Keeping your garage door in good working order is important for safety and convenience. With some basic maintenance and repairs, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. In this post, I’ll cover the essential tasks to keep your garage door running smoothly.
Inspection and Lubrication
Begin with a visual inspection of your entire door system. Check for loose or rusty hardware, frayed cables, and worn rollers or hinges. Twice a year, lubricate all moving parts like rollers, hinges, pulleys, and springs with a dry silicone spray. This helps reduce noise and prevents premature wear.
Adjust or Replace Cables
Over time, cables that open and close the door can stretch or fray. Test cable tension by lifting the door manually – it should stay in place when you let go. If it sinks rapidly, the cables need adjusting or replacing. A pro can perform this task safely.
Inspect Photo Eyes
These safety sensors are crucial, so check them monthly. Make sure they are free of dirt, grime and obstructions. Test them by blocking the beam – the door should reverse direction immediately. Replace them every 5-7 years for optimal function.
Clean and Test Opener
Vacuum dust and debris from the motor and housing. Check that the safety reverse system works by placing an object under the door as it closes. The door should stop and reverse direction smoothly. Replace your opener every 10-15 years.Over time, cables that open and close the door can stretch or fray. Test cable tension by lifting the door manually – it should stay in place when you let go. If it sinks rapidly, the cables need adjusting or replacing. A pro can perform this task safely.
Lubricate Rollers and Hinges
Apply a dry silicone lubricant spray to rollers, hinges and moving parts. This prevents squeaks and extends the life of components. Check for flat, worn or damaged rollers as well – replace as needed.Over time, cables that open and close the door can stretch or fray. Test cable tension by lifting the door manually – it should stay in place when you let go. If it sinks rapidly, the cables need adjusting or replacing. A pro can perform this task safely.
Tighten or Replace Hardware
Over time, bolts and screws can loosen due to vibration. Inspect all mounting hardware and tighten as required. Look for cracked or rusted fasteners and replace them promptly to avoid structural issues.
Inspect and Adjust Springs
Torsion springs, which balance the door weight, are under high tension. Only adjust or replace them yourself if you’re highly experienced. Otherwise, call a pro. They’ll inspect springs annually for signs of wear and set the proper tension level.
With regular maintenance like this, you can keep inconveniences like a stuck or broken garage door to a minimum. Don’t wait until a problem arises to service your system. Taking a proactive approach is easier on your schedule and your wallet in the long run. For any garage door repair needs beyond basic maintenance, contact a local professional. With a little TLC, your door will run smoothly for years to come.
