When your garage door repair begins to act up, there are many things that could be wrong. A quick inspection can help you determine whether a repair or replacement is needed.

The first step is to lubricate the rollers, tracks and hinges of the garage door. This prevents strain on the opener and keeps the door moving smoothly. You can buy a can of lubricant at most home improvement stores for about $10.

If your garage door won’t open or close with the remote, check the batteries in the opener. If they are low, it’s likely that your opener is having trouble responding because of a weak battery.

A Guide to Garage Door Repair: Common Issues and Solutions

Often, a noisy garage door is caused by loose screws. A little bit of WD-40 can tighten up these loose screws quickly and inexpensively. WD-40 also lubricates hinges, which can help smooth the movement of your garage door.

Pulleys and chains can also be a source of noise. It’s a good idea to create a maintenance schedule for periodic greasing and oiling of these components, as this will minimize wear and tear and help keep your garage door working correctly.

If the garage door is crooked or sagging, this usually indicates that its springs aren’t doing their job. A professional can replace these springs for an average cost of $180 to $350. This will make the door much easier to lift and will also protect your car, belongings and other items in the garage from bad weather, bugs and neighborhood animals.