Regular maintenance can prevent sudden breakdowns and keep your garage door running smoothly. Start by inspecting the hardware, including hinges, rollers, and tracks. Look for signs of wear and tighten any loose bolts or screws. A shaky or noisy door is often a sign that some parts need adjustment.
Next, lubricate moving parts like the springs, rollers, and hinges. Using a silicone-based lubricant helps reduce friction and keeps the door operating quietly. Avoid using WD-40—it’s a degreaser, not a lubricant, and can cause more harm than good.
Finally, test the garage door balance by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door manually. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may be too tight or too loose, which can strain the opener. Keeping up with these simple garage door service tasks can prevent major issues down the road.
2. Signs Your Garage Door Needs Professional Service
While some garage door maintenance tasks can be handled on your own, certain problems require a professional garage door service. One of the biggest red flags is slow or uneven movement. If your garage door hesitates, jerks, or moves unevenly, it could indicate track misalignment or spring tension issues.
Another warning sign is unusual noises. A well-functioning garage door should operate smoothly, without grinding, screeching, or banging sounds. These noises could mean worn-out rollers, loose hardware, or a failing motor.
Lastly, if your garage door won’t open or close properly, it could be due to sensor misalignment, broken springs, or an issue with the opener. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, it’s best to call a garage door repair expert before the problem worsens. Ignoring these signs can lead to costly repairs—or worse, a complete door failure.
3. How Often Should You Schedule a Garage Door Service?
Many homeowners don’t think about garage door service until something goes wrong, but regular maintenance can prevent major issues. As a general rule, a professional garage door inspection should be done at least once a year to ensure everything is in good condition.
However, if your garage door gets heavy daily use, such as in a multi-car household, you may need biannual servicing. High-traffic doors experience more wear and tear, which increases the likelihood of parts needing adjustments or replacements.
In between professional services, perform monthly self-checks to spot any issues early. Test the door’s balance, listen for strange noises, and inspect for signs of wear on cables and springs. Keeping up with routine garage door maintenance will help extend the life of your door and avoid costly repairs.
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