04.28.2025

Garage Door Safety Issues Homeowners Should Not Ignore

Your garage door is one of the largest and heaviest moving parts in your home. While it's easy to take for granted, a malfunctioning or neglected garage door can become a serious safety hazard. Here are four common garage door safety issues every homeowner should watch for—plus how to spot and address them.

 

1. Broken or Worn Springs

Garage door springs are under extreme tension and do most of the work lifting the door. When they break, the door can suddenly drop, potentially causing injury or damage.

How to spot it: If your garage door feels unusually heavy, doesn’t open all the way, or you hear a loud bang, you may have a broken spring.

What to do: Never try to replace springs yourself—they can cause serious injury. Contact a trained technician immediately.

 

2. Malfunctioning Safety Sensors

Modern garage doors are equipped with photoelectric sensors near the floor to prevent the door from closing on objects, pets, or people.

How to spot it: If the door begins to close but immediately reverses, or if the sensor lights are blinking, your sensors may be misaligned or blocked.

What to do: Clean the sensors and make sure they’re aligned. If issues persist, schedule a service call.

 

3. Worn or Frayed Cables

Lift cables support the door’s weight and help it move smoothly. Over time, they can fray or wear out, risking a sudden door collapse.

How to spot it: Look for visible fraying, rust, or slack cables along the side of your garage door.

What to do: Avoid touching the cables. Call a professional for a full inspection and safe replacement.

 

4. Manual Release Misuse

Every garage door has a manual release for emergencies. Improper use can cause the door to fall unexpectedly.

How to spot it: The release handle (usually red) should hang freely and only be used during power outages.

What to do: Educate your household on proper use and never pull the release when the door is open.

 

Staying proactive with annual inspections and professional maintenance ensures your garage door stays safe and reliable year-round. Schedule your garage door maintenance here.