At 31-W Insulation, we are happy to address your garage door needs, but we are also a valuable resource for garage door tips to keep your garage door in top condition. There are several things that you can do throughout the year that are quite important if you want your garage door to be safe and reliable for many years. The benefits are well worth the minimal amount of time each task takes.
- Check the tracks- There is a track on each side of the garage door that you should check for debris and rust. You can also use a level to test if the tracks need any adjustments.
- Check the fasteners- The vibration of a garage door cycle can shake some fasteners loose over time. It is a good idea to tighten a fastener every now and then so you can avoid dealing with it coming apart later.
- Pay attention to changes- If your garage door isn’t operating as smoothly or as quietly as it used to, it’s important to look at the various components to see if something is out of alignment or in need of repair.
- Lubricate- There are several moving parts that work their best with sufficient lubrication. Generally speaking, a bit of spray lubricant a couple of times a year is all you need.
- Check the auto-reverse feature- Don’t just assume this safety feature is working. Test it every so often by setting something under the door and seeing if the door reverses instead of closing. Be sure to use something that won’t be damaged by the weight of the door if it does make contact.
- Check the weatherstripping- If the weatherstripping is loose, worn, or damaged, it’s time to replace or repair it to avoid dust, insects, water, and debris from getting into your garage.
- Check the door balance- If your garage door is out of balance, it puts undue pressure on the springs. It can also be a sign that the springs need to be replaced by a professional. To check the door balance, disengage the automatic opener and then lift the garage door to half way. It should remain in that position if the door is balanced.
- Check all of the other components- The parts you should check for visual signs of wear or issues include the cables, pulleys, and rollers.