When the temperatures drop and inclement weather arrives, various areas of your home become more vulnerable to damage, including the garage door. As such, it’s essential to perform a few maintenance tasks that will help encourage smooth operation all season long. The following guide explains preventative measures you can take to avoid the need for emergency garage door repair.

How to Take Care of Your Garage Door During Winter

Common Garage Door Issues In Cold Weather

Problems can arise at any time of year, but certain issues make emergency garage door repairs more common during the cold weather. For example, metal often contracts in freezing temperatures, which can cause the screws, springs, and other metallic components on your garage door to shrink and seize up.

Also, grease hardens in the cold, so if excess lubricant collects in the tracks and rollers, your door will become difficult to open and close. Watch for ice buildup along the door’s base, as well. This can make the weather stripping stick to the ground, which will then get torn off once the door is raised.

How to Winterize Your Garage Door

To keep your garage door in optimal condition throughout winter, you need to apply a spray-on lubricant to all moving parts, including the rollers, springs, belts, pulleys, and hinges. Check the weather stripping for deterioration, and replace it if necessary to ensure a tight seal against harsh weather and pests.

Inspect the tracks to see if they’re completely aligned and clear of debris, and test the door’s balance to keep your garage door opener from being overworked. To do this, disconnect the door from the opener and manually raise it halfway. If it remains in position, it’s in balance.

You should also tighten the hardware and replace any worn, chipped, or cracked roller brackets. If you don’t feel comfortable doing any of these tasks, a garage door expert can assist you.

When to Schedule Garage Door Maintenance

Hiring professional help is key to preventing emergency garage door repairs and ensuring a long-lasting, efficient door system. It’s best to schedule a maintenance inspection before winter begins so your technician can make sure all the components of your door are working correctly. They’ll also be able to identify potential problems and fix minor issues before they cause a breakdown.

Turn to Automatic Garage Door Repair Service in Monroe County, NY, to make sure your garage door is ready to withstand the winter months. Backed by more than 35 years of industry experience, this locally-owned and operated company will provide high-quality solutions to eliminate any problems you notice before harsh weather conditions set in. They also offer reliable emergency garage door repairs to quickly restore peak performance. Call (585) 663-1180 to request an estimate, or visit them online for additional information on their services.