A garage door is one of the hardest-working parts of your home. It opens and closes hundreds of times each year, keeping your car safe and your home secure from potential burglaries. But like any machine, it needs proper maintenance to keep running smoothly. Without regular maintenance, small issues can turn into costly repairs, and in some cases, complete door replacement.
The good news is that you can avoid these unexpected breakdowns by following a simple maintenance checklist, allowing you to extend the life of your garage door.
1. Inspect the Door’s Appearance
Look closely at the panels for any cracks, dents, rust spots, or fading that could indicate wear and tear. Pay attention to any gaps or damage that might allow moisture or pests to enter the garage.
Finally, give the door a gentle wash with mild soap and water to remove dust or dirt that builds up over time.
2. Tighten Loose Hardware
Every time your garage door moves, vibrations cause nuts and bolts to loosen over time. If left unchecked, this can make the door noisy or even unsafe. Take time to carefully inspect the hardware that holds the system together, and tighten any loose parts properly.
3. Test the Balance of the Door
A balanced garage door operates smoothly and puts less strain on the Garage Door Openers. If a door is off-balance, the opener has to work harder, which reduces its lifespan.
You can test the balance by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door manually to about halfway. If it stays in place, the balance is good. If it quickly falls shut or shoots upward, the springs may need adjustment, and this is a job best left to a professional.
4. Inspect and Replace Rollers
Rollers are small but essential components that guide your garage door along its track. When they wear out, you may notice jerky movements or loud grinding noises.
Check them at least twice a year for cracks, chips, or wobbling. If they look damaged or no longer roll smoothly, replacing them promptly ensures quiet and consistent operation.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
Friction is one of the main enemies of your garage door system. Without proper lubrication, metal parts rub against each other, wearing down more quickly and creating unnecessary noise.
A silicone-based spray or garage door oil works well for hinges, springs, bearings, and roller parts. Keeping these areas lightly lubricated allows the door to glide smoothly and prevents premature wear.
6. Check Cables and Springs
The cables and springs on your garage door carry most of the weight, making them some of the most critical components.
If you notice fraying cables, stretched springs, or visible gaps in the coils, it is a sign that the system is under strain. Because these parts are under high tension, attempting to fix them on your own is dangerous. Instead, contact a trained technician to handle repairs or replacements safely.
7. Clean and Clear the Tracks
The tracks guide the garage door’s movement, and keeping them clean helps the door operate properly.
Dust, debris, and small obstructions can build up inside, causing misalignment or jerky movements. Wiping the tracks with a damp cloth every so often is enough to prevent problems. Avoid applying heavy lubricants to the tracks, as oil and grease tend to attract dirt that creates more buildup.
8. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even with regular care, there are some aspects of garage door maintenance that only a professional can handle properly.
A yearly service visit frees your mind from stress and ensures that everything is tuned, balanced, and safe. Trained technicians can make accurate adjustments to springs and ensure your opener is running efficiently. This small step each year can extend the lifespan of your door and reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns.
Keep Your Garage Door in Top Shape
Your garage door not only protects your home but also adds to the curb appeal and makes daily life more convenient. By following this maintenance checklist, you can extend its lifespan and avoid unexpected repair costs.
At GoPro Garage Doors, we provide expert maintenance, repair, and installation services to keep your garage door performing at its best. Call us today and let our experienced team help you keep your garage door running like new.