simple ways to keep your garage door in excellent shape

01.25.23 step by step process and recomendations on how to clean and maintain your garage doors

Garage doors are a vital part of many homes, providing not only a convenient entrance and exit for vehicles but also an extra layer of security for your home. However, like any mechanical device, garage doors require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and safely. In this blog post, we will discuss some key steps for maintaining your garage door and ensuring that it lasts for years to come.

1. Regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. Look for any cracks or dents in the panels, as well as any rust or corrosion on the springs, tracks, and other hardware. Make sure that the door is properly balanced and that it moves smoothly when you open and close it. If you notice any problems, it's best to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
2. Lubricate all moving parts of your garage door. This includes the springs, hinges, rollers, and tracks. Use a high-quality lubricant, such as a silicone-based spray, to keep these parts moving smoothly and reduce friction. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent dirt and debris from sticking to the parts.
3. Clean your garage door regularly. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to clean the panels, and use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris from the tracks. Be sure to wipe down the entire door, including the weatherstripping, to keep it looking its best.
4. Tighten any loose hardware. Check the screws, bolts, and nuts that hold your garage door in place, and tighten any that are loose. This will help to keep the door securely in place and prevent it from rattling or making noise when it's in use.
5. Test your garage door's safety features. Most modern garage doors come with safety features, such as sensors that prevent the door from closing if something is in the way. Test these features regularly to make sure they are working properly and that your garage door is safe to use.
6. Keep an eye on your opener. If you notice that your opener is making strange noises, or if it's not working properly, it may be time to replace it. A new opener will not only improve the performance of your garage door but also ensure that it's safe to use.
7. Conduct annual maintenance. It is always a good idea to have a professional technician conduct an annual maintenance check to make sure that your garage door is in good working order. This will help to catch any issues early on and prevent them from becoming bigger problems down the road.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your garage door running smoothly and safely for years to come. Regular maintenance is the key to preventing problems and ensuring that your garage door continues to provide reliable service. Be sure to keep an eye on your garage door and address any issues that you notice as soon as possible.

With the right care and attention, your garage door can last for many years, providing you with the convenience, security, and protection that you need.

In addition to the steps outlined above, there are a few other things that you can do to ensure that your garage door is in good working order.

1. Check the weatherstripping. The weatherstripping on your garage door is what helps to seal the gap between the door and the floor, preventing drafts and keeping out pests. Over time, this weatherstripping can become worn or damaged, so it's important to check it regularly and replace it if necessary.
   
2. Inspect the springs. Your garage door's springs are what help to lift and lower the door, so it's crucial to keep them in good condition. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure that they are properly adjusted. If you notice any issues, it's best to have a professional technician take a look.
   
3. Consider adding insulation. If your garage is not properly insulated, it can be difficult to keep it at a comfortable temperature. Insulating your garage door can help to keep the space warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, making it more comfortable to work or spend time in.
   
4. . Evaluate the opener's power. Over time, the opener's power may weaken and it may no longer be able to lift the door as easily. This can be dangerous as it can cause the door to come crashing down. If you notice that the opener is struggling to lift the door, it may be time to replace it with a more powerful one.
   
5. Check the alignment of the photo-eye. The photo-eye is a safety feature that prevents the door from closing if something is in the way. If this sensor becomes misaligned, it may not detect obstacles and the door may close on them. To check the alignment, simply shine a flashlight on the sensor and make sure that the light beam is not interrupted.
   
6. Check the cables. The cables on your garage door are what help to keep the door in place and prevent it from falling. Over time, these cables can become worn or frayed, so it's important to inspect them regularly and replace them if necessary.
   
7. Test the manual release. In case of power failure, the manual release allows you to open the garage door manually. It is important to know how to use it and to test it regularly to ensure that it works properly.