homes during his 18 year career.