Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entry points to your home, but it’s often overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance. Just like your car or HVAC system, your garage door needs regular care to stay in top shape. With a little preventive maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your door and opener. There are practical tips to keep your garage door running smoothly all year long that we at AAA Action Garage Doors would like to share today.
1) Inspect & Tighten Hardware
Over time, the constant movement of your garage door can loosen bolts, brackets, and roller supports. Use a socket wrench to tighten any loose bolts or screws you find along the tracks or on the roller brackets. This simple step helps reduce unnecessary wear and keeps the door stable.
2) Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication is key to smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant or garage door-specific spray to coat the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid using WD-40, as it can attract dust and grime. Lubricating every 6–12 months can minimize noise and prevent parts from seizing up.
3) Clean the Tracks
Debris and dirt can build up in the tracks, causing friction and uneven movement. Wipe down the tracks with a damp cloth, and remove any visible debris. For stubborn grime, use a mild household cleaner. Clean tracks keep your garage door gliding properly and reduce wear on the rollers.
4) Check the Balance
An unbalanced garage door strains the opener and can lead to premature failure. To test the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may be worn or unbalanced. In this case, call a professional, spring adjustments can be dangerous.
5) Test Safety Features
Your garage door opener has built-in safety mechanisms like auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors. Place a small object, like a roll of paper towels, under the door and attempt to close it. The door should reverse immediately. Clean the photo-eye sensors with a soft cloth and make sure they’re properly aligned to ensure optimal safety.
6) Weatherstrip Inspection
Weatherstripping at the bottom of the door keeps out cold air, water, and pests. If it’s cracked or brittle, replace it to maintain energy efficiency and protect the interior of your garage.
7) Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
Even with regular at-home maintenance, it’s wise to have a garage door technician inspect your system once a year. They can spot issues you may miss and perform more technical tasks, such as adjusting spring tension and checking for motor wear.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
Taking a few minutes each season to care for your garage door can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Whether it’s lubricating the hardware or checking the balance, these small efforts go a long way. If you notice anything unusual, like jerky movement, loud grinding sounds, or a slow response, it’s best to contact a professional garage door service before the problem escalates. For superior garage door services in the Greater Las Vegas, NV Valley, call AAA Action Garage Doors.
