November 14, 2024

Garage door maintenance checklist – Yearly tasks to keep in mind

Garage door maintenance checklist

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your garage doors in optimal condition. By following a yearly maintenance checklist, you can identify and address potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.  Start by inspecting the tracks of your garage doors. Look for any signs of debris, dirt, or obstructions that may hinder the smooth operation of the doors. Clean the tracks thoroughly using a soft brush or cloth. Remove any buildup of dirt, dust, or grease. Ensure that the tracks are properly aligned and adjust them if necessary. Misaligned tracks can cause the doors to become off-track, leading to potential damage or malfunction. If you notice any issues, consider replacing the rollers. For smooth, quiet operation, apply silicone-based lubricant to the rollers. Lubricants containing oil can attract dirt and debris, clogging the rollers.

Examine the springs

Lifting and lowering your garage door depends on springs, which provide the necessary tension. Inspect the springs carefully for signs of wear, rust, or damage. If you notice any issues, it is recommended to contact a professional garage door contractor to handle spring repairs or replacements. Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to work with without proper knowledge and tools. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to all moving parts, including hinges, rollers, tracks, and springs. Lubrication helps reduce friction and prevents unnecessary wear and tear. It also minimizes noise and ensures that the doors operate quietly. Over time, the hardware of your garage doors may become loose due to vibrations and regular use. Inspect all nuts, bolts, screws, and hinges and tighten them if necessary. Ensure that the hardware is secure to prevent any parts from becoming loose or detached, which can lead to potential safety hazards or malfunctions.

Test safety features

Auto-reversing mechanisms and photoelectric sensors are standard on garage doors. Test these features regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. While closing the garage door, place a block of wood in its path. The door should automatically reverse if it comes into contact with the object. If the auto-reverse feature is not working properly, contact a oakville garage door contractor to fix it immediately. Inspect the weatherstripping along the bottom of the door and on the sides. Damaged weatherstripping can allow drafts, pests, and water to enter your garage. Replace worn-out weatherstripping to maintain energy efficiency and protect your garage from external elements.

Regular cleaning and painting can enhance the appearance and longevity of your garage doors. Clean the doors using mild detergent and water. Dirt, stains, and grime should be removed. To protect your wood doors from moisture and sunlight, consider repainting or resealing them. For metal doors, check for rust and apply a fresh coat of paint to prevent further corrosion. The emergency release is a crucial safety feature that allows you to manually open the garage door in case of a power outage or malfunction. Test the emergency release by pulling the release handle while the door is closed. The door should open smoothly and remain open until manually closed.