Winter Garage Door Care – Tips to Avoid Cold Weather Issues

Posted on February 16th, 2024

Your garage door may seem like a simple, straightforward part of your home. In reality, however, beneath its surface lies a complex system of moving parts that play a crucial role in both the security and functionality of your home.

Proper maintenance of this intricate device is essential, especially considering the demanding conditions of a harsh northern Illinois winter. Without regular care and attention, the wear and tear on these components can lead to unexpected breakdowns, compromising not just convenience but also the safety and security of your home. Ensuring your garage door is well-maintained is not just about keeping it operational; it’s about protecting your home and family.

With all this in mind, remember that your garage door also needs a little extra TLC to brave the winter months. And with a few simple DIY maintenance tips, you can prevent emergency repairs and ensure your garage door works smoothly all winter long.

Hopefully, these 7 tips to prevent garage door repairs will help you accomplish that.

Inspect and Replace Garage Door Weatherstripping

The weatherstripping on the bottom of your door keeps the cold out and the warmth in. Over time, it can crack, harden, or break, letting in cold air and moisture. Check it carefully and replace any sections that are damaged or missing. This not only keeps your garage warmer but also protects stored items from frost and dampness.

Lubricate Garage Door Parts

Cold weather can make the moving parts of your garage door stiff, leading to wear and tear. Use a silicone-based garage door lubricant (never grease!) on rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. A light spray is all you need to keep everything moving smoothly, preventing annoying squeaks and a hard-to-open door.

Tighten Up Hardware

The constant up-and-down movement of your garage door can loosen its hardware. Grab a socket wrench and tighten up any shaky bolts and roller brackets you find. This simple step can prevent a lot of issues down the road, making your door safer and more stable.

Check the Door’s Balance

An unbalanced garage door can strain the opener and lead to premature failure. Take these steps to perform a simple garage door balance test for overhead doors. Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord) and manually lift the door halfway up. If it doesn’t stay put, the springs might be unbalanced. Adjusting springs is a risky business, so if you suspect an issue, it’s time to call the pros for help.

Clear the Garage Door Tracks

Make sure the tracks on either side of the door are free from debris and rust. Any blockage can cause the door to operate unevenly or not at all. A simple brush-out can make a big difference. If you spot rust or damage, though, professional help is your best bet.

Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

This safety feature stops and reverses the door if it hits an object on the way down. Place a block of wood or a roll of paper towels on the ground in the path of the door. If the door doesn’t automatically reverse after touching the object, it’s time to call a professional repairman to take a look.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

Take a good look at the cables and garage door springs. If you see any signs of wear, fraying, or rust, don’t try to fix these yourself. These parts, like the torsion spring, are under high tension and can be dangerous to replace. Instead, call in the garage door repair experts.

Absolute Garage Builders – The First Name in Chicago Garage Construction

Don’t let winter wear down your garage door. With these easy preventive maintenance tips, you can ensure it runs smoothly all year long. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of garage expansion or building a new garage, Absolute Garage Builders is here to help with a wide array of garage plans.

Serving the greater Chicago area, we’re your go-to option for the highest-quality garage construction. Visit our website to learn more and get in touch with us today at 773-583-8800 for a free, no-obligation estimate. Together, we can make your garage dreams a reality!