A well-maintained garage door operates smoothly, lasts longer, and keeps your home secure. Regular upkeep helps prevent costly repairs and ensures that your door functions properly throughout every season. Whether it’s extreme summer heat or freezing winter temperatures, following these essential maintenance steps will keep your garage door working reliably all year long.
1. Keep Moving Parts Lubricated
Friction and wear can cause garage door components to grind and stick, leading to premature damage. To keep things running smoothly:
- Apply silicone-based lubricant to rollers, hinges, and tracks every six months.
- Avoid WD-40, as it can attract dirt and dust.
- If the door still makes noise, inspect the rollers—worn-out rollers may need replacement.
Proper lubrication reduces strain on the opener and prevents unexpected breakdowns, ensuring your garage door opens and closes effortlessly.
2. Inspect and Tighten Hardware
Your garage door moves up and down several times a day, which can loosen bolts and brackets. Prevent structural damage by:
- Checking and tightening all nuts, bolts, and screws on the tracks and hinges.
- Looking for bent tracks or misaligned rollers, which can affect door movement.
- Ensuring the garage door opener is securely fastened to the ceiling to avoid unnecessary vibrations.
Taking a few minutes to inspect and secure these parts can prevent major malfunctions down the road.
3. Test the Balance of Your Door
An imbalanced garage door can put unnecessary stress on the opener, potentially causing damage. To test the balance of your door:
- Disconnect the door opener by pulling the release cord or handle.
- Lift the door halfway by hand and then release it.
- If it stays in place, the balance is good. If it moves up or down, the springs may need adjustment.
Spring adjustments should always be handled by a professional specializing in garage door repairs to avoid injury. A well-balanced door not only prevents excessive wear but also ensures smooth operation every time.
4. Check and Clean Weather Seals
Weather seals help protect your garage from drafts, moisture, and pests. Over time, these seals can crack or wear out, making your garage less energy-efficient.
- Inspect the bottom rubber seal and side seals for cracks or gaps.
- Clean seals with a damp cloth to remove dirt buildup.
- Replace damaged weather stripping to maintain energy efficiency and insulation.
A well-sealed garage keeps temperatures regulated, reduces dust buildup, and prevents small critters from sneaking in.
5. Test the Auto-Reverse Safety Feature
Garage doors have built-in safety features to prevent accidents. To test the auto-reverse mechanism:
- Place an object like a wooden block under the door and try to close it.
- If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, the safety mechanism might be faulty.
- Clean the photo-eye sensors and ensure they are aligned properly.
If the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional for garage door repair Boise to fix the issue safely. Keeping your garage door’s safety features in check ensures the protection of your family, pets, and belongings.
Stay on Top of Garage Door Maintenance
By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door and avoid unexpected repairs. However, if you notice persistent issues like strange noises, jerky movements, or slow operation, it’s best to call in an expert.
For reliable garage door repair services, trust the professionals at Garage Door Store Boise. Contact us today to schedule an inspection!