Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers from your local garage door experts. If you don't see your question here, call us at (314) 400-8133. We're real people, not a call center.
General Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Jefferson County, MO. Our shop is based in Chesterfield, and we provide same-day service throughout the metro area.
Diagnosis is free for residents in qualifying ZIP codes near Chesterfield (63005, 63017, 63011, 63021, 63038, 63040, 63088, 63131, 63141, 63122, 63124). Outside those ZIP codes, the diagnostic fee is $89 within 15 miles or $129 within 30 miles — both credited 100% toward repair if completed the same day.
Are you a franchise or corporate company?
No. MyGarageDoorBROKE.com is a family-owned business run by Mitch and Michelle Stone. We’ve been in the home service industry for over 20 years. When you call, you’re talking to real people who live and work in your community. There’s no corporate call center, no overseas phone bank, and no script.
Why is your company called MyGarageDoorBROKE.com?
When your garage door breaks, that’s exactly what you’re thinking: “My garage door broke.” We wanted a name you’d remember when you needed us. Plus, it’s honest. We’re not trying to sound fancy or corporate. We’re a family that fixes garage doors.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We are fully licensed and insured. We’re also a Clopay Certified Dealer and a LiftMaster Authorized Dealer, meaning our technicians have completed factory training on both product lines.
Do you offer emergency service?
Yes. We’re available 24/7 for emergency garage door situations. If your car is trapped inside, your door won’t close and your home is unsecured, or you’re dealing with a safety hazard, call us anytime at (314) 400-8133.
Repair Questions
How fast can you get to my house?
We strive for same-day service whenever possible. Response time varies based on our current schedule and your location, but we always prioritize emergencies. We’re a small, family-owned business, and we’re always honest about timing.
Do you charge for a diagnosis?
Diagnosis is free in qualifying ZIP codes near Chesterfield: 63005, 63017, 63011, 63021, 63038, 63040, 63088, 63131, 63141, 63122, 63124.
Outside those ZIP codes:
- Within 15 miles: $89 diagnostic fee — credited 100% toward repair if completed the same day
- 15–30 miles: $129 diagnostic fee — credited 100% toward repair if completed the same day
- 30+ miles: Call for availability
Either way, you’ll know exactly what’s wrong and what it costs before any work begins.
What brands of garage doors do you repair?
We repair all brands of garage doors, regardless of manufacturer. For new installations, we exclusively install Clopay doors as a Certified Dealer.
What brands of openers do you repair?
We diagnose and repair all opener brands. For replacements and new installations, we’re a certified LiftMaster dealer. When a non-LiftMaster opener needs a new logic board or gear assembly, full replacement with a LiftMaster unit is often more cost-effective than the repair. We’ll give you honest options.
Do I need to be home for the repair?
We prefer that a homeowner or authorized adult be present. You’ll need to approve the diagnosis and pricing before we begin any work.
How much does garage door repair cost?
It depends on what’s wrong. Every door and situation is different. We provide a clear quote after our on-site inspection, and you approve the price before any work begins. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Springs & Cables
Why shouldn't I replace springs myself?
Torsion springs store enough energy to cause serious injury or death. They require specialized tools and professional training to replace safely. This is the one garage door job that’s truly not safe for homeowners.
My garage door made a loud bang. What happened?
That’s almost certainly a broken spring. The door will feel extremely heavy and your opener won’t be able to lift it. Do not try to open or close the door. Call us at (314) 400-8133 for same-day spring replacement.
What is the FOREVER Spring™?
The FOREVER Spring™ is our lifetime-warrantied garage door spring system. It’s designed to be the last spring you’ll ever need to purchase. Standard springs wear out every 3–5 years, and spring replacement is the most common garage door repair. The FOREVER Spring™ eliminates that recurring expense entirely. Ask about it during any service call or tune-up.
Do you replace both springs at the same time?
Yes, always. Springs are installed in matched pairs and experience the same stress over time. If one has broken, the other is close to failure. Replacing both prevents a second service call weeks later and keeps your door balanced.
How long do garage door springs last?
Standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles (roughly 3–5 years). High-cycle springs last 25,000+ cycles (7–10 years). The FOREVER Spring™ carries a lifetime warranty, so you never buy another spring again.
How do I know if my cables need replacing?
Look for fraying, kinking, rust, or loose strands along the cable. If a cable has snapped, your door will hang crooked or get stuck. Cables are under high tension — never try to replace them yourself.
Openers & Remotes
What LiftMaster openers do you carry?
We stock all three series on every service truck: Basic Series (reliable chain-drive), Plus Series (belt-drive with myQ smart home built in), and Premium Series (built-in camera, battery backup, Security+ 2.0). We also install wall-mount jackshaft openers (models 98022 and 98032) with an automatic deadbolt lock — a feature only available on jackshaft models.
How long does opener installation take?
A typical opener installation takes 2–3 hours, including removing the old unit, mounting the new LiftMaster, and full myQ setup (Wi-Fi connection, app walkthrough, camera configuration if applicable, and a controls demo).
What is myQ?
myQ is LiftMaster’s smart home platform. It lets you monitor and control your garage door from your phone — receive alerts when the door opens or closes, set schedules, and view live camera feeds on camera-equipped models. We set up myQ completely during every opener installation.
My remote stopped working. What should I do?
Start with fresh batteries — that fixes the majority of remote issues. If new batteries don’t help, try reprogramming the remote. If the wall button works but the remote doesn’t, it’s a remote issue. If neither works, the opener itself may need service.
Can you fix non-LiftMaster openers?
Yes. We diagnose and repair all opener brands and carry common repair parts on our trucks. When a major component fails on an older non-LiftMaster unit, replacing with a new LiftMaster is often more cost-effective than sourcing parts for a discontinued model. We’ll give you both options.
What's the difference between chain-drive and belt-drive?
Chain-drive openers are affordable and reliable, but louder during operation. Belt-drive openers are significantly quieter and smoother. If your garage is attached to your home and noise travels into living spaces, belt-drive is the strong recommendation. Both types are available across our LiftMaster lineup.
New Doors & Installation
What garage door brands do you install?
We exclusively install Clopay garage doors. As a Clopay Certified Dealer, we’re factory-trained on every collection — from the value-focused Classic Steel to the premium Avante full-view series.
How long does it take to install a new garage door?
Most standard installations are completed in about half a day. If you choose an in-stock Clopay door in a standard size, we can often schedule installation within days. Built-to-order collections like Coachman, Canyon Ridge, Modern Steel, and Avante have a 3–4 week lead time.
Do you offer free consultations for new doors?
Consultations are free in qualifying ZIP codes near Chesterfield: 63005, 63017, 63011, 63021, 63038, 63040, 63088, 63131, 63141, 63122, 63124.
Outside those ZIP codes:
- Within 15 miles: $89 consultation fee — credited back 100% if you proceed with the project
- 15–30 miles: $129 consultation fee — credited back 100% if you proceed with the project
- 30+ miles: Call for availability
During the consultation, Mitch or Michelle will personally visit, measure your opening, discuss style and feature options, and provide a clear quote with no hidden fees.
Do you remove the old garage door?
Yes. Old door removal, disposal, and complete installation are all included — new tracks, hardware, balancing, safety testing, myQ setup (if a new opener is included), and full cleanup.
Can I just replace a damaged panel instead of the whole door?
Often, yes. If matching panels are available and the rest of the door is in good condition, panel replacement is a cost-effective option. We’ll assess the damage and give you honest advice.
Does a new garage door increase home value?
Yes. Garage door replacement consistently ranks as one of the highest-ROI home improvement projects. Your garage door is often the single largest visual element on the front of your home, so upgrading to a new Clopay door can make a noticeable impact on curb appeal and resale value.
Pricing & Scheduling
How much does a new garage door cost?
Pricing depends on the door style, size, insulation level, and features you choose. We provide a clear quote after an in-home consultation so you know exactly what you’re paying for. No pressure, no hidden fees.
How much is a tune-up?
Our Garage Door Tune-Up & 26-Point Safety Inspection is normally $197 — now $97 for homes within 15 miles of Chesterfield. $197 for homes located 15–30 miles out.
It includes a complete inspection of springs, cables, rollers, tracks, panels, and all hardware. We also lubricate all moving parts, tighten hardware, test balance, verify safety sensors, and provide a detailed report of your door’s condition.
Do you have any special offers?
Yes! Save $500 when you purchase a new garage door and opener together (includes a tune-up). Our $97 Garage Door Tune-Up & 26-Point Safety Inspection and free local diagnosis* are also available year-round.
Do you offer financing?
Yes, financing is available for larger projects like new door installations and door-plus-opener combos. Ask us about financing options when you call to schedule your consultation.
How do I schedule service?
Call us at (314) 400-8133 or submit a service request through our contact form. You’ll talk to a real person, not a recording.
Do you have online scheduling?
We don’t use online booking. Call us directly and you’ll talk to a real person who can ask the right questions, prepare the right parts, and schedule your visit accurately. It’s a small-business approach, and it works.
Maintenance
How often should I have my garage door serviced?
At least once a year. Your garage door opens and closes over 1,500 times a year. If you use it heavily or live in a high-humidity area, twice a year is better. An annual professional tune-up catches small problems before they turn into expensive emergencies.
What is the FOREVER Ready Club™?
The FOREVER Ready Club™ is our maintenance membership program. Members receive an annual 26-point tune-up and inspection, plus 10% off parts, doors, and future services. It’s the best way to protect your garage door investment.
What does the 26-point inspection cover?
We inspect springs, cables, rollers, tracks, hinges, drums, panels, weather seals, the opener motor, drive system, force settings, travel limits, safety sensors, auto-reverse function, emergency release, mounting hardware, wall button, remote operation, door balance, lubrication needs, and overall safety assessment. If something needs attention, you’ll know about it before you have a breakdown.
Can I lubricate my garage door myself?
Yes. Use white lithium grease or silicone-based garage door lubricant on springs, hinges, and metal rollers every 6 months. Do NOT use WD-40 on springs or other garage door components — it’s a solvent, not a lubricant. Also, never lubricate the tracks. Tracks should stay clean and dry.
What should I NOT do to maintain my garage door?
- Don’t lubricate tracks — they need to stay clean and dry
- Don’t use WD-40 on springs
- Don’t adjust spring tension yourself — this is dangerous
- Don’t ignore unusual noises — a squeak today is a broken part tomorrow
- Don’t force a frozen door open in winter
- Don’t skip the balance test — an unbalanced door kills openers prematurely
Still Have a Question?
We'd rather you call and ask than wonder. Our team is happy to answer any garage door question, big or small.
Serving St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson County. Licensed and insured.
Still Have a Question?
We'd rather you call and ask than wonder. Our team is happy to answer any garage door question, big or small.
Serving St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson County. Licensed and insured.
