Garage Door Maintenance Checklist
Regular maintenance of your garage door is essential to ensure it operates smoothly and safely. Especially while enduring the elements here in Northeast Wisconsin. Here’s a checklist to help you keep your garage door in good condition:
- Visual Inspection:
- Inspect the entire door and its components for signs of wear and tear.
- Look for dents, rust, or damage to the door panels.
- Examine the weatherstripping for cracks or wear.
- Tighten Hardware:
- Check and tighten all nuts and bolts on the door and its tracks. This includes hinges, brackets, and roller brackets.
- Lubrication:
- Apply a silicone-based lubricant to all moving parts, including rollers, hinges, springs, and the opener’s chain or screw.
- Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract dust and dirt.
- Balance Test:
- Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. It should stay in place; if it doesn’t, it might be unbalanced, which can strain the opener.
- Safety Sensors:
- Test the safety sensors by placing an object in the door’s path as it closes. It should reverse immediately upon detecting an obstruction.
- Tracks and Rollers:
- Inspect the tracks for alignment and cleanliness. Misaligned tracks can cause the door to operate improperly.
- Clean the tracks and rollers and remove any debris that could impede smooth operation.
- Cables and Springs:
- Examine the lift cables for fraying, and if you notice any damage, contact a professional for replacement.
- Check the torsion springs for rust, wear, or damage. Springs are under high tension and should only be serviced by a trained technician.
- Auto-Reverse Function:
- Test the garage door’s auto-reverse feature by placing a small object on the ground in the door’s path. It should reverse when it touches the object.
- Weatherstripping:
- Replace any damaged or worn weatherstripping to maintain energy efficiency and keep out drafts and pests.
- Opener:
- Inspect the opener for signs of wear and tear.
- Make sure the emergency release handle functions properly.
- Check the drive belt or chain for tension and lubricate if necessary.
- Remote Controls:
- Test all remote controls and ensure they’re working correctly. Replace batteries if needed.
- Battery Backup:
- If your garage door opener has a battery backup, check its status and replace the battery as necessary.
- Annual Professional Inspection:
- It’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your garage door and opener annually to catch any potential issues early and ensure safe operation.
Remember to follow safety precautions when performing maintenance, and if you are not comfortable with any aspect of garage door maintenance, it’s best to call a professional technician. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your garage door and prevent costly repairs in the future.