Is Your Garage Door Frame Out of Shape? Here’s What to Do

A misaligned garage door frame can be a real headache — from difficulty opening and closing to gaps that let in drafts and pests. These issues may seem minor now, but they can lead to serious damage, expensive repairs, or even a full frame replacement if ignored. Not sure if your garage door is out of shape or how to fix it? Let’s look through the most common signs of a misaligned frame and how to fix and prevent it from happening again.

Signs Your Garage Door Frame Is Out of Shape

Early identification of signs can help you avoid costly repairs. A misaligned garage door frame doesn’t just look bad — it’s a hassle to open and close the door, reduces your home’s energy efficiency, and is even a security risk. So, how do you know if your frame is out of shape? Here are a few signs to look for:

Gaps around the door: Do you notice gaps on the sides? These gaps let drafts, moisture, and even pests into your garage. If you see daylight coming through the edges, that’s a clear sign that something’s off.
The door moves unevenly: If your garage door frame is misaligned, the door may stick, move unevenly, or make strange noises when opening or closing.
Difficulty opening or closing: Does your garage door feel heavier than usual? Are you struggling to close it completely? A misaligned frame can throw off the balance, making operating harder.
Visible damage to the frame: Look at your garage door framing. Is the wood cracking, warping, or rotting? If you have a metal frame, check for rust or dents. Structural damage can worsen over time if not fixed.
Inconsistent sealing: A properly fitted garage door should sit flush with the frame when closed. If you notice rain, dust, or insects sneaking in, your frame may have shifted, leaving garage door gaps on the sides that affect insulation and security.

How to Fix a Misaligned Garage Door Frame

If you notice these signs, it’s time to take action. The good news is that you can make some minor adjustments yourself. However, professional help may be your safest and easiest way for more serious issues.

DIY Adjustments for Minor Issues

If your garage door frame is only slightly misaligned, you might be able to fix it yourself with a few quick adjustments:

Tighten screws and bolts: Over time, the screws and bolts that hold your garage door framing in place can come loose and cause the frame to shift. Use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten any loose hardware, keeping the frame secure.
Adjust the tracks: They might be misaligned if the door isn’t level. You can loosen the brackets slightly, adjust the tracks to line up and retighten them to fix it. This little adjustment can improve the garage door fitting and make the door operate more smoothly.
Seal small garage door gaps on the sides with weather stripping or caulk to block drafts and pests.
Check the bottom seal: The rubber seal is likely worn out if your garage door isn’t fully closing at the bottom. Replacing it will create a tight seal and keep out moisture and debris.

These will make a big difference, but if the problem persists, it’s time to call in the experts.

When to Call a Garage Door Service

DIY solutions work for minor adjustments, but some problems need professional attention. If you see any of these problems, don’t hesitate to call a garage door service:

The frame is severely warped or damaged, and DIY repairs aren’t enough.
You notice garage door gaps on the sides, too wide for basic repairs.
The door still won’t open or close properly, even after adjusting the tracks.
You’re unfamiliar with garage door framing and unsure how to fix it.

Professional technicians can repair or replace damaged parts and realign the frame for smooth operation.

Preventing Future Frame Problems

No one wants to deal with a garage door frame that’s out of shape. Can you prevent this or at least reduce the chances of it happening? Regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your garage door framing in top shape. Here are a few tips to add to your To-do list to stay ahead of potential problems:

Check your garage door frame for cracks, rust, or warping. If you catch small issues early, you can fix them before they become major and expensive.
Lubricate moving parts: The tracks, rollers, and hinges need lubrication. A little garage door lubricant can help reduce friction and extend the frame’s lifespan.
Seal garage door gaps early: Even small gaps can expand over time, affecting insulation and security. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal them up before they become a bigger problem.
Reinforce weak spots: Repair small cracks or loose areas before they become major issues. Early strengthening weak spots can save you from a full frame replacement later.
Understand how to frame a garage door: Even if you don’t do the work, knowing the basics will help you catch problems early and avoid alignment mistakes.

With these simple steps, you’ll check your garage door fitting and avoid costly repairs. A few minutes of your time now will save you time and pain later.

Conclusion

A misaligned garage door frame is more than an inconvenience — it can cause energy loss, security issues, and costly repairs if left unchecked. From garage door gaps to uneven movement and difficulty opening or closing, recognizing the signs early can save you time and money.

You can fix some minor garage door frame misalignments with DIY adjustments. However, hiring a garage door service is the best option if your garage door frame is warped or badly damaged.

Reach out to Up & Down Garage Doors today for expert service and lasting results!

Every day, we do the same basic actions — waking up, having breakfast, brushing our teeth, and going through the day — without considering how often we rely on the items around us. Anything can wear out over time, especially garage doors that open and close daily. However, with proper care, your garage door can last longer. Up & Down Garage Doors offers garage door maintenance tips to help keep your system in excellent condition.

The Pros and Cons of Different Garage Door Materials

It isn’t a simple task to choose a garage door because it impacts your home’s security, energy efficiency, and how inviting it looks. When you pick one, you need to know about the different materials. Homeowners have different priorities — some want something that’ll last, others want something that looks great, and others want something low-maintenance. This often leads to questions like, ‘What are garage doors made of?’ and ‘Which option is best for my house?’ To make the right decision, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each material.

Are Fingerprint Scanners the Future of Garage Door Security?

Most homeowners rarely consider their garage door security — until something goes wrong. Garage door security locks have been around for a long time, but they come with their potential weaknesses, like lost keys, guessed codes, or even hacking attacks. That’s why fingerprint systems are becoming more popular. With just a fingerprint, you can unlock your garage door without worrying about keys or codes. This technology might be the right choice for your home. Let’s take a look at how it works and if it’s worth the upgrade.