Temperature Changes and Garage Door Repair: What You Need to Know

Your garage door is like a silent workhorse, faithfully opening and closing day after day. But have you ever noticed that it seems to struggle more when the weather shifts? Whether it’s the scorching heat of summer or the freezing chill of winter, temperature changes can have a significant impact on your garage door’s performance. Let’s break down how different temperatures can affect your garage door and what you can do to keep it running smoothly all year round.

1. The Impact of Summer Heat: When Your Garage Door Feels the Burn

Summer heat can do more than just make you sweat—it can also cause your garage door to act up. Here’s how:

• Metal Expansion: Most garage doors are made from metal, which expands when it gets hot. This expansion can cause the door to become misaligned or jammed, making it difficult to open and close.
• Warmer Air Inside the Garage: When your garage heats up, the air inside can cause the metal components of the door to warp or bend. This can put extra strain on the door’s opener, leading to potential breakdowns.
• What You Can Do: Consider insulating your garage door to help regulate the temperature inside. This can prevent the metal from expanding too much and reduce the strain on your opener.

2. Winter’s Chill: The Cold Hard Facts

Winter brings its own set of challenges for your garage door. Cold temperatures can cause the following issues:

• Metal Contraction: Just as metal expands in the heat, it contracts in the cold. This can cause the door’s components to shrink, leading to gaps in the tracks or misalignment of the door.
• Frozen Parts: Moisture from rain or snow can freeze on the tracks or rollers, causing the door to get stuck or move sluggishly.
• Brittle Springs: The cold can make the door’s springs brittle, increasing the risk of them snapping or breaking.
• What You Can Do: Keep the tracks and rollers clean and dry, and consider using a silicone-based lubricant designed for cold temperatures. This can prevent freezing and keep the door moving smoothly.

3. The Changing Seasons: How to Prepare for Spring and Fall

Spring and fall are transition seasons, where the temperature can swing from hot to cold in a matter of hours. These fluctuations can take a toll on your garage door.

• Expansion and Contraction: The constant changes in temperature can cause the metal parts of your garage door to expand and contract repeatedly. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear, making the door more prone to breakdowns.
• Moisture Buildup: The dampness of spring and fall can lead to moisture buildup on the tracks, causing rust or corrosion.
• What You Can Do: Regular maintenance is key during these seasons. Check the tracks, rollers, and springs for any signs of wear or rust, and address issues before they become serious problems.

4. The Importance of Regular Maintenance: A Little TLC Goes a Long Way

No matter the season, regular maintenance is essential to keep your garage door in top shape. Here are a few simple steps you can take:

• Inspect the Door: Take a few minutes each month to visually inspect the door and its components. Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or wear and address them promptly.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Regularly lubricate the tracks, rollers, and springs to keep everything moving smoothly. Use a lubricant that’s appropriate for the current season’s temperatures.
• Check the Weatherstripping: The weatherstripping around the edges of your garage door helps keep out cold air in the winter and warm air in the summer. Make sure it’s in good condition and replace it if necessary.

5. When to Call in the Pros: Don’t Wait for a Breakdown

While regular maintenance can prevent many issues, sometimes you need to call in a professional. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to get expert help:

• Unusual Noises: If your garage door is making grinding, squeaking, or rattling noises, it could be a sign of a bigger issue. A professional can diagnose and fix the problem before it leads to a breakdown.
• Difficulty Opening or Closing: If your door is struggling to open or close, it could be due to temperature-related issues like misalignment or worn-out springs. Don’t wait for the door to get stuck—get it checked out ASAP.
• Visible Damage: If you notice any dents, warping, or other visible damage to the door or its components, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

We Will Thoroughly Weatherproof Your Garage Door!

Temperature changes can have a significant impact on your garage door’s performance, but with a little maintenance and attention, you can keep it running smoothly all year round. Whether it’s the scorching heat of summer or the freezing cold of winter, taking care of your garage door can prevent costly repairs and ensure it’s always ready to go when you need it.

If you’re experiencing issues with your garage door due to temperature changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to Garage Door Pros. Give us a call at 832-734-8396 for expert advice and service. Whether it’s a simple tune-up or a more serious repair, they’ve got the know-how to keep your garage door in tip-top shape, no matter the weather!