A well-functioning garage door can make your daily life easier and safer. However, to keep it in top shape for years to come, it’s important to follow a few simple maintenance tips. As a trusted garage door service contractor in Oak Hills, CA, we’ve gathered our best advice for homeowners to extend the life of their garage doors.
Keep Your Garage Door Clean and Lubricated
One of the most important steps in prolonging your garage door’s lifespan is regular cleaning and lubrication. Dirt, grime, and dust can build up over time, leading to friction that can wear down moving parts. Here’s how to handle this:
Cleaning the Door Surface
Wash your garage door with soap and water every few months to remove dirt and debris. Make sure to use a gentle cleaner that won’t damage the finish. For doors with windows, clean the glass thoroughly too.
Lubricating Moving Parts
The springs, rollers, and hinges of your garage door need proper lubrication to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Use a silicone-based lubricant on all moving components to ensure smooth operation. Be sure to do this at least twice a year or as needed.
Check the Garage Door Balance
A garage door that’s not properly balanced can strain the opener and other mechanical components, causing them to fail sooner. Here’s how to check the balance:
- Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord.
- Manually lift the door halfway and release it. If it stays in place, the door is properly balanced.
- If the door falls or rises on its own, it may need adjustment. This is where calling a garage door service contractor in Oak Hills, CA can save you time and frustration.
Inspect the Springs Regularly
Garage door springs are under a lot of tension and play a crucial role in the door’s smooth operation. Over time, they can weaken or even break. Regular inspection can help catch problems before they become major issues.
Why Springs Matter
Springs help lift the heavy door, so it’s essential that they’re in good condition. A malfunctioning spring can cause the door to become misaligned, or even fail completely, leading to expensive repairs.
What to Look For
Check for signs of wear such as rust, stretching, or gaps in the coil. If you notice any of these, it’s time to call for service. Never attempt to adjust or replace springs yourself, as they are under high tension and can cause injury.
Test the Safety Features
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety sensors to prevent the door from closing on people, pets, or objects. Ensuring these sensors work properly is key to your safety and your door’s longevity.
How to Test the Sensors
To test the sensors, place an object in the door’s path and attempt to close it. If the door stops or reverses, the sensors are working. If not, check to ensure they are aligned correctly or clean the sensor lenses. If the problem persists, contact a garage door service contractor for assistance.
Ensure Proper Weatherproofing
Keeping your garage door sealed from the elements is essential for maintaining its condition. Cold and wet weather can cause parts to rust or warp. The weatherstripping along the bottom of the door is particularly vulnerable.
Inspect the Weatherstripping
Check the weatherstripping regularly for cracks or wear. If it’s damaged, replace it to keep out moisture and debris. A well-sealed garage will also help keep your energy bills lower by preventing drafts.
Clean the Tracks
Dirt and debris in the tracks can prevent your door from moving smoothly, causing the opener to work harder and possibly wear out faster. Clean the tracks regularly with a damp cloth to remove any buildup. Be sure to remove any obstructions, and don’t forget to check for any bent tracks.
Watch for Unusual Noises
Odd sounds like grinding, squeaking, or popping are often signs that something’s not quite right with your garage door. While some sounds are normal, persistent or loud noises can indicate issues with the opener, springs, or rollers. Don’t ignore them!
Common Sounds and Their Causes
- Grinding noises: May signal dirty or misaligned tracks.
- Squeaking: Often caused by a lack of lubrication in the hinges or rollers.
- Popping or banging sounds: Can indicate a problem with the springs or cables.
If you notice any of these sounds, it’s time to call a garage door service contractor in Oak Hills, CA to inspect the door before the problem worsens.
Regular Professional Inspections
While DIY maintenance can go a long way, there’s no substitute for a professional inspection. A garage door service contractor can perform a thorough check of your system, including the opener, springs, sensors, and cables. Having a professional take a look every year or so can catch small problems before they turn into major issues.
Why You Need a Professional
Even if you’re vigilant with regular maintenance, garage doors are complex systems, and some issues may not be easily visible. A trained eye can spot hidden problems and ensure your door is operating safely and efficiently.
Keep Your Garage Door in Tip-Top Shape!
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a longer-lasting, well-functioning garage door in Oak Hills, CA. Regular maintenance, inspections, and prompt attention to repairs will help you avoid costly replacements down the road.
Need Professional Help? Contact Oak Hills Garage Door Service Today!
If your garage door is showing signs of wear or you simply want to make sure it’s operating at peak performance, contact a garage door service contractor in Oak Hills, CA. Our experienced technicians are here to help with everything from inspections to repairs. Call us today at 760-628-9837 to schedule a service!
