MASSACHUSETTS GARAGE DOORS BLOG

Garage Door Rails: The Importance of Staying on the Same Tracks

Garage Door Rails: The Importance of Staying on the Same Tracks

Upon first glance, the rails of all garage doors look the same, just altered to accommodate the door's length, width, and/or style. Unfortunately, that is where the similarity ends. Do NOT take it by glance and assume that all tracks are the same. Each door has its own unique track that MUST be used in conjunction with the factory-recommended assembly hardware.

Industry Stats:

Considering the weight, the cycles, and tension strain all rely upon the rails to keep the doors, springs, and calibrated cables all pulling together without fail, imagine the damage that could occur if the rails are not in compliance with the other components. If you are planning to or have already attempted to install or repair your own garage door rails think about this:

  • Garage doors crush more than 2,000 people per year.
  • More than 7,500 people are pinched during garage door operations.
  • Your garage door will simply just not open if on the incorrect rails.

What are You Riding On?

Because manufacturers deal with three different track rail systems, it becomes of most significant importance then that you keep to the same system. Do you know what style you're riding on?


  • Most residential garages will use the standard lift rail that operates vertically and measures around 6 inches shorter than your garage door height and curve up to a horizontal rest when your garage door is open.
  • If you are running a commercial business, chances are the industrial rail is similar in the lift to the standard model but also integrates an increased distance in the pitch; generally, an extra foot away from the interior structure walls to accommodate for the different spring assembly necessary.
  • The third is a high combination lift rail package. Featuring both vertical and a horizontal track that is shorter than the standard lift railing, the lift extension is higher. It depends on the user's needs and cycle life of your door operation opener and the height of your garage ceiling.

Why Did Your Rail Fail?

An initial professional diagnostic will usually indicate that a broken garage door rail is caused by a malfunction of another garage door opener part. Interconnected as one unit, this is the premise and number one reason why you should trust any garage door repairs to a professional servicer. When determining the direct cause of a rail failure, the checklist should include:


  • Age and life expectancy.
  • Shifting of the foundation or structure.
  • Rusted, corroded rails from road salt or sand.
  • Gummy, dried, or cracked rollers.
  • Lock striker plates scraping a vertical rail.
  • Broken or loose and tangled cable connection.
  • A misaligned drum has caused the door to close at an angle, bend, or twist.
  • Damage from accidental door bumping, especially in commercial places like warehouses where larger vehicles, forklifts, and delivery bays are in operation.
  • Storm disaster damage.

For All of Your Garage Door Needs:

If your garage door suddenly starts shuddering, shaking, or grinding upon operation, closes with a crooked or uneven finish, speeds up and drops faster than normal, stops halfway, and then reverses, don't waste another minute. Call your professional crew at 1-888-989-8758 and book a service call. In Massachusetts, our greater Boston coverage ensures you the top-notch repairs and installations are always within your reach, time frame, and budget. Remember, Mass Garage Doors Expert, we back up our stellar work with high-quality results every time. 

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

Our services are available all throughout the year, and we do not charge additional costs for Sunday appointments. We are also able to provide quick, same-day services when you give us a call.

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