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Table of Contents
Introduction
A well-functioning garage door is an essential part of your home’s security and aesthetics. But like any mechanical system, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through how to perform garage door maintenance.
Understanding Your Garage Door System
Before diving into maintenance tasks, it’s crucial to understand the components of your garage door system. A typical system consists of the door itself, a garage door opener, tracks, rollers, springs, cables, and a remote control. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the system’s operation and may require specific maintenance steps.
Regular Visual Inspection
The first step in garage door maintenance is a regular visual inspection. This process helps you spot any visible issues like rust, fraying cables, loose hardware, or uneven door alignment. To learn more about potential garage door issues, check out our post on garage door opener problems.
Cleaning the Garage Door
A clean garage door not only looks good but also operates better. Dust, grime, and other build-up can interfere with the door’s operation and even cause damage over time. Start by cleaning the exterior of the door with a mild detergent and a soft sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the door’s finish. Don’t forget to clean the interior side of the door and the tracks.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Tracks
The tracks guide your garage door as it opens and closes. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks, causing the door to operate noisily or jerkily. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the tracks and remove any build-up. Check for signs of damage such as dents or bends. If you notice significant damage, you might need professional garage door track repair.
Lubricating Moving Parts
Just like any mechanical system, your garage door requires lubrication to function smoothly. The parts that usually require lubrication include the springs, rollers, and hinges. Regular lubrication reduces friction, noise, and prevents wear and tear. Make sure to use a garage door-specific lubricant for this task. For more detailed steps, we have a comprehensive guide on how to lubricate a garage door.
Testing the Garage Door Balance
An unbalanced garage door can put unnecessary strain on the opener and other parts, shortening their lifespan. To check the door balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a cord), manually move the door halfway up, and let go. If the door stays in place, it is well-balanced. If it starts to fall, the springs may be worn out and require replacing. If you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional garage door spring repair service.
Inspecting and Replacing the Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is the rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door, which protects your garage from external elements. If it’s cracked, brittle, or missing, replace it immediately to maintain your garage’s insulation and prevent water damage. Check out our complete guide to replacing garage door weatherstripping for a step-by-step process.
Checking and Replacing the Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are crucial to lifting and lowering the door. Due to the heavy tension, they can wear out and eventually break. If your door isn’t opening correctly or you’ve noticed a loud bang from the garage, you might have a broken spring. Replacing the springs can be dangerous, so it’s advised to hire a professional for this task. Learn more about the cost of garage door spring repair in our dedicated article.
Testing the Auto-Reverse Safety Features
Your garage door’s auto-reverse features are critical safety measures designed to prevent accidents. There are two types of auto-reverse mechanisms: mechanical and photocell. The mechanical function causes the door to automatically reverse if it encounters an object while closing. You can test this feature by placing a robust object, like a brick or a piece of wood, on the garage floor where the door would usually close. Attempt to close the door. If functioning correctly, the door should reverse its direction upon contact with the object.
The second feature, the photocell mechanism, employs sensors on each side of the door. These sensors emit an invisible beam. If this beam is interrupted, the door should automatically reverse its direction. Test this by closing the door and waving a long object, like a broom, in the beam’s path. If the door doesn’t reverse during either of these tests, it could signify an issue that needs professional attention. Our blog post on common garage door opener problems provides more information on this subject.
Inspecting and Replacing the Rollers
The rollers are an integral part of your garage door system. They help the door glide smoothly along the tracks during operation. Over time, however, these rollers can wear out or sustain damage, affecting the door’s performance and potentially leading to an off-track situation. It’s recommended that you inspect your garage door rollers twice a year. Additionally, consider replacing them every five to seven years, or sooner if they show signs of significant wear or damage. The process of replacing rollers can be complex and might require professional assistance. For roller related issues, you can check out our garage door track repair service.
Updating Old Garage Doors
If you have an older garage door, it might lack modern safety features like the auto-reverse mechanisms. Besides safety, modern garage doors offer improved insulation which can lead to energy savings. If your garage door is over 20 years old, you might want to think about updating it to a newer model. Our blog has a detailed guide on the best materials for garage doors, which you might find useful when considering an upgrade.
When to Call a Professional
While basic garage door maintenance can be performed by the homeowner, certain situations necessitate the expertise of a professional. Tasks like replacing garage door springs, fixing an off-track door, or handling significant electrical issues should be left to trained technicians. These professionals have the necessary tools and safety training to handle potentially dangerous tasks efficiently. To learn more about the process of engaging professional services, check out our blog post on how to hire a garage door repair company. This guide provides you with tips on what to look for when hiring a garage door repair company.
