Overhead garage doors are critical components of any residential or commercial property. They not only provide protection but also improve the visual appeal of your property. With time, they are subjected to wear and tear.
But with little attention and care, you can extend the life of your garage door and avoid costly repairs. Instead of waiting for a breakdown, here are some tips to keep your door running for years.
Conduct Monthly Inspections for Overhead Garage Repair
One of the simplest yet most effective methods to prolong your garage door’s lifespan is to ensure inspection every month. Rust on the springs, fraying on the cables, or rollers that don’t move as easily as they should—these are all warning signs.
If you notice anything unusual, it’s better not to tinker with it yourself, especially when it comes to high-tension springs. Calling in a professional technician for overhead garage repair right away can prevent small problems from turning into major repairs.
Keep the Door Clean
Dirt and debris can accumulate in your garage door. Over time, this buildup not only affects how smoothly your door opens and closes but can also wear down rollers and sensors faster than normal.
You can consider cleaning tracks, panels, and sensors with a damp cloth or a mild detergent. Wipe the panels to give them a fresh look and pay special attention to tracks. Remember, do not use harsh chemicals as they can strip the protective coating and damage the surface.
Test the Balance
Your garage door should feel balanced when you open it. To check if it balances or not, disconnect the openers and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays up, it shows that your springs are in top condition. But if it slides down or shoots upward, it is important to adjust your door springs. For this reason, you can call experts to adjust the springs safely.
Protect the Weather Seal
At the very bottom of your garage door, there’s a rubber strip called a weather seal. It helps to block out dirt, moisture, pests, and even helps with energy efficiency. Over time, seals become brittle or cracked. In this case, you need to replace them to protect your garage and your valuables inside it.
Ensure Proper Sensor Function
Modern garage doors come equipped with photo-eye sensors. They help to detect obstacles. If a child, pet, or object is in the way, the sensors should trigger the door to reverse immediately.
To test them, place something in the door’s path and try closing it. If the door doesn’t reverse, you may need to realign or clean the sensors. Dust or cobwebs can interfere with their accuracy. Since safety is non-negotiable, always keep this part of your door in working order.
The Bottom Line
The overhead garage doors are famous for their convenience, safety, and security. But like any mechanical system, it can deteriorate with time. By putting in a little effort with inspections, cleaning, and testing, you can avoid sudden breakdowns and keep it running smoothly for the long haul.