Garage door safety, operation, maintenance tips, and more.
Your garage is an essential space for storing your belongings and accessing your home daily. To protect your investment and ensure its longevity, it's crucial to perform regular maintenance on your garage door. By following these garage door maintenance tips, you can keep your overhead doors working smoothly for years to come.
1. Observe Door
Begin your garage door maintenance by thoroughly observing the door for any visible or audible signs of issues. Operate the door both automatically and manually, paying attention to how smoothly it moves and if there are any unusual noises like banging or loud sounds. Check for any jerky movements or if the door feels heavier than usual when opening manually. Take note of any signs indicating that the door may not be functioning correctly, so you can address any issues promptly.
2. Clear Tracks
Keeping the tracks free from debris is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your garage door. Over time, dirt and other particles can build up on the tracks, leading to blockages and potential malfunctions. To clean the tracks, gently remove any debris and then use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. While cleaning the tracks is something you can do safely and effectively, it's best to leave any major adjustments or repairs to professionals to ensure that the tracks are properly and securely maintained.
3. Tighten Hardware
Opening your garage door multiple times a day is common practice for most homeowners. If you operate your garage door three to four times daily, that adds up to 1,000 to 1,400 cycles per year. This frequent use can lead to vibrations, causing the nuts, bolts, and roller brackets to loosen over time. To address this, you can use a socket wrench and screwdriver to tighten these components yourself. However, it's important to avoid overtightening to prevent damage and premature wear on the parts.
It's crucial to note that certain hardware, such as red-painted components or those on the bottom roller fixture, should not be adjusted by homeowners. Attempting to tighten or adjust these specific parts can potentially harm the door or compromise its safety. It's best to leave these adjustments to professionals to ensure the door's proper functioning and safety.
4. Check Cables
Inspect the cables visually for any signs of fraying, tears, or damage. Damaged cables can put stress on the door components and pose a safety risk to anyone operating the garage door. It is important to refrain from attempting to adjust or repair the cables yourself, as they are under high tension and play a crucial role in the door's operation. Handling cables without proper training can be dangerous and unpredictable. If you notice any frayed or broken cables, it is recommended to contact a technician for assistance. In the meantime, park your car outside and use alternative entrances to avoid any potential harm while waiting for cable repair.
5. Inspect Rollers
Inspecting and maintaining your garage door rollers is essential for ensuring smooth operation. These rollers guide the door along the track and any damage to them can lead to issues with the overall functionality of the door. Look out for cracks, chips, and signs of wear on the rollers, as these can impact how well the door moves. If you notice any damage, you can replace the rollers, as long as they are not directly connected to the cables. Make sure to keep the rollers free of debris and ensure they move along the tracks smoothly for optimal performance.
6. Lubricate Hardware
Regular lubrication is essential for moving parts in your garage to reduce friction and prevent wear. This simple maintenance task helps keep your garage door operating smoothly for years to come. Lubricating your garage door components, such as the springs, hinges, rollers, tracks, and opener's chain, with a specialized lubricant can address common issues like slow opening and ensure optimal performance. Proper lubrication is key to maintaining the functionality of your overhead door.
7. Test Balance
An imbalance in your garage door can cause added strain on its components, leading to quicker wear and potential damage. To check the balance of your door, close it entirely, then disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle, often a red cord. Next, manually lift the door to halfway open and release it. If the door remains in the half-open position, it is properly balanced.
If the door doesn't stay in place, there may be an issue with the cables or springs. Since these parts are under high tension, it's best to avoid adjusting them yourself. Leave the task of rebalancing garage doors to professionals, so reach out to a technician for help if your door is not balanced correctly.
8. Replace Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping, located at the bottom of your garage door, acts as a rubber seal that helps protect your garage from water damage and outside elements. By replacing weatherstripping that is cracked or worn, you can safeguard your garage from rainy weather and prevent outdoor elements from entering. Additionally, weather seals help maintain a comfortable temperature inside your garage by preventing air from flowing in between the interior and exterior spaces. Checking the condition of your weatherstripping during seasonal changes is essential for optimizing energy efficiency.
9. Test Safety Features
During your routine maintenance checks, it's important to inspect the safety features of your garage door. The photoelectric sensor and mechanical auto-reverse functions are designed to prevent the door from closing on objects, ensuring safety for you and your belongings. You can easily test these features at home using everyday items.
To check the photosensor, simply wave a broom under the closing door. For the mechanical auto-reverse, place a wood plank or brick under the door before closing it. If the door touches the object and fails to reverse, it's crucial to contact a professional to assess and repair your safety features.
If your garage door is older and lacks these safety mechanisms, it may be time to consider replacing it with a newer model that includes these essential safety features. Upgrading to a door and opener with modern safety measures will provide added protection for your loved ones and possessions when using the garage door.
10. Clean Door
It's essential to regularly inspect your garage door for signs of wear and tear. Constant exposure to grime, dirt, debris, and harsh weather can take a toll on overhead doors. Steel doors may develop rust spots that require sanding and repainting, while wood doors can warp from water damage, leading to bending. To maintain the appearance of your garage door, wash it regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt. Use a mild soap and a wet cloth to clean both sides of the door, ensuring it looks clean and new.
Protect Your Garage Door With the Professionals
Regular maintenance is key to protecting your garage door from wear and tear. If you encounter any issues during maintenance, reach out to a trusted service for repairs. You can often find contact information for garage door companies on the inside of your garage door for easy access to assistance.