Who to call · Handyman
Garage door won't open? Here's Who to Call
A garage door that won't open can be caused by a broken torsion spring (most common — you'll hear a loud bang), a dead opener motor, stripped gears, a disconnected or broken cable, a misaligned track, or something as simple as dead remote batteries or a locked manual latch. If the spring is visibly broken (a gap in the coil above the door), do not attempt to open the door manually — the door weighs 150–400 lbs and the remaining spring cannot counterbalance it safely. A garage door technician ($75–$150/hour, $150–$350 for a spring replacement) can diagnose and fix the issue, usually same-day. If the opener motor hums but the door doesn't move, the gear may be stripped ($100–$200 to replace) or the disconnect cord was pulled.
What's going on
How to fix garage door won't open
Some "garage door won't open" cases look simple, but getting it wrong almost always costs more than calling a pro: hidden leaks, fire risk, code violations, and insurance headaches. A licensed handyman will diagnose the exact cause, use the right professional tools, and stand behind the repair. Most local pros offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
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Symptoms to look for
- 01
Door doesn't respond to remote or wall button at all
- 02
Opener motor hums or clicks but the door doesn't move
- 03
A loud bang was heard from the garage (broken spring)
- 04
Door moves a few inches then stops or reverses
- 05
Door is visibly crooked or off-track on one side
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Who should I call for: Garage door won't open?
Call a licensed handyman. Handymans have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose garage door won't open safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
Can I fix this myself?
Some minor cases can be handled DIY, but most require a licensed handyman to avoid costly rework and safety risks. A free quote takes under a minute.
How fast can a pro come out?
Most handymans offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.
How much does it cost to fix?
Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.
What are the signs of: Garage door won't open?
Door doesn't respond to remote or wall button at all. Opener motor hums or clicks but the door doesn't move. A loud bang was heard from the garage (broken spring). Door moves a few inches then stops or reverses. Door is visibly crooked or off-track on one side.
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