The garage door is one of the most important and frequently used parts of the home. It is used to protect your vehicles and other belongings from the weather and keep your home safe. However,
garage door repair and replacement can be expensive. That is why it is important to take care of them to extend their useful life.
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1. Schedule regular inspections
Regular inspections are necessary to maintain the condition and longevity of your garage door. Just as your car needs regular tune-ups to ensure optimal performance, your garage door needs periodic inspections to identify potential problems and prevent major breakdowns. How often you should check your garage door depends on several factors.
This includes the door and its age, usage and environmental conditions. However, most experts recommend scheduling professional checkups at least once a year. If you notice unusual sounds, vibrations or changes in the door and operation, schedule an inspection immediately.
By investing in regular garage door inspections, you can protect your investment, ensure your safety, and ensure that your garage door will perform reliably for years to come.
2. Lubricate moving parts:
A garage door is made with many components. It has many moving parts and these will need regular lubrication to prevent them from rusting. Lubricate the hinges, rollers and rollers. Not all lubricants are the same. It is important to use a silicone-based lubricant when
lubricating the garage door. Silicone lubricants are long-lasting and do not attract dirt.
Lubricate the moving parts of the garage door at least once a year. But depending on your environment, you may need to lubricate them more often. This is especially true if you live in a dusty climate.
3. Tighten loose hardware:
Over time, garage door hardware can loosen, causing the door to sag or malfunction. Regular inspection and, if necessary, tightening of door bolts, nuts and screws is an important part of garage door maintenance. Tightening loose hardware can contribute to the safety, performance and longevity of your garage door.
Check the garage door hardware for loosening at least once a year. However, do not overtighten the hardware. This can damage the hardware or the door itself. Also, use penetrating oil if the hardware rusts. This will help loosen the rust and make it easier to tighten the hardware.
Finally, replace any damaged equipment. If the hardware is damaged, it cannot be tightened properly. Replace it with a new device of the same size and type.
4. Clean tracks and remove debris:
Dirt, debris and leaves can collect in the gaps of the garage door, causing the door to jam or become unbalanced. It can also lead to a security risk. For example, debris can cause a door to jam or fall off the tracks. Debris on the tracks can also affect the operation of the garage door.
Cleaning the tracks and removing debris from the garage door is a relatively simple task that can be done with a few basic tools. You should clean the tracks and remove debris from the garage door at least once a month.
5. Check the weatherstripping:
The weatherstripping around the garage door helps seal out drafts and moisture. Inspect the sealing strip regularly and replace it if it is cracked, torn or missing. Use a bright light to check the weatherstripping. This makes it easier to see cracks or tears. The weatherstripping of the garage door should be checked at least once a year. However, if you live in a harsh climate, you may need to check it more often.
6. Balance the garage door:
An unbalanced garage door can stress the motor and other components, which can shorten the life of the door. You can check the balance of your door by placing a board or weight on the bottom of the door and opening and closing it. If the door leans to one side, it is out of balance and needs adjustment.
7. Avoid slamming the garage door:
Slamming the garage door can put excessive stress on the motor and other parts, which can shorten the life of the door. Always open and close the door gently.
By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your garage door and keep it running smoothly and safely for years to come. Keep the garage door clean. This helps prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the door and its components. Also, avoid parking your car too close to the garage door. This can damage the door and its tracks. If you need help with garage door maintenance, contact a professional garage door technician.