Your garage door is a significant investment that provides convenience, security, and protection for your vehicles and belongings. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and reliable performance. By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door, prevent costly repairs, and maintain its smooth operation. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable tips for maintaining your garage door.
Visual Inspection
Perform a visual inspection of your garage door regularly. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. Check the springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and tracks for rust, cracks, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication of moving parts is crucial for the smooth operation of your garage door. Lubricate them at least twice yearly or when you notice squeaking or resistance. Apply a silicone-based or garage door-specific lubricant to the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid using WD-40 or greases, as they can attract dirt and debris.
Tighten Hardware
Regularly inspect and tighten the hardware of your garage door, including bolts, nuts, and screws. Vibrations from daily operations can cause them to loosen over time. Using a socket wrench, tighten any loose hardware to ensure stability and safe operation.
Keep Tracks Clean
Clean your garage door tracks to remove dirt, debris, and buildup that can affect its smooth movement. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe away any accumulated grime. Avoid using abrasive materials that may scratch or damage the tracks. Keeping the tracks clean helps prevent misalignment and ensures proper functioning.
Test Safety Features
Garage doors have safety features, such as auto-reverse mechanisms and photo-eye sensors, to prevent accidents and injuries. Regularly test these safety features to ensure they are functioning correctly. Place a small object, like a roll of paper towels, in the path of the closing door. Contact a professional windows & door technician for immediate repairs if the door does not reverse upon contact.
Clean and Protect the Door
Regularly clean the surface of your garage door to remove dirt, dust, and stains. Use a mild detergent and water and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the door’s finish. If your door has a wood finish, apply a protective sealant or paint to protect it from moisture and sun damage.
Professional Inspection and Maintenance
While you can perform basic maintenance tasks, scheduling professional inspections and maintenance at least once a year is essential. The technicians can identify potential issues, perform more extensive maintenance, and make necessary repairs to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Regular maintenance is key to extend the lifespan of your garage door and avoiding costly repairs. When in doubt or encountering significant issues, consult Albern’s garage door installation experts for advice and assistance.
