Regular garage door preventive maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity, safety, and efficiency of your garage door system. By dedicating time to routine upkeep, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns, enhance security, and save on costly repairs.
Here are some practical garage door maintenance tips to keep your system in top condition.
1. Lubricate Moving Parts
Keeping the moving components of your garage door well-lubricated ensures smooth and quiet operation. Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks. This simple step reduces friction and wear, prolonging the lifespan of these parts.
2. Tighten Hardware
With regular use, the hardware on your garage door can loosen over time. Periodically inspect and tighten all bolts, screws, and brackets to maintain the door’s structural integrity and prevent operational issues.
3. Clean the Tracks
Dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks, causing the door to operate unevenly or become misaligned. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the tracks, removing any buildup. Avoid using lubricants on the tracks, as they can attract more debris.
4. Inspect and Clean Rollers
Rollers facilitate the smooth movement of your garage door. Regularly check them for signs of wear or damage. Clean any dirt or grime, and if you notice cracks or significant wear, consider contacting a professional to replace them.
5. Test the Balance
An unbalanced garage door can strain the opener and other components. To test the balance, disconnect the opener and manually move the door halfway up. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment. Because of the high tension of garage door springs, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance for this task.
6. Check Safety Features
Modern garage doors come equipped with safety features like auto-reverse mechanisms and photo-eye sensors. Regularly test these features to ensure they function correctly. Place an object in the door’s path to see if it reverses upon contact or obstruction. If these safety mechanisms fail, contact a professional immediately.
7. Examine Weatherstripping
Weather stripping at the bottom of the garage door prevents drafts, moisture, and pests from entering. Inspect it for cracks or wear and replace weatherstripping if necessary to maintain an effective seal.
8. Clean the Door Surface
Keeping the exterior of your garage door clean not only enhances curb appeal but also prevents the buildup of corrosive substances. Use a mild detergent and water to wash the door. On metal doors, look for rust spots, and for wooden doors, consider repainting or sealing to protect against the elements.
9. Replace Remote and Keypad Batteries
To avoid being locked out or experiencing operational issues, regularly check and replace the batteries in your remote controls and keypads. Signs that batteries need replacing include decreased range or unresponsiveness.
10. Schedule Professional Inspections
While DIY maintenance is valuable, having a professional inspect your garage door system annually can identify potential issues before they escalate. Professionals have the expertise to handle complex components like springs and cables safely.
Garage Door Maintenance FAQs
1. How often should I have my garage door professionally serviced?
While basic maintenance like lubrication and cleaning can be done every few months, it’s recommended to have a professional inspection at least once a year. A trained technician can spot issues early, adjust spring tension, and ensure all components are functioning properly to prevent costly repairs.
2. What are the signs that my garage door opener needs maintenance?
If your garage door opener starts making unusual noises, operates slower than usual, or occasionally fails to respond, it may need maintenance. Other signs include flickering lights on the opener, a keypad or remote that doesn’t always work, or a door that reverses unexpectedly. Regularly checking and maintaining the opener can prevent sudden failures.
3. Can extreme weather affect my garage door’s performance?
Yes, temperature fluctuations and humidity can impact garage door components. Cold weather can cause metal parts to contract, leading to misalignment or stiffness. Heat and humidity can warp wooden doors and affect electrical systems. Seasonal maintenance, such as adjusting lubrication and inspecting weather stripping, helps keep your garage door in top shape year-round.
4. Why is my garage door making a loud noise when opening or closing?
Loud noises often indicate a problem with the springs, rollers, or tracks. Squeaking may mean the parts need lubrication, while grinding or popping noises could signal worn-out rollers or misaligned tracks. If the noise persists, it’s best to have a professional inspect and repair the issue before it leads to more significant damage.
Need Help? Call the Pros at Robert’s Garage Door Professionals
At Robert’s Garage Door Professionals, we understand the importance of preventive maintenance on garage doors. As a local, family-owned business in Chicago, we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction, attention to detail, and use of top-quality parts.
Our comprehensive maintenance, garage door repair, and installation services – residential and commercial – are designed to reduce downtime, increase reliability, and enhance safety. With competitive prices and a flawless reputation, we ensure your garage door remains in optimal condition.
Don’t wait for a garage door problem to think about maintenance. Call Robert’s Garage Door Professionals today at 773-906-1556 or contact us online for a free on-site consultation and experience first-class garage door services tailored to your needs.
