Garage Door Safety Inspections

Garage door safety isn't something to take lightly. These powerful systems operate under extreme tension and can cause serious injuries or even fatalities when safety features fail. Modern garage doors include multiple safety mechanisms designed to prevent accidents, but these features require regular testing and maintenance to function correctly.

Many Portland homeowners don't realize their garage door's safety features aren't working properly until it's too late. Sensors can become misaligned from vibration or accidental bumps. Auto-reverse mechanisms can drift out of adjustment. Cables can fray without obvious signs. Regular professional safety inspections identify these issues before they cause accidents.

If you have children or pets, safety inspections are especially important. Kids and pets don't understand garage door dangers and may play near or under doors. Properly functioning safety features provide crucial protection. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your garage door is safe is invaluable—don't wait for an accident to prioritize safety.

Our comprehensive safety inspection begins with testing the auto-reverse mechanism. We use both the pressure-based test (door contacts an object) and sensor-based test (photo eye beam interruption) to ensure both systems work correctly. We verify the door reverses immediately and completely when triggered.

We inspect and test photo eye sensors, checking alignment, cleanliness, and proper function. We examine all cables for fraying, rust, or damage—cable failure can cause catastrophic door collapse. We test door balance and spring tension, as unbalanced doors can close too quickly or fail to stay open. We verify the emergency manual release functions correctly for power outage situations.

We inspect all moving parts for wear, damage, or potential failure points. We check for pinch points where fingers could be caught. We test opener force settings to ensure the door stops if it encounters resistance. Throughout the inspection, we document findings and explain any issues discovered. Our goal is to ensure your garage door is completely safe for your family.

Modern garage doors should include several key safety features. Photo eye sensors at the bottom of the door detect objects in the door's path and prevent closing. Auto-reverse mechanisms cause the door to reverse if it contacts an obstacle while closing. Emergency manual release allows you to operate the door manually during power outages.

Additional safety features include pinch-resistant door sections, tamper-resistant bottom brackets, and proper cable containment systems. If your garage door is older and lacks these features, consider upgrading for your family's safety. We can assess your current door and recommend safety improvements that provide better protection for Portland-area families.