There are over 82 million of them across the US, yet they often go ignored because they faithfully open and close multiple times daily. Only when your garage door starts making noise or stops working do you give it attention. As a homeowner, this is not the best approach.
Instead, you should perform routine modern garage door maintenance. That way, your door performs better and lasts longer.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
You must lubricate the moving parts if your garage door sticks or makes excessive noise. Use a silicone-based lubricant on your garage door. Focus on the chain, rollers, tracks, springs, and hinges.
Do not use too much lubricant. Excessive amounts can gum up the moving parts and start to attract dust and debris. You need just enough to reduce friction and enable smooth motion.
Inspect the Hardware
A crucial part of garage door maintenance is inspecting the hardware. Look for signs of wear and tear or damage. Tighten any loose nuts and bolts that you find.
Check the springs for signs they need adjusting. Follow the cables and pulleys to ensure they have proper tension.
Replace the Weatherstripping
Check the weatherstripping on your garage door. This soft rubberized material lines the bottom of your garage door. It creates an effective seal between your garage door and the ground when in good condition.
If the weatherstripping is not in good condition, it creates gaps. These gaps become an entry point for pets and vermin into your home. It can also create drafts and increase moisture in your garage.
Clear the Tracks
The tracks are the metal rails the garage door rollers move along when the door opens and closes. Because they are made from thin metal, they can bend or get damaged. These are the most common reasons for your garage door sticking when moving.
Use a level to adjust your tracks. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe the tracks down and clear them of debris.
Balance and Alignment
Disconnect your garage door from the power opener and open and close the door manually. You should be able to feel if it’s unbalanced while operating it. If it’s unbalanced, have a professional come out and re-balance it.
A balanced garage door reduces the components’ wear and tear, extending its useful life.
Test the Safety Mechanisms
If the safety mechanisms malfunction, your garage door becomes a safety hazard. Use the garage door opener remote to test the safety feature. Open the door and place an object underneath in the door’s path.
Press the button to trigger the door to close. When the door comes into contact with the object, it should immediately stop and reverse. If this doesn’t happen, contact a professional garage door company to assist with the repairs.
Maintain Your Modern Garage Door
Maintain your modern garage door by performing routine maintenance. Look for wear and tear, lubricate the moving parts, and tighten the loose hardware. If you find significant problems, have a professional perform the necessary work.
At All-Pro Overhead Garage Door, we help homeowners maintain their garage doors. Our experience allows us to identify potential issues before they become problems.
Skip the work and let the All-Pro Overhead Garage Door professionals handle your routine garage door maintenance.
