Owning a garage door is much like owning a car. If you neglect it, soon you’ll be faced with expensive repairs. Fortunately, with a bit of preventative maintenance, you can ensure your garage door functions flawlessly for years. Here are some crucial Garage Doors Preventative Maintenance Tips to consider.
Regular Inspection
Routine visual checks can catch potential issues early. Once a month, inspect the door, tracks, springs, rollers, and other hardware for any signs of wear or damage. Also, listen for any unusual noises when the door moves.
Lubrication
A squeaky door can be a sign of a problem. Regularly cleaning and lubricating the overhead door hinges, rollers, and tracks can prolong their lifespan and ensure smooth operation.
Test the Door Balance
A well-balanced door uses less energy to operate. To test the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay put, the counterweight system (springs) may be imbalanced, needing professional attention.
Check Auto-Reverse Features
Modern garage doors have an auto-reverse feature for safety. Test this by placing an object, like a wooden board, in the door’s path. If the door doesn’t reverse after contacting the object, consult a professional.
Tighten Up
The motion and vibration of a moving garage door can loosen its hardware. Regularly check and tighten all roller brackets and bolts.
Replace Weatherstripping
For a tight seal against the elements, make sure the weather stripping at the bottom of your door is in good condition. If it’s brittle or cracked, it’s time to replace it.
Clear the Tracks
Ensure tracks on either side of the door are clear of debris and rust. If you notice any bends in the tracks, seek professional help for adjustments.
Regular Cleaning
Not only for aesthetics, but cleaning your garage door also prevents rust and decay. Wash it regularly with a mild all-purpose cleaner.
Table: Garage Doors Preventative Maintenance Tips
| Maintenance Tips | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | Check for wear, damage, and unusual noises | Monthly |
| Lubrication | Lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks | Bi-monthly |
| Door Balance Test | Ensure the door remains in place when lifted halfway manually | Twice a Year |
| Auto-Reverse Test | Test auto-reverse safety feature | Monthly |
| Tightening Hardware | Check roller brackets and bolts | Quarterly |
| Replace Weatherstripping | Replace brittle or cracked stripping | As Needed |
| Clear Tracks | Ensure tracks are free from debris and rust | Monthly |
| Cleaning | Prevent rust and decay by cleaning | Quarterly |
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- Experience: With years in the field, we’ve seen it all.
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Service Areas:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I perform preventative maintenance on my garage door?
Regular maintenance can be carried out every six months. However, visual inspections should be done monthly to spot potential issues.
Can I repair my garage door myself?
While minor maintenance can be DIY, major repairs, especially those involving springs and cables, should be handled by professionals. Some repairs can be dangerous without proper knowledge, as detailed in our post on why you shouldn’t DIY garage door repair.
When should I replace my garage door instead of repairing it?
If your door is frequently breaking down, the costs of continuous repairs can accumulate. Sometimes, it might be more cost-effective to replace an old door, especially if it’s past its lifespan, as discussed in our garage doors lifespan article.
How can I improve my garage door’s security?
A regular maintenance routine ensures a functional door, reducing vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider upgrading to a Wi-Fi connected garage door, which allows remote monitoring.
Conclusion
Garage door preventative maintenance is crucial for the longevity and functionality of your door. By adhering to the mentioned tips, you can prevent costly future repairs. Should you need assistance with your garage door, whether for maintenance, repair, or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our expert team is always ready to assist you.
