Loading Dock Equipment Repair & Replacement

Efficient loading dock equipment is crucial for the seamless flow of goods in warehouses, distribution centers and logistic facilities. However, regular wear and tear, and unexpected breakdowns can significantly impact productivity and safety. That’s why it’s vital to have a reliable repair and replacement plan in place.

The Most Common Issues With Loading Dock Equipment

If your loading dock equipment has seen better days, it’s probably time to get it back into working order. That being said, what are the signs that your loading dock equipment needs service or replacement? Read on to discover insightful tips on repairing and replacing your loading dock equipment.

Structural damage

After years of use, the steel frame and concrete foundations of loading docks can start to show signs of wear and tear. Look for visible cracks, dents or sagging—these indicate it’s time for reinforcement or replacement to avoid collapse.

Dock levelers, the mechanisms that bridge the gap between the dock floor and trailer bed, also face constant stress and strain. If a leveler is stuck, not raising fully or uneven, it should be serviced by a commmercial garage door professional to prevent accidents and ensure it’s functioning properly.

Weathering

Exposure to the elements takes its toll on loading dock seals, shelters and doors. Weatherseals and shelters may start to rip, tear or come loose from surfaces. Doors can warp, making them difficult to open and close. It’s best to perform regular inspections and patch or replace weathered components to maintain efficiency.

Malfunctions

From control panels to vehicle restraints, the mechanical and electrical components of loading docks can malfunction over time. If lights, alarms or restraints stop working, or doors and levelers are no longer responsive, it indicates wiring or other issues that require troubleshooting by a technician. Don’t operate seriously malfunctioning equipment—it’s not worth the safety risk.

When to Repair vs. Replace Your Loading Dock Equipment

Deciding whether to repair or replace your loading dock equipment depends on a few factors.

Age

If your dock leveler, seals, shelters or other gear are 15-20 years old, replacement may make more sense than frequent repairs to keep the aging equipment limping along. Newer, more energy efficient models can save on utility costs too.

Frequency of Use

If your dock sees near constant activity, replacement may be better than repair for equipment that gets daily intensive use. Infrequently used docks may be fine with repair for a few more years.

Replacement Cost

While replacement may seem more expensive up front, if you’re paying for frequent repairs and service calls to fix an unreliable, outdated dock system, replacement could save money in the long run. Get estimates for the loading dock equipment repair, refurbishment, and replacement to compare.

Safety

If your loading dock equipment isn’t functioning properly or is outdated to the point of being potentially dangerous, replacement is the best option. No amount of money saved is worth risking injury.

When in doubt, it’s best to get advice from a professional loading dock equipment repair company. They can inspect your specific dock setup and needs, and recommend whether repair, refurbishment or full replacement will most benefit your operation and budget.

Tips for Maintaining Your Loading Dock Equipment

Conduct Routine Visual Inspections

Check dock doors, seals, shelters, ramps, lifts, and all moving parts for signs of damage or wear and tear. Look for rust, dents, tears, or holes, and anything that seems off. It’s best to do a walkaround at least once a month. Address any issues immediately to avoid equipment failure or injury.

Test Safety Mechanisms

Make sure features like door locks, restraints, emergency stops, and interlocks are functioning properly. These mechanisms are in place to protect workers and materials, so testing them regularly is critical.

Lubricate & Grease Parts

Apply grease or oil to hinges, pulleys, chains, and any other moving pieces as recommended in the equipment manuals. Proper lubrication will reduce friction and prevent overheating, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of your equipment.

The Importance of Loading Dock Equipment Repair

With frequent use, problems with loading docks are inevitable. But with routine maintenance and prompt repairs when needed, issues can be resolved before turning into costly disasters.

If any issues arise, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Parker Garage Doors is a leading garage door company offering sales, repairs, and replacement services of loading dock equipment, industrial and residential garage doors, safety barriers, and more. We have all the expertise, tools, and parts to get your loading dock back up and running. Contact Parker Garage Doors today to learn more about our equipment repair & replacement services.

The Importance of Commercial Garage Door, Dock & Gate Maintenance

Commercial Garage Door Maintenance

Commercial garage doors play an integral role in the daily operations of businesses. These doors are not just access points but are essential for security, energy efficiency, and the smooth transit of goods and people. The importance of regular maintenance and timely repair of commercial garage doors, docks, and gates cannot be overstated, as it ensures the longevity, safety, and optimal performance of these vital assets.

Optimal Commercial Garage Door Functionality and Safety

The first and foremost reason for regular maintenance is to ensure the optimal functionality and safety of commercial garage doors. These doors are frequently in use, resulting in wear and tear over time. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that all components are in good working order, reducing the risk of malfunctions that can lead to accidents, property damage, and downtime.

Preventing Downtime and Losses

In a commercial setting, time is money. A malfunctioning garage door can cause significant downtime, disrupting the flow of goods and services. Regular maintenance helps in identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate, ensuring uninterrupted operations and preventing financial losses. Furthermore, addressing dock and gate-related repairs promptly maintains the security and efficiency of the entire loading and unloading process.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Well-maintained commercial garage doors contribute significantly to energy efficiency. Damaged or poorly fitted doors allow air to escape, leading to higher energy consumption and increased utility bills. By ensuring that doors are properly sealed and insulated, businesses can reduce energy costs and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Enhancing Security

Commercial garage doors, docks, and gates are critical points of entry and exit. They need to be robust and secure to prevent unauthorized access and protect the assets within. Regular maintenance ensures that locking mechanisms are functioning correctly, and any vulnerabilities are addressed promptly, thereby safeguarding the premises and its contents.

Prolonging Lifespan

Investing in regular maintenance is cost-effective in the long run, as it prolongs the lifespan of commercial garage doors. By addressing minor issues promptly and ensuring that all components are well-lubricated and aligned, businesses can avoid costly replacements and enjoy the durability and reliability of well-maintained doors.

Addressing Dock and Gate-Related Repairs

Docks and gates are integral components of commercial garage door systems. They require specialized attention to ensure smooth operations. Damaged dock levelers or seals can affect the loading and unloading process, while malfunctioning gates can compromise security. It’s essential to incorporate dock and gate maintenance into the overall garage door maintenance plan, addressing any repairs promptly to maintain operational efficiency and security.

Scheduled Maintenance and Professional Repairs

We recommend scheduling regular professional maintenance to thoroughly inspect commercial garage doors, docks, and gates. Trained technicians can identify and address any wear and tear, alignment issues, or component malfunctions, ensuring the entire system operates efficiently and safely. Additionally, seeking professional help for repairs ensures that the job is done right, maintaining the integrity and functionality of these essential assets.

Maintaining Commercial Garage Doors, Docks & Gates

In an ever-competitive business environment, the importance of maintaining commercial garage doors, docks, and gates cannot be overstated. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are investments in operational efficiency, safety, and longevity. By prioritizing the upkeep of these assets, businesses can avoid unnecessary disruptions, secure their premises, save on energy costs, and ensure the smooth transit of goods and services, thereby achieving operational excellence.

A Guide to Garage Door Maintenance: Expert Tips to Enhance Lifespan and Efficiency

Your garage door is more than just a means to protect your vehicle; it’s an essential component of your home’s security and aesthetics. As a trusted and experienced garage door repair company, we understand the intricacies involved in maintaining a garage door system. Regular maintenance of your garage door can save you from unexpected repair costs, enhance its lifespan, and ensure efficient operation. Here’s our comprehensive guide to keeping your garage door in top shape.

Garage Door Maintenance Checklist

Regular Inspection

✔ Frequency is Key

Conduct a thorough inspection of your garage door at least twice a year. Look for signs of wear and tear on cables, springs, rollers, and other moving parts. Check for rust, fraying, and damage.

✔ Listen and Observe

Operate your garage door and listen for unusual noises. A well-maintained door should operate quietly and smoothly. Grinding or scraping noises is a sign that something needs attention.

Lubrication

✔ Essential Lubrication

Moving parts of a garage door should be lubricated every six months. Use a high-quality, non-gummy lubricant on rollers, hinges, and springs. Avoid lubricating the track, as this can attract dust and debris. In most cases calling a garage door professional to help with all of your garage door maintenance needs is your safest and best bet.

Cleaning and Painting

✔ Clean Regularly

Dirt and grime can be corrosive, so regular cleaning is essential. Use a mild detergent and a soft-bristle brush to clean the door’s surface, then rinse with water.

✔ Repaint as Needed

A fresh coat of paint not only improves your garage’s appearance but also protects the door from the elements. Use exterior latex paint and ensure that the door is clean and dry before you begin.

Weatherstripping

✔ Inspect and Replace

The weatherstripping at the bottom of your door creates a seal against external elements. Check it regularly and replace it if it is cracked or broken.

✔ Proper Installation

Ensure that weatherstripping is installed correctly. A professional garage door technician can install it for to ensure it is done properly and will last.

Balance Test

✔ Perform a Balance Test

Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), and manually move the door about halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put, the counterweight system (springs) are improperly balanced. This needs professional attention immediately!

Safety Checks

✔ Test the Reversing Mechanism

Place a block of wood on the ground in the door’s path. When the door touches the wood, it should reverse. If not, call a professional.

✔ Check the Photo Eye Sensors

These sensors prevent the door from closing when something is in its path. Test this by placing an object in front of the sensors and attempting to close the door. It should reverse. If not, either realign the sensors or call a technician.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

✔ Regular Service

At least once a year, have your garage door system inspected and serviced by a professional. They can spot issues that you might miss and perform preventative maintenance.

✔ Hire a Trusted Professional

Not all garage door technicians are equal. Look for licensed, insured, and well-reviewed professionals.

The Importance of Utilizing A Professional Garage Door Maintenance Service

Remember, while some maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, others, particularly those involving garage door springs and cables, can be dangerous and should always be performed by a trained garage door repair professional.

Your garage door is a substantial investment and plays a critical role in your home’s security and curb appeal. Regular maintenance, guided by a trusted professional, can ensure that it remains a valuable asset for years to come. As experienced garage door specialists, we strongly advocate for proactive care to extend the life and efficiency of your garage door system.

Why Is My Garage Door Noisy?

Your garage door & garage door opening system are meant to open and close smoothly with little to no noise. However, normal wear and tear & other factors like loose or broken garage door parts can seem to all of a sudden make your garage door noisy! Maybe it’s just a slight banging you hear when you go to open your garage door or perhaps it has started to squeak whenever the door is operated at all. No matter the sound, not only is a noisy garage door annoying it can also mean it may be in need of lubrication or repairs.

If your garage door is loud when opening & closing it could be time to upgrade your garage door insulation!

There are many reasons your garage door may be noisy, from improper maintenance to normal wear & tear, a bent track, becoming off-balance, or a loose part (rollers, nuts, chains, hinges, springs, etc.). The key is to listen to the type of noise being emitted and to take note of when the noise is happening during the open/close cycle. If you hear a banging noise it could mean that your door is off track or you may be in need of garage door panel replacement. A rattling noise usually means there are loose nuts or bolts or the opener support rails or chains could be loose. A scraping noise could indicate an unbalanced garage door which can be extremely dangerous. Clinking can indicate rust build-up causing garage door springs to rub together! And a popping noise usually signals a torsion spring has snapped and you should call a garage door repair service immediately. Any type of broken/snapped garage door spring or unbalanced door should be looked at and repaired by an experienced garage door expert as soon as possible.

Causes of A Noisy Garage Door

Improper Maintenance
Normal Wear & Tear
Bent Tracks
Loose Parts – rollers, nuts, chains, springs
Door Is Off-Balance
Opener Needs Repair/Replacement
Hinges/Rollers Need Lubrication

The Importance of Garage Door Maintenance

Garage doors are subject to the different weather elements, everyday use, and here in Arizona the extreme heat during the summer months. These things all collectively work together and wear on the many parts that compromise your garage door. That being said to ensure that your garage door is in proper working order & is performing as efficiently as possible it is important to schedule regular garage door maintenance with a trusted garage door company. Regular garage door maintenance helps to ensure that any repairs needed are spotted sooner rather than later which can help prevent serious injury or accidents as well as costly garage door repairs or replacement. Maintenance also helps to ensure that your garage door tracks are free of dirt & debris which can hinder movement & create a noisy garage door!

Lubricating Your Garage Door

Remember when your garage door starts making noise it’s trying to tell your something. If a little lubrication is needed it is important to add it anywhere needed as soon as possible.

Garage door parts that are rubbing together causing friction & heat, are bound to break completely, causing a dangerous more costly issue. This is also why it is important to lubricate your garage door and its moving metal parts regularly and not just in times of distress.

While it is always advised to work with a reputable garage door repair company, should you look to lubricate your garage door parts yourself we highly suggest that the garage door is disconnected from any power source before beginning. And while WD-40 may be used to help lubricate parts we suggest using lithium grease. Lithium grease will not cause dirt build-up over time like WD-40. Should you find a lot of dirt build-up, a little bit of brake cleaner goes a long way to help remove built-up grime.

In the end, your garage door is responsible for much of the heavy lifting in life (literally) and should be taken care of and maintained to ensure the safety of people and personal property. And proper garage door maintenance & lubrication can help to extend the overall lifespan of your door while also ensuring it is always in proper working order.

The Difference Between Torsion Springs & Extension Springs

When it comes to your garage door there are many moving & working parts that all play a big role in the opening and closing of the door both safely & efficiently. That being said when one of these parts is in need of repair or replacement, your garage door usually does not work properly or efficiently and can also pose a big safety risk. One of the most frequent garage door issues that will definitely hinder the use of your door & cause possible safety hazards, is broken springs.

There are two different main types of garage door springs. Both types of springs play a significant and big role in the overall motion of your garage door. And because both of these types of springs are big and hold a lot of force & tension they are also quite dangerous to try to replace or repair yourself. But before we get too far ahead of ourselves let’s first discuss the two different types of garage door springs.

Extension Springs

Your garage door extension springs are found running parallel to the garage door track. They are long & skinny and extend/ stretch whenever the garage door is opened or closed. With this action the springs store energy to help with the movement of your door. Extension springs come in a variety of different spring options such as, open-looped, double-looped, and clipped end extension springs. While there are many different sets of instructions & videos available showing how to replace or repair these springs on your own, there are a few important things to keep in mind. You need to be careful of falling garage doors, cuts from rusted metal on the spring or garage door track, and activated garage door openers during the repair process. Because of these hazards, it is always best to seek the help of a garage door spring repair expert.

Torsion Springs

You may have anywhere from 1 to 4 torsion springs incorporated with your garage door depending on the strength, weight, and size of your door. These springs can usually be found on the metal shaft directly above the door opening. On either side of the metal shaft are aluminum drums. The springs are wound around the drums to a certain torsion setting. These springs come in a variety of different options including, standard torsion springs, early set torsion springs, steel rolling door torsion springs, and torque master torsion springs. These springs are the most dangerous of the two springs to try to repair or replace yourself and definitely should be handled by a professional. Not only do you run the risk of activating the garage door opener, or a falling garage door, changing these springs on your own exposes you to serious safety risks. Because of the amount of tension these springs hold they often break which results in a flying spring or metal.

The most common residential garage door spring problems usually include any of the different extension springs and standard or early set torsion springs. The steel rolling door torsion springs and torque master torsion springs are most common in commercial or industrial doors. The springs on commercial or industrial doors absolutely should be repaired or replaced by a professional garage door repair technician.

Tips To Keep Your Garage Door From Breaking Down

If you are eager to learn more about garage door maintenance and safety, you have come to the right place. Usually, the garage door is the largest movable object inside your home. When used correctly; your garage door allows you to park your vehicles, garages can be used as storage space or you may use it as an additional living space for your house. Your garage can even help you save money if insulated properly.

Here Are Some Tips To Keep Your Garage Door From Breaking Down

Though having a garage door is very convenient, it can also be very dangerous causing serious injury, or even death. Even if you are capable of making small repairs to your garage door, we always suggest that you call a professional. Especially if you are in need of a new garage door installation or spring replacement for your existing garage door, leave that task to the professionals. So here are some tips to keep your garage door from breaking down.

Call A Professional

‘Do-It-Yourselfers’ repairman can easily be injured when working on a garage door, but children can also be seriously injured. Small children have a bad reputation of playing with garage doors. If you have little ones, it is important to teach them that the garage door is an operating system, and not a toy.

Feel free to take time to browse around the Parker Doors & More website for more information on the products and services we provide. Our goal is to offer information and techniques to best maintain your garage door so you can get the most of its use over the years. We will show you how to perform routine checkups and outline garage door safety for all ages.

Garage Door Safety

Not only does Parker Doors & More want you to be educated on your garage door, we also want you and your family to be safe when operating the door at all times. Here are safety tips for you and your children:

Do not play with the garage door or garage door opener. They are dangerous if misused and can cause serious injury, or even death.

When the door is closing, do not stand, walk or run in the door’s path.

Children should not be allowed to have access to the remote controls or push the wall controls for the garage door opener systems. Keep all remotes out of reach of children.

Keep fingers and hands away from the door sections when the garage door is opening or closing to avoid injury.

Perform routine maintenance on the door to keep it operating properly. Annual maintenance by a trained technician is recommended.

Remember that the garage door is powered by electricity. Always unplug the garage opener before repairing the wiring and other electrical issues.

Never attempt to repair garage door springs or garage door cables. Cables and springs are under a high amount of tension. Special tools are needed to repair and install garage door springs and cables. It is best if a trained service technician performed these repairs.

If someone backed into the garage door, call a service technician to perform a full inspection. Even though it may look as if no physical damage was done, the alignment can be off, creating a dangerous environment.

Garage Door Check-up

Below are a few maintenance techniques you can perform on your garage door to ensure it is working properly. By following these maintenance directions, you will better understand how your garage door operates and you will be able to prevent any major, costly repairs. Before you perform these tests, make sure everyone in your household is aware that you are working on the garage door and it should not be used.

Perform the following in this order:

Monthly Visual Inspection: Stand inside the garage with the door closed. Inspect the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and the mounting hardware. Check for signs of any damage, fraying, wear or tear. Does the mounting hardware look loose? Are the cables beginning to fray? If something doesn’t look right, or if the garage door doesn’t sound right, call Parker Doors & More to have the garage door inspected by a professional.
Monthly Balance Test: If you have an automatic opener for your garage, close the door and disconnect the automatic opener. Once the automation is disconnected, manually open the garage door. The door should lift smoothly with very little resistance. Once the garage door is fully open, it should stay open on its own. If the door is difficult to open, or if it doesn’t stay open on its own, the door might be out of balance and will need to be looked at by a professional.
Monthly Reverse Mechanism and Photo Eye Test: Garage door openers manufactured after January 1, 1993 are required, by law, to be equipped a reverse mechanism, meaning that is something is in the garage door path while closing, the door will automatically reverse.
Photo Eyes. If your garage door has photo eyes, or sensors at the bottom of the garage door, test to see if the sensors are working properly. Push the button to close the garage door. While the door is closing, place an object where the garage door touches the ground, blocking the sensors. The garage door should reverse automatically. If your door fails any of these tests, call a professional from Parker Doors & More.
Semi-Annual Lubrication: Apply a small amount of spray lubricant to the door hinges, rollers and tracks.

The Take Away

Although some of these tips may be obvious to some, we can easily forget them with our day to day lives. Apply these tips to keeping your garage door from breaking down, and you’ll increase your garage door’s life span.

Garage Door Service 24/7

Parker Door’s & More is a leading garage door repair company in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. We provide high-quality garage door services for commercial and residential customers throughout the Valley. We are family owned and operated, established in 1988. We only work with high-quality garage door and opener products and aim for exceptional customer service.