Frozen doors are an everyday hassle for Midwesterners in winter. The garage door, in particular, is susceptible to freezing as it’s directly exposed to the elements and is likely not as warm as the rest of the home. Rather than accepting your fate, try to prevent a frozen garage door this winter with these tips.

How to Prevent It

The first step to prevent a garage door from freezing is to make the interior warmer. Insulation is the best way to do so, as it requires no additional energy. Have a professional insulate the door itself and add plastic covers to windows for extra insulation. You may also consider adding a ductless heating system, such as a space heater, to warm the room when snow is in the forecast.

Table salt is another way to prevent freezing. Sprinkle a liberal amount along the perimeter of the door where the seal touches the concrete floor, both on the outside and inside. The remedy works just like road salt to prevent ice from forming.

The garage door seal is designed to provide insulation and prevent moisture and air from entering the interior. But with time and exposure to the elements, it will eventually deteriorate. Before winter, inspect it to ensure it’s in good condition. If it is cracked or torn, replace it. You can also add a waterproof lubricant for added protection.

How to Fix It

If the door is already frozen, don’t try to force it open. This could break the bar’s connecting motor, resulting in a much more significant and costly issue. If the door breaks, a professional will have to weld it back together. Instead, try the garage door opener a few times to see if it will ease open.

If it still doesn't open, look for the source of the problem. Remove any ice and snow you can see as this may be obstructing the door. If there’s a significant amount of ice, however, don’t try to break up large chunks or scrape at the door as this can lead to damage. Instead, call a professional for help.

C & C Garage Door and Services, LLC is Middletown, OH’s go-to for garage door maintenance and repairs. If you need assistance with a frozen or damaged door this winter, turn to these professionals for fast, reliable service. In addition to a range of affordable, quality products and trustworthy garage door services, they also fix and install roofing and windows. Call (513) 423-6205 to speak with a friendly team member or visit their website to learn more about all they have to offer.