Maintaining your garage door is essential to ensure it operates smoothly, enhances your home’s curb appeal, and, most importantly, keeps you and your family safe. A well-maintained garage door not only adds to the aesthetics of your home but also reduces the risk of accidents and extensive repairs.
With our garage door maintenance checklist, we’ll guide you through yearly tasks that will keep your garage door in top condition. At Skylift Garage Doors, we believe that a little care can go a long way in preserving the beauty and functionality of your garage door. No matter if you have an elegant wooden door or a sleek metal design, these garage door maintenance tips will help you achieve optimal performance. Call us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment!
Visual Inspection
General Overview
Stand back and visually inspect your garage door. Are there any visible signs of wear and tear, such as peeling paint, dents, or rust? How about the garage door windows — are they intact or showing cracks? These could be early signs of potential issues that may require professional attention.
Garage Door Surface
The surface of your garage door can give you an insight into its overall condition. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or fading. Peeling paint could indicate moisture damage, while rust could point to a problem with the material or finish of your door. If you notice such issues, it might be time to consider repainting or even replacing your garage door.
Hardware Inspection
Examine the hardware of your garage door, including the hinges, bolts, and other components. Ensure that all the hardware is tight and secure. Loose bolts and hardware can lead to an imbalanced garage door or even pose safety risks. Tighten any loose parts to maintain the door’s balance and ensure it functions properly.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication of your garage door’s moving parts is crucial for smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant to grease the rollers, hinges, and springs. Lubrication helps reduce friction and ensures that your door opens and closes without any hiccups. It’s a minor task that can make a significant difference in your garage door’s longevity.
Safety Features Check
Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to your garage door. Make sure the auto-reverse mechanism is working correctly — it should stop and reverse if an object or person is in its path. The photo eyes, which send a beam across the bottom of the door to trigger the auto-reverse, should be clean and properly aligned.
Springs and Cables Inspection
The torsion springs and cables are critical components of your garage door’s operation. Inspect them for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. These high-tension components can be dangerous if they fail. If you notice any issues, contact a professional to replace them. It’s essential not to attempt to repair or replace them yourself, as they are under extreme tension.
Rollers and Hinges Inspection
Rollers guide your garage door along the tracks, while hinges allow it to fold as it moves up and down. Check these parts for signs of wear, damage, or rust. If they’re not rolling smoothly or are excessively worn, they may need replacement.
Garage Door Opener Test
Your garage door opener is the control center of your garage door system. Listen for any unusual noises when you operate it. Test both the remote and wall switch to ensure they’re functioning correctly. If your opener is more than 10 years old, you might want to consider upgrading to a newer model with improved safety features.
Manual Operation Test
In case of a power outage or a malfunction, you should be able to operate your garage door manually. Test this by disconnecting the opener and attempting to manually lift the door. It should move smoothly without excessive force. If you encounter resistance or find it challenging to operate, there may be an issue with the door itself that requires attention.
Schedule Garage Door Repair
If, during your yearly maintenance inspection, you discover any major problems, such as broken springs, significant damage, or other signs of wear and tear, it’s crucial to address them promptly. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive and costly issues down the road. Contact a professional garage door repair company like Skylift Garage Doors to assess and fix the problem.
Call Us Today For Professional Garage Door Assistance!
With this garage door maintenance checklist, you can ensure it is functioning properly. Whether you need to tighten hardware or upgrade your automatic opener, these garage door maintenance tips will keep your garage door operating smoothly for years to come. However, some tasks like fixing door balance and replacing worn-out parts are best left to the experts. At Skylift, we understand the importance of a well-maintained garage door for the safety and functionality of your home. Our team of experts is here to assist you with any garage door maintenance or repair needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
