Grand Rapids Home Inspection: Garage Door Terms Explained

Garage doors show up in nearly every home inspection, and the notes can be short and technical. Here's what the common terms mean for Grand Rapids-area homes. Your inspector saw the house and is the best guide to your report; a garage door technician can confirm repairs and costs.

Safety

Auto-reverse did not function — The door didn't reverse when it met resistance. It should be adjusted or repaired before use.

Photo-eye sensors improperly installed — Sensors mounted too high or out of line. They're usually placed a few inches above the floor. See safety sensors.

Missing safety cables — Extension springs without cables running through them can fly loose if they break.

Springs, cables and balance

Door out of balance — The door doesn't stay put when lifted halfway, often from worn springs.

Spring worn / at end of life — Rust, gaps or age suggest replacement soon. See broken spring replacement.

Frayed or damaged cable — Cables wearing out; a repair before they snap. See cable and off-track repair.

Door and seals

Damaged panels — Dents or cracks; some panels can be replaced individually.

Worn or missing weatherstripping — Gaps that let in snow, water and pests. See winter seals.

Opener noisy / older unit — The opener works but is aging or lacks modern features.

How serious is it?

• Monitor: worn seals, minor dents, a noisy but working opener.
• Fix soon: an out-of-balance door, worn springs, frayed cables.
• Before using the door: auto-reverse failure or a door off track.

For inspectors and agents

You're welcome to link this page for clients. Related: signs your garage door spring is wearing out · garage door repair