Your garage door is more than just an entryway—it protects your belongings, enhances curb appeal, and provides daily convenience. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your garage door but also helps you avoid costly repairs. At Peak View Garage Doors, we specialize in keeping garage doors in Elizabeth, CO and surrounding areas running smoothly and safely. Follow these essential garage door maintenance tips to keep your investment in top condition.
1. Inspect the Door’s Operation
Start by observing your garage door in action. Open and close it both automatically and manually. Listen for unusual noises like banging or grinding and check for jerky or uneven movements. Pay attention to whether the door feels heavier than usual when operated manually. If you notice issues, this could indicate worn-out springs, misaligned tracks, or other problems. Identifying these signs early can help prevent more extensive damage.
2. Keep the Tracks Clean
Garage door tracks can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris over time, causing blockages and operational issues. Gently remove debris from the tracks using a brush or a vacuum. Then, wipe them clean with a damp cloth. While clearing the tracks is safe to do on your own, any adjustments or repairs should be left to professionals to ensure safety and proper alignment.
3. Tighten Hardware
With regular use, the nuts, bolts, and brackets that hold your garage door together can loosen over time. Using a socket wrench, tighten these components to keep everything secure. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this can lead to damage. Avoid adjusting any red-painted hardware or components on the bottom roller bracket, as these are under high tension and should only be handled by trained technicians.
4. Inspect the Cables
Cables are essential for supporting the weight of your garage door, but they can fray or wear out over time. Visually inspect your cables for signs of damage, like tears or corrosion. If you notice anything concerning, avoid touching or attempting to repair them yourself. Cables are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle. Contact Peak View Garage Doors for safe and professional repairs.
5. Check and Maintain the Rollers
Garage door rollers allow the door to move smoothly along the tracks. Over time, they can crack, chip, or wear out, causing issues with the door’s operation. Inspect the rollers for signs of damage, and clean them regularly to remove dirt and debris. If you notice damaged rollers, they should be replaced. For rollers attached to cables or under tension, it’s best to leave the replacement to professionals.
6. Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricating moving components is a simple yet effective way to prevent wear and tear on your garage door. Apply a garage-door-specific lubricant to the springs, hinges, tracks, and rollers. For the opener chain, use a light coating of lubricant. Nylon rollers don’t require lubrication, but steel rollers will benefit from it. Lubricate your garage door every six months to keep it running smoothly.
7. Test the Door’s Balance
An unbalanced garage door puts unnecessary strain on the opener and other components, leading to premature wear. To test your door’s balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the red release cord. Lift the door manually to the halfway point and let go. If it stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls or rises, it may have spring or cable issues that require professional attention.
8. Replace Weatherstripping
The rubber weatherstripping at the bottom of your garage door seals out moisture, dirt, and drafts, helping to regulate the temperature inside your garage. Inspect the weatherstripping for cracks or brittleness and replace it if necessary. This simple step can save you money on energy costs while protecting your garage from water damage and pests.
9. Test Safety Features
Modern garage doors come with built-in safety features like photoelectric sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms. Test the sensors by waving an object under the door as it closes—if functioning properly, the door should stop and reverse. To check the auto-reverse feature, place a solid object like a brick under the door and close it. If the door doesn’t reverse when it makes contact, call a professional for repairs. These safety measures are critical for protecting your family and pets.
10. Clean and Inspect the Door Itself
Don’t forget to care for the garage door’s exterior. Over time, dirt, grime, and weather exposure can take a toll on its appearance. Use a mild detergent and water to clean both sides of the door, removing dirt and debris. For steel doors, check for rust spots and repaint as needed. For wood doors, inspect for signs of warping or water damage, and apply a fresh coat of paint or stain to protect the wood.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Performing regular garage door maintenance helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. A well-maintained garage door operates efficiently, saves energy, and enhances the overall appearance of your home. At Peak View Garage Doors, we understand the importance of keeping your garage door in excellent shape and are here to help with all your repair and maintenance needs.
Contact Peak View Garage Doors Today
Don’t let garage door issues slow you down. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete replacement, Peak View Garage Doors has you covered. Call us today at (719) 222-5015 or email us at info@peakviewgaragedoors.com to schedule your service. Serving Elizabeth, CO, and surrounding areas, we’re your local experts for all things garage doors.
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