Garage Door Safety Tips
Your garage door is the heaviest moving object in your home. Protecting your family, pets, and vehicles requires basic safety vigilance and knowing when to call certified specialists.
Monthly Auto-Reverse Sensor Test
Place a 2x4 block of wood flat on the ground under the center of the door. When the closing door contacts the wood, it should automatically reverse within 2 seconds. Also test the photo-eye sensors by waving an object across the beam while closing.
Beware of Red Emergency Release Cords
Only pull the red emergency disconnect cord when the door is in the fully CLOSED position. Pulling the cord while the door is stuck open with a broken spring can cause the 300+ lb door to slam violently shut.
Keep Wall Consoles Out of Children's Reach
Mount garage door wall buttons at least 5 feet off the ground so toddlers cannot reach them. Never permit children to play 'beat the door' or treat remotes like toys.
Inspect Cables & Springs Visually Only
Inspect cables for fraying or unspooling, but never touch, loosen, or attempt to unbolt bottom brackets. These components hold extreme mechanical torque that requires specialized winding bars.
Listen for New Sounds & Imbalance
Squeaking, grinding, scraping, or jerky movement are warning signs of dry rollers, failing bearings, or unbalanced springs. Addressing noises early prevents sudden cable breaks.
Clear Winter Ice from Bottom Astragal
In Utah winters, melting snow can freeze the rubber bottom seal directly to the concrete apron. Forcing the opener to lift a frozen door can strip the opener gears or snap the lift cables.
Notice Anything Unusual During Your Inspection?
Our certified Utah technicians provide free on-site safety assessments and 26-point tune-ups with dependable hardware warranties.