In such situations, manually opening the garage door becomes necessary. In this article, we will discuss the various types of garage doors and provide step-by-step instructions on how to manually open them.
Different Types of Garage Doors:
Before we dive into the manual opening process, it’s important to understand that there are several types of garage doors available on the market. The most common types include:
1. Sectional Garage Doors:
Sectional garage doors are composed of horizontal sections that vertically slide and fold into the ceiling when opened. These doors are prevalent in residential properties and businesses.
2. Roller Garage Doors:
Roller garage doors consist of a single curtain of slats that roll up into a drum above the entrance. They are popular due to their space-saving design and smooth operation.
3. Side-Hinged Garage Doors:
Side-hinged garage doors are similar to traditional doors, hinged on the sides and typically made from timber or steel. They are a popular choice for traditional-style homes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Manually Open Garage Doors:
1. Sectional Garage Doors:
To manually open a sectional garage door, follow these steps:
a. Locate the Emergency Release Cord: This cord is usually red and hangs down from the garage door opener.
b. Pull the Emergency Release Cord: Firmly grasp the cord and pull it down towards the floor. This will disengage the garage door opener mechanism, allowing you to manually operate the door.
c. Lift the Garage Door: With the release cord pulled down, slowly and carefully lift the garage door. Sectional doors are usually balanced and relatively easy to open manually.
d. Secure the Door: Once the door is fully open, ensure that it is securely held in place. You can use a clamp or another locking mechanism to prevent the door from accidentally closing.
2. Roller Garage Doors:
To manually open a roller garage door, follow these steps:
a. Locate the Manual Release Lever: This lever is typically situated on the garage door opener motor unit. It may require a key or tool to access.
b. Engage the Manual Release Lever: Turn the lever or use the key/tool to disengage the motor’s drive mechanism, allowing manual operation.
c. Lift the Door Manually: With the lever disengaged, carefully lift the door at the bottom, guiding it up into the drum. Roller doors can be heavier, so take caution when lifting.
3. Side-Hinged Garage Doors:
To manually open a side-hinged garage door, follow these steps:
a. Locate the Door Handles: Side-hinged doors typically have handles on each leaf of the door.
b. Firmly Grasp the Handles: Grip the handles firmly and pull or push the door to open it.
c. Secure the Door: Once the door is open, use a door stop or prop to keep it securely in place, preventing accidental closure.
While modern garage doors are often equipped with electric openers for convenience, knowing how to manually open them is crucial in case of emergencies or power outages. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this article, you can safely and effectively open your garage door manually, no matter the type of door you have installed. Remember to handle the process with care and seek professional assistance if you encounter any difficulties or issues.