What kind of maintenance does a garage door need?

Garage doors require regular maintenance to ensure they operate smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Here's a list of common maintenance tasks for garage doors:

1. Visual Inspection

Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect the door, tracks, rollers, cables, and springs for signs of wear, rust, or damage.
Look for Misalignment: Ensure the tracks and door are aligned properly and not bent or warped.
Examine Weatherstripping: Check the bottom seal and weatherstripping for cracks or damage to maintain insulation and prevent debris entry.

2. Lubrication

Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, tracks, springs, and bearings. Avoid using grease, as it can attract dirt.
Don't Overdo It: Use only a small amount of lubricant to avoid buildup.

3. Test Door Balance

Disconnect the Opener: Pull the release cord to manually open the door.
Check Movement: Lift the door halfway; it should stay in place. If it moves up or down, the springs may need adjustment by a professional.

4. Inspect and Tighten Hardware

Check Bolts and Brackets: Tighten loose bolts, screws, and brackets, especially those holding the tracks and hinges.
Secure the Tracks: Ensure the tracks are securely fastened to the wall.

5. Clean Tracks and Rollers

Remove Debris: Clean dirt, dust, and debris from the tracks and rollers using a damp cloth or mild cleaner.
Avoid Grease: Do not lubricate the tracks, as grease can cause buildup.

6. Test Safety Features

Photo Eye Sensors: Clean the photo eye sensors and check their alignment. Test the auto-reverse feature by placing an object under the door to ensure it stops and reverses.
Force Settings: Test the force settings of the opener to make sure the door stops when it encounters resistance.

7. Inspect Springs and Cables

Check for Damage: Look for frayed cables and rusted or stretched springs.
Leave Adjustments to Professionals: Springs and cables are under high tension and should only be repaired or replaced by a trained technician.

8. Test Garage Door Opener

Change Remote Batteries: Replace the batteries in the remote control as needed.
Check Backup Power: If your opener has a battery backup, ensure it is functioning properly.

9. Clean and Paint the Door

Wash the Door: Use a mild detergent and water to clean the door regularly, especially in coastal areas to remove salt buildup.
Repaint as Needed: Protect metal doors from rust and wooden doors from moisture by repainting or resealing them when necessary.

10. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Annual Tune-Up: Have a professional inspect and service your garage door system annually to address any issues that require expert handling.

Proper maintenance extends the life of your garage door, enhances safety, and prevents costly repairs. If you notice unusual noises, jerky movements, or other problems, don't hesitate to contact a professional technician.