When your garage door suddenly won’t open or close, it can feel like your whole day just hit a wall. Whether you’re stuck inside or outside, a broken garage door throws off your routine and can even be a safety issue. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about broken garage door repair, what can cause the problem, and how to get things moving again.
Signs Your Garage Door Is Broken
If your garage door isn’t acting right, you’ll probably notice one (or more) of these problems:
- The door won’t open or close at all
- It makes grinding, squealing, or clunking sounds
- It moves unevenly or jerks while opening
- It stops halfway and then reverses
- The motor runs, but the door stays put
Any of these can point to a serious problem that needs quick attention.
Common Causes of a Broken Garage Door
1. Broken Springs
This is one of the most common reasons garage doors stop working. Springs carry a lot of tension to lift the heavy door. If one snaps, the door can’t open properly—or safely.
When a spring breaks, you might hear a loud bang like a firecracker. Torsion and extension springs wear down over time and eventually fail. It’s a fix best left to the pros.
2. Damaged Tracks or Rollers
If the track gets bent or the rollers wear out, your door won’t glide smoothly. This can cause it to jam, drag, or go completely off-track. Even small misalignments can strain your opener and lead to bigger issues later.
3. Cable Issues
Lift cables help support and balance the door. If a cable frays or breaks, the door might slam shut or become crooked. This is dangerous—don’t try to lift or move the door by hand. Cables also work with the spring system and need to be handled carefully.
4. Opener Malfunction
Sometimes the problem isn’t the door—it’s the motor or remote. Faulty wiring, dead batteries, or worn gears can all be the culprit. Newer openers may even have smart features that need troubleshooting via an app.
5. Sensor Problems
Garage doors have safety sensors that stop the door if something’s in the way. If these get misaligned or dirty, the door might not close at all. Even bright sunlight can interfere with them.
6. Door Panel Damage
If someone bumps the door with a car or object, the panel can bend or break. This can throw the whole system out of balance and affect the tracks or motor.
7. Weather Damage
Rain, snow, and freezing temps can all impact how your door works. Moisture can swell wood doors or rust steel parts. Cold weather can also cause sensors and motors to act up.
Can a Broken Garage Door Be Repaired?
Yes, most of the time a broken garage door can be repaired. The fix depends on the issue:
- Spring replacements
- Cable or roller replacement
- Track realignment or replacement
- Sensor calibration or replacement
- Garage door opener repair
- Panel replacement
- Weather seal repair
A professional garage door technician can spot the issue fast and make the fix safely. Trying to repair high-tension parts like springs or cables on your own can be dangerous.
When to Repair vs. Replace a Garage Door
Repair Makes Sense When:
The damage is minor (like a cracked panel or broken roller)
The door is under 10 years old
The opener is still in good shape
Consider Replacement If:
The door is warped, rotted, or badly dented
Multiple components keep failing
It’s over 15 years old and outdated
You want a better-insulated or more modern look
If repairs aren’t enough and you need a full replacement, costs can vary. On average:
Basic steel door: $600 to $1,500 installed
Insulated door: $800 to $2,500 installed
Custom wood or carriage-style: $1,500 to $5,000 or more
Labor, disposal of the old door, and opener upgrades can also affect the price.
If your opener is the problem, here’s a quick guide:
Simple fix (sensors, remotes, batteries): $50–$150
Gear or chain replacement: $100–$300
New opener (basic model): $400–$800 installed
So yes—if your opener is still fairly new, repairs are usually cheaper. But if it’s over 10 years old, or you want upgraded features (like smart controls), replacement might make more sense.
New openers come with added benefits like Wi-Fi connectivity, keypads, smartphone control, and quiet belt drives. These upgrades can make daily use easier and safer.
How to Avoid Garage Door Breakdowns
Want to prevent future issues? Try these tips:
- Inspect monthly for loose bolts, rust, or wear
- Lubricate moving parts every 6 months
- Check the balance of your door (disconnect the opener and lift it halfway—it should stay in place)
- Test the sensors by waving something under the door while it closes
- Keep tracks clean from dust and leaves
Regular tune-ups from a garage door professional can help catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.
How to Get Started With Garage Door Repair
If your door is stuck, noisy, or just not working right, don’t wait. The longer it sits, the worse the damage can get. Here’s what to do:
- Stop using the door to avoid more damage or injury.
- Check the opener and sensors if it won’t close.
- Call a professional for a full inspection and fast repairs.
Our team at Overhead Door Company of Bellingham is ready to help. We’ve been fixing garage doors in Whatcom and Skagit counties for decades, and we know how to get yours running safely again.
Why Choose Us?
- Fast service from trained technicians
- Honest estimates with no surprise fees
- Trusted brand with local experience
- Emergency repair services available
- Fully stocked service trucks
How much does it cost to replace a broken garage door?
It usually ranges from $600 to $2,500 or more depending on material, size, and design.
Can a broken garage door be repaired?
Yes! Most problems—like springs, cables, or openers—can be fixed by a garage door professional.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a garage door opener?
Repair is often cheaper if the opener is under 10 years old and the issue is minor. Replacing makes sense if it’s outdated or keeps breaking.
How much does Lowe’s charge to replace a garage door?
Lowe’s installation services typically start around $600–$1,500, depending on the door type and local labor costs. Always get a local quote for accuracy.
Need help with a broken garage door? Call Overhead Door Company of Bellingham at (360) 734-5960 or contact us online today. Let’s get things working again!
