Essential Garage Door
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance keeps your garage door operating smoothly, extends its lifespan, prevents costly repairs, and ensures safety. Perform most tasks yourself every 6 months, and schedule a professional inspection annually. Here’s a practical guide based on expert recommendations.
Visual Inspection
Inspect the entire door system for wear or damage.
- Check springs, cables, rollers, tracks, and hinges for fraying, rust, cracks, or loose parts.
- Tighten any loose bolts, screws, or brackets with a wrench.
- Look for rust on steel doors (sand, prime, and paint spots) or peeling paint on wood doors.
Clean the Door and Tracks
Keep components free of dirt and debris.
- Wash the exterior with mild soap and water (avoid harsh chemicals).
- Clear tracks with a cloth or brush—never lubricate tracks directly.
- Remove cobwebs and debris from sensors and opener.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication reduces noise and wear.
- Apply garage door-specific lubricant (silicone- or lithium-based spray) to rollers, hinges, springs, and bearings.
- Avoid WD-40 for long-term use; it’s better for cleaning.
- Wipe away excess to prevent dirt buildup.
Test Door Balance
An unbalanced door strains the opener and can fail prematurely.
- Disconnect the opener (pull the release cord).
- Manually lift the door halfway—it should stay in place.
- If it falls or rises, springs may need professional adjustment.
Test Safety Features
Modern doors have critical safety mechanisms.
- Auto-reverse: Place an object (like a wood block) under the door and close it—it should reverse on contact.
- Photo-eye sensors: Wave a broom or your foot through the beam near the floor—the door should reverse.
- Clean and align sensors if lights are blinking.
Additional Tips
- Replace weatherstripping if cracked to improve insulation and sealing.
- Check and replace remote batteries as needed.
- Listen for unusual noises during operation—address squeaks promptly.
- Unplug the opener before maintenance for safety.
Warning: Never attempt to adjust or replace springs yourself—they’re under high tension and dangerous. Call a professional for spring issues, major repairs, or if anything seems off.
Following these steps can save you money and keep your garage door reliable for years. If you’re in the Bloomington or the surrounding area, consider a pro tune-up for peace of mind!