Garage door repair and maintenance may look different depending on the material and weather exposure. Having a professional install your garage door and taking time to inspect, clean, and periodically tighten key components helps to keep it working correctly for longer. Routine checks may also prevent issues and reduce the risk of safety malfunctions over time. Here are a few maintenance tips for garage door longevity:
Identify Garage Door Type
If you’re in need of garage door repair, a good starting point is to determine whether it requires any specific maintenance. Wooden doors may need more attention to surface protection, and a steel door sometimes requires occasional bolt tightening. Each garage door type may require a specific approach to care and upkeep, such as:
- Traditional Steel Doors: These classic doors, made of steel and insulated composites, may have a straightforward design that suits a wide range of home styles. Maintenance usually involves checking for rust along seams to avoid staining and paint cracking. Occasional bolt tightening and track cleaning help keep it from sticking when opening and closing.
- Carriage Garage Doors: Designed to resemble old-fashioned barn doors, these sometimes come in different colors and include decorative hardware. This type of door is functional and versatile, opening overhead or swing-style. Regular upkeep tasks often include inspecting hinges, repainting wood trims, and resealing joints to protect from moisture.
- Contemporary & Specialty Garage Doors: With a modern look, these doors often use durable materials such as aluminum and glass. They can be personalized to match the home’s style and come in a wide range of paneling finishes. These garage doors require regular cleaning and occasional track alignment to maintain their smooth motion.
Tighten Hardware Parts Periodically
Regular door use may cause hardware parts to become loose over time. Perform some light garage repairs by regularly checking brackets and bolts for signs of wear. Tightening screws can keep hinges from sagging, and replacing missing or damaged parts helps prevent uneven lifting or slamming. If the door feels unbalanced or drags when opening, inspect the tracks and support arms to determine if they need fastening.
Lubricate and Clean Parts
A garage door moves using a system of hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks. These metal parts grind together and can wear down over time without proper care. Use garage door-specific products, such as silicone-based lubricant sprays that help with moisture without collecting a lot of dust. Wiping away any buildup around the tracks before lubricating may also help the springs to slide cleanly.
If your garage door seems to be slower than usual or stops mid-cycle, the photo sensors may need cleaning. Wipe them with a cloth, or replace the controller batteries with new ones. The sensor lens has to be aligned and aimed directly across from its pair to work correctly. Cleaning the tracks and removing excess dust from sliding parts might also help the garage door move more smoothly.
Rely on Expert Maintenance
While homeowners can handle some general garage door upkeep, some types of maintenance require a professional. A garage door repair specialist knows how to safely manage high-tension spring systems and electrical components. Annual inspections performed by a professional allow you to catch structural wear early.
Get Garage Door Repair
Garage doors are exposed to the elements, and how you care for them can affect how long they last. Having the door professionally installed from the start helps to make a difference in how well it holds up over time. An expert should conduct tests after installing the door to make sure the opener, tracks, and panels work together safely. Explore garage door repair and maintenance service provider options today.
