At The Overhead Door Company®, we believe a well-maintained garage door is key to a happy home. Today, we’re going to share essential garage door maintenance tips that will help ensure your door operates safely, quietly, and efficiently all year round. Before we start, we would like to point out that while a lot of these tips can be done by yourself, one of our highly trained garage door technicians can do all of this in one simple yearly visit!

How Often Should I Get My Garage Door Serviced?

The simple answer is at least once a year. However, this can depend on your specific situation. If you use your garage door multiple times a day or live in an area with extreme weather, you might need more frequent servicing to address the extra wear and tear.

Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial

Think of your garage door like your car; it needs regular check-ups to prevent breakdowns. Routine maintenance can catch minor problems before they become big ones, ensuring your door’s longevity and reliability. A well-maintained garage door enhances curb appeal and ensures your family’s safety. It can also help you save on heating and air conditioning costs, as garage doors form a seal, helping to maintain your home’s temperature!

DIY Garage Door Maintenance Tips

While we recommend professional servicing for complex issues, there are many things you can do to keep your garage door in top shape.

1. Observation is Key

Every month, take a moment to watch and listen to your garage door as it operates. Is it moving smoothly, or is it jerky in places? Does it work quietly, or are there grinding or scraping sounds? These can be your first clues that something’s amiss.

2. Tightening Up

The constant motion and vibration can loosen the door’s hardware. A socket wrench tightens all roller brackets and bolts, ensuring everything is snug between your service visits.

3. Balance Test

Disengage your opener and manually open the door halfway. It should stay in place without support. If it doesn’t, the counterbalance system may be improperly balanced, which can put undue stress on the opener.

4. Replace the Rollers

Whether steel or nylon, rollers should be inspected twice a year and replaced every seven years or so—sooner if you use your garage door many times a day, we recommend contacting a garage door technician to do any maintenance on your door’s roller system. 

5. Lubrication 

A 10-minute job can add years to the life of your door. Use a spray lubricant to coat the overhead springs and white lithium grease on the opener’s chain or screw. Do not try to adjust any of these parts yourself, as interacting with them incorrectly can cause serious harm to you or someone nearby.

6. Check the Cables

High-tension cables can be dangerous, but you can check their condition. Look for broken strands and damage near the bottom roller bracket. If you see something worrying, call a professional.

7. Clear the Tracks

Ensure the tracks on either side of the door are debris-free. You can also check for plumb with a level. Professionals must make any significant adjustments to tracks, as this requires a workforce, specialized tools, and knowledge.

8. Test the Auto-Reverse

Garage doors should automatically return to the open position if they detect an object in their path. Place a piece of wood or a roll of paper towels on the ground where the door would close. If the door doesn’t reverse when it contacts the obstruction, then it’s time for a pro to take a look.

9. Weatherstripping Work

The rubber weather seal strip on the bottom of your door helps keep the elements out. If it’s cracked or brittle, it’s time to replace it.

Schedule Your Annual Check-Up with The Overhead Door Company® Today!

Remember, while your attention to garage door maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan and safety, some tasks are best left to the professionals. The Overhead Door Company® is always here to provide comprehensive servicing for your garage door, ensuring it remains in peak condition year after year.

Embrace these garage door maintenance tips, and never hesitate to reach out to us for your annual garage door maintenance or whenever your garage door needs professional attention. Your peace of mind is our priority. Keep your garage door rolling smoothly with The Overhead Door Company®, your trusted partner in home maintenance.