Garage Door Maintenance 

There are a few reasons why your garage door might not open when it’s cold outside. One of the most common causes is that the metal parts of the door, such as the springs and rollers, can contract in colder temperatures, causing them to become stiff and less flexible. This can make it more difficult for the door to move smoothly along its tracks. Another possible reason is that cold weather can cause the lubricant on the moving parts of your garage door to thicken or freeze, which can also impede movement. If you’re experiencing issues with your garage door during colder months, it’s important to have a professional inspect and service it to ensure that it continues to function properly year-round.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your garage door in good working condition. Here are a few routine maintenance tasks that you can perform on your garage door:

1. Lubrication: Apply lubricant to the moving parts of the garage door, such as the hinges, rollers, and tracks. This will help prevent wear and tear and keep the door running smoothly.
2. Tighten hardware: Check all nuts and bolts on the garage door for tightness. Loose hardware can cause the door to malfunction or become unstable.
3. Test safety features: Test the safety features of your garage door, such as its photoelectric sensors or auto-reverse mechanism. These features are designed to prevent accidents and should be tested periodically.
4. Visual inspection: Inspect the garage door visually for any signs of damage or wear, such as dents, cracks, or rust. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and save you money in repairs down the line.

By performing these simple maintenance tasks regularly, you can extend the life of your garage door and ensure that it operates safely and smoothly for years to come.

When it comes to lubricating your garage door, the best option is a silicone-based lubricant. This type of lubricant is ideal for garage doors because it does not attract dirt or debris, which can cause the door to become clogged and difficult to operate over time. Additionally, silicone-based lubricants are water-resistant, making them perfect for use in areas where moisture is present. To apply the lubricant, simply spray a small amount on the hinges, rollers, and tracks of your garage door and wipe away any excess with a clean cloth. By regularly lubricating your garage door with a silicone-based lubricant, you can help ensure that it operates smoothly and quietly for years to come.

It should be noted that no lubricant is recommended for plastic parts or for garage door tracks.

To check if your door is properly balanced, you can perform a simple test. Start by closing the door and letting go of the handle. If the door stays in place, it is likely balanced properly. However, if the door swings open or closed on its own, it may be unbalanced. Another way to test is to open the door halfway and let go of the handle. If it stays in place, it is likely balanced correctly. However, if it begins to move on its own or slowly drifts open or closed, then there may be an imbalance that needs to be addressed. It’s important to have a properly balanced door as an unbalanced one can cause unnecessary wear and tear on hinges and potentially lead to safety hazards.

Cleaning a steel garage door is an important task that can help keep it looking great for years to come. The first step is to remove any loose debris or dirt using a soft-bristled brush or a hose with a gentle spray nozzle. Once the surface is clear of debris, mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent in a bucket. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the soapy solution to the entire surface of the garage door, and then rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Be sure to avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as they can scratch the surface of your garage door. Finally, dry the door with a soft towel or let it air dry. By following these simple steps, you can keep your steel garage door looking like new for years to come!