May is Garage Door Safety Month
Here’s What Every Homeowner Should Know
Each May, the International Door Association (IDA) and industry professionals across the country come together to raise awareness during Garage Door Safety Month. Why? Because garage doors are often the largest moving object in your home, and when something goes wrong, the consequences can be dangerous—and expensive.
At Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate, we’ve seen firsthand how a small oversight can lead to big problems. That’s why we’re proud to join this national safety initiative, offering homeowners in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, Goleta, Montecito, Hope Ranch, the Santa Ynez Valley, and Ventura County the resources and support they need to keep their garage doors operating safely and smoothly.
Why Garage Door Safety Matters More Than You Think Most people use their garage door more often than their front door. It’s your go-to entrance, your secure exit, and your shield against the elements. But garage doors are under constant tension—especially the springs, cables, and openers that do the heavy lifting. If any of these components fail, you could face:
Serious injury from a falling door or snapped spring
Damage to vehicles or property
Sudden malfunctions that leave your garage inaccessible
Unexpected gaps in home security
How to Conduct a Quick Garage Door Safety Check While a professional tune-up is the gold standard, there are a few things you can do today to better understand the health of your garage door system:
🔹 Observe and Listen: Open and close your garage door. Notice any squeaks, hesitation, or unusual movement? These early signals often indicate misaligned tracks, worn rollers, or loose bolts.
🔹 Check the Reverse Safety Feature: Place a roll of paper towels beneath the closing path of the door. If the door does not automatically reverse when it contacts the object, the sensors likely need adjustment or replacement.
🔹 Assess Door Balance: With the door shut, disengage the automatic opener using the emergency release cord. Manually lift the door halfway. If it stays put, your springs are likely balanced. If it drops or pulls upward, service is recommended.
🔹 Look for Wear (From a Safe Distance): Scan your springs and cables for signs of rust, gaps, or fraying. If you see anything suspicious, contact a qualified technician—these components are under tension and should only be serviced by experts.
🔹 Verify Backup Power: If your system includes a battery backup, test its function to ensure you can still enter or exit your garage during a power outage.
When to Bring in a Professional
There are times when a DIY approach just won’t cut it. Call Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate if you experience any of the following:
Grinding or clanking noises during operation
Doors that feel heavy or are slow to respond
Springs that appear damaged or misaligned
Inconsistent opener behavior or remote issues
It’s been over a year since your last safety check
How Consolidated Elevates Garage Safety For over six decades, we’ve been protecting homes and families across Santa Barbara County. During Garage Door Safety Month—and every month—you can count on us for:
Thorough safety inspections that catch issues before they escalate
Professional replacement of worn springs, cables, and rollers
Smart garage door openers with safety sensors and mobile alerts
Preventative maintenance plans tailored to your system and usage
Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate has been a long-standing accredited Dealer with the IDA and we’re here to ensure smooth operation, total peace of mind, and the kind of reliability that only a local expert can offer.
This May, Let Safety Take Center Stage Garage Door Safety Month is your reminder to take proactive steps. Whether you’re performing a self-check or scheduling a tune-up, prioritizing safety now means fewer headaches later.
👉 Call Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate at (805) 965-0539
or schedule your safety inspection online. TODAY!
Secure your garage. Safeguard your home. Stay protected all year long.