Winterize Your Garage Door!

Ready or not, winter is coming, therefore, it is critical that you take the time to ensure that your garage door is working properly. It really should only take you about thirty minutes, and you don’t have to have any special tools.

1. Check the battery in the garage door remote

On average, the battery in the garage door remote will last about one year, but make sure that you always have a spare one on hand. It won’t hurt to go ahead and change it so you’re not stranded outside.

2. Check the external keypad battery

This battery is a 9-volt. Look underneath the keypad cover for the battery compartment. You’re likely going to need a Phillips-head screwdriver to get it open. While it should last a good long time, since it’s exposed to extreme heat and cold, it should be changed on a yearly basis.

3. Check your garage door springs

In order to check the springs, you’re going to need to disable your automatic garage door opening mechanism. Then, try to open it using only one hand. If you can do it easily, everything is right where it needs to be. On the other hand, if it’s difficult, there are several things that could be wrong. However, don’t try to fix it on your own, you’ll want to contact us to fix the issue for you. They will be more than happy to help.

4. Check out the weather-stripping around the door

Take the time to make sure the weather-stripping around the door frame is working properly and is not being smashed against the door. If you notice any damage or any sun-hardened spots, you’ll need to replace it. If the weather-stripping is made of PVC, you’ll need to apply a silicone lubricant.

While you’re doing this, you’ll want to also check out the bottom weather-stripping. You can easily change this yourself by following very simple instructions from us.

5. Add lubricant to the metal parts

Now that you have checked all of that, it’s time to lubricate the metal parts: springs, tracks, and rollers. Do that by following these simple steps:

• Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any old lubricant as well as any dust that has built up.
• Choose an oil lubricant such as 10W-30 motor oil and apply it sparingly. You’ll want to wipe up the extra with a clean, dry rag.
• Never use anything like WD-40- this is not a lubricant, but a degreaser.
• Avoid using grease on the tracks- you want your rollers to roll instead of sliding in the track.

6. Check the auto-reverse mechanism on your garage door

There are two different types of automatic reversal systems:

• Photoelectric: you should see two encased units about four inches off the ground if you have this type. Simply stick your foot in front of one to break the beam while the door is closing. It should stop and then reverse- if not, the units are probably not aligned properly. Try to correct the alignment and try again.
• Mechanical: for this type of mechanism, place a two-by-four against your garage door’s threshold and press the button to close it. Once the door touches the wood, it should stop and back up. If not, look in the manual to make the proper sensitivity adjustments. On the other hand, if you have difficulty making adjustments, you’ll need to contact us immediately.

These tips for garage door maintenance will help you to avoid some big issues this winter. However, if you just don’t have the time to deal with it or if you’d rather not, you can always contact us.