10.28.2024

Garage Door Defense for Homeowners

To stay warm and protected throughout the season, it’s essential to prioritize garage door maintenance.  As winter approaches, making sure your garage door is in peak condition becomes more important than ever. A faulty garage door not only disrupts your daily routine but also exposes your home to the harsh winter elements. The colder months can put extra strain on older springs, and with the typical garage door operating up to 1,500 cycles per year, wear and tear can accumulate quickly.

Here are a few DIY maintenance tips to help keep your garage door running smoothly:

Prevent Freezing: To stop your garage door from freezing to the ground, maintain the bottom rubber seal. Regularly clean and dry it with a cloth to prevent moisture buildup. Attempting to use the electric opener when the door is frozen can cause major damage to the door system.

Clean the Tracks: Over time, dirt and debris can collect in the garage door tracks and frame, leading to alignment problems. Clear out any leaves, dirt, or twigs from the tracks. Foreign objects can interfere with the rollers, causing them to wear out faster. If you notice the door dragging or binding, it’s putting unnecessary strain on the opener, which could lead to more serious damage. When this happens, it’s time to call a professional before things worsen.

Maintain Safety Sensors: Keep an eye on the safety sensors located near the bottom of each side of the garage door opening. Snow or accidental bumps can knock these sensors out of alignment, preventing your door from closing properly. Clean the sensor lenses regularly and make sure snow, shovels, or other items aren’t obstructing them.

The International Door Association (IDA) advises scheduling annual maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of your garage door. Don’t wait until the heart of winter to address potential problems. Book your garage door tune-up today to keep your home warm and secure all season long. Schedule your garage door maintenance here.