What Maintenance Does a Garage Door Need?

A garage door is an essential part of any home or commercial building. It not only protects your vehicle and other items stored in the garage but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your property. However, like any other mechanical equipment, a garage door needs proper maintenance to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts for a long time.

Here are some essential maintenance tips for your garage door:

Lubrication: One of the most crucial maintenance tasks for your garage door is lubrication. Regular lubrication of the door’s moving parts ensures that they operate smoothly and quietly. You should use a silicone-based lubricant on the springs, rollers, hinges, and other moving parts. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract dirt and debris and cause the door to become noisy.

Visual inspection: You should visually inspect your garage door regularly to identify any signs of wear and tear. Check the door’s tracks, cables, springs, smart locks, and other parts for any signs of damage or rust. Also, look for loose bolts and nuts, as these can affect the door’s operation. If you notice any issues during the inspection, call a professional to repair or replace the damaged parts.

Cleanliness: You should keep your garage door clean to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the tracks, springs, and other parts. Use a soft cloth or a mild detergent to clean the door’s surface, and make sure to remove any debris that may have accumulated on the tracks. Accumulated dirt and debris can cause the door to become noisy or even jammed.

Tightening loose hardware: Over time, the nuts, bolts, and screws that hold the garage door together can become loose. If left unchecked, they can cause the door to become unstable and affect its operation. Regularly check and tighten any loose hardware to ensure that the door is stable and secure.

Checking door balance: The garage door needs to be properly balanced to operate smoothly and safely. If the door is unbalanced, it can cause the motor to wear out quickly or cause the door to become unstable, leading to potential accidents. To check if the door is balanced, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If the door stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls, it needs to be rebalanced by a professional.

Regular professional maintenance: While regular maintenance tasks can help prolong the life of your garage door, it’s essential to have it professionally maintained regularly. A professional will check the door’s overall operation, lubricate the moving parts, and make any necessary repairs. Regular professional maintenance is the key to help prevent costly repairs down the line and ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and safely.

In conclusion, proper maintenance of your garage door is crucial to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts for a long time. Regular lubrication, visual inspection, cleanliness, tightening loose hardware, checking door balance, and regular professional maintenance are all essential maintenance tasks that can help prolong the life of your garage door. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and safely, protecting your vehicle and other items stored in the garage while adding to the aesthetic appeal of your property.