Summer in Livonia, Michigan, is a time for barbeques, pool parties, and trips to the lake. But while you’re enjoying the sunshine, don’t forget about your garage door. Come winter, the last thing you want is a door that’s stuck, squeaky, or outright broken. Summer is the perfect time to address these issues. Trust me, a little maintenance now can save you a lot of trouble later. Here are some tips to get your garage door in Livonia Michigan in top shape before the cold sets in.
Give It a Once-Over
First things first, inspect your garage door. This doesn’t have to be a major project. Just take a good look at the door and its components. Check for any visible damage or wear and tear. Are there any dents or cracks? Do the springs and cables look frayed or rusty? If something seems off, it probably is.
Listen Up!
Next, listen to your garage door. I know it sounds odd, but the sounds it makes can tell you a lot. Is it creaking, squeaking, or grinding? These noises usually signal a need for lubrication or a part that’s on its last legs. A well-maintained garage door should open and close smoothly and quietly. If it’s making a racket, it’s time to dig deeper.
Tighten Up
Over time, the nuts and bolts that hold everything together can loosen up. Grab a wrench and give all the bolts a good tightening. Focus on the roller brackets and the bolts holding the tracks in place. Just be careful not to overdo it—snug is good, but you don’t want to strip any threads.
Lubricate
A little lubrication goes a long way. Use a spray lubricant designed for garage doors and apply it to the moving parts. This includes the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using heavy grease as it can attract dirt and grime, making things worse. A light silicone spray is usually your best bet. This will help keep everything moving smoothly and reduce noise.
Check the Balance
An unbalanced garage door puts extra strain on the opener and other components, leading to premature failure. To check the balance, close the door and disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Then, manually lift the door halfway and let go. If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, you’ve got a problem. This might be a job for the pros, so don’t hesitate to call in help if you’re unsure.
Inspect the Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping on the bottom of your garage door keeps out the cold, rain, and pests. Over time, it can become cracked or brittle. Check the weatherstripping and replace it if necessary. This is a simple task that can make a big difference in keeping your garage warm and dry.
Test the Auto-Reverse
Modern garage doors have an auto-reverse feature that stops the door from closing if it detects an obstacle. Test this feature by placing an object in the door’s path and closing it. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, you need to fix this safety issue right away. This could be a sign of a problem with the sensors or the opener itself.
Clean the Tracks
Dirty tracks can cause all sorts of problems. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the tracks on either side of the door. Avoid using a lubricant on the tracks as this can cause the rollers to slip. Instead, keep them clean and free of debris. This ensures the door runs smoothly and reduces wear on the rollers.
Consider a Professional Tune-Up
While DIY maintenance can go a long way, sometimes you need a pro. A professional can spot issues you might miss and perform tasks that require specialized tools and knowledge. If your garage door is making strange noises, not opening smoothly, or if you’re just unsure about its condition, call a professional for a tune-up.
Plan for the Future
Lastly, think about the future. If your garage door is old or has needed frequent repairs, it might be time to consider a replacement. A new garage door isn’t just more reliable; it can also improve your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency.
In Livonia, winter can be harsh. The last thing you want is to be stuck dealing with a faulty garage door when the snow starts to fall. By taking care of these repairs and maintenance tasks during the summer, you’ll ensure your garage door is ready to handle whatever winter throws its way.
Ready to get started? Give Rocket Exteriors a call for all your garage door needs. They’ll help you keep your garage door in tip-top shape, so you can enjoy a hassle-free winter. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact Rocket Exteriors today!