Garage Door Maintenance Tips for a Safe and Reliable System

Proper garage door maintenance is essential not only for the safety and protection of your home but also for extending the lifespan of your garage door system. But what exactly is “proper” maintenance?

For starters, it’s regular maintenance. So, here is how you can regularly maintain your residential garage door to keep it operating safely and reliably:

Closely Inspect Your Garage Door

Frequently check your garage door system for any signs of deterioration, damage, or malfunction. Be on the lookout for:

• Broken or frayed cables
• Worn or cracked rollers
• Bent or misaligned tracks
• Rust or corrosion on any hardware
• Damaged weather stripping
• Unusual noises or jerky movements during operation

Lubricate Your Garage Door Parts

Maintain all moving parts by lubricating them to reduce friction and wear. Opt for silicone-based or lithium-based lubricants for:

• Rollers and hinges
• Springs (except torsion springs)
• Tracks and rails
• Bearings and pulleys

Test Safety Features

Verify that your garage door’s safety mechanisms are working properly. For example, test the auto-reverse feature by placing an object like a roll of paper towels under the door. The door should automatically reverse upon making contact.

Check and Replace Weather Stripping

Examine the weather stripping along the bottom of your garage door to ensure it seals tightly when closed. If you find any cracks, tears, or signs of wear, replace the weather stripping to prevent pests and moisture from entering.

Test Your Door’s Balance and Alignment

To test the balance of your garage door, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door to halfway. If it doesn’t stay put, it may be unbalanced and should be adjusted by a professional technician.

Test the Automatic Door Opener

Periodically test your automatic opener to check that it’s operating smoothly without undue noise or resistance. If there are any operational issues, it’s wise to have a professional inspect and repair it.

Clean and Paint Your Garage Door

Regularly clean your garage door with mild soap and water to eliminate dirt and buildup. Additionally, consider repainting or touching up the paint finish to guard against rust and deterioration.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Arrange for an annual maintenance check and inspection by a professional garage door technician. Professional tune-ups can detect potential problems early and help maintain the safety and reliability of your garage door system.

By adhering to these maintenance tips, you can improve the safety, efficiency, and durability of your garage door system. Regular upkeep not only helps avoid expensive repairs but also assures you that your garage door system is functioning exactly as designed.

For professional assistance with garage door maintenance or repairs in the Kansas City, Missouri, area, contact Priority Garage Door Service. We are dedicated to making sure your garage door remains safe and operational for the long haul.