A well-maintained garage door not only enhances your home’s security but also extends the lifespan of the door and its components. While many homeowners know basic maintenance tasks like lubricating moving parts or tightening loose bolts, there are some lesser-known tips that can significantly improve the performance of your garage door.Â
Here are five unique garage door maintenance tips that most homeowners overlook.
Balance Testing for Even Wear and Tear
Most homeowners do not realize that an unbalanced garage door can put excessive strain on the opener and cause premature wear on the system. To check the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord and manually lift the door halfway. If the door stays in place, it is properly balanced.Â
However, if it falls or rises on its own, the springs may need adjustment. Unbalanced doors can cause the motor to work harder, leading to expensive repairs or even complete system failure.
Cleaning and Aligning the Safety Sensors
Garage door safety sensors prevent accidents by detecting objects in the door’s path, but many homeowners neglect to clean and align them properly. Dust, cobwebs, or small debris can block the sensors, causing the door to stop unexpectedly or refuse to close. To maintain them, use a soft cloth to wipe the sensor lenses regularly.Â
Also, check if they are properly aligned—both sensors should face each other directly with no obstructions in between.Â
Inspecting and Replacing Weather Stripping
The weather stripping at the bottom of your garage door is essential for keeping out moisture, pests, and drafts, but many homeowners do not check it regularly. Over time, this seal can crack, dry out, or become loose, allowing water and air to seep inside.Â
A worn-out seal can also let in insects or rodents seeking shelter. Inspect the weather stripping every few months and replace it when you notice signs of wear. Keeping the seal intact not only protects your garage but also improves energy efficiency.
Testing the Auto-Reverse Feature
The auto-reverse feature is a crucial safety mechanism that prevents the garage door from closing on an object or person. However, many homeowners do not test it regularly.Â
To check if it is functioning correctly, place a small object like a wooden block under the door and attempt to close it. The door should reverse immediately upon making contact. If it does not, the force settings might be too high, or the sensors could be malfunctioning.Â
Professional Garage Door System Installation for Longevity
One of the most overlooked aspects of garage door maintenance is ensuring that the system was installed correctly in the first place. Poor installation can lead to alignment issues, excessive strain on the opener, and frequent repairs.Â
A professional Garage Door System Installation ensures proper spring tension, track alignment, and motor function. Investing in professional installation guarantees smooth operation, reduces the need for frequent repairs, and increases the lifespan of your garage door system.
By following these lesser-known garage door maintenance tips, homeowners can enhance the performance, safety, and longevity of their garage doors. A little extra care goes a long way in preventing costly repairs and ensuring a smoothly operating system for years to come.
