Most people don’t really think about their garage doors until there is an issue with them. Despite opening and closing many times a day, a few simple tips will help prevent any stress or large repair costs.

In some cases, it may be necessary to contact a garage door emergency service to get you back on track, but it is best to prevent any issues by looking after your garage door. In this blog, we will show you some simple tips to ensure that your garage door runs smoothly for years to come!

Why Garage Door Maintenance Matters

The garage door is the largest moving component in your house. It can be a hefty operation, using springs, cables, rollers, and an opener. Like a car, your garage door will need regular servicing. If it is not serviced, little problems can cause serious damage.

Good maintenance helps you:

• Save money on costly repairs

• Make your door last longer

• Keep your family and belongings safe

• Avoid sudden breakdowns

• Keep your home secure

1. Look and Listen Every Month

Get into the habit of checking your door by opening and closing it a few times each month. You should also look and listen for any issues.

Signs you may have an issue with your door include:

• Noises such as grinding, squeaking, or banging

• Shaking or jumping

• Slow opening/closing

• Uneven or warped door

2. Check the Moving Parts

Look closely at the hardware in your unit. Take a look at the springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and brackets for signs of corrosion, damage, loose bolts, and wear.

DO NOT attempt to adjust or repair the springs and cables. These have high tension and can cause injury. If you notice anything that looks damaged, then please contact a professional.

3. Tighten Loose Hardware

The garage door will vibrate as it moves and can cause the bolts and screws to become loose. Tighten the bolts on the brackets, hinges, and tracks with a wrench to reduce noise and improve stability.

4. Lubricate the Moving Parts

Dry surfaces will cause more friction, leading to faster wear. Apply a garage door lubricant or silicone spray twice a year to:

• Hinges

• Rollers

• Springs

• Bearings

5. Keep the Tracks Clean

There may be dirt and dust in the tracks, causing them to get blocked. Wipe them with a clean cloth and a mild cleaner. Make sure they are straight and not bent. If they are bent, it can cause the door to jam or come off completely.

6. Test the Balance of Your Door

If your door is balanced, then it will be easier to open. To check if your door is balanced, close your door. Pull the red emergency cord so that it disconnects from the opener. Raise the door manually to waist height and release. If your door is balanced, it should stay in position. If it slips or falls quickly, then the springs need adjusting. Contact a professional.

7. Test the Safety Features

Test safety features monthly:

• Photo eye sensors – place a small item in front of the door as it closes. The door should stop and re-open.

• Auto reverse – place a piece of wood flat on the floor. The door should reverse immediately when it comes into contact with it.

8. Take Care of the Opener and Remote

The opener is the brains of your system. Change the batteries in the remote annually, keep the wall panel clean, and ensure that the opener is correctly plugged in. Check that there's no dust on the sensors and listen for any humming noises or odd motor sounds.

9. Clean and Protect the Door

A clean door will look great and last longer. Wash the door with some gentle soap and water a couple of times a year. Ensure that the weather strip at the bottom is still intact, as cracks can allow water, dirt, and bugs into the door. Touch up any chipped paint or rust spots to keep them looking nice.

10. Book a Yearly Professional Inspection

Even if you are following all of these tips, you should still have your door tested by an expert once a year. A trained technician will be able to identify any problems in the door and make any necessary adjustments to the springs and opener. This small change can give you extra years out of your door.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing issues with your door, it is best to get prompt garage doors openers repair so that any minor issues do not get worse. We will ensure that your garage door runs smoothly throughout the year by contacting our team today.