After a long, cold winter, garage doors sustain their fair share of damage. Cold temperatures can cause the door’s springs to break, while melted snow can result in water damage and malfunction to some of its mechanical parts. When you take on house maintenance projects this spring, don’t forget about the garage door.

3 Tips for Springtime Garage Door Maintenance 

1. Check for Snow & Ice Damage

Snow that builds up around metal garage doors in the winter can cause their panels, hinges, and bolts to rust, which can undermine the door's appearance and functionality. You can handle the problem by scrubbing away rust buildup with solvents and then sanding, priming, and repainting the door. However, the finish on wood might start to crack and peel from prolonged exposure to snow and ice. To fix this problem, you can refinish the door and coat it with a water-resistant protectant. In cases where rust corrosion is extensive or water has warped the panels and frames, you’ll need a professional to perform repairs or replace the garage door altogether.

2. Lubricate the Garage Door

Cold winter temperatures can cause the lubricants around the garage door’s moving parts to change consistency. When this happens, the garage door might become more difficult to open and its parts will wear out faster. You’ll know there is a problem when you start to hear screeching or groaning sounds coming from the door when you try to open it. After clearing away dirt and grime, lubricate the springs, metal rollers, pulleys, hinges, and bearings to keep the door operating smoothly; since the garage door can be a heavy mechanism, this job is best left to the professionals.

3. Assess the Door Balance

Winter weather can also warp or corrode the tracks, making them imbalanced and hard to operate. To test it, pull the release handle of the opener and manually raise the door half-open. The door should be able to keep its position without any assistance. If it doesn’t remain in place, the door is imbalanced or the spring needs to be changed, and you’ll need to hire a professional to resolve the problem.

Restore your garage door after a long, harsh winter with the help of the professionals at Southside Garage Door. With over 25 years of experience, they can repair your openers, overhead doors, and springs. Call (651) 423-7444 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.