parts of a garage door, torsion springs

11 Most Important Garage Door Parts

Garage door systems function because of garage door parts that work in coordination with each other. Their roles in the mechanical system allow for smooth garage door operation. People tend to underestimate the complexity of garage doors, but it is essential that all parts are in good condition and work together to facilitate movement. If one of the garage door parts stops functioning, it will most likely cause several problems to arise. 

If you are knowledgeable about the different garage door parts and how to take care of them, they will last longer. It’s usually recommended that you have a service team conduct regular maintenance on your garage door parts so any issues can be caught early. Most garage door companies will perform lubrication and cleaning of parts to keep them in great condition. 

Listed below are eleven of the most important garage door parts that work together to create a functioning garage door. We’ll break down their roles in your garage door system and how they work together in conjunction with the rest of your parts.

Garage Door Opener

Garage door openers are one of the most crucial parts of your garage door system. They stick to your ceiling and connect to your opener remote. It makes for a super convenient way to enter and exit your garage. The garage door opener box includes a computer or logic board, a motor, radio receiver, and chain. It does require electricity to function properly, so if you are experiencing issues with your opener, try to reset the system and ensure your electricity is functioning. There are a lot of great brands out there for garage door openers, such as Linear and Liftmaster, which offer products built for energy sustainability and long-term functionality. 

Garage Door Springs

Thankfully the opener doesn’t have to control all garage door movement. Garage door springs are metal coils that collect building tension and produce power to counteract the garage door’s weight. There are two common types of garage door springs: extension and torsion. Residential homes typically use torsion springs, which sit above your garage door and twist to produce energy. Extension springs run along the track on each side and stretch to produce energy. It’s the general consensus that torsion springs are much safer and longer-lasting than extension springs, which is why torsion springs are more popular.

Tube Shaft

There’s a tube shaft that sits above the garage door and holds the springs. Tube shafts are only required in garages that employ torsion springs. The shaft itself doesn’t move, but rather allows energy to move between the torsion springs and drums.

Cable Drums 

The cable drums are attached to the ends of the tube shaft and connect to the cables. They keep the cables tight so the door can be stabilized. When the drums rotate, it causes the cables to move. 

Contact Us for a Free Quote!

Garage Door Sales and Service in Chesapeake VA and the Surrounding Areas

Garage Door Cables 

Cables run vertically along each side of the door. They connect to the drum on top and the garage door on the bottom. The cables transfer power from the springs, which allows for easier garage door movement. As the drum rotates, it pulls the cable upward, which in turn moves the garage door.

Tracks and Rollers

Tracks and rollers are what keep the garage door on its set path. The track holds the rollers and guides garage door movement. Rollers are small wheels that move alongside the track to keep the door moving up and down. When a garage door comes off the track, it can’t open.

Brackets and Hinges

Brackets and hinges are important for connecting garage door parts together. Brackets hold the cables and rollers in place. The hinges are located in the middle of the door and allow for the panels to fold in on each other during movement. 

Retainer

Garage door retainers run alongside the bottom of the door to keep the seal in place. You can find them in different sizes but they are typically made of aluminum, metal, or plastic. 

Bottom Seal

Seals are usually made from vinyl or rubber and seal with the ground to keep out physical elements. They’re essential in providing insulation for your home, especially if you’re in an area with harsh weather. You want to keep an eye on your seals to make sure they stay in good condition. Typically, retainers and seals will be replaced together.

Safety Sensor

Safety sensors detect movement underneath the garage door and stop the door from closing on anything. This is a crucial safety feature, as your kids or pets may be in the garage door’s way from time to time. These photo eye sensors sit on each side of the garage door and connect with a beam of light. It’s critical that the beam remains unbroken for the safety sensors to function. When something moves in front of the second sensor, it stops the garage door from moving so it won’t hit anything. 

Emergency Cord

An emergency cord hangs from the garage door opener, usually with a red tag. When you pull it, it turns the opener off. If you are experiencing issues with your garage door, you can pull the tag so you can be sure the door won’t open or close on its own. You’ll still be able to open the garage door manually with functioning springs. 

Contact Us To Learn More About Garage Doors

Contact Garage Door Enterprises to learn more about garage door repairs or installation needs. Our team is very knowledgeable about various garage door parts and how to keep them in good working order. We take pride in providing excellent customer service as well as timely repairs and installations with a focus on detail and quality. For more information give us a call at (757) 482-9350.

Leave a Comment