We’re all about the DIY movement. If you can do a garage door repair yourself — safely and effectively, why not? But there’s no shame in admitting when a repair is over your head or beyond your skill level. There’s an art — indeed an important survival skill — in knowing when to call a professional garage door service. Some repairs are too dangerous — and some downright difficult. You could end up hurting yourself or your family — or cause expensive damage to your door.
Here are some facts to consider:
- About 1,600 injuries every year cause by DIY garage door repairs gone wrong end up in the emergency room.
- Over 2,000 people are injured every year by falling garage doors (usually by busted springs, which hold up the door).
- At least 36 children have been crushed by garage doors since 1982.
Broken Springs
Many of those injuries we noted are the result of broken springs — or a novice homeowner attempting to fix springs themselves. Keep in mind that your garage door actually weighs hundreds of pounds. It’s a breeze to raise because of the springs. Your springs are under an incredible amount of tension. If they should suddenly snap — say when you’re trying to repair or replace them — they release with such violent force they can serious injury if not kill you. Always hire a professional garage door repair service for anything spring related.
Having Annual Professional Maintenance Is Safest
Having your garage door professionally maintained annually is the safest option. A trained technician can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. Their trained eye can make sure that the door operates smoothly and reliably. Regular maintenance includes various safety checks. They’ll make sure that safety features like auto-reverse mechanisms are working. The less risk of accidents, the better off you are. While you can perform regular maintenance yourself, having a professional set of eyes will only help. Professionals have the expertise to handle complex garage door components. Annual maintenance not only extends the life of your garage door but also safeguards the well-being of your family. It’s a prudent safety measure.