Spring is the perfect time to give your home a refresh—including your garage door. After months of exposure to winter’s harsh weather, your garage door may need some extra care to ensure it operates smoothly and safely. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your garage door. Follow these essential spring garage door maintenance tips to keep your door in top shape.
1. Inspect Your Garage Door for Winter Damage
Winter can take a toll on your garage door, leading to issues like rust, warping, or worn-out parts. Take a close look at the following:
✔ Door Panels: Look for dents, cracks, or warping caused by fluctuating temperatures.
✔ Weather Stripping: Check for cracks or gaps in the rubber seal at the bottom of the door. If it’s brittle or damaged, replace it to prevent pests, dust, and moisture from entering.
✔ Springs & Cables: Look for signs of wear or fraying, as extreme cold can weaken these components.
Tip: If you notice broken springs or cables, do not attempt to fix them yourself—these parts are under high tension and can be dangerous.
2. Clean the Door & Tracks
Spring cleaning isn’t just for the inside of your home. Your garage door collects dirt, road salt, and grime throughout the winter, which can impact its performance.
🧽 How to Clean Your Garage Door:
- Use a mild detergent mixed with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the door panels.
- Rinse thoroughly with a hose and dry with a microfiber cloth.
- For metal doors, apply a coat of car wax to protect against rust and fading.
🛠 How to Clean the Tracks:
- Wipe down the inside of the tracks with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
- Use a vacuum attachment to clear out any hard-to-reach buildup.
- Avoid using lubricants on the tracks, as they can attract dust and grime.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication keeps your garage door operating smoothly and quietly. Apply a high-quality silicone-based lubricant to the following areas:
✅ Rollers – Apply a small amount to metal rollers (skip this step if you have nylon rollers).
✅ Hinges – Lubricate the pivot points to prevent squeaking.
✅ Springs – A light coating helps prevent rust and improves movement.
✅ Bearings – Helps reduce friction and wear.
Tip: Avoid using WD-40, as it can attract dirt and lead to buildup over time.
4. Test Safety Features
A properly functioning garage door should have built-in safety features to prevent accidents. Perform these simple tests to ensure everything is in working order:
🔘 Auto-Reverse Test: Place a small object (like a roll of paper towels) under the door and close it. If the door doesn’t reverse upon contact, the sensors may need adjustment or cleaning.
🔘 Photo Eye Sensor Test: Wave an object (like a broomstick) in front of the sensors while the door is closing. It should immediately stop and reverse. If it doesn’t, clean the sensors and check for alignment issues.
5. Check the Balance of Your Garage Door
A well-balanced garage door reduces strain on the opener and prevents uneven wear. To test the balance:
1️⃣ Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (usually a red cord).
2️⃣ Manually lift the door halfway and let go.
3️⃣ If the door stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises quickly, the springs may need adjustment.
Warning: If your door is out of balance, call a professional. Adjusting the springs yourself can be dangerous.
6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
While regular DIY maintenance helps keep your garage door in great shape, an annual professional inspection ensures all components are working properly. A trained technician can:
- Tighten loose bolts and hardware
- Check for hidden wear and tear
- Perform necessary safety adjustments
If you need a professional garage door inspection, State Line Garage Doors is here to help!