Winter in Boise brings cold temperatures, snow, and ice, which can take a toll on your garage door if it’s not properly maintained.
Preparing your garage door for the winter months is essential for ensuring it operates smoothly and reliably throughout the season. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to winterize your garage door and protect it from the harsh winter weather.
Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold weather can cause metal components to contract, leading to stiffness and increased wear on your garage door’s moving parts. To keep your door functioning smoothly:
Lubricate Hinges and Rollers: Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to all moving parts, including hinges, rollers, and tracks. This will reduce friction and help prevent parts from freezing or becoming stiff in cold weather.
Check the Springs: Inspect the springs for signs of wear or rust. Lubricating the springs can help them retain their flexibility and prevent breakage during the winter months.
Remember to always contact a professional service provider like us for a reliable garage door repair in Boise.
Test the Weather Stripping
Weather stripping plays a crucial role in keeping cold air, moisture, and debris out of your garage. Over time, weather stripping can wear out or become damaged, reducing its effectiveness. To keep your garage warm and protected:
Inspect for Gaps: Check the bottom and sides of your garage door for any gaps or cracks in the weather stripping. If you notice light or drafts coming through, it’s time to replace the weather stripping.
Replace Damaged Stripping: If the weather stripping is cracked, brittle, or missing in some areas, replace it with new, durable stripping designed to withstand the cold.
Check the Garage Door Balance
A well-balanced garage door is crucial for safe and efficient operation, especially during the winter months. Cold weather can affect the balance of your door, causing it to strain your opener or become misaligned. To check the balance:
Disconnect the Opener: Lift the garage door manually to the halfway point. If it remains steady, the door is well-balanced. However, if it moves up or down on its own, the balance needs adjustment.
Adjust if Necessary: If your door is unbalanced, it’s best to call a professional to adjust it. Attempting to fix the balance yourself can be dangerous, especially if you’re dealing with the springs.
Clean and Clear the Tracks
Winter brings snow, ice, and debris that can clog or obstruct your garage door tracks, leading to operational issues. To keep your tracks clear:
Remove Debris: Regularly check the tracks for dirt, leaves, or other debris that can cause the door to jam or misalign. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the tracks and keep them clean.
Check for Rust: Inspect the tracks for rust, which can worsen in winter. If you find rust, gently sand it away and apply a protective coating to prevent further corrosion.
Clear and well-maintained tracks are essential for the smooth and safe operation of your garage door during the winter also reducing the need for frequent garage door repair in Boise.
Conclusion
Ensuring your garage door runs smoothly throughout the winter involves inspecting and lubricating the moving parts, examining and replacing weather stripping as needed, verifying the door’s balance, and keeping the tracks clean.
If you need assistance with winterizing your garage door, contact Garage Door Store Boise. Our expert technicians are ready to help you get your garage door winter-ready.