When winter arrives, your garage door becomes more vulnerable to issues caused by cold temperatures, snow, and ice. Performing seasonal garage door maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also improves safety, insulation, and energy efficiency. To help you prepare, here’s a complete checklist for winter readiness.
1. Inspect and Tighten Hardware
Over time, frequent use can loosen nuts, bolts, and screws. As part of your garage door maintenance, check all hardware, including brackets, hinges, and track supports. Tightening them ensures your door stays aligned and operates smoothly during the winter months.
2. Check and Replace Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping keeps cold air and moisture out of your garage. Inspect the seal at the bottom of your door for cracks, gaps, or brittleness. Replacing worn weatherstripping is an essential garage door maintenance step for keeping your garage warmer and your energy bills lower.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold weather can make rollers, hinges, and springs stiff. Lubricating these parts with a silicone-based product is a key garage door maintenance task to prevent strain on your opener and keep the door operating quietly.
4. Test the Door Balance
A properly balanced garage door requires less effort to open and close. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway—if it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need professional adjustment. This is one of the most important garage door maintenance checks to avoid costly repairs.
5. Inspect Cables and Springs
Cold temperatures can make metal components brittle. During your garage door maintenance, look for frayed cables, rust, or corrosion. Since these parts are under high tension, always leave repairs to a trained technician.
6. Clean the Tracks
Dirt and ice buildup can cause your door to stick or become misaligned. Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and ensure they’re free from obstructions. This step in garage door maintenance helps extend the life of your system.
7. Check the Garage Door Opener
Test the auto-reverse safety feature to ensure it works correctly. Replace the remote batteries and consider upgrading to a smart opener for better performance in cold weather.
8. Improve Insulation
Insulated doors make a big difference in winter comfort. If your door isn’t insulated, adding insulation panels is a great garage door maintenance upgrade to improve energy efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Performing garage door maintenance before winter is the best way to prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve safety, and maintain your home’s curb appeal. A little preparation now will keep your garage door running smoothly all season long.
If you’re unsure about any step, contact a professional garage door service for a thorough inspection and tune-up before the first snowfall.
