The primary reasons for maintaining the garage door are its safety, convenience, and long life. With changeable seasons, your garage door experiences different demands. It could be due to freezing winters, spring rains, or hot summers. Regular seasonal maintenance is vital to maintaining your garage door smoothly throughout the year. So, let’s discuss some crucial practical maintenance tips to avoid costly repairs and ensure the best performance.
Why Seasonal Garage Door Maintenance Matters
Your garage door is one of your house’s most common entrance points. Due to significant weather changes, garage doors start causing problems like sticking doors, squeaky hinges, or generally inefficient operations. However, seasonal servicing will help in preventing:
- Unexpected breakdowns
- Longevity in your garage door
- Your family’s safety will be increased
- Help you avoid spending a lot on expensive repairs
Moreover, regular maintenance of your garage door each season will ensure it is always in top shape.
Spring: Refresh and Inspect
Spring is the perfect time to reset after winter’s harsh impact.
1. Clean Tracks and Rollers
Clean out dirt, debris, and residue from the tracks. Grime in the tracks can make the doors rattle or drag. However, a damp cloth and a gentle cleaner are best for cleaning the dirt from tracks.
2. Inspect Springs and Cables
Look for wear or frays in torsion springs and cables. If you find any damage, do not attempt a repair on your own—garage door springs can exert significant tension and can only be fixed by professionals.
3. Inspect Weather Stripping
Ensure the weather stripping along the bottom edge of your garage door is intact. Replace if it shows signs of cracking or tearing to keep rain and pests out.
Summer: Focus on Lubrication
Summer heat can cause garage door components to expand, potentially leading to friction and noise.
1. Lubricate Moving Parts
To ensure smooth operation, apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using grease as it can attract dust.
2. Test Balance and Alignment
Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the balance may be off. Contact a professional for adjustments.
3. Examine the Garage Door Opener
Test the opener’s functionality and replace the batteries in the remote controls if they are dead. Also, check that the safety sensors are properly aligned and functioning.
Fall: Prepare for Cooler Weather
Your garage door must be ready for the cold ahead as temperatures drop.
1. Tighten Hardware
Check and tighten all bolts and screws on your garage door. Over time, vibrations from normal usage can result in the loosened screws and bolts.
2. Check Insulation
If your garage door is insulated, check for gaps or damage in the panels. Insulation helps maintain temperature control and, therefore, reduces energy bills.
3. Seal Drafts
Ensure no gaps around the door could let in cold air. Replace damaged seals to keep your garage comfortable and energy-efficient.
Winter: Defend Against the Cold
Winter can be especially tough on garage doors, with freezing temperatures causing mechanical issues.
- Keep Tracks Clear of Ice and Snow: Regularly clean the ice and snow tracks so they do not block or misalign them.
- Check for stiffness: Freezing temperatures can cause parts to become brittle. Check how your garage door moves. If it feels stiff, it needs attention now.
- Test the auto-reverse feature: Put an obstacle in front of the door and try to close it. If it will not automatically turn around when closed, replace its auto-reverse mechanism if safety features are compromised.
Year-Round Garage Door Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some vital points to check for no matter what the time of year:
- Noises or grinding that sound out of the ordinary
- Moving slowly or off-center
- Remote controls are not working
- Gaps between the door and the ground
Conclusion
Seasonal garage door maintenance is an easy way to ensure smooth operation, avoid costly repairs, and extend the lifespan of your investment. By following the tips given above, you can enjoy a reliable garage door that adapts effortlessly to any season. If you are experiencing any issues with your garage door or require professional help, it is time to act. Contact our expert team today for professional help with garage door troubleshooting in Hanover, PA, or reliable garage door installation near york county. Let us keep your garage door in top-notch condition all year round!