How to Maintain Your Garage Door for Year-Round Durability

The Foundation of a Well-Maintained Home

Your garage door is more than just an entryway; it’s a border guardian of your home, protecting your vehicles, tools, and personal belongings from the elements and from unwanted guests. Ignoring garage door maintenance is akin to leaving the gate open. Conversely, regularly tending to your garage door ensures that it stands as a bulwark of security and functionality. This comprehensive guide by Garage Doors by Nestor will take you through important maintenance steps to maintain your garage door, safeguard your home, and save on repair costs in the long run.

Why Regular Garage Door Check-Ups Are Critical

As a homeowner, choosing the right type of garage door can make a big difference in your home’s value, curb appeal, and security. All new garage doors nowadays are Sectional and run on rollers. And those are the only kinds we offer at Garage Doors by Nestor. There are different styles of doors, traditional, modern or carriage style. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, as well as different materials, colors, and styles to choose from. It’s important to carefully consider your needs, budget, and preferences before selecting the right garage door for your home. By understanding the different types of garage doors available, you can make an informed decision that will help protect your home and family for years to come. At Garage Doors by Nestor, we trust and supply Amarr Garage Doors which come in a large selection of styles, colors, and materials.

Step 1: Visual Inspection – Eyes on Wear and Tear

Begin your garage door servicing with a visual inspection. Stand inside your garage with the door closed and look for signs of wear or damage. Examine the springs, cables, rollers, and pulleys for any signs of wear and tear. If anything looks out of place or damaged, it’s best to call in a professional. Remember, some parts of the garage door mechanism are under high tension and can be dangerous to work with without the proper expertise and tools. If you are unsure of damage and would like a second opinion, contact our garage door experts at Garage Doors by Nestor. 

Step 2: Lubrication 

The next step is to ensure the smooth operation of all moving parts. Use a high-quality spray lubricant and apply it to all rollers, hinges, bearings, and springs. Avoid applying lubricant to nylon rollers. For those, a small amount of silicone spray applied to the tires is sufficient. The result will be a garage door that opens and closes effortlessly without any grating sounds, which can be indicative of a part in need of replacement or adjustment. To make it easier to keep up with maintenance, we offer service packages for inspection, balance, adjustment, and lubricating your garage door and garage door opener to ensure that you will never have a problem with your system. 

Step 3: Tightening and Adjustment 

Loose hardware can lead to loud noises and unnecessary wear on the door and opener. Use a socket wrench to tighten any bolts and screws that may have come loose over time. Be mindful when working with the garage door springs and cables, as these are under tension and can cause injury or damage if removed or adjusted improperly. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of your inspection, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified technician.

Balancing Act – Getting It Just Right

An unbalanced garage door can cause the opener to work harder than necessary, potentially leading to early failure. To test the balance, begin with the door closed. Pull the release handle on the opener to disengage it from the door. If the door is properly balanced, you should be able to lift it manually with little resistance, and it should stay open around three or four feet above the floor. If it doesn’t, have a professional adjust the tension on the springs.

Step 4: Cleaning – The Power of a Pristine Door

A clean garage door operates better and looks nicer. Wipe down the surface of the door regularly to remove dirt, oil, and other greasy substances. Remember to clean the inside of the door as well, especially in areas where moving parts come into contact with the door. A clean and rust-free door will improve performance and ensure the longevity of your door’s various components.

Step 5: Weather Stripping – Sealing the Deal

Weather stripping is essential in keeping out rain, cold, and pests. Damaged or missing weather stripping can lead to energy loss and in severe cases, water or vermin intrusion. Inspect the weather stripping around the sides and bottom of the door, and if it’s cracked, torn, or dislodged, replace it immediately. This is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and keep your garage clean and dry.

Step 6: Testing Safety Features 

Garage door systems have come a long way in terms of safety. Modern openers are required to have an auto-reverse feature that causes the door to open if it encounters an obstruction. Sensors installed on either side of the door should also be tested to ensure they are aligned and that the door doesn’t close if something is in the way. Regularly testing these safety features helps protect you and your family from potential accidents.

Step 7: Professional Maintenance – The Expert Consultation

No matter how diligent you are with DIY maintenance, some tasks are best left to the professionals. Our trained technicians have the knowledge and experience to identify issues before they become problems, and they can recommend service intervals appropriate for your door and its usage. Scheduling an annual service for your garage door is a sound investment in the future reliability and longevity of your system. Contact us today to learn more about our garage door maintenance packages to help keep your garage door system in top shape.

Conclusion: Empowering Homeowners with Know-How

Your garage door is a reliable fixture that often goes unappreciated until it fails. By taking the time to perform these maintenance steps, you are actively safeguarding this important part of your home. It’s easy to overlook the need for proper garage door care, but the peace of mind and the longevity it provides are priceless. Home maintenance is a responsibility that comes with the territory of homeownership, and by enriching yourself with the knowledge to tackle garage door upkeep, you’re investing in a home that is safe, efficient, and prepared for years to come. If you have any questions about garage door maintenance or would like to learn more about our maintenance packages, contact Garage Doors by Nestor today!