Garage vehicle doors are the heaviest moving objects in a home. As such they have significant potential for safety hazards. They are also the largest exterior entryway, and therefore must be appropriately weather-tight.
Inspect the vehicle door(s) for their overall condition, noting damage, deterioration, poor fit in the opening, or any misalignments. Inspect all safety, mounting and guide hardware to ensure that the door(s) are secure, stable, and move freely as designed. Inspect latching and locking mechanisms for proper operation and condition. Inspect for the presence and condition of weather stripping to ensure that the elements do not enter the garage interior.
Inspect vehicle doors that open upwards for balance; they should maintain whatever position they are set to and not close on their own. They should move freely in the tracks or guides without binding. Inspect overhead doors for intact counterbalance mechanisms, e.g. torsion springs, safety cables, and extension springs. Doors that move laterally should be inspected to ensure they open fully and do not drag or bind.
The vehicle door is damaged or deteriorated. This affects safety and proper function. Hire a contractor to repair or replace the door as needed.
The vehicle door binds in the tracks during operation. This affects proper function and can cause further damage. Hire a contractor to identify the cause and provide repairs as needed.
The vehicle door’s hardware is loose. This affects proper function and is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the hardware as needed.
The vehicle door’s hinges are loose. This affects proper function and is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the hinges as needed.
The vehicle door’s locking mechanism is damaged and will not unlock. Repair or replace the lock as needed.
The vehicle door’s lock and handle are missing. This affects proper function. Replace the lock and handle.
The vehicle door has a broken window. This is a safety and security issue. Replace the window glass.
The vehicle door is inoperative. Repair or replace the door.
The vehicle door’s safety cables are damaged or missing. This is hazardous if the springs fail. Hire a contractor to replace the safety cables.
The vehicle door’s torsion spring is damaged. This is a safety hazard. Hire a contractor to replace the spring.
The vehicle door’s extension springs are damaged. This is a safety hazard. Hire a contractor to replace the springs.
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The vehicle door’s weather stripping is missing. This will allow air, water, small animals, and weather to travel freely into the garage. Replace the weather stripping.
The vehicle door’s weather stripping is damaged. This will allow air, water, small animals, and weather to travel freely into the garage. Replace the weather stripping.
