Garage doors are the largest moving feature of most homes. They’re used several times a day throughout all seasons, and it is the garage’s first line of defense against the elements. When properly cared for and maintained, your garage door system can operate almost flawlessly for decades. We have suggestions for what homeowners can do for DIY garage door maintenance. But remember, regularly completing this checklist doesn’t mean you can skip out on regular professional inspections!
Seven Garage Door Maintenance Tips
Below are some preventative maintenance tips to help you avoid costly garage door repair in Nampa, ID:
1. Observe the Door in Action
The most important step in garage door maintenance is to watch and listen every time it moves. This offers the perfect opportunity to make sure your garage door is working correctly. A healthy garage door moves straight up and down smoothly, not in a jerking motion. It should not be loud or make grinding and scraping noises. If you notice unusual or loud noises coming from your overhead door as it operates, contact a professional for an inspection.
2. Clean the Tracks and Door
Inspect all around the tracks of the door to make sure they are free of debris. Be on the lookout for corrosion as well. When it comes to the garage door itself, wipe it down on both sides using a mild cleaning solution. Make sure your cleanser is safe for the type of door material. Also, examine the door for damage, such as warping, chips, dents, and water damage.
3. Tighten Loose Hardware
The average residential garage door moves up and down thousands of times a year. All that movement causes vibrations, which can loosen the hardware. Using a socket wrench, tighten all roller brackets, bolts, and fasteners anchoring the garage door opener or tracks to the walls and ceiling.
4. Inspect the Rollers
It’s important to inspect the rollers along the edge of the door at least twice a year and replace them every few years. If you notice chips, cracks, or excessive wear on any rollers, replace them. For safety’s sake, you will likely want to call a garage door professional for assistance with this task.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
Keeping your garage door’s moving parts nicely lubricated can prolong the lifespan of the system. Start by applying a high-quality spray lubricant to the hinges and rollers, then wipe off excess lubricant. This task doesn’t take much time – plan on this taking only a handful of minutes a couple of times a year.
6. Test the Door’s Balance
A garage door that is not properly balanced will have to work harder, and it may not last as long as it should. To test your garage door’s balance, first, disconnect the opener, then manually move the door halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put when you let go, the springs are improperly balanced. Adjusting or replacing garage door springs is a job best left to the pros so contact a professional garage door company to perform these repairs.
7. Repair the Weather Stripping
There’s a rubber strip that runs along the bottom of garage doors called weather stripping. It’s in place to help keep out the hot or cold outdoor air, as well as water, dirt, dust, and pests. Check the weather stripping at least twice a year for wear and damage, and replace the seal if it’s heavily damaged.
Contact Haney Door Service to Schedule Maintenance
From broken springs to malfunctioning openers, Haney Door Service is the local garage door company to call for all types of garage door repair in Nampa, ID! We would love to assist you with garage door maintenance, ensuring your overhead door is ready to last for years to come.