Why Do Garage Doors Bow?
There are several reasons a garage door may start to bow over time. Understanding these causes can help you address the issue before it worsens:
1. Age And Wear
Garage doors experience daily wear and tear, especially if they are frequently used. Over time, the panels may begin to warp due to constant movement, exposure to extreme temperatures, and overall aging of the materials.
2. Lack Of Support On Wide Garage Doors
If you have a double garage door or a particularly wide one, it requires additional structural reinforcement. Without a garage door strut, the weight of the door can cause the middle section to sag over time.
3. Poor Installation
If a garage door was not installed correctly, it may not distribute weight evenly, leading to bowing. This issue is particularly common when lightweight materials are used without proper reinforcement.
4. Extreme Weather Conditions
Garage doors are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and strong winds. Over time, these environmental factors can weaken the panels and cause the door to warp, making it difficult to open and close properly.
5. Broken Or Weak Garage Door Springs
A garage door’s springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door. When springs weaken or break, extra stress is placed on the panels, leading to noticeable bowing.
How A Garage Strut Can Fix A Bowing Door
A garage door strut is a metal reinforcement bar that runs horizontally along the back of a garage door panel. It helps distribute weight evenly, preventing sagging and keeping the door aligned. Here’s how installing a garage door strut can benefit your door:
Provides Structural Reinforcement
A garage door strut strengthens the door’s overall structure, preventing it from bending under pressure. This is especially important for older doors that have started to show signs of wear.
Extends The Lifespan Of Your Garage Door
By reducing strain on the door panels and hinges, a strut helps prolong the life of your garage door, delaying the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Prevents Further Bowing And Sagging
Once installed, a garage door strut ensures that your door remains straight and level, eliminating gaps that could affect insulation and security.
Reduces Noise And Improves Operation
A bowed garage door can create creaking, popping, and grinding noises when opening or closing. With a properly installed strut, the door operates smoothly and quietly.
Enhances Safety And Security
A weakened garage door is more susceptible to break-ins and accidents. Reinforcing it with a garage door strut provides better protection for your home and family.
Signs You Need A Garage Door Strut
Not sure if your garage door needs reinforcement? Here are some telltale signs:
- The middle of your garage door sags when closed.
- You notice difficulty opening or closing the door.
- The door makes loud creaking or popping noises during operation.
- The panels appear to bow outward or inward.
- Your door was recently repaired or replaced, but still struggles with alignment.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, installing a garage door strut could be the best solution to restore your garage door’s performance.
Should You Opt For Professional Installation?
While some homeowners attempt to install a garage door strut themselves, it’s always best to have a professional handle the job.
Installing a strut in the wrong place can cause more harm than good. An incorrectly installed garage door strut can put unnecessary strain on the door’s opener, springs, and tracks.
A professional knows how to make sure the strut is positioned correctly to provide optimal support. They also know how to install it without damaging the door’s other components.
It’s also important to note that garage doors are heavy, and working with them can be dangerous. Professionals have the tools and expertise to handle the installation safely, reducing the risk of injury.
Instead of spending hours figuring out how to install a strut properly, let an expert do it quickly and efficiently.
Need Garage Door Repair?
If your garage door is bowing, sagging, or not functioning as it should, our team at ABC Door Company can help. We’ve been servicing New Mexico for over 50 years, providing expert garage door repair, installation, and maintenance services.
Our team specializes in diagnosing garage door issues and offering long-term solutions like garage door strut installation to keep your door in top shape. Regardless of the issue, we can provide the right fix to restore your door’s functionality.
Call Us For 24/7 Emergency Garage Door Repairs
Garage door problems don’t always happen during regular business hours. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency garage door repair services to ensure your home or business stays safe and secure at all times. Contact us anytime by calling 505-884-1166.