6 Preventive Measures for Garage Door Repairs: Keep Your Door Running Smoothly

Your garage door is a crucial part of your home, offering security, convenience, and even a bit of curb appeal. But like any other part of your house, it needs regular care to stay in good shape. By taking a few preventive steps, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your garage door running smoothly for years to come. Let’s look at some simple but effective preventive measures you can take to avoid garage door repairs.

1. Regular Inspections: Spot Issues Before They Become Big Problems

One of the easiest ways to prevent garage door issues is to regularly inspect the door and its components. Think of it like giving your car a quick once-over before a long road trip.

• Check the Tracks: Ensure that the tracks are free of debris and properly aligned. Misaligned tracks can cause the door to jam or operate unevenly.
• Inspect the Rollers: Look for any signs of wear and tear on the rollers. If they’re cracked or chipped, it’s time to replace them.
• Examine the Cables: The lift cables can fray or snap over time. If you notice any damage, call a professional to replace them immediately.

2. Lubrication: The Secret to a Smooth-Running Garage Door

Keeping your garage door’s moving parts well-lubricated is key to preventing friction and wear. A little bit of lubrication goes a long way in extending the life of your door.

• Lubricate the Tracks and Rollers: Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the tracks and rollers moving smoothly. Avoid using grease, as it can attract dirt and debris.
• Don’t Forget the Springs: The torsion springs help lift and lower your garage door. A quick spray of lubricant can help prevent them from rusting and breaking.

3. Tighten Loose Hardware: Don’t Let Things Get Loosey-Goosey

With all the up-and-down movement, it’s no surprise that the hardware on your garage door can loosen over time. Loose bolts and screws can lead to bigger problems if not addressed.

• Check and Tighten Bolts: Periodically go over all the bolts and screws on your garage door and tighten them up as needed. Pay special attention to the brackets that hold the tracks to the wall.
• Secure the Roller Brackets: The roller brackets tend to take the most wear, so make sure they’re securely fastened.

4. Test the Balance: Keep Your Door in Perfect Harmony

An unbalanced garage door can strain the opener and cause premature wear. Testing the balance of your door is a simple task that can save you from more serious repairs down the road.

• How to Test: Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Manually move the door halfway up and let go. If it stays in place, the door is properly balanced. If it moves up or down, the springs may need adjustment.
• Call a Pro for Adjustments: If your door is unbalanced, it’s best to call a professional to adjust the springs. Attempting to do this yourself can be dangerous.

5. Clean and Protect: Keep Your Door Looking Good and Operating Well

Cleaning your garage door isn’t just about aesthetics—it can also prevent damage that could lead to costly repairs.

• Wash the Door: Use a mild detergent and water to wash the door’s exterior. This removes dirt and grime that can lead to corrosion or rust.
• Inspect the Weatherstripping: The weatherstripping at the bottom of the door helps keep out moisture and pests. Check it for cracks or tears and replace it if needed.

6. Keep the Opener in Good Shape: It’s the Brains of the Operation

Your garage door opener does a lot of heavy lifting, so it’s important to give it some attention, too. A well-maintained opener can prevent unnecessary strain on your door.

• Replace Remote Batteries: If your remote is acting up, it might just need new batteries. Keep an extra set on hand, so you’re never caught off guard.
• Inspect the Safety Sensors: The safety sensors at the bottom of the door should be aligned and free of obstructions. Clean them with a soft cloth and check that they’re properly aligned.

Call Our Garage Door Repairs Team Today!

Preventive maintenance is the key to avoiding costly garage door repairs. By regularly inspecting, lubricating, and tightening the components of your garage door, you can keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself or if you encounter any issues during your inspection, don’t hesitate to call Garage Door Pros at 832-734-8396. Our expert team is ready to help you keep your garage door in top shape, so you can focus on what really matters—using it without a hitch!