Your garage door is a critical part of your home, providing security, convenience, and curb appeal. Like any major home component, it requires regular care to operate smoothly and last as long as possible. By following a few simple maintenance tips, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door and avoid costly repairs. In this post, we’ll outline the best ways to keep your garage door in top shape for years to come.
Lubricate Moving Parts Regularly
Your garage door has many moving parts that experience friction over time, such as rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Proper lubrication is essential to keep everything running smoothly and to prevent wear and tear.
- What to Do: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the moving parts of the garage door every six months. This reduces friction and helps prevent rust or corrosion.
- Pro Tip: Avoid using heavy grease, as it can attract dirt and cause more harm than good.
Inspect and Tighten Hardware
With regular use, the hardware on your garage door—such as bolts, screws, and brackets—can loosen over time. Loose parts can lead to operational issues or even damage.
- What to Do: Every few months, inspect the hardware and use a wrench to tighten any loose bolts, screws, or roller brackets. Pay close attention to the hinges and brackets that hold the tracks in place.
- Pro Tip: If you notice any worn or broken parts, call a professional for repair or replacement.
Test the Balance of the Door
A garage door that is off-balance will place unnecessary strain on the door opener and other components, which can lead to premature failure.
- What to Do: Disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the release handle, then manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is properly balanced. If it falls or rises, the balance may need adjustment.
- Pro Tip: Adjusting the springs or balance can be dangerous. If you notice an issue, contact a professional to handle the adjustments safely.
Keep the Tracks Clean and Aligne
The tracks are what guide the door’s movement, so keeping them clean and properly aligned is essential for smooth operation.
- What to Do: Periodically inspect the tracks for debris, dirt, or rust. Clean the tracks with a damp cloth to remove buildup. Make sure the tracks are aligned, and if you notice any gaps or uneven spots, contact a technician to make the necessary adjustments.
- Pro Tip: Avoid using a lubricant on the tracks, as this can cause the door to slip or malfunction.
Check and Replace Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping helps seal your garage door against the elements, keeping out drafts, moisture, and pests. Over time, the weatherstripping can wear out, crack, or peel away.
- What to Do: Inspect the weatherstripping along the bottom and sides of your garage door at least once a year. If it’s cracked or brittle, replace it with new weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and protection.
- Pro Tip: Weatherstripping is inexpensive and can be easily replaced, but if you’re unsure, a professional can install it for you.
Test the Auto-Reverse Safety Feature
Modern garage doors are equipped with an auto-reverse safety feature, which prevents the door from closing if it detects an obstruction. This is a critical safety mechanism that should be checked regularly.
- What to Do: Place an object (such as a block of wood) under the door and try to close it. If the door doesn’t reverse after touching the object, it may be time to have the opener’s sensor or motor inspected.
- Pro Tip: For added safety, consider installing a smart garage door opener that allows you to monitor and control the door remotely.
Clean and Paint the Door
Your garage door is constantly exposed to the elements, so keeping it clean and well-maintained will not only enhance its appearance but also protect it from damage.
- What to Do: Wash the door with a mild detergent and water every few months to remove dirt, grime, and pollutants. If your door is made of wood, check for signs of water damage or peeling paint, and repaint or reseal it as needed.
- Pro Tip: Applying a fresh coat of paint not only improves curb appeal but also helps protect the door from environmental wear.
Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
While regular DIY maintenance is essential, having a professional inspect your garage door annually ensures that any underlying issues are caught early. A professional can check parts like springs, cables, and rollers, which may not be easy for a homeowner to assess.
- What to Do: Schedule a yearly inspection with a trusted garage door service company. This is especially important for older doors or those used frequently.
- Pro Tip: Annual inspections are a great time to address small issues before they become major problems, saving you money in the long run.
Conclusion:
A little bit of maintenance goes a long way when it comes to extending the lifespan of your garage door. By following these simple steps, you can keep your garage door operating smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Remember, if you ever notice significant damage or problems that you can’t fix yourself, it’s always best to call a professional.
At Garage Door Repair, we offer comprehensive garage door repair, maintenance, and replacement services. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your garage door stays in top condition.