Did you know your garage door is the largest moving part in your home? With May recognized as Garage Door Safety Month, there’s no better time to separate fact from fiction and ensure your garage door system is operating as safely and reliably as possible. Unfortunately, many homeowners fall for common myths that can lead to costly repairs—or worse, serious injuries. At Garage Door Experts, we believe it’s time to set the record straight.
Let’s break down the most common garage door myths and what you should know to keep your family and property safe.
Myth #1: “If it looks fine, it must be fine.”
It’s easy to assume your garage door is in good shape just because it looks okay on the surface. But hidden issues—like worn-out rollers, unbalanced springs, or frayed cables—can go unnoticed until they cause a major malfunction. Garage doors are complex mechanical systems, and without routine maintenance, small issues can escalate quickly. Regular inspections by trained professionals help detect early signs of wear and keep your system running safely and efficiently.
Myth #2: “Garage door repairs are a DIY job.”
Some light maintenance—like tightening hardware or lubricating hinges—is perfectly safe for homeowners to tackle. But many garage door components, especially springs and cables, operate under high tension and can cause severe injuries if handled improperly. For example, the average double-wide garage door can weigh over 250 pounds. Attempting to adjust springs or replace components without the right tools and knowledge is dangerous. For anything beyond basic upkeep, always call a certified garage door technician.
Myth #3: “All garage doors come with modern safety features.”
Safety technology in garage doors has come a long way—but not all doors are created equal. Doors installed before the early 1990s may lack vital safety systems, such as photo-eye sensors that prevent the door from closing on people, pets, or objects. Many older models with extension springs also lack safety cables to catch broken parts. Modern garage doors, especially those professionally installed, now come equipped with advanced safety features that reduce risks dramatically. If your garage door system is outdated, it may be time for an upgrade—not just for convenience, but for your family’s safety.
Myth #4: “If the opener works every day, it doesn’t need testing.”
Even if your garage door opener seems to be functioning properly, that doesn’t mean all is well. The auto-reverse safety feature, for example, should be tested regularly. A simple way to test this is by placing a roll of paper towels in the door’s path. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately upon contact, the system may not be properly calibrated—posing a serious risk of injury. If the door fails the test, it’s time to have a professional evaluate and service your opener.
Myth #5: “It’s okay to walk under a moving garage door.”
Many people assume that walking beneath a moving garage door is safe—especially with modern sensors in place. But this is a risky habit. Sensors can fail or be knocked out of alignment, and the door could close unexpectedly. The safest rule of thumb is simple: wait for the door to fully open before walking underneath it. Better safe than sorry.
Stay Safe with Help from Garage Door Experts in Boston, MA
Your garage door should offer convenience and security—not pose a safety risk. At Garage Door Experts, we’ve built a reputation across Boston for dependable service, expert installation, and comprehensive safety checks. Our team is trained to spot potential problems before they become dangerous and to upgrade older systems with the latest in garage door technology.
Whether you need a repair, tune-up, or a complete replacement, Garage Door Experts has the experience and local knowledge to keep your garage door operating safely in New England’s challenging weather conditions. Don’t let myths guide your decisions—trust the professionals to ensure your garage is as safe as it is functional.
Resources – https://www.haasdoor.com/garage-door-safety-month
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