Garage Door Maintenance Tips to Keep Your System Running Smoothly
Every day, we do the same basic actions — waking up, having breakfast, brushing our teeth, and going through the day — without considering how often we rely on the items around us. Anything can wear out over time, especially garage doors that open and close daily. However, with proper care, your garage door can last longer. Up & Down Garage Doors offers garage door maintenance tips to help keep your system in excellent condition.
Simple Garage Door Care Tips
With busy schedules, garage door maintenance often gets overlooked, even though it doesn’t have to be hard to keep your door in top shape. Here are some simple garage door tips to help you reduce wear and tear and improve performance:
- Tighten a Loose Hardware: Each time your door moves, bolts and brackets take on some stress. Check the garage door, motor, and other parts every few months, and use a wrench to tighten any loose hardware.
- Lubricate moving parts: Rollers, hinges, and springs need lubrication to work smoothly. Regularly apply a silicone-based lubricant on moving parts to reduce friction and noise.
- Clean the Door: Sometimes, dirt on the door, especially on tracks, can cause misalignment. Wipe it from time to time to keep everything running smoothly.
- Test the Balance: Unbalanced doors can get stuck or refuse to open or close. This issue is often caused by springs. To test the balance, disconnect the opener and lift the door manually. The springs may need adjustment if it doesn’t stay halfway up.
- Check the Weather Seal: During the cold season, it’s important to keep the temperature stable inside the house. Check the seals and replace them if they’re cracked or peeling.
- Inspect the Cables: Frayed or worn-out cables can snap unexpectedly. If you notice damage, call for a technician who provides garage door service.
Common Garage Door Problems
Even with regular maintenance, issues with the garage door can happen. Before small problems become big, it’s crucial to notice any warning signs.
If your door doesn’t close or open properly or gets stuck, it may signal misaligned tracks, broken springs, or issues with the opener.
Sometimes, we worry about every unusual sound. A little creak here and there is normal; it might mean something is loose, worn out, or requires lubrication. However, when you hear grinding, rattling, or banging, it’s time for a garage door noise reduction check.
If your door takes longer than usual to open or close, the motor or remote system may need attention. Replace the battery, and contact a professional if the issue continues.
While garage door maintenance DIY can solve small problems, a professional should handle high-tension springs and cables that can be dangerous. If you’re unsure what to do, it’s best to contact a garage door company for professional assistance to avoid potential safety risks.
Summing Up
Preventive maintenance is a key to smooth garage door system operation. Spend time on these simple garage door care steps and keep your home safe and secure. However, when the problem becomes more complex, it’s better to let the professionals do their job.
If you notice any signs of damage — unusual noises, issues with opening and closing, or broken cables — don’t wait until it gets worse. Call Up & Down Garage Doors for fast and reliable repair service.
