Garage Door Maintenance Tips by Season
Is your garage door making strange noises? A little maintenance can fix that. Seasonal care keeps your garage door working well. Read on to learn easy tips for each season!
Key Takeaways
- Clean and inspect your garage door every season. Look for rust, cracks, or damage. Fix problems quickly.
- Lubricate all moving parts like hinges and springs twice a year. Use silicone-based lubricant for weather-stripping.
- Check the balance of your garage door by lifting it manually. Adjust if needed to ensure smooth operation.
- Replace worn weather stripping to keep insulation strong. This prevents drafts and protects from moisture.
- Test safety features such as photoelectric sensors regularly. Ensure they work well to avoid accidents.
Spring Maintenance Tips
Spring is the perfect time to give your garage door some attention. Make sure all parts are in good condition and moving smoothly....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTqjoWyH1Js
Clean and inspect door surfaces
Clean the garage door every two weeks. Use water and a soft brush or cloth to wipe down surfaces. For stubborn dirt, try a mild cleaning agent.
Inspect steel doors for rust spots and wooden doors for warping or water damage. Fix any issues right away to prevent bigger problems later.
Keeping your door clean helps it last longer.
Check fibreglass doors for cracks or chips. Regular maintenance keeps your garage door looking good and working well.
Lubricate moving parts
Apply high-quality, all-purpose machine oil like RP7. Do this twice a year. Focus on hinges, springs, and cables. Ensure smooth operation of your garage doors.
Use a silicone-based lubricant for weather-stripping. This will prevent it from drying out or cracking. Regular upkeep helps maintain energy efficiency and extends the life of moving parts.
Check and adjust the balance
Check door balance by lifting it manually. The door should rise smoothly with little effort and stay open at mid-point. If not, the springs might need adjusting.
Incorrect balance can strain the opener and wear out parts quicker. For safety, consult a professional for adjustments or if unsure about spring tension. Proper balance ensures smooth operation and prolongs your door’s life.
Summer Maintenance Strategies
Summer can bring heat, dust, and more. These tips will keep your garage door in top shape through the warmer months….
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THI_p9FKcZk
Inspect and clear tracks
Inspect the tracks for debris and rust. Use a soft cloth with mineral turpentine or methylated spirits to clean them. Clear any leaves, dirt, or small objects that could block the rollers.
Check both sides of the garage door tracks carefully. Remove rust spots with sandpaper if needed. Ensure rollers move smoothly along the tracks without bumps or snags. This helps your garage door open and close without issues.
Check weather stripping for damage
Tracks must be clear for smooth door movement. Next, examine the weather stripping for cracks or brittleness. Damaged weather stripping can let in cold air and moisture.
Look at the edges of your garage door. Check if the seal is tight against the frame. Replace any damaged pieces to keep insulation strong.
Good seals save energy and protect your things.
Use a spanner to remove worn strips and install new ones if needed. This simple task can prevent bigger issues later on, like mould growth or higher bills due to poor insulation.
Test safety features and door operation
Check the photoelectric sensors. These sensors should sit 15 cm off the ground and detect objects in their path. Clean them with a cloth to remove dust or dirt.
Test the auto-reverse feature by placing an object like a roll of paper towels in the door's path. The door should reverse when it touches the object. If not, adjust settings or call a professional for service.
Ensure smooth operation by opening and closing the door fully several times. Listen for strange noises which may signal loose hardware or other issues needing attention.
...
Tighten hardware and replace worn components...
Autumn Preparation Tasks
4. Autumn Preparation Tasks: Tighten bolts and nuts to keep your door working smoothly—get ready for cooler days ahead!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICxzDVwqyhc
Tighten hardware and replace worn components
Use a socket wrench and screwdriver to tighten any loose bolts. Don't overtighten them. Inspect rollers for cracks or wear. Replace damaged ones.
Check screws and nuts regularly. Worn components can cause bigger problems if ignored. Update weatherstripping if needed, especially before winter hits hard with its cold temperatures.
Check and replace weather stripping as needed
Check weather stripping for cracks or brittleness. This keeps the garage insulated. Damaged weather stripping lets in cold air and moisture.
Replace worn-out strips to seal out drafts. Buy the right type at a hardware store. Measure and cut new strips to fit snugly around the door edges.
Good insulation helps maintain temperature inside your garage. It prevents bugs, dust, and water from entering too. Follow these steps each autumn for effective fall garage door maintenance.
Prepare garage door for colder temperatures
Clean the garage door surfaces with a pressure washer. Use a washing-up liquid to remove dirt and grime. Dry it well with a microfibre cloth.
Lubricate all moving parts, like springs and rollers, to prevent rust. Replace weather stripping if it's worn or cracked. Ensure all parts are in good condition to avoid freezing issues.
Ensure smooth operation by checking the balance of the overhead door. Adjust as needed for easy use throughout winter.
Cold weather can be harsh on your garage door. Protect surfaces and check the opener for smooth operation… this ensures it works well all winter long.
Protect surfaces against moisture and freezing
Use a wood preservative to protect wooden doors from moisture. This prevents rust and damage, helping your garage door last longer. Apply primer to any exposed metal parts to stop them from corroding.
Clear snow and ice around the garage door. Ensure the door moves smoothly even in cold weather. This helps avoid freezing issues and keeps the door working well into winter... Next, inspect and service opener and cables.
Inspect and service opener and cables
Check the opener and cables for frays or tears. If you find any, call a technician right away. A broken cable can be dangerous.
Service the opener to make sure it works well in cold weather. Lubricate all moving parts, but don't overdo it. Ensure remote controls work smoothly too.
Ensure smooth operation amidst cold weather
Cold weather can cause garage doors to stick or freeze. Keep parts well-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant. It helps moving parts work smoothly and prevents them from freezing up.
Inspect rollers, springs, and cables for rust or wear. Replace damaged items quickly. Protect wooden doors with a proper sealant to prevent moisture damage. Regular routine maintenance saves money on repairs by keeping your door running quietly and efficiently all year round.
Conclusion
Maintaining your garage door by season is key to its long life. Simple tasks each season can save you money and keep your home safe. Check, clean, and fix small problems before they grow big.
This way, your garage door works smoothly all year round.
FAQs
1. What are some summer garage door maintenance tips?
In summer, focus on preventative maintenance. Check for mould growth and humidity issues that can affect fibreglass doors. Clean with a glass cleaner to keep everything clear.
2. How do I maintain my garage door in winter?
Winter garage door maintenance involves inspecting springs and cables for wear or damage. Lubricate moving parts to prevent them from freezing up.
3. Why is preventative maintenance important for roller doors?
Preventative maintenance ensures your roller door works smoothly year-round... it prevents corrosion, extends the lifespan of components, and avoids costly repairs.
4. Can humidity corrode my garage door parts?
Yes, high humidity can cause metal parts like springs and cables to rust... regular checks and cleaning help prevent this problem.
