Winter-Ready Garage Doors: Essential Prep Tips
As temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your garage door for the harsh weather ahead. Proper winterization not only extends your garage door’s lifespan but also ensures reliable operation throughout the cold months.
1. Inspect and Replace Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is your first line of defense against cold air, moisture, and debris. Check the rubber seals around your garage door frame and at the bottom of the door. Look for cracks, tears, or areas where the seal has pulled away from the door. Replace any damaged weather stripping to maintain energy efficiency and protect your garage from the elements.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold weather can cause metal components to contract and become stiff. Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to:
- Hinges and pivot points
- Roller bearings
- Springs (torsion and extension)
- Track guides
- Lock mechanisms
Use a silicone-based or white lithium grease lubricant, avoiding WD-40 which can attract dirt and debris.
3. Test Your Garage Door Opener
Cold temperatures can affect your garage door opener’s performance. Test the opener’s force settings and ensure the safety features are working correctly. If your opener struggles to lift the door or makes unusual noises, it may need professional adjustment before winter sets in.
4. Check Door Balance and Springs
A properly balanced garage door reduces strain on the opener and prevents premature wear. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. It should stay in place without assistance. If it falls or rises, your springs may need adjustment – a job best left to professionals due to safety concerns.
5. Insulate for Energy Efficiency
Consider adding insulation to your garage door to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. Insulation kits are available for most door types and can significantly reduce heat loss while also helping to regulate temperature fluctuations that can affect door operation.
6. Clear and Inspect Tracks
Remove any debris, ice, or snow buildup from the door tracks. Inspect tracks for dents, rust, or misalignment that could cause operational issues during winter. Clean tracks with a damp cloth and ensure they’re properly aligned.
7. Test Safety Features
Winter weather can affect your garage door’s safety sensors. Clean the sensor lenses and test the auto-reverse feature by placing a small object in the door’s path. The door should immediately reverse when it contacts the object.
Professional Winter Maintenance
While many winterization tasks can be done yourself, some require professional expertise. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to ensure your garage door system is ready for winter’s challenges.
Don’t let winter weather catch you off guard! Proper preparation now can save you from costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns during the coldest months of the year.
Need professional help with your garage door winterization? Call us today at (888) 794-6420 to schedule your winter maintenance service and ensure your garage door operates smoothly all season long!