Maintaining your garage door is crucial for its longevity and smooth operation. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs, enhance safety, and ensure your door functions properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide, that we at AAA Action Garage Doors would like to share, on how to perform basic garage door maintenance.
What Does a Garage Door Tune Up Maintenance Include?
1) Visual Garage Door Inspection. Begin with a thorough visual inspection. Look for signs of wear and tear on the door itself, the tracks, rollers, cables, and springs. Pay attention to any rust, fraying, or misalignment. Ensure that all parts are securely attached and that nothing appears out of place or damaged.
2) Tighten Garage Door Hardware. Garage doors move up and down several times a day, which can loosen the hardware over time. Use a socket wrench to tighten bolts and screws on the brackets and the opener system. Make sure all nuts and bolts are snug but avoid overtightening, which can strip the threads.
3) Lubricate Moving Garage Door Parts. Lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of the garage door. Use a high-quality spray lubricant on the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid using grease, as it can attract dust and grime. Apply lubricant sparingly and wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. For the opener’s chain or screw, use a small amount of white lithium grease.
4) Check the Balance of Garage Door. A properly balanced garage door ensures that the opener does not have to work too hard. To check the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. Manually lift the door halfway and let go. If the door stays in place, it is properly balanced. If it falls or rises, the springs may need adjustment. This is a task best left to professionals, as adjusting springs can be dangerous.
5) Test the Auto-Reverse Feature. The auto-reverse feature is a critical safety mechanism that prevents the door from closing if it encounters an obstruction. To test this feature, place a block of wood or a similar object in the door’s path. Close the door using the opener. It should reverse immediately upon hitting the object. If it doesn’t, adjust the auto-reverse settings or consult a professional for assistance.
6) Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping. Weatherstripping at the bottom of the garage door keeps out water, dirt, and pests. Inspect it for cracks or wear and replace it if necessary. To replace weatherstripping, remove the old strip, clean the surface, and attach the new strip according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure it forms a tight seal when the door is closed.
7) Clean Garage Door Tracks. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks, causing the door to operate unevenly. Clean the tracks using a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner. Avoid using a lubricant on the tracks, as this can cause the rollers to slip. Instead, ensure they are clean and free of obstructions.
8) Test the Garage Door’s Operation. After completing all the maintenance tasks, test the door’s operation by opening and closing it several times. Listen for any unusual noises and observe the door’s movement. It should operate smoothly without jerking or sticking.
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
Regular garage door maintenance is essential for ensuring safety and extending the lifespan of your door. By performing these basic maintenance tasks, you can prevent common issues and keep your garage door functioning efficiently. However, for more complex repairs or if you encounter any significant problems, it’s best to consult a professional technician. Regularly scheduled maintenance will save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run. For garage door services, such as installation, replacement, repairs, or maintenance, in the Las Vegas Valley, call AAA Action Garage Doors.
