How to Tell if a Garage Roller Needs to be Replaced
Worn or damaged rollers are among the most common repair issues for homeowners.
A well-maintained and optimally functioning garage door ensures convenience and safety. Every garage door contains multiple moving parts that ensure smooth and secure operation. Rollers are one such essential component of a garage door. They attach the garage door to the tracks and allow the door to raise and lower effortlessly. Garage door rollers vary in size and material and have an estimated cycle rating beyond which they will need replacement.
Worn or damaged rollers are among the most common repair issues for homeowners. While yearly inspections and periodic lubrication can help prolong the life of garage door rollers, even the most well-maintained garage door rollers will need replacement eventually. Here are the top signs that the rollers need replacement:
Age
Every garage door roller has a limited lifespan. One yardstick to determine the garage door rollers need replacement is to check the cycle ratings. Garage door rollers are rated for 3,000 to 15,000 cycles depending on their material and build quality. The lifespan of garage door rollers depends on their type. Plastic rollers last only a few years, steel rollers with ball bearings last up to 15 years, while nylon rollers have an expected lifespan of 12 to 20 years. However, some garage door rollers may get damaged or worn out prematurely, demanding replacement sooner.
Strange or loud noises
Another indication that a garage door roller needs replacement is when the door makes excessive noise during operation. A garage door is designed to function quietly and smoothly. Unusual and loud squeaking or grinding noises and slow or irregular functioning indicate that the garage door rollers need attention. It may also signify that the rollers are rusted or need lubrication. A technician can inspect to determine if the rollers need replacement or lubrication.
Homeowners should perform regular maintenance checks on the garage door to identify any visible damages. Cracks, chipping, loose parts, loose seals, and missing parts indicate it is time to call a technician for garage door replacement.
Out of alignment
A more obvious sign it is time for new garage door rollers when it looks crooked or misaligned. Rollers play a key role in keeping the garage door aligned correctly. A garage door that frequently jumps off the rail or is improperly aligned has most likely worn-out rollers that need replacement.
Excessive vibration
The primary function of garage door rollers is to help the door navigate along the rails smoothly. However, as the rollers age and wear out, they can result in terrible vibrations during the garage door operation. Call a technician to inspect and replace the garage door rollers if the garage door appears to jump off the track.
Improve the life of garage door rollers
Garage door rollers need attention and good care to stay in shape. Some steps that can help homeowners get maximum use out of these garage door rollers are:
Lubricate the rollers regularly with lithium-based spray grease.
Get good quality rollers.
Inspect the rollers periodically to ensure they are working as they should.
Homeowners should not attempt any garage door repair or replacement job by themselves. Contact a local garage door service company for garage door roller replacement.
Call Quick Response Garage Door Service - We are your Arizona garage door service specialists.
Greater Phoenix Area (602) 825-2925
