5 Ways to Maintain Your Garage Door
1. Inspect and Tighten All Hardware
Your garage door moves up and down multiple times each day, making it one of the most used parts of your home. This frequent movement and vibration can cause screws, bolts, and nuts to loosen over time. Inspect the brackets that hold the tracks to the wall and ceiling, and ensure all bolts are tight. Pay particular attention to the hinges that connect each section of the door. Worn or broken hinges should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage. Also, check the rollers for wear and tear. Rollers typically last about seven years, but if you notice cracks, chipping, or excessive wear, they should be replaced. Furthermore, examine the cables for signs of fraying or corrosion. If the cables appear damaged, call a professional like Priority Garage Door Repairs to handle the replacement, as the high tension can be dangerous. Keeping the hardware tight and secure ensures your garage door operates smoothly and extends its lifespan.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication of your garage door’s moving parts is essential for smooth and quiet operation. Use a high-quality garage door lubricant or silicone spray to lubricate the hinges, rollers, and tracks. Avoid using heavy grease, as it can attract dirt and dust, causing more harm than good. Apply the lubricant sparingly, focusing on the moving parts that produce friction. The torsion springs also benefit from a light application of lubricant, which helps prevent rust and ensures smooth movement. For the tracks, wipe them clean with a cloth to remove dirt and debris before applying a small amount of lubricant to the inside edges. Don’t forget to lubricate the bearing plates and the opener’s chain or screw drive. Regular lubrication can reduce wear and tear, prevent rust, and prolong the life of your garage door system. Priority Garage Door Repairs in Montgomery, TX, recommends lubricating the moving parts every six months for optimal performance.
3. Test the Door Balance
An imbalanced garage door puts extra strain on the opener and other components, leading to premature wear and potential failure. To test the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Manually lift the door halfway and let go. If the door stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it drops or rises, the springs may need adjustment. Adjusting the springs is a task best left to professionals due to the high tension involved. Uneven springs can also cause the door to appear crooked or tilt to one side. In addition, check the balance by manually opening and closing the door to ensure it moves smoothly without resistance. If you notice any imbalance or difficulty in operation, contact Priority Garage Door Repairs to diagnose and correct the issue. Properly balanced doors reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the longevity of your garage door system.
4. Test the Safety Features
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors to prevent accidents. The auto-reverse mechanism stops and reverses the door if it encounters an obstruction while closing. To test this feature, place an object (like a block of wood) on the ground under the door and close it. If the door stops and reverses after making contact with the object, the auto-reverse function is working correctly. The photo-eye sensors, located on either side of the door, emit an invisible beam that detects objects in the door’s path. Test the sensors by closing the door and waving your foot across the beam. If the door stops and reverses, the sensors are functioning correctly. Clean the sensor lenses regularly to prevent dust and dirt buildup that may affect their performance. Testing these safety features ensures the garage door won’t close on people, pets, or objects, preventing injuries and damage. If the auto-reverse or sensors aren’t working as they should, contact Priority Garage Door Repairs for an inspection and repair.
5. Clean and Paint the Door
Regularly cleaning and painting your garage door keeps it looking great and protects it from the elements. For metal doors, wash them with a mild detergent and water solution, paying attention to any rust spots that need sanding and repainting. Wooden doors require a bit more care. Check for water damage or warping, and remove any peeling paint. Sand down rough areas, then apply a fresh coat of paint or stain to seal and protect the wood. Fiberglass doors can be cleaned with an all-purpose cleaner and a soft cloth. Maintaining the exterior finish of your garage door prevents rot, rust, and weather damage, extending the door’s lifespan. In addition to cleaning, inspect the weatherstripping at the bottom of the door. If it’s cracked or brittle, replace it to keep out drafts and pests. A well-maintained garage door adds curb appeal and value to your home. Priority Garage Door Repairs in Montgomery, TX, can help with painting, weatherstripping replacement, and other maintenance tasks to keep your garage door in top shape.