One of the most overlooked aspects of having a garage is garage door maintenance. But garage doors need proper care just like any other mechanical device does. Without that care, your garage door could begin to function improperly, or even completely stop working at all.
To avoid having to deal with garage door parts and service too frequently, you will need a proper maintenance schedule and a few tips to ensure that everything works properly.
1. Clear the Tracks
Take a look at the garage door tracks on each side. Make sure that they are free and clear of any debris or rust. You can also check to see if they are level at each of the vertical sections. Small adjustments on your own are fine, but anything more should be done by a professional technician.
2. Watch and Listen
The simplest thing that you can do is to watch your garage door as it operates. There is a good chance that when something is wrong, you will be able to either see or hear it. Jerky movements, scraping or grating sounds, and a lack of motion are dead giveaways. A garage door that has been properly maintained should work effortlessly and relatively quietly. Check the pulleys, springs, and cables to make sure that they look as symmetrical as they can.
3. Keep Hardware Tight
One of the most common issues with garage doors is that there is something loose somewhere. They move up and down literally hundreds of times each year, so it is all too common for the vibration and motion to loosen some of the hardware. If you hear funny noises or think your door is moving unevenly, check the hardware. The brackets are some of the most common problem areas and can be fixed by simply tightening up any loose bolts that you find.
4. Check the Rollers
The rollers are what make the garage door traverse the tracks, raising and lowering the door. They are also prone to wear and tear. At least twice per year, you should be inspecting the rollers to ensure that they are in good condition. At the most, they should be replaced every five to seven years. If, during inspection, you find that there are rollers that are cracked, chipped, or noticeably worn, replace them immediately.
5. Check Pulleys and Cables
Take a look at the pulleys and lift cables attached to the bottom roller brackets (these are by the door). These are the connection between the door and the springs, working to help lower and lift the garage door safely. It is important that you simply check out the condition of these components but not replace them. It is highly advised that professionals handle them as they are high-tension parts and high-tension parts can be dangerous.
6. Provide Lubrication
There are a lot of moving parts in a garage door. They require lubrication to reduce stress on the door openers and rollers, which prolong their lives. At least twice per year, you should apply a high-quality lubricant on all of the hinges and rollers, wiping away the excess.
7. Test Balance
When a garage door does not have proper balancing, then the door has to work harder. When it has to work harder, it doesn’t last as long as it could otherwise. Imbalance only requires a few pounds of force to throw it off. You can test it by manually lifting the door. If it stays open without your help, it is fine. If it doesn’t, you may have to have the springs replaced.
8. Replace Weatherstripping
Over time, the rubber of the weatherstripping can and will wear down. It is meant to not only keep out cold, but also dust, dirt, and water. Check it out twice per year to ensure it is in good shape. If it isn’t, consider replacing it with new weatherstripping to prevent any unwanted substances from getting into your garage.
Are you looking for a garage door expert to answer your garage door maintenance and repair enquiries? Or are you perhaps looking for brand-new B&D garage doors in Adelaide? AllStyle Garage Doors & Window Shutters is your solution. Get in touch with our friendly team to learn more today.