Fall Garage Door Maintenance: 5 Essential Steps to Prepare for Winter

As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s the perfect time to ensure your garage door is ready for the harsh winter months ahead. Proper fall maintenance can prevent costly repairs and ensure your garage door operates smoothly throughout the winter season.

1. Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts

Cold weather can cause metal components to contract and become stiff. Before winter arrives, inspect all moving parts including hinges, rollers, tracks, and springs. Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to these components to ensure smooth operation during freezing temperatures.

2. Test Your Garage Door Opener

Your garage door opener works harder in cold weather. Test the auto-reverse safety feature by placing a small object under the door. If it doesn’t reverse immediately upon contact, contact a professional for adjustment. Also, check that your remote controls are working properly and replace batteries if needed.

3. Weatherstrip Inspection and Replacement

Examine the weatherstripping around your garage door for cracks, tears, or gaps. Damaged weatherstripping allows cold air, moisture, and pests to enter your garage. Replace any worn weatherstripping to maintain energy efficiency and protect your belongings from harsh weather conditions.

4. Clean and Inspect Door Tracks

Remove debris, leaves, and dirt from the door tracks using a damp cloth. Check for any dents or damage that could cause the door to bind or operate improperly. Clear tracks ensure your garage door can handle the additional stress that winter weather may bring.

5. Professional Safety Inspection

Consider scheduling a professional inspection before winter. A trained technician can identify potential issues with springs, cables, and other critical components that may fail during cold weather. This proactive approach can save you from emergency repairs during inconvenient winter storms.

Additional Winter Preparation Tips

• Keep your garage door opener manual handy in case of power outages
• Stock up on ice melt to prevent ice buildup around the door
• Ensure your emergency release cord is easily accessible
• Consider upgrading to a smart garage door opener for remote monitoring

Taking these preventive steps now will help ensure your garage door operates reliably throughout the winter months, keeping your family safe and your property secure.

Need professional help with your garage door maintenance? Don’t wait until winter weather strikes. Call us today at (888) 794-6420 to schedule your fall maintenance service and ensure your garage door is ready for whatever winter brings!