Keep your garage door running smoothly year-round with these tips
Few things are more frustrating than a garage door that doesn’t work properly. A faulty door allows debris and pests inside and poses a safety risk to those using the garage. Whether you are looking for signs of damage or scheduling regular maintenance, you can easily ensure that your garage door runs smoothly year-round.
Pay attention to signs of trouble
When using your garage door, listen for weird sounds such as screeching or grinding. Also look for visible signs of trouble, such as slow movements or jerking. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your garage door, have it professionally inspected before these problems turn into a safety issue.
Keep the tracks clean
If your garage door is moving slowly or jerking, you may find a build-up of dirt, debris, and grease on your door’s tracks. Fortunately, a good cleaning is usually the answer to this problem. One idea is to use an old rag with a little soap and water, but you can also skip the soap and water and just clean the tracks with an old toothbrush.
Lubricate the door’s hardware
A garage door that creaks and squeaks when opening and closing needs lubrication. Use a lithium-based grease (preferably non-silicone) to lubricate moving parts like hinges, rollers, and springs. Avoid using anti-rust solutions or WD-40 for this purpose, as they are not designed to provide the long-lasting lubrication needed for garage door components. It is important to lubricate the moving components about every three months to keep the door running smoothly.
Replace the door’s weather stripping
Weatherstripping keeps your garage comfortable and the debris and elements outside. Without weather stripping, your garage door may suffer from issues such as water damage. It is important to regularly check and replace the weather stripping to ensure your garage is warm during winter, cool during summer, and safe from outside elements.
Check the balance of the door
A door that is out of balance puts strain on the springs, which causes the door to wear down quickly. To check the balance, turn off the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If the door aggressively flies up, slams down, or does not stay in place, it is out of balance and requires a professional. Taking care of this problem ensures your door can open and close without extra help from you.
Schedule regular garage door maintenance
One of the best ways to keep your garage door running smoothly is to schedule regular maintenance at least once a year with a garage door company. A professional can identify and address issues from filthy tracks to damaged parts. Plus, they can share maintenance tips such as cleaning or lubricating certain components.
To find more tips on keeping your garage door running smoothly year-round, be sure to visit our Facebook and Instagram pages. If you need assistance with inspecting and addressing an issue with your garage door, let us help you find a Certified Professional in your area.
