Mastering Garage Door Maintenance: Tips from Don's Doors Feb 06, 2025

When it comes to home maintenance, garage doors often get overlooked. Yet, a properly maintained garage door not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also ensures safety and prolongs the lifespan of the door. At Don's Doors, we understand the importance of keeping your garage door in top condition. Here are some expert tips on mastering garage door maintenance, designed to help you avoid costly repairs and keep your garage door functioning smoothly.First and foremost, regular visual inspections are crucial. Take a few minutes each month to look over your garage door system. Check for signs of wear and tear such as frayed cables, rust on the springs, or loose hardware. These small issues, if left unattended, can escalate into larger, more expensive problems. By identifying them early, you can save money and potentially avoid more significant repairs.Another key aspect of garage door maintenance is keeping moving parts well-lubricated. Lubrication reduces friction, allowing your garage door to operate smoothly and quietly. Use a high-quality silicone-based or lithium grease spray on the rollers, springs, and tracks every six months. Avoid oil-based products, as they can attract dust and debris, which could actually lead to more problems.In addition to lubrication, ensure the tracks are clean. Dirt, leaves, and other debris can accumulate in the tracks, causing resistance and uneven door operation. Regularly wipe down the tracks with a damp cloth and make sure there’s no obstruction that could hinder the door's movement.One often overlooked maintenance task is checking the garage door balance. An unbalanced garage door puts unnecessary strain on the opener and can lead to premature wear. To check the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Manually lift the door about halfway up and let go. If it stays in place, it’s well-balanced. If it falls or rises, the door is out of balance and may require professional adjustment.Testing the safety features of your garage door is also essential. Most modern garage doors have a built-in auto-reverse mechanism, designed to prevent injury by reversing the door if it detects an object in its path. To test this, place a small object in the door's path and attempt to close it. If it doesn't reverse immediately, the auto-reverse feature may need attention. Ensuring that all safety features are functioning correctly is vital for the safety of your family members and pets.Finally, don’t forget about the weather seals. These seals at the bottom of your garage door help prevent drafts, keep out pests, and maintain energy efficiency. Inspect them regularly for signs of wear, and replace them if they’re cracked or brittle.While these tips cover the basics of garage door maintenance, remember that some tasks require professional attention. If you encounter a complex issue or simply feel unsure about handling the maintenance yourself, Don's Doors is here to assist. Our experienced technicians can conduct thorough inspections and provide reliable, efficient servicing.By incorporating these simple maintenance practices into your routine, you can extend the life of your garage door and avoid unnecessary repairs. Regular attention to your garage door not only keeps it looking good and running smoothly, but ensures it remains a reliable and safe component of your home. For any maintenance needs or questions, you can always count on the experts at Don's Doors.