Your garage door is more than just an entry point for your vehicle; it’s also a vital component of your home’s security and curb appeal. To ensure it functions reliably and continues to enhance the aesthetics of your property, regular maintenance is essential. In this blog, we’ll provide you with an essential garage door maintenance checklist to help you keep your garage door in tip-top shape.
Visual Inspection:
Start your garage door maintenance routine with a visual inspection. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as dents, cracks, or rust. Check the paint or finish for peeling or fading, and clean the surface if needed. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and maintain your door’s appearance.
Hardware Tightening:
Over time, the hardware on your garage door can become loose due to vibrations and frequent use. Check all the nuts, bolts, and screws, and tighten them as necessary. Focus on the hinges, rollers, and track brackets to ensure everything is secure.
Lubrication:
Proper lubrication is crucial to ensure smooth door operation. Apply a high-quality lubricant to the rollers, hinges, springs, and the opener’s chain or screw drive. Lubrication reduces friction, minimizes wear and tear, and extends the life of your garage door components.
Balance and Alignment:
An unbalanced garage door can put extra strain on the opener and lead to premature wear. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually open the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, it may be imbalanced. A professional technician can adjust the springs to achieve the proper balance.
Spring Inspection:
The springs are among the most critical components of your garage door system. Inspect them for signs of wear, rust, or damage. Springs should only be replaced by trained professionals due to the high tension they carry.
Weather stripping:
Weather stripping helps keep out drafts and pests while maintaining an energy-efficient environment in your garage. Check the weather stripping around the door frame and replace it if it’s damaged or worn out.
Sensor Alignment:
Your garage door opener’s safety sensors must be properly aligned to prevent accidents. Test the sensors by placing an object in their path while closing the door. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, realign the sensors following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Opener Inspection:
Inspect the opener for any unusual noises or signs of wear. Test the auto-reverse feature to ensure it functions correctly. If your opener is outdated or showing signs of trouble, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model.
Cleanliness:
Keep your garage door and its surrounding area clean. Remove dirt, leaves, and debris from the tracks and keep the photoelectric sensors clean and free of obstructions. A clean door operates more smoothly and reduces the risk of malfunctions.
Professional Inspection:
At least once a year, schedule a professional garage door inspection. A trained technician can identify issues that may not be immediately visible to you and perform preventive maintenance to keep your door in excellent condition.
Regular garage door maintenance is essential for ensuring the safety, functionality, and longevity of your door. By following this essential garage door maintenance checklist and addressing issues promptly, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your garage door continues to serve its purpose effectively while enhancing your home’s overall appearance and security. Remember that safety should always come first, and if you’re unsure about any maintenance task, it’s best to consult a professional garage door technician.
This post was written by a professional at Same Day Garage Door Service. If your garage door is giving you trouble, such as it being broken or showing signs of wear and tear, then Same Day Garage Door Service is the company to call. SDG’s team has industry-leading training, tools, and resources to get the job done right, whether that means a garage door repair Bellevue WA or installing a brand-new one altogether. They stand by you in helping you make the most informed decision for your home.
