An off-track garage door is one of the most common — and most dangerous — garage door problems. Here's what causes it, whether it's safe to use, and what repair costs in Ottawa.
Stop Using the Door Immediately
An off-track door can collapse without warning, potentially on a car, pet, or person. The moment you notice the door is off track, stop operating it completely — both manually and with the opener.
Common Causes in Ottawa
1. Impact — hitting the door with a car or object is the most common cause. 2. Worn rollers — old plastic rollers crack and slip out of the track. 3. Bent track — a significant bump or overtightened hardware bends the track. 4. Cable failure — a broken cable causes one side to drop suddenly, jumping the track.
Can You Fix It Yourself?
Minor roller misalignment can sometimes be corrected DIY — gently tapping the track to widen it slightly and reinserting the roller. However, if the track is bent, a cable broke, or the door is significantly misaligned, call a professional. Attempting to force the door back on track with an opener risks serious injury.
Repair Costs in Ottawa
Track adjustment and roller reinsertion: $95–$150. Track replacement (one side): $180–$280. Track replacement (both sides): $320–$450. If a broken cable caused the derailment, add $170–$250 for cable repair.
Prevention
Install wheel guides to protect the bottom of the door from vehicle impacts. Replace plastic rollers with steel ball-bearing rollers (upgrade costs ~$80) — they last much longer and are less prone to cracking in Ottawa's cold.
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