Winter in Livonia, Michigan, can be brutal. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home. One often overlooked area that needs attention before the cold sets in is your garage door. Trust me, dealing with faulty garage doors in Livonia Michigan during the dead of winter is the last thing you want. Let’s dive into the top garage door issues you should fix before winter arrives and why it’s so important.
1. Worn-Out Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping keeps the cold air out and the warm air in. Over time, it can become cracked or brittle, losing its effectiveness. When this happens, cold drafts can enter your garage, making it harder to keep your home warm and increasing your energy bills. Inspect the weatherstripping and replace it if it looks worn out. This simple fix can make a big difference in keeping your garage—and your home—cozy.
2. Misaligned Tracks
Your garage door rides on metal tracks. If these tracks become misaligned, your door won’t open or close smoothly. This not only puts extra strain on the door opener but can also cause the door to get stuck. In the winter, a stuck garage door can be a major hassle. Make sure the tracks are straight and properly aligned. If they’re not, you might need a professional to adjust them.
3. Broken Springs
Garage door springs do a lot of heavy lifting. They help the door open and close with ease. If a spring breaks, your garage door can become very difficult—or impossible—to open. Given the freezing temperatures in Livonia, you don’t want to be stuck outside wrestling with a heavy garage door. Check the springs for signs of wear and tear. If they look worn out or damaged, have them replaced before winter hits.
4. Noisy Operation
A noisy garage door can be more than just an annoyance. It can be a sign that something is wrong. Squeaks, rattles, and grinding noises often indicate that parts need lubrication or that components are wearing out. Addressing these noises can prevent bigger problems down the line. Lubricate the moving parts and tighten any loose bolts. If the noise persists, it’s time to call a professional.
5. Faulty Sensors
Modern garage doors have sensors that prevent them from closing if something is in the way. These sensors can become dirty or misaligned, causing the door to malfunction. This can be particularly problematic in winter when ice and snow can block the sensors. Clean the sensors and make sure they’re properly aligned. This will ensure your garage door operates safely and reliably.
6. Frayed Cables
The cables that lift your garage door are under a lot of tension. Over time, they can become frayed or worn. If a cable snaps, it can cause the door to fall suddenly, which is both dangerous and inconvenient. Inspect the cables for any signs of wear and replace them if necessary. This is not a DIY job—call a professional to handle it safely.
7. Weak Garage Door Opener
An old or weak garage door opener can struggle to lift the door, especially in cold weather. If your opener is slow or noisy, it might be time for a replacement. A new opener can make your garage door more reliable and easier to use. Plus, modern openers often come with extra features like smartphone connectivity, which can be a nice bonus.
8. Unbalanced Door
An unbalanced garage door puts extra strain on the opener and other components. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, you need to adjust the springs. This is another task best left to professionals.
9. Dirty or Damaged Rollers
Rollers help your garage door move smoothly along the tracks. If they’re dirty or damaged, they can cause the door to bind or get stuck. Clean the rollers and check for signs of wear. If they’re damaged, replace them. Smooth rollers will help your door operate quietly and efficiently.
10. Malfunctioning Auto-Reverse
The auto-reverse feature stops the door from closing if it hits an obstacle. Test this feature by placing an object in the door’s path and closing it. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, fix this safety issue right away. It could be a sign of a problem with the sensors or the opener itself.
Why Fix These Issues Now?
Addressing these issues before winter hits is crucial. Cold weather can make existing problems worse and create new ones. A well-maintained garage door is more reliable, safer, and can help keep your home warm. Plus, fixing problems now can save you money on emergency repairs later.
Winter in Livonia can be tough, but a little proactive maintenance can make a big difference. Don’t wait until the snow flies to start thinking about your garage door. Tackle these issues now and enjoy a trouble-free winter.
Ready to get started? Give Rocket Exteriors a call for all your garage door repair needs. They’ll help you keep your garage door in top shape, so you can stay warm and safe this winter. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact Rocket Exteriors today!