Having a beautiful, functional garage door is more than just being the envy of the neighbors – it is about trusting your doors to protect the contents within. A garage door is the initial barrier that offers safety and security for homeowners. When a garage door breaks, it can cause a lot of anxiety. While some damage to a garage door requires professional garage door repair, there are things you can do to provide regular maintenance that can prevent major mishaps. In this guide, we hope to provide tips to keep garage doors going strong for many years.
Garage Door Maintenance Checklist
Regular garage door maintenance is essential for safety and longevity. Just like your car, your garage door requires periodic checks and adjustments. By following a routine maintenance checklist, you can identify potential issues early on and prevent costly repairs.
A well-maintained garage door operates smoothly, quietly, and securely. Neglecting maintenance can lead to safety hazards, decreased efficiency, and reduced lifespan. Here are the elements you should check at least twice every year:
- Springs. Check for signs of wear, rust, or damage. *Garage door springs are extremely dangerous. Always call our team at Suburban Overhead Doors for spring-related issues.
- Cables. Inspect for fraying, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Rollers. Check for wear, noise, or alignment issues.
- Panel Sections. Look for dents, cracks, or damage.
- Windows. Examine for cracks, broken glass, or seals.
- Bottom Weather Seal. Check for wear, tears, or gaps.
- Track. Inspect for debris, obstructions, or misalignment.
- Hinges. Look for loose, worn, or damaged hinges.
Simple Maintenance for Garage Doors
While certain issues, such as broken springs and cables, require professional garage door repair, there are things you can do at home to help maintain your garage doors.
Dirt and debris build up in garage door tracks. Use a brush to clean, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Over time, garage door hardware loosens. Tighten bolts and screws with appropriate tools. Replace damaged parts.
Lubricate hinges, rollers, sheave bearings, torsion springs, and lift cables annually. We recommend Clopay Pro-Lube. This prevents wear and noise.
Regularly test pressure sensors and photoelectric sensors. Ensure the door reverses when obstructed.
Over time, garage door hardware loosens. Tighten bolts and screws with appropriate tools. Replace damaged parts.
A balanced door stays open halfway when manually lifted. If unbalanced, call a professional.
Wood doors need regular repainting or staining. Steel, composite, or aluminum doors typically don’t require repainting.
Don’t Let Your Garage Door Become a Doorstop!
Here at Suburban Overhead Doors, we’re your one-stop shop for all things garage doors- from installation to service & repair! Our experienced technicians can diagnose any issue and provide solutions to keep your garage door functioning smoothly and safely. Don’t wait for a minor issue to become a major headache. Take control of your garage door today. Schedule a maintenance check or repair!
