Garage doors are a barrier between your home and the outside world. They’re part of your curb appeal, contributing to your property’s overall aesthetic. But what happens when they get a bend or a dent?
A mishap can turn into an eyesore, making you cringe whenever you pull into the driveway. Luckily, fixing it isn’t as daunting as it may seem. You can restore its former look without breaking the bank with the right tools and techniques. Let’s learn how to fix garage doors yourself and what some common garage issues are.
What Can Cause Garage Door Bends?
Besides issues with a garage door opener or torsion springs, you can face issues with garage door panels as well. First, let’s check what can cause bends so you can avoid them. Garage doors can bend for various reasons, often stemming from everyday use. One common culprit is accidental impact. A stray bicycle or even a car bump can leave unwanted marks.
Weather conditions also play a role. Extreme heat can warp materials, while heavy snow and ice might add undue stress on the panels. Over time, this pressure leads to bends that are hard to ignore.
Another factor is age and wear. As garage doors get older, their structural integrity diminishes. Rusty hinges or weakened springs contribute to uneven tension. We should also look at the improper garage door installation as another factor. Misaligned tracks may cause panels to twist under pressure during operation.
General maintenance neglect leaves doors vulnerable to damage from dirt buildup. Additionally, the problem might be and lack of garage door lubricant. You should schedule regular appointments with your preferred garage door company, to ensure your doors remain in pristine condition.
How to Fix Bent Garage Door?
There are several DIY garage door repair tricks you can use to fix the bent. The process can be straightforward if you know what to do. You should start by assessing the damage to determine how severe the bend is. Then, you can use one of the following methods:
- Hammer out the bend
- Use suction cups
- Straighten the panel with heat
- Fill the dent
Let’s check how to perform each of the steps.
Hammer Out the Bend
One effective method for dealing with a bent garage door is to hammer out the bend. This technique can work wonders for minor dents and irregularities. You should check the area closely and identify the bend’s depth and location. Make sure you have a rubber mallet or a block of wood handy. These tools will prevent further damage while you work.
Gently tap around the edges of the dent, focusing on stretching the metal back into shape. Work slowly to avoid creating new bends or worsening existing ones. Be patient, as it may take several light taps before you can see any improvements.
After addressing the dent, check for any remaining imperfections. If scratches or rough spots remain after your efforts, you may need a bit of sanding.
Use Suction Cups
Another clever method you can use is suction cups. With them, you can tackle minor bends in your garage door. These tools can create enough pressure to help reshape the metal without further damaging it.
First, ensure the surface of the door is clean and dry. This will maximize the grip of the suction cups. Press them firmly onto the bent area, making sure they adhere well. Then, gently pull on them while applying steady pressure. The goal here is to coax out that bend little by little. However, be patient. This might take some time for optimal results.
If you notice any creaks or pops during this process, don’t worry. This could simply be part of reshaping it back into place. Once you’ve achieved a more even surface, check for any remaining imperfections before moving forward with other extensive repairs.
Straighten the Panel With Heat
This method works particularly well on metal panels that have been dented or warped.
You should start by grabbing a heat gun. You can often find one at hardware stores or online. Set it to low and gently warm the affected area of the panel. Be careful not to overheat, as this could cause further damage or even paint blistering.
As you apply heat, keep moving the gun back and forth. The goal is to soften the material without melting it entirely. Once it’s warm enough, use a straight piece of wood or similar object against the bend.
Apply gradual pressure while continuing to heat it slightly until you see an improvement in its shape. Let everything cool down before checking your progress.
Fill the Dent
If you have damaged garage doors, you can also try filling the dent. Start by cleaning the area around the dent thoroughly. Dust, dirt, or grease can interfere with adhesion.
Next, choose a suitable filler for your garage door material. For example, metal or fiberglass fillers work well. Apply it carefully into the dent using a putty knife. Smooth it out to ensure it’s level with the surrounding surface.
Once it’s dried according to package instructions, sand down any excess filler until it’s even and flush with the door. After sanding, paint over the filled area to match your garage door’s color. You may need a few coats to cover and blend with its surroundings. Let each coat dry fully before applying another layer for best results.
When Should I Replace a Garage Door Panel?
If the damage is extensive, like deep dents or cracks that compromise structural integrity, replacement is your best bet. It can save you time and money in the long run.
Consider how visible the damage is. A panel that’s front and center may affect your home’s curb appeal more than one tucked away in a corner.
If the panel doesn’t align well with others after attempting repairs, it might be time for a new one. Misalignment can lead to further issues later on. You should also think about functionality. If your garage door struggles to open or close due to a damaged panel, it’s worth considering replacement soon.
If you’ve made multiple attempts at repairing it without success, investing in a new panel could be more cost-effective than ongoing fixes that don’t last long.
Calling Professionals For Help
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a bent garage door can become tricky. If you’ve tried the methods outlined and still can’t achieve the results you want, it might be time to consider bringing in the professionals.
Garage doors are heavy and complicated systems that require expertise to repair properly. Professional garage technicians have the tools and experience to accurately assess the damage. They can identify underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent.
Hiring an expert also saves you from potential injury or further damaging your garage door system while attempting repairs on your own. Skilled technicians can ensure everything operates smoothly again.
Don’t hesitate to hire a professional for garage door services. A garage door technician’s touch could restore functionality and peace of mind in no time. Contact us today for a free quote.