Garage doors are one of those things that people don’t usually think about until they stop working. But like most things with moving parts, they need a little attention every now and then. Taking just a few steps to check in on your garage door throughout the year can help keep everything running smoothly, especially as cooler temperatures start to roll in during late fall in places like Fort Worth and Dallas.
A garage door that opens and closes without issue doesn’t happen by accident. It usually means someone has been keeping an eye on it. From listening for odd noises to checking that it’s balanced and well-lubricated, small tasks can go a long way in helping you avoid bigger, more expensive repairs later. Below are a few care tips worth adding to your fall checklist before winter hits hard.
Inspecting Your Garage Door
A good place to start is with a simple visual check. Standing inside your garage with the door closed, take a slow, careful look at all parts of the system. This helps you catch small issues before they turn into larger, more expensive problems.
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
– Panels and surface damage: Look for cracks, warping, or paint chipping on the panels, especially if you’ve noticed any recent weather changes or minor bumps from vehicles or lawn equipment.
– Hinges and brackets: Check for loose or bent hardware. Parts that seem off or out of place could be signs the door isn’t moving like it’s supposed to.
– Tracks: Look at the metal tracks on both sides of the door. They should be solidly anchored to the wall and free of debris or dents.
– Springs and cables: While you should never attempt to handle these yourself, you can still visually check for rust, fraying, or any other signs of wear.
It also helps to open and close the door a few times and listen for anything out of the ordinary. If it creaks or jerks unexpectedly, something may be off. For example, if your door thuds loudly every time it shuts, that could point to an issue with the panels or rollers. Catching signs like this early might help avoid bigger, more dangerous breakdowns later on.
Lubricating Moving Parts
Moving parts create friction, and friction leads to wear and tear. That’s why regular lubrication is a helpful way to cut down on unnecessary damage and keep your garage door system working silently and smoothly.
Use a silicone-based lubricant or one specifically made for garage doors. Avoid grease or heavy oils since they might attract dirt and gum up the system. Once you’ve got the right product, focus on these areas:
– Hinges: Apply a quick spray to each hinge where they pivot.
– Rollers: Spray the rollers unless they are nylon and don’t have exposed bearings.
– Springs: Lubricate the torsion springs above the door. Don’t overdo it. A little goes a long way.
– Tracks: These usually don’t need lubricant, but you can wipe them clean with a dry cloth to remove dirt or buildup.
A quick check and spray every six months can help your door glide more easily and reduce noise. If your door is sticking or sounds louder than usual, lubrication might be the quick fix you’re looking for. Just make sure to wipe away excess oil so parts don’t collect grime. Keeping things clean and slick helps improve the life span of your components.
Testing the Balance of Your Garage Door
A balanced garage door means it operates smoothly and safely. Testing balance is pretty straightforward and doesn’t take much time. Start by pulling the red release handle to disconnect the opener from the door. Then, manually lift the door to about halfway. If the door stays in place, it’s balanced. If it starts to fall or rise on its own, the balance is off, and you might need a service call to adjust the springs or cables.
Here’s a quick guide on what to do:
– Pull the red cord to disengage the opener.
– Lift the garage door manually to the halfway point.
– Observe whether the door stays put or moves.
– If it drifts, note the direction for when you call a technician.
Keeping your door balanced is key to preventing strain on other components, like the opener. When the garage door isn’t balanced, the opener works harder, which could shorten its lifespan or cause more frequent repairs down the road.
Checking and Replacing Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping acts as a seal between your garage door and the outside world, keeping out leaves, moisture, and bugs. It also helps with insulation, an important factor as Fort Worth and Dallas transition into colder months. Over time, weatherstripping can crack or become brittle, meaning it won’t seal properly.
Inspecting and replacing weatherstripping is a simple way to protect your garage and should be part of your maintenance routine.
1. Inspect for damage: Look for any cracks, gaps, or places where the strip isn’t snug against the door.
2. Remove old stripping: If it’s damaged, peel it away from the door. You might need a screwdriver or putty knife to help pry it away from the adhesive.
3. Choose the right replacement: Make sure the new weatherstripping matches your door’s material and style for a proper fit.
4. Install new stripping: Start at one end and work your way across, pressing firmly to ensure a tight seal. Make sure the door closes securely with the new strip in place.
Having solid weatherstripping helps lower energy bills by maintaining temperatures inside the garage and preventing unwelcome drafts.
Keeping Your Garage Door Reliable Through the Seasons
Regular care, like checking for damage, lubricating moving parts, balancing, and maintaining weatherstripping, keeps your garage door functioning without a hitch. Paying attention to these small details helps prevent larger problems and can save you from unexpected repairs.
It’s amazing how a bit of routine maintenance goes a long way, ensuring your garage door stays reliable all year round. As seasons shift, dedicating some time to your garage door’s upkeep is a smart way to preserve its longevity and performance. Fort Worth and Dallas homeowners who stay proactive can avoid last-minute issues and enjoy peace of mind heading into the winter months.
If you’re in Fort Worth or Dallas and you’ve noticed any signs of wear or damage, getting ahead of issues like garage door panel replacement can make all the difference in keeping your system running smoothly. At Garage Door Rescue, we’re ready to help extend the life of your garage door with expert service you can rely on.