A garage door that jerks when opening can be caused by malfunctioning pulleys, damaged rollers, or worn springs, among other issues. If you can’t easily diagnose the issue yourself, service professionals can help identify the issue and address the root cause, providing repair, replacement, and installation services.
If your garage door jerks when opening or closing, causing it to shake, not go down properly, and sound like it is going to fall off the track, the root cause of the problem may be any number of issues.
Whether the issue is debris on the track or something more serious such as damaged springs, a jerking garage door can be a nuisance and a safety concern. Learn some common causes of a garage door that shakes and how Precision Garage Door Service® professionals can help.
1. Malfunctioning Pulleys
There are two main types of garage door pulleys. Both, the press fit pulley and the cast iron pulley, can result in jerking garage doors when not maintained.
The press fit pulley is the most common, with an average lifespan of around three to five years. As the pulley gets older, it starts to rivet and separate, which can lead to the cables fraying and eventually getting stuck. When the race wears out, the ball bearings rub together and get wobbly. The ball bearings end up crushing each other from captured dust and dirt, which can cause the door to jerk, shudder, or bounce during operation.
Cast iron pulleys, on the other hand, are less likely to have issues. As the name implies, they are made from a single piece of cast iron. The advantage of using one piece is that it will not split, leaving no room for the cables to fray. It’s also heavier and stronger. With this pulley, the race and ball bearings are sealed so no dust or dirt can sneak in. If your garage door shakes when closing with a cast iron pulley, it's likely caused by something else.
If service professionals find that the pulley is the issue, they’ll likely start by lubricating it to improve movement. If the problem is caused by more than just a stiff or dry pulley mechanism, they’ll likely opt to replace the pulley entirely.
2. Damaged Rollers
Damaged garage door rollers can significantly contribute to jerking and shaking movements during the door's operation. These rollers, responsible for guiding the door along the tracks, can become worn, cracked, or misaligned over time.
When this occurs, the door's movement becomes uneven, causing it to shudder, vibrate, or even derail. The friction and resistance created by damaged rollers can also strain the opener motor, leading to increased energy consumption and potential motor burnout.
A garage door service professional will diagnose the issue by inspecting the rollers for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. They’ll then replace the rollers with new ones that are compatible with the door's specific type and weight. The service professional will also ensure that the rollers are properly aligned within the tracks and lubricated to reduce friction and further enhance performance.
3. Loose Screws or Bolts
Loose screws or bolts in the garage door system can lead to a variety of issues, including jerking and shaking movements during operation. These components, which secure various parts of the door, such as the hinges, tracks, and hardware, are essential for maintaining smooth and stable movement. Loose bolts and screws compromise the door's structural integrity, causing it to wobble, vibrate, or even derail.
Service professionals will identify any loose fasteners and tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications. In some cases, they may need to replace damaged or stripped screws with new ones. Addressing these loose connections can restore the door's stability, ensuring reliable operation.
4. Damaged Tracks
Damaged, chipped, or dented garage door tracks can significantly disrupt the smooth operation of a garage door. These imperfections can cause the rollers to bind or misalign, leading to jerky, shaking movements as the door opens and closes. Damaged tracks can also weaken the overall structure of the door, potentially causing it to derail or malfunction.
A garage door service professional will carefully inspect the tracks for any signs of damage, including dents, bends, and missing sections. Depending on the severity of the damage, they may be able to repair the tracks by straightening minor bends or filling in small chips. However, in cases of severe damage, they may need to replace the entire track section to ensure proper alignment and functionality.
5. Poor Seals
Improperly installed or sticky seals can lead to a variety of issues with a garage door, including jerking and shaking movements. Running along the edges of the door, they are designed to create a tight seal between the door and the frame, preventing air and water infiltration. But when the seals are damaged, worn, or improperly installed, they can cause friction and resistance as the door moves, resulting in jerky, uneven operation.
If service professionals determine that the seals are damaged, they’ll replace them with new ones. In some cases, service professionals may need to adjust the tension of the seals to ensure a proper fit and prevent binding. They may also clean the tracks and rollers to remove debris or other obstructions.
6. Worn Springs
Worn garage door springs can affect the smooth operation of a garage door, making the garage door noisy and clunky. Springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close effortlessly. Over time, springs can weaken and lose their tension, causing the door to become unbalanced and erratic.
A service professional will assess the condition of the springs, checking for signs of wear, such as rust, cracks, or sagging. If the springs are worn, the service professional will replace them with new ones. Garage door spring repair and replacement is a complex task that requires specialized knowledge and tools, as improperly installed springs can be dangerous.
7. Lack of Maintenance
A lack of regular maintenance can significantly degrade the performance of a garage door. Over time, dirt, debris, and grime can accumulate on the tracks, rollers, and other moving parts, causing friction and resistance. Additionally, a lack of lubrication can lead to stiff and sluggish operation.
Garage door professionals will meticulously clean and lubricate all moving garage door parts in the system. They’ll remove any accumulated dirt, debris, and rust from the tracks, rollers, and hinges. Once the components are clean, they will apply a high-quality lubricant to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
What To Do If Your Garage Door Jerks When Opening
If a garage door jerks when closing or opening, it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. It's important to address the problem promptly.
- Inspect for obstructions: Check the tracks for any obstructions, such as leaves, twigs, or toys, that might be hindering the door's smooth movement. Clear any debris to ensure the door can move freely.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a high-quality lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and other moving parts. This will reduce friction and help the garage door operate more smoothly.
- Check the springs: Inspect the springs for signs of damage, such as rust or cracks. If you spot any issues, it's best to call a professional, as repairing or replacing springs can be dangerous.
- Call a professional: If the cause of the jerking is difficult to identify or if the problem persists after trying these steps, it's time to call Precision Garage Door Service. Our service professionals have the expertise to diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring smooth garage door functionality.
Prevent Garage Door Breakdowns With Precision Garage Door Service
If a garage door jerks when opening or closing, it’s important to address the issue right away. From simple maintenance issues such as debris on the tracks or improper lubrication to more serious issues with the springs, a jolting or shaking garage door can be dangerous. The professionals at Precision Garage Door Service can quickly diagnose the issue and offer repair and replacement options.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property. Precision Garage Door Service is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Precision Garage Door Service location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQ About Why a Garage Door Jerks
As a garage door service, repair, and installation leader renowned for integrity and dependability, all independently owned and operated Precision Garage Door Service locations are committed to your satisfaction. This commitment includes using our expertise and years of experience to answer your garage door-related questions.
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about jerking or shaking garage doors.
How do I fix my jerking garage door?
To fix a jerking garage door, first inspect the tracks for obstructions and clear any debris. Lubricate the rollers, hinges, and other moving parts to reduce friction. If the issue persists, consider checking the springs for damage and calling a garage door service professional for further diagnosis and repair.
How do I make my garage door open smoothly?
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring a garage door runs smoothly. Regularly lubricate the rollers, hinges, and other moving parts with lubricant specifically designed for garage doors. Additionally, inspect the tracks for obstructions and clear any debris. Consult a garage door service professional if you spot any issues with the springs or experience other persistent problems.
Why does my garage door keep bouncing open?
A garage door may bounce open due to worn or misaligned springs, malfunctioning safety sensors, or incorrect opener settings. Obstructions in the door's path or issues with track alignment can also cause this problem. Inspect these components and consult a professional for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Why does my garage door shudder when I open it?
A garage door may shudder when opening due to worn or damaged rollers, misaligned tracks, issues with the garage door opener, lack of lubrication, or the presence of debris. Contact a service professional to diagnose the issue and offer solutions.