As the chilly months approach, preparing your garage door for winter is crucial. At The Garage Door Company, we understand the importance of keeping your garage doors in peak condition to withstand cold, damp weather, and provide you with warmth, security, and peace of mind all season long.
Whether you have roller garage doors, modern side hinged garage doors, sectional garage doors, or traditional up and over garage doors, following these expert tips will help prevent costly repairs and keep your garage fully functional throughout winter.
Inspect and Clean Your Garage Door Thoroughly
Start with a detailed inspection of your garage door to identify any visible damages, cracks, or gaps. Dirt and grime build-up can worsen with freezing temperatures, especially on insulated garage doors where seal integrity is vital.
Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the door’s surface, paying attention to all panels (for sectional garage doors) and the edges of side hinged garage doors. Clean tracks and rollers for roller garage doors should be free from debris to allow smooth operation. Need help with a professional clean? Get in touch with us today.
Lubricate Moving Parts to Keep Them Smooth
Cold weather can stiffen hinges, springs, rollers, and locks, causing strain on your door’s mechanism. Apply a silicone-based lubricant (available at most hardware stores) on all moving components for roller, sectional, and up and over garage doors. Avoid grease-based lubricants as they can attract dust and grime.
Regular lubrication will prevent squeaks and reduce the risk of mechanical failure during harsh winter conditions. For expert advice or servicing, get a quote from The Garage Door Company.
Check and Replace Weather Seals
The weather seals around your garage door serve as the first line of defence against wind, rain, snow, and frost. Over time, seals can become brittle or crack, especially on up over garage doors and insulated garage doors. Test the seal integrity by closing the door and inspecting if cold air or light passes through any edges. Damaged seals should be replaced to improve energy efficiency and prevent dampness inside your garage. Learn more about seal replacements with our specialists.
Test the Door’s Balance and Auto-Reverse Features
An unbalanced garage door puts undue strain on the opener and can be hazardous. To check balance, disconnect the automatic opener and manually lift the door. It should stay open at about three to four feet without falling or rising.
Additionally, test the safety auto-reverse function on automatic roller and sectional garage doors by placing an object in its path. If the door doesn’t reverse promptly, schedule a professional check. Safety in winter is paramount so contact us to ensure your door meets the latest safety standards.
Inspect and Tighten Hardware
Nuts, bolts, and screws can loosen over time through regular operation and temperature fluctuations. Tightening these components on side hinged garage doors and personnel garage doors will prevent rattling and maintain structural integrity during strong winds or snow loads. Use appropriate tools and check regularly throughout winter to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Need a hand? Our team is ready to assist with all garage door maintenance. Get in touch with us today.
Clear the Garage Door Tracks
For roller and sectional garage doors, clean and clear the tracks on both sides to allow smooth operation. Leaves, dirt, or ice build-up can jam the door or cause misalignment issues. Use a damp cloth and a non-abrasive brush, being careful not to bend or damage the tracks.
Regular checks before and during winter ensure your doors slide without struggle. For professional track cleaning and repairs, get a quote from The Garage Door Company.
Assess the Door’s Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Winter is the time to appreciate insulated garage doors that help keep your garage warmer and reduce heating costs. Inspect your insulated garage doors for cracks or deformities that might reduce efficiency. If your garage door lacks insulation, it may be worthwhile upgrading to insulated or modern side hinged garage doors designed for optimal thermal performance. Curious about options? Contact us for a tailored recommendation.
Protect the Door Surface from Corrosion and Damage
Wet, salty air and frost can accelerate rust and corrosion, particularly on metal roller garage doors and steel sectional garage doors. Apply a rust inhibitor or repaint any chipped areas to prevent long-term damage. Wooden side hinged garage doors also benefit from a weather-resistant finish to repel moisture. Protect your investment by scheduling a professional surface treatment with our team.
Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms can bring power cuts, leaving you locked out if you rely exclusively on electric garage doors. Consider installing a manual override feature or ensure you are comfortable with the emergency release mechanism on roller and up and over garage doors. This simple check can save you from inconvenient situations during the winter months. Need installation or guidance? Get in touch with The Garage Door Company for reliable solutions.
Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check
While many garage door maintenance tasks can be done at home, an annual professional inspection is invaluable, especially before winter sets in. Our expert team at The Garage Door Company will examine your garage door’s springs, cables, tracks, and opener systems to catch issues early. We service all types, including personnel garage doors and side hinged garage doors, ensuring safe, efficient operation throughout the colder months.
Book your winter maintenance appointment today to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Winter is coming so make sure your garage door is ready. Whether you have roller garage doors, up and over garage doors, or insulated modern side hinged garage doors, these pre-winter maintenance tips will help extend the life of your door and protect your home.
For tailored advice, expert servicing, or to get a quote on new garage doors and repairs, look on our website or get in touch with The Garage Door Company. We’re here to keep your doors operating smoothly all year round.
