If you own a home with a garage door, you know that keeping it in good shape is essential. Not only will regular maintenance help ensure your safety and security, but it can also reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of garage door maintenance, including what type of lubrication and cleaning is necessary for long-term performance, and tips and tricks to prevent costly repairs. We’ll also cover some common, easily preventable problems with regular maintenance:
1 Safety First: Important Considerations
Before you begin any routine maintenance, it’s important to consider your safety. If you don’t feel comfortable doing the work yourself, contact a qualified professional for advice or assistance \- they can help ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Additionally, read and follow all manufacturer instructions carefully before attempting any repairs or maintenance on your garage door.
2. Lubricate Your Tracks
The metal tracks in your garage are designed to guide the rollers as they move up and down on either side of the door. Over time, these tracks can become stuck or noisy as dirt and grime build up inside the track. To keep them working properly, it’s important to lubricate them regularly with a silicone-based lubricant.
3. Clean Your Tracks
Cleaning the tracks of your garage door regularly is also essential for proper operation. Start by removing dirt and debris from the track using a vacuum cleaner or soft cloth. Then, use a mild cleanser to remove any grease or grime that may have accumulated over time.
4. Inspect Your Hardware
Inspecting the hardware of your garage door is also important for ensuring it operates properly year after year. Give special attention to any exposed fasteners, looking out for rust or corrosion that could cause them to become loose. You can use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove surface rust before applying a rust-inhibiting sealant.
5. Adjust Your Springs
The springs attached to your garage door must be adjusted regularly to ensure safe and proper operation. This may include tension adjustments and lubrication with a silicone-based grease or other lubricant. If you’re uncomfortable making these adjustments yourself, contact a professional for help.
6. Troubleshooting Common Problems
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s important to be prepared to troubleshoot common problems that may arise with your garage door. For instance, if the door begins to reverse direction when closing or is slow in responding, this can indicate a problem with the limit switch or track alignment. If you’re having trouble identifying the cause of the issue, contact a qualified professional for help.
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your door in good working order and ensuring safety and security. Ready to get started on your garage door maintenance? Follow these tips and tricks, and you’ll surely have a door that operates safely and reliably year after year!
Need help with your garage door maintenance? At Select Garage Doors, we specialize in helping homeowners keep their garage doors in top shape. Contact us at (303) 228-0018 to learn more about our services! Start protecting your home and family.