Beyond it’s functional purpose, a well-maintained garage door enhances your home’s curb appeal, improves energy efficiency, and adds to your home’s overall privacy and security. However, like any mechanical system, your garage door will eventually wear out with continued use. That’s why regular maintenance is essential, as it helps extend the lifespan of your garage door system while also helping you avoid expensive repairs.
This blog will walk you through simple, effective garage door maintenance tips to keep your door running smoothly for years to come.
Why is regular garage door maintenance important?
Your garage door operates multiple times a day, which means it’s constantly subject to wear and tear. From the garage door rollers and hinges to the tracks and torsion springs, there are several moving parts that need attention to maintain smooth operation. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your door remains in top shape, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and extensive garage door repairs.
What’s the best way to inspect your garage door’s operation?
Inspecting your garage door regularly is a key step in garage door maintenance. Start by checking the garage door’s balance to confirm it isn’t putting unnecessary strain on the door opener and other components. To do this, manually lift the garage door halfway and release the handle. If the door stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls or rises on its own, it may be time to call a professional garage door tech.
Additionally, check the garage door’s operation for any unusual noises or jerky movements. These could indicate problems such as misaligned tracks or worn-out rollers. Pay attention to the door’s movement during normal use to make sure there’s no resistance and the garage door operates smoothly.
Which garage door parts require regular lubrication?
Garage doors have a lot of moving parts, such as the rollers, hinges, and tracks, all of which need lubrication to keep functioning smoothly and quietly. Use a silicone-based lubricant, which won’t attract dirt or dust as opposed to oil-based lubricants. Apply it to all moving parts, including the garage door opener’s chain and the rollers. Also, don’t overlook lubricating the torsion springs and hinges, as they play a crucial role in the door’s smooth operation.
Avoid using WD-40 or other oil-based lubricants, as they tend to attract dirt and dust. They can also cause the garage door rollers to wear out faster.
Lastly, always use a soft cloth to wipe away any excess lubricant. Excess grease can accumulate dirt, which can impede the door’s function.
How do you maintain the garage door tracks?
The tracks of your garage door guide its movement, and if they are misaligned, the door won’t move smoothly. Misalignment can also cause excessive wear that could lead to expensive garage door repairs down the line. To maintain your garage door tracks, check them for any dirt, debris, or obstructions, and then clean them using a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
Next, check if the tracks are parallel to each other. If you notice any significant misalignment, it’s best to call a professional garage door technician to make the necessary adjustments.
What is the role of the rubber bottom seal?
The rubber seal along the bottom of your garage door helps keep the elements, regulates the temperature inside your garage, and enhances the energy efficiency of your home. Over time, this seal can wear out, allowing cold air, water, and dirt to enter your garage, leading to increased energy costs and causing damage to stored items. To maintain the garage door seal, inspect it for cracks, fraying, or other signs of wear. Replacing the rubber seal with a new one is usually a simple fix. It would also be wise to periodically check the bottom seal for any gaps or tears, as these can also lead to drafts and reduce your garage’s insulation capabilities.
What safety features should you check?
Many newer garage doors come equipped with several safety features, such as photo eye sensors, which detect objects in the door’s path and reverse the door’s motion if something is detected. To keep these sensors functioning effectively, make it a habit to regularly clean them and check their alignment.
You can test the safety reversal system by placing a small object (like a piece of wood) in the door’s path and then activating the door. If the door doesn’t reverse when it encounters the object, you may need to adjust the garage door opener’s force settings or call a professional technician for assistance.
How can you maintain your garage door’s appearance?
Your garage door contributes to your home’s curb appeal, so it’s essential to maintain its appearance as part of regular maintenance. Inspect the door for peeling paint, rust, or any damage to the surface. Clean the door regularly to avoid dirt buildup, which can attract more dirt and cause staining over time.
If you notice any damage, such as rust or dents, address it promptly to prevent further deterioration. For wood doors, you may need to refinish the surface periodically to keep it looking fresh. For metal doors, check for any corrosion or rust spots and treat them as needed to keep the garage door looking clean and well maintained.
How often should you clean your garage door?
Your garage door’s constant exposure to weather leads to a buildup of dirt, grime, and rust. Cleaning your garage door regularly is essential to maintaining both its appearance and function. Use a mild detergent and a soft fabric to wipe down the door’s surface, paying close attention to any areas where dirt or debris might have accumulated.
For wood doors, avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish or paint. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser and follow up with a coat of wax or protective sealant to preserve the door’s finish. For metal doors, check for any rust spots or peeling paint. If necessary, sand down the rust and touch up the paint to keep the door looking its best.
When should you call a professional garage door technician?
While regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing costly repairs, there are certain tasks that require the expertise of a professional garage door tech. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a technician:
- The door operates unevenly or gets stuck mid-operation.
- There’s excessive noise or grinding coming from the door.
- The door doesn’t respond to the remote control or garage wall switch.
- The door’s balance is off, causing strain on the opener.
- The door is visibly damaged or misaligned.
A professional technician has the skills and tools necessary to diagnose and fix any issues, which keeps your garage door operating properly and safely.
A well-maintained garage door is a garage door that saves you money
Regular door maintenance is a simple yet effective way to prevent constant repairs and keep your garage door running smoothly year-round. Follow these maintenance tips to improve the longevity and reliability of your garage door system. Don’t wait for a breakdown to happen, and take proactive steps now to maintain your garage door and avoid costly repairs in the future.
If you’re unsure where to start or if you need help with your garage door maintenance, our professional garage door services are here for you. Contact Rainbow Garage Doors today for a consultation or to schedule a maintenance checkup with one of our expert technicians.
