Why Garage Door Maintenance Matters
Your garage door is one of the most used entry points in your home, enduring daily wear and tear. Neglecting maintenance can lead to:
- Malfunctioning openers
- Broken springs or cables
- Noisy operation
- Security risks
By following these maintenance tips, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your garage door running smoothly for years.
1. Regularly Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts
Friction between metal components can cause premature wear. To prevent this:
- Lubricate rollers, hinges, and tracks every 6 months with a silicone-based lubricant.
- Check for rust or corrosion and clean debris from tracks.
Pro Tip: Avoid using WD-40 as it attracts dust—opt for garage door-specific lubricants instead.
2. Test the Balance of Your Garage Door
An unbalanced garage door strains the opener and can lead to garage door opener repair needs. Here’s how to check:
- Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle.
- Manually lift the door halfway—if it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment.
If your door is unbalanced, call a professional to avoid injury from tensioned springs.
3. Check and Tighten Hardware
Vibrations from daily use can loosen bolts and screws. Every few months:
- Inspect and tighten all brackets, rollers, and track fasteners.
- Replace any worn-out parts to prevent further damage.
4. Examine and Replace Weather Stripping
Damaged weather stripping allows drafts, pests, and moisture inside. Inspect the rubber seal at the bottom of your door and replace it if:
- It’s cracked or brittle
- There are gaps when the door is closed
5. Inspect Cables and Springs
Broken cables or springs are dangerous and require immediate attention. Look for:
- Frayed or loose cables (may need to fix garage door cable)
- Gaps in torsion springs
Warning: Never attempt to repair springs or cables yourself—hire a professional garage door 24 hour service for safe handling.
6. Test Safety Features
Modern garage doors have auto-reverse mechanisms to prevent accidents. Test them monthly:
- Place a wooden block in the door’s path—it should reverse upon contact.
- Check the photo-eye sensors by waving an object while closing.
If safety features fail, schedule a garage door opener repair.
7. Keep the Tracks Clean and Aligned
Misaligned tracks can cause the door to jam. Ensure:
- Tracks are free of dirt and dents.
- They are properly aligned—use a level to check.
For major adjustments, contact a professional.
8. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even with DIY care, an annual inspection by a technician can:
- Detect hidden issues
- Extend the lifespan of your garage door
- Ensure all parts function correctly
For emergencies, rely on a garage door 24 hour service.
FAQs
Q: How often should I lubricate my garage door?
A: Every 6 months or whenever you notice squeaking noises.
Q: Can I replace a garage door cable myself?
A: No—cables are under high tension. Always hire a professional to fix garage door cable issues safely.
Q: What should I do if my garage door won’t open?
A: Check the power source and remote batteries first. If the issue persists, call for garage door opener repair.