A garage door is an expensive investment. It protects your belongings, boosts energy efficiency, and adds to curb appeal. Proper garage door maintenance ensures it will withstand the test of time. 

Garage door upkeep practices change according to the season. This article will explain what you must do to ensure your garage will withstand whatever the seasons bring. 

Winter Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect and lubricate moving parts: Winter produces dry air that can affect the lubrication of your moving parts. Components like the springs and bearings, rollers, hinges, armbar, and lock may require lubrication. Check these areas and apply a quality lubricant if necessary. 
• Check the weatherstripping and replace it if necessary: The weatherstripping on your garage door does more than keep your garage warm. It can be responsible for energy efficiency throughout your home. If you notice that the temperature in your garage is changing or if dirt and debris are starting to enter the garage area, you may need to change the weather stripping. Do so before winter starts so you are ready when the temperature drops. 
• Ensure the garage door opener functions properly in cold weather: Cold weather could affect your garage door motor and other essential opening components. Check your garage door to ensure it is opening and closing properly. If you detect a problem, try disconnecting the opener and manually opening and closing the door. If it works when disconnected, there may be an issue. 
• Clear any ice or snow buildup around the door: Snow and ice can interfere with garage door operations and damage the components. Prevent damage by clearing ice or snow buildup around the door. 

Spring Maintenance Checklist

Spring is a great time to determine if your garage door was damaged by winter weather. Now that temperatures are back to normal, you can include preventative garage door maintenance in your spring cleaning tasks. 

• Inspect and clean garage door tracks: Dirt and debris may have accumulated on your garage door during the winter, causing problems with operation. You can remove debris with a rag or use a vacuum for more cleaning power. 
• Test the door's balance and alignment: Misalignment issues should be apparent. You may notice your doors are lopsided or difficult to open and close. Alignment issues should be addressed immediately, as they could become safety hazards. You may be able to address some issues yourself, but professional service may be necessary. 
• Examine cables, rollers, and springs for wear and tear: Squeaking, grinding, and popping noises may tell you your components are worn out. You may also notice visible damage like rust and fraying. Worn parts can also be a safety hazard, so you may need a professional replacement. 
• Clean and paint any rust spots or chipped areas: Rust spots and chipped areas are unsightly and can be a sign your garage door is weakening. You can remove rust from garage doors with vinegar and a steel wool pad. Using a rust converter can prevent rust from reforming in the future. 

Summer Maintenance Checklist

Summer heat can damage garage door components. Here are some preventative garage door maintenance tips to keep your home safe when temperatures rise. 

• Lubricate all moving parts to prevent overheating: Lubricating is just as important in summer as in winter to ensure no moving parts overheat.
• Inspect and clean the garage door sensors: Your sensors play an important role in garage door safety because they ensure your door autoreverses when it detects an object. Test your sensors by placing an object under the garage door to ensure it responds. If your sensors aren’t working, you may need to clean them or require professional services. 
• Check and adjust the automatic opener settings: Your garage door opener settings control how much power is required to open and close your garage door. Extreme weather may change resistance levels. Monitor your opener settings in the summer to ensure safe operation. 
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent heat damage: Heat can damage your garage door components and any belongings in your garage. If your garage is not well-ventilated, consider installing windows, exhaust fans, ceiling fans, HVAC systems, or ductless mini splits. 

Fall Maintenance Checklist

Fall is a good time to prepare your garage for the cold winter weather. Here are some garage door upkeep tips that ensure smooth operation. 

• Inspect weatherstripping and seals for damage: It's best to check the weatherstripping before cold weather hits. Do a visual inspection to ensure your insulation is in place. Temperature changes inside the garage could indicate the need for a replacement. 
• Test the safety features of the garage door opener: Cold weather could affect your garage door opener. Ensure its autoreverse features are working properly and make sure to order necessary repairs before the cold weather hits. 
• Clear debris from the garage door tracks: Leaves fall in autumn, which can interfere with your garage door operations. Clear debris from the garage door tracks to ensure they operate smoothly throughout the winter. 
• Lubricate and adjust the door as needed to prepare it for colder weather: Lubricating all moving parts will prevent rust and wear as temperatures drop, preparing your garage for winter’s dry, cold air. 

General Maintenance Tips

Garage door maintenance can be seasonal, but here are a few tips you should incorporate year-round. 

• Regularly test the garage door's balance: An imbalanced garage door could pose a major safety issue. Check your garage door balance year-round by disconnecting the garage door opener and manually opening and closing the door. It should stay supported by its springs. If it rises or falls, you may require professional garage door maintenance. 
• Keep the door clean and debris-free: Debris can accumulate in your garage door components anytime and interfere with operations. Keep your garage door clean and debris-free to ensure components operate smoothly. 
• Schedule professional inspections annually: Get a professional in for an annual inspection. They will identify signs of damage and recommend repairs before they become major issues. 
• Address any unusual noises or malfunctions promptly: Unusual noises and malfunctions should be addressed before they become safety hazards or major repairs. If you notice outstanding issues, contact a professional right away. 

Conclusion

Seasonal garage door maintenance will keep your garage in top shape, ensure it withstands the test of time, and aid with security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. 

Some issues can be handled with a DIY approach, but others require professional care. Raynor Door Authority is a trusted provider that offers repairs, maintenance, and products you can count on. 

Contact us to ensure your garage door operates smoothly in any season. In the comments section, feel free to share your garage door care tips and experiences.