If you are looking for expert garage door maintenance tips to survive the Michigan winter, you have come to the right place. It’s February, and consequently, your garage door is working harder than any other appliance in your house to fight the deep freeze.

Most homeowners wait until the door breaks to call a pro. However, the truth is that you don’t need to be an expert to use these simple garage door maintenance tips and avoid a costly repair bill. You just need 5 minutes and this checklist.

The 5-Minute Garage Door Maintenance Tips Checklist

1. The “Listen” Test (1 Minute)

Your door will usually tell you what’s wrong before it breaks. Therefore, one of the best garage door maintenance tips is simply to listen. Stand inside your garage with the door closed and hit the opener.

  • Do you hear grinding? For instance, this metal-on-metal sound means your rollers are worn or hinges are dry.
  • Do you hear popping? This is dangerous. It often indicates a spring is binding.
  • Do you hear squeaking? Usually, this means the dry, cold air has sapped the moisture from your hinges.

2. Lubrication: Essential Garage Door Maintenance Tips

If you only follow one piece of advice from our list of garage door maintenance tips, make it this one: Put down the WD-40.

Using regular https://www.dasma.com/

WD-40 is a mistake. Specifically, it is a solvent that strips away grease and attracts salt. Instead, grab a can of Lithium-based spray grease or Garage Door Silicone Spray. Furthermore, here is where to apply it.

  • Where to spray: The metal hinges, the roller bearings, and the torsion springs.
Close up of a hand using professional garage door silicone spray to lubricate a metal roller and hinge, a key step in winter garage door maintenance.

3. The “Eye” Exam (1 Minute)

Next, give your system a visual scan.

  • Check the Cables: Look at the bottom corners. Do you see fraying?
  • Check the Springs: Additionally, look above the door. Do you see a gap in the coils?
  • Safety Warning: If you see a broken spring, do not touch it. Consequently, call a professional for [Garage Door Spring Repair] immediately.

4. Safety Reverse Test (1 Minute)

Safety is the priority in all garage door maintenance tips.

  1. First, place a roll of paper towels on the ground.
  2. Then, push the close button.
  3. Finally, when the door touches the object, it should automatically reverse. However, if it doesn’t, your opener settings are dangerous.

Conclusion

A little preventative maintenance goes a long way. By following these simple garage door maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your door, keep it running quietly, and avoid being stuck in the cold.

Door still making noise after lubrication? It might be time for a professional tune-up. We are here to help. Contact Sam’s Garage Door Service today to schedule a full 21-point safety inspection in Canton or southeast Michigan.