Keeping It Operational: Garage Door Maintenance Essentials

Your garage door is one of the most important parts of your home. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, about 79% of homeowners use the garage door as the primary point of entry to their homes. That’s why it is important to keep your garage door functional and well-maintained. Whether your garage door is original to your home or not, you should at least be able to recognize how the parts function together. Here are some of the most common things that go on inside a garage door. In this article, we will discuss some essential garage door maintenance tips to keep it operational.

1. Regular Inspection:

Inspecting your garage door regularly is the first step to ensuring its functionality. Checking the springs, cables, rollers, and hinges for damage or wear and tear can save you from problems in the future. You should also inspect the tracks to ensure they are clean and free from debris. Regular inspection and cleaning can prolong the life of your garage door and prevent costly repairs.

2. Lubrication:

Lubrication is crucial to maintaining your garage door’s functionality. Applying lubricant to the moving parts of your garage door can reduce noise, friction, and extend its life. According to a survey conducted by the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association, about 71% of garage door repairs are due to a lack of maintenance or lubrication. Therefore, it is important to lubricate your garage door regularly to keep it functioning efficiently.

3. Test the Safety Features:

Testing the safety features of your garage door is essential for the safety of your family and pets. The safety features include the photo-eye sensors that detect objects in the door’s path and the auto-reverse mechanism that stops the door from closing if it senses an object underneath. Testing these safety features monthly can prevent accidents and injuries.

4. Regular Cleaning:

Regular cleaning of your garage door’s exterior is important to maintain its aesthetic appeal. A dirty or faded garage door can take away from the overall appearance of your home. Washing the garage door with mild detergent and water can remove dirt and stains and keep it looking new. Regular cleaning prevents dirt build up which can cause the door to slide, brush, and track improperly. Dirt buildup can also cause the accumulation of airborne particles that can solidify and damage the garage door’s moving parts.

5. Professional Maintenance:

While regular inspection and cleaning of your garage door can prevent most problems, some issues may require professional assistance. Hiring a certified technician can ensure that the repairs are done efficiently and safely. Regular professional maintenance can also detect potential problems before they become costly repairs. A maintenance agreement can help you save money and repair issues before they become a major problem.

6. Weatherstripping:

Weatherstripping is an important aspect of garage door maintenance, especially for homeowners in areas with extreme weather conditions. Proper weatherstripping can prevent drafts, moisture, and pests from entering your garage, which can help maintain a comfortable and clean environment. It can also improve energy efficiency by preventing heat or cold air from escaping or entering your garage.

7. Balance and Alignment:

Ensuring that your garage door is properly balanced and aligned is crucial for smooth operation. An imbalanced or misaligned garage door can lead to excessive strain on the opener and other components, leading to premature wear and tear. To check the balance of your garage door, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door about halfway. If it stays in place, it is likely balanced. If it falls or rises, it may require professional adjustment.

8. Mindful Operation:

Developing good habits when it comes to operating your garage door can contribute to its longevity. Avoid hitting the open or close button repeatedly and allow the door to complete its full cycle before interrupting it. Also, refrain from manually forcing the door open or closed if it is not moving smoothly, as this can cause damage to the opener or door mechanism. Being mindful and patient with the operation of your garage door can prevent unnecessary wear and extend its lifespan.

9. Educate Family Members:

Ensuring the safety and security of your family members when it comes to the operation of your garage door is crucial. It is important to teach those in charge of opening and closing your garage door to operate it properly. This will prevent them from causing damage to the door’s components or causing potential accidents. Instructing those who use the door regularly to clean debris from the tracks and inspect them for wear and tear can also contribute to maintaining a functioning garage door.

10. Seasonal Maintenance:

Lastly, consider performing seasonal maintenance on your garage door to address any specific issues that may arise due to changing weather conditions. For example, in colder months, make sure to remove ice and snow build-up from the garage door and its surrounding areas to prevent freezing and damage. In warmer months, check for signs of warping or damage that may have resulted from heat and humidity.

Bottom Line:

Maintaining a garage door is essential to the safety, functionality, and appearance of your home. A well-maintained garage door can last longer and save you from costly repairs. Regular inspection, lubrication, testing of safety features, cleaning, and professional maintenance can keep your garage door operational and your home safe.