Your garage door is meant to last 15 to 20 years, but that doesn’t mean that regular maintenance checks aren’t required. The best times of year to inspect your garage door are during the summer and winter, since the extreme heat and cold in these two seasons can result in warping and other mechanical issues.

As the area’s oldest garage door company Felluca Overhead Door in Rochester, NY, has more than 100 years of experience with garage door repairs and maintenance. Their experts have shared five tips for keeping your exterior door operating smoothly this summer:

• Inspect the Hardware: Look closely at the hardware of your garage door both when it’s closed and when it’s in operation. Is your track misaligned? Are any pieces warped? Check the springs for signs of rust, as well as hinges that might need to be tightened and bolts that need to be replaced.
• Wash Your Door: Think of all the grime that has built up on your exterior door over the past few months. Give your home a facelift by using a mild detergent and warm water to wash away dirt, grime, and lubricant.
• Give It a Fresh Coat of Paint: Did washing your garage door inspire you to go the extra mile? It’s amazing what a new coat of paint will do to increase the curbside value of your home. You can choose to either freshen up your existing color or go for an entirely new look with a contrasting hue.
• Lubricate Your System: A well-oiled garage door won’t screech whenever it’s opened or closed. Make sure to use a three-in-one oil (never grease) to lubricate your hardware. Remember not to overdo it; too much lubrication is like a magnet for dirt and grime to cling to.
• Check Seals for Proper Insulation: A well-insulated garage door will help keep your air conditioning from escaping outside this summer, thus helping to lower your utility bills and keep your home cool. Check along the edges for any weather stripping that appears to be either frayed, broken, or somehow letting in air.

Family-owned and -operated for more than three generations, Felluca Overhead Door features a wide inventory and short turnaround time for new stock. Visit their website to see why they’ve been in business for more than 100 years. If you’re in need of garage door repair, get a free quote by calling (585) 467-2391.