Why does my garage door screech when it opens?

A screech or squeal as the door opens usually comes from the rollers. Either their bearings have gone dry, or the bearings and wheels have worn so they drag against the track instead of rolling. Dry hinges can add a higher-pitched squeak, and occasionally the sound comes from the opener.

Find where it is coming from

Run the door and listen from a safe distance. A sound that moves with the door and repeats at each section is the rollers or hinges. A sound that stays at the motor or along the rail is the opener. A screech at only one point of travel may mean a roller is catching on a bent or dirty spot in the track.

Try lubrication first

• Close the door and disconnect opener power.
• Wipe the tracks clean and leave them dry.
• Lubricate hinge pivots and serviceable roller bearings or stems with the product your door manual names. Do not spray nylon wheel surfaces or sealed bearings unless directed.
• Reconnect power, run the door a few times and listen again.

If the screech comes back

A roller that keeps screeching after lubrication is usually worn. Look from the floor for wobbling wheels, flat spots or cracked nylon. Worn rollers need replacement, and that is technician work because the bottom roller brackets anchor spring-loaded cables. Compatible nylon rollers can reduce roller noise compared with old steel ones. If the screech is from the opener, or you also hear grinding or the door hesitates, have it inspected through garage door repair. For other sounds, see why a garage door makes noise.

Read more

• Garage door noises explained
• Garage door rollers guide

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