Garage doors are an important part of keeping your home safe and secure. If you want to keep your garage doors looking good and lasting for years, proper maintenance is key. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your garage door in top condition. Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Wash and lubricate gears
If you’ve noticed that your garage door is beginning to look dull or grimy, it’s time to give it some much-needed attention. Washing and lubricating your garage door can help ensure its smooth operation and improve the look of your home. First, start by cleaning the outside of the door. You can use a mild soap, a rag, or a soft brush to avoid damaging or scratching your garage door’s paint. Thoroughly clean the interior and exterior to remove grime, dirt, and mold. If there’s rust and corrosion, a light sanding might be necessary. Don’t forget to lubricate the moving parts; the recommended lubricant is usually silicone lubricant.
2. Inspect your doors
Check the door for any signs of damage or wear-and-tear that could cause it to malfunction over time. Open and close your garage door several times to listen for creaking or loud noises. Any unusual noises could be a sign of damage, a component issue, or a malfunction. Check the doors for rust, dents, mold, and cracks; regardless of how small they seem to be, they must be fixed or replaced.
3. Check the tracks and hardware
Check the tracks for any bends or dents that could be causing problems with the door’s operation. Also, check all the hardware and rollers for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or loose screws. Look for stuck hinge pins as well as damaged, loose, crooked, or broken hinges. The hardware and system of a garage door are complex and can be dangerous if mishandled. If you’re unsure how to handle the hardware, it’s better to seek the assistance of a professional for your safety and to protect your property from further damage.
4. Test auto-reversal features
One of the most important features of your garage door is the auto-reversal feature, which is designed to prevent injuries by reversing the garage door when it detects an obstruction in its path. To check if it’s still working properly, place an obstacle on the ground about halfway between the floor; if the door doesn’t automatically reverse, it means the photo-sensors need to be adjusted or fixed. Examine the photosensors; when they are aligned, the green LED light blinks, and when they are not, it turns red.
Maintaining your garage door is a good way to ensure that it works efficiently, lasts longer, and keeps you from incurring unexpected repair costs. Keeping all parts of your house clean is an important part of living a healthy and organized lifestyle. Also, learn how to clean your house if you have allergies. Good luck!
