Your garage door is one of the most utilized parts of your home. It’s likely used every day, often multiple times. Due to this constant use and exposure to external elements, proper maintenance of your garage door is crucial to extend its lifespan, improve its performance, and prevent costly garage door repairs in Seminole.
The Basics of Garage Door Maintenance
- Inspect Regularly: It’s advisable to visually inspect your garage door regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear on springs, cables, rollers, and pulleys. Also, keep an eye out for any loose bolts or screws.
- Lubrication: Lubricate the moving parts of your garage door at least twice a year. This will help reduce noise, as well as keep everything running smoothly. Use a high-quality silicone or lithium spray on rollers, hinges, and tracks.
- Cleaning: Clean the tracks with a damp cloth to remove any buildup of dust or dirt. Don’t forget to clean the door itself regularly, especially if it’s a painted door or has windows.
- Test the Balance: Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), then manually move the door about halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put, the counterweight system (springs) are improperly balanced. Garage door spring adjustment is best left to professionals.
- Check the Auto-Reverse Safety Features: Federal law mandates that all garage doors have this feature. Place a brick or piece of wood on the ground in the path of the door. When the door coming down touches this object, it should reverse.
- Weather Sealing: Inspect the rubber seal at the bottom of your door. If it’s brittle or cracked, replace it right away to prevent water from getting into your garage and causing damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I perform maintenance on my garage door?
A: A monthly visual inspection of your garage door can help identify potential issues early. However, a more comprehensive maintenance involving lubrication and balance tests should be performed every six months.
Q: What kind of lubricant should I use for my garage door?
A: You should use a high-quality silicone or lithium spray lubricant. Avoid using WD-40, as it is a cleaner, not a lubricant.
Q: I think my garage door springs need adjustment. Can I do it myself?
A: Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause severe injury if they snap. It’s always safest to call a professional for help with garage door springs.
Q: My garage door makes a lot of noise. Is that normal?
A: Some noise is normal, but excessive noise could indicate a problem. It might be a lack of lubrication, or it could mean parts are loose or worn out. Regular maintenance can help reduce the noise.
Q: Can I replace the weather seal myself?
A: Yes, replacing the weather seal on a garage door is a simple process that most homeowners can do themselves. It involves removing the old seal, measuring and cutting a new one, and then installing it.
In conclusion, proper garage door maintenance can extend the lifespan of your door, improve performance, and prevent costly repairs. If you notice anything out of the ordinary during your inspections or maintenance checks, it’s always best to call in a professional. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
