Your garage door plays a vital role in the security, insulation, and convenience of your home. But like any hardworking part of your property, wear and tear can take its toll. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to costly breakdowns and safety risks.
At Divine Door & Gate Automation, we’ve been trusted with garage door repairs in Plymouth and across the South West for over 17 years. To help you stay ahead of bigger issues, we’re sharing seven key signs your garage door needs repair – and what to do about them.
Whether you live in Saltash, Plympton, or central Plymouth, this guide will help you spot problems early and keep your garage secure, functional, and reliable.
1. Unusual Noises When Opening or Closing
Grinding, screeching, or banging? Something’s not right.
Strange sounds often point to:
- Worn-out rollers or hinges
- Loose hardware
- A failing motor or chain drive
A well-maintained garage door should operate quietly. If your door sounds like it’s struggling, don’t ignore it. Book an inspection to avoid more expensive damage.
2. Sluggish or Uneven Movement
A garage door should rise and lower smoothly. If it jerks, sticks, or moves slower than usual, there could be a problem with:
- The torsion springs
- The tracks and rollers
- The automatic opener
This is especially common in coastal areas like Saltash and Torpoint, where weather exposure can affect components. Prompt garage door servicing can restore smooth performance.
3. The Door Won’t Open or Close Properly
If your garage door:
- Doesn’t respond to the remote
- Stops halfway
- Refuses to open altogether
…it’s time to call a professional. This could be a sensor misalignment, a motor fault, or electrical issue. Our team offers electric garage door repairs in Plymouth and can often diagnose the fault during a same-day visit.
4. Sagging or Off-Balance Panels
A sagging garage door is more than cosmetic – it’s a safety risk.
Over time, doors can shift off balance or develop warping, especially if they’re exposed to heavy use or South West weather. Signs include:
- Gaps at the base or top
- A door that looks tilted or skewed
- Panels that don’t align
This issue often points to worn springs or a weakened structure. Left unchecked, it could cause complete failure.
5. Remote or Keypad Isn’t Responding
Automation issues are common with older systems. If your garage door remote stops working or the keypad is unreliable:
- Check the batteries first
- Try manual operation
- If the issue persists, the motor or receiver may be faulty
Our garage door automation specialists in Plymouth can troubleshoot and replace outdated components with modern, secure systems.
6. Excessive Vibration or Shaking
If the door shakes or vibrates during movement, it’s often a mechanical issue. Common causes include:
- Loose brackets or chains
- Debris in the tracks
- Faulty installation
This can quickly wear down other parts and affect safety sensors. Book a garage door service before the problem worsens.
7. Increased Energy Bills or Drafts
Your garage door helps regulate internal temperatures. If you’ve noticed:
- Cold drafts from the garage
- Gaps forming between panels
- An unexplained rise in heating bills
…it might be time to consider a replacement or insulation upgrade. We offer sectional and insulated garage doors in Plymouth, ideal for garages used as workshops or home gyms.
Why Trust Divine Door & Gate Automation?
✔ 17+ years of experience in garage door installation and automation
✔ Based in Ivybridge, serving Saltash, Plymouth, and all surrounding towns
✔ Trusted installer of UK Doors Midlands Ltd roller doors
✔ Rated 5-stars on Google and Checkatrade
✔ All work backed by manufacturer and labour warranties
✔ Fully insured, no subcontractors, just honest, local experts
We’ve helped homeowners across Devon and Cornwall fix their doors before problems escalate – and we’re here to help you too.
Local Case Study: Garage Door Repair in Saltash
One of our recent clients in Saltash contacted us about a garage door that wouldn’t close. Within 24 hours, we replaced the faulty motor and realigned the tracks. The door is now fully automated, quiet, and secure – no more struggling in the rain or worrying about security.
Don’t Wait for It to Break – Book a Repair Today
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, get in touch before it becomes an emergency.
Call us: 01752 922409