Meta Description: Prepare your garage door for winter with expert maintenance tips. Ensure smooth operation and avoid costly repairs with advice from a trusted garage door repair company.
Winter can be tough on all parts of your home, especially your garage door. The freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and harsh winds can put your garage door under stress, making it more prone to damage or malfunction. Ensuring your garage door is ready for winter can help you avoid unexpected repairs, maintain its longevity, and ensure your home remains secure and accessible. At Dick Does Doors, we specialize in garage door repair and maintenance, and we’ve put together some essential tips to help you get your garage door winter-ready.
- Inspect and Clean the Tracks
One of the most critical components of your garage door is the track system. The tracks guide the door smoothly as it opens and closes. If they’re clogged with dirt, debris, or rust, they could affect the door’s ability to move properly, causing strain on the motor and increasing the likelihood of damage. During winter, ice and snow can build up in the tracks, leading to operational issues.
To avoid this, regularly inspect the tracks for any obstructions. Clean them using a damp cloth and ensure that they’re clear of dirt, cobwebs, or old grease. You can also lubricate the tracks with a silicone-based spray to help prevent them from freezing and ensure smooth operation.
- Lubricate Moving Parts
Garage doors are made up of several moving parts, including springs, rollers, and hinges. Over time, the constant motion can cause these components to wear out, leading to friction and potential damage. Cold weather can exacerbate these issues, causing metal parts to contract and seize up.
Make sure to lubricate all moving parts with a high-quality lubricant, such as lithium grease or a silicone-based spray. Apply the lubricant to the rollers, springs, hinges, and any other parts that move during operation. This will not only prevent rust but also ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly even in freezing temperatures.
- Check the Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping at the bottom of your garage door is an essential component during the winter months. It helps keep out cold drafts, snow, and rain, ensuring that your garage remains insulated and your home stays warm. If the weatherstripping is damaged or brittle, it can result in cold air infiltration, making your garage uncomfortable and increasing your heating bills.
Inspect the weatherstripping for any cracks, tears, or wear. If you notice any issues, replace the weatherstripping immediately. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to ensure that your garage stays protected from the elements.
- Test the Door Balance
A garage door that’s out of balance can be more prone to failure, especially when the temperature drops. The balance of your garage door affects the efficiency of the opener and prevents excessive wear on the springs. If the door is unbalanced, it could put undue strain on the motor, which can lead to breakdowns.
To check the balance of your garage door, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Manually lift the door about halfway and let go. If the door remains in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls or rises on its own, it may need to be adjusted. This is something you may want to leave to a professional garage door repair company nearby, as improper adjustments can cause further damage.
- Inspect the Springs
The springs on your garage door are under a lot of tension and are responsible for lifting the heavy door. When the temperatures drop, the springs can contract and lose their flexibility, which may lead to breakage. It’s crucial to inspect the springs before winter hits.
Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as gaps, rust, or stretching. If you notice any issues with the springs, contact a professional repair company immediately. Trying to replace or adjust the springs yourself can be dangerous, as they are under significant tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
- Test the Garage Door Opener
Your garage door opener plays a key role in ensuring your garage door functions properly. When the weather turns colder, the opener’s motor can be affected, causing it to strain or malfunction. Before winter sets in, test your garage door opener to make sure it’s working smoothly.
Check the remote control and wall-mounted button to ensure they’re both functioning. You should also test the opener’s safety features, such as the auto-reverse mechanism, which prevents the door from closing on objects or people. If the opener is making unusual sounds or isn’t working properly, it may need servicing or replacement.
- Clear Snow and Ice from the Area Around the Door
During winter, snow and ice can accumulate around the garage door, obstructing its movement. Snowdrifts or ice buildup along the tracks can make it difficult for the door to open or close properly. Additionally, excess snow or ice near the door can cause the weatherstripping to fail, letting in cold air.
Clear away any snow and ice from the area around your garage door, including the tracks, the floor beneath the door, and the threshold. This will help prevent the door from getting stuck or damaged by frozen debris. Consider using a plastic shovel to avoid damaging the door’s surface or components.
- Ensure Proper Insulation
If your garage is attached to your home, it’s important to ensure that the door is properly insulated. Cold air from an uninsulated garage can seep into your home, making it harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Insulated garage doors can help improve energy efficiency and make your garage a more comfortable space.
Check the insulation of your garage door, especially if it’s an older model. If your door isn’t insulated or the insulation is compromised, consider upgrading to an insulated model. This will help keep your garage warmer and more energy-efficient during the winter months.
- Inspect the Cables and Pulleys
The cables and pulleys are essential for the smooth operation of your garage door. They work in conjunction with the springs to ensure that the door opens and closes evenly. Cold weather can cause these components to become stiff or break under pressure.
Inspect the cables and pulleys for any signs of wear, fraying, or rust. If you notice any issues, it’s important to address them before the winter season begins. A broken cable or pulley can cause the door to become inoperable or result in costly repairs if left unchecked.
- Regularly Test the Garage Door Safety Features
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features such as photoelectric sensors, which prevent the door from closing if there’s an obstruction in its path. These sensors can be affected by dirt, snow, or ice, causing them to malfunction or fail.
Before winter sets in, test the safety features of your garage door by placing an object in the path of the sensors. If the door doesn’t reverse when it encounters the object, the sensors may need to be cleaned or adjusted. Properly functioning safety sensors are crucial for ensuring that your garage door operates safely during winter.
- Schedule Professional Maintenance
While there are several maintenance tasks you can perform yourself, some aspects of garage door upkeep should be left to the professionals. A professional garage door repair company can conduct a thorough inspection of your door and its components, identify potential issues, and perform any necessary adjustments or repairs.
At Dick Does Doors, we offer comprehensive garage door repair services to ensure that your door is ready for winter. Our team can inspect and maintain all aspects of your garage door, including the opener, springs, tracks, and more. Regular professional maintenance can help you avoid costly breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your garage door.
Why Choose Us?
Winter can be harsh on your garage door, but with proper maintenance, you can ensure that it operates smoothly and efficiently throughout the season. By inspecting the tracks, lubricating moving parts, checking the weatherstripping, and testing the opener, you can prevent common issues that arise during the colder months. Additionally, scheduling professional maintenance will help you catch potential problems before they become major repairs.
If you need assistance with your garage door maintenance or repair, don’t hesitate to contact Dick Does Doors. Our experienced team is here to help you get your garage door winter-ready, so you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free winter season.
Dick Does Doors
2591 Dallas Pkwy Ste. 300, Frisco, TX 75034, United States
(972) 632-1935
