Loud garage door noises can be surprising and sometimes mean something needs attention. Sounds like banging, squeaking, or grinding often come from loose parts, worn springs, or dry hinges. Some issues are simple to fix, while others may need a pro. This guide will help you understand what those sounds mean and what to do next.
What Kind of Noise Is Your Garage Door Making?
Garage doors can make many different sounds. Each sound might mean something is wrong. A banging sound could mean something is loose. A squeaking noise might come from dry metal parts. Grinding sounds may mean the door is rubbing or dragging. Listening to the noise can help you figure out the problem. Here are some noises to watch for:
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Banging or thudding – could mean loose parts or a track problem
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Squeaking or screeching – might mean something needs oil
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Grinding – can mean parts are wearing out or scraping
If your door makes a new noise, it’s a good idea to check it right away.
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Do Garage Door Springs Make Noise When They’re Going Bad?
Yes, garage door springs can make noise when they start to go bad. The springs help lift the door, so they work very hard every day. Over time, they can wear out or get rusty. You might hear a loud “pop” or “bang” if one breaks. Before that happens, you may hear creaking or stretching sounds when the door opens or closes. Here are signs your springs might be having trouble:
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Loud popping or snapping when the door moves
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Creaking or groaning sounds
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The door feels heavy or won’t open fully
If you think the spring is broken, do not try to fix it yourself. Springs can be dangerous if handled the wrong way.
Can Rollers or Hinges Cause Garage Door Noise?
Yes, rollers and hinges can make a lot of noise if they are old or dry. These parts help the door move smoothly up and down. If they don’t have enough oil, they can squeak or grind. Sometimes they even get bent or loose, which makes loud sounds. Replacing old rollers or putting oil on the hinges can make a big difference. Here’s how to tell if they’re the problem:
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Squeaking when the door moves
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Grinding or rubbing sounds
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The door jerks or shakes
A little oil and a good check-up can help keep your garage door quiet.
Is It Normal for a New Garage Door to Be Noisy at First?
Yes, a new garage door might be a little noisy when you first use it. That’s because the parts are new and still settling in. The rollers, springs, and tracks need a little time to get used to working together. This noise usually goes away after the door has been opened and closed a few times. If the noise stays loud or gets worse, it might mean something isn’t working right. A quick check by a technician can fix it fast. You can also try adding a little oil to the hinges and rollers to help them move better.
Should You Try to Fix Garage Door Noise Yourself or Call a Pro?
Some small sounds can be fixed at home, but not all problems are safe to handle. You can try adding oil to squeaky parts or tightening a loose screw. But things like springs or opener motors should be fixed by a pro. These parts can be dangerous if they snap or break. If you’re not sure what the sound means, it’s better to ask someone with experience. Fixing the wrong part can make the problem worse. A professional can find the noise and fix it safely and quickly.
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