Stop Waking the Neighbors with These Quick Fixes
A garage door that screams, grinds, or thuds can be more than just annoying — it could be a sign of worn parts or poor maintenance. Before it gets worse, here’s how to diagnose the noise and what to do next.
Common Noises and What They Mean
Squeaking or Screeching
Cause: Dry rollers, hinges, or springs
Fix: Lubricate all metal parts with a garage door-specific lubricant
Banging or Slamming
Cause: Loose hardware or misaligned tracks
Fix: Tighten all nuts and bolts; check for dents in the track
Grinding or Rattling
Cause: Worn rollers or opener gears
Fix: Replace old rollers (nylon rollers are quieter); inspect opener chain or belt
Vibrating
Cause: Opener motor is wearing out
Fix: Professional inspection or opener replacement may be needed
Pro Tips for a Quieter Garage Door
- Install nylon rollers (quieter than metal)
- Use a belt-drive opener instead of chain-drive
- Add rubber insulation pads under opener bracket
- Schedule annual tune-ups to prevent future noise
