Overhead doors are a crucial part of most homes and commercial buildings. However, when overhead doors slam shut, they can cause damage to the door and the surrounding structure and create a safety hazard for anyone nearby.
What Mechanical Issues Can Cause The Overhead Door To Slam Shut?
Mechanical issues are one of the primary reasons why overhead doors slam shut. Over time, the doors' springs and hinges may wear out or become damaged. This problem can contribute to causing the door to move too quickly or unevenly. Additionally, the tension on the springs can weaken over time, causing the door to slam shut even harder. Eventually, this issue can cause substantial damage to the floor under the door and the overhead door itself.
What Environmental Factors Can Contribute To An Overhead Door Slamming Shut?
Environmental factors can also cause overhead doors to slam shut. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the door to expand or contract, throwing it off balance and contributing to it slamming shut.
In areas prone to high winds, installing additional bracing or reinforcing may be necessary to keep the door in place. Otherwise, the door could suffer warping or other issues that cause it to become out of balance and more likely to slam into the floor.
How Does Improper Installation Contribute To An Overhead Door Slamming Shut?
Improper installation is another common cause of overhead doors slamming shut. If the door is not installed correctly, it may be out of alignment with the frame or not have the proper tension on the springs. Avoiding this problem requires hiring a professional technician with experience installing overhead doors. The technician will ensure that the door is properly aligned and adjusted and that all components work together smoothly. Regular maintenance and inspection of the door can help identify any misalignments or other issues before they cause the door to slam shut.
Will The Door's Safety Features Stop It From Slamming Shut?
Overhead doors have safety features designed to prevent them from slamming shut, including photo-eye sensors that detect objects in the door's path and automatic reverse mechanisms that cause the door to open if it encounters an obstacle. However, if these safety features are not working correctly, the door may slam shut and cause damage while creating a safety hazard.
These safety features must be regularly inspected and tested to ensure they are functioning correctly. If any issues are detected, they should be addressed immediately by a professional technician. In addition to minimizing safety issues, this will reduce the risk of further damage. For more information on overhead door repair, contact a professional near you.