2023-12-20 6 min read
Regular maintenance is the key to a long-lasting, trouble-free garage door. Just like your car, your garage door system needs periodic attention to perform at its best. This comprehensive checklist will help you keep your door in top condition throughout the year.
These simple visual inspections can catch problems early:
Every three months, perform these maintenance items:
Apply a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant to: - Rollers (except nylon rollers) - Hinges, Tracks (lightly) - Springs, Bearing plates
Pro Tip: Avoid WD-40 as your primary lubricant.it's a cleaner, not a lubricant.
Vibration can loosen bolts and screws over time: - Tighten all bracket bolts, Check hinge screws, Secure track mounting bolts, Inspect roller brackets
Twice a year, typically in spring and fall:
Photo Eye Test: 1. Close the garage door 2. Wave an object in front of the photo eyes 3. The door should stop and reverse 4. Clean photo eye lenses with a soft cloth
Force Test: 1. Close the door 2. Place a 2x4 flat on the ground in the door's path 3. The door should reverse upon contact 4. Adjust force settings if necessary
1. Disconnect the opener by pulling the release cord 2. Manually lift the door halfway 3. Release the door.it should stay in place 4. If it falls or rises, the springs need adjustment
Once a year, have a professional technician: - Inspect and adjust spring tension, Check cable condition and alignment, Test opener force and limit settings, Lubricate hard-to-reach components, Perform comprehensive safety testing, Assess overall system condition
- Clean tracks before wet season, Check weather seals before rain begins, Lubricate all moving parts, Test opener battery backup
- Keep tracks clear of ice and debris, Check photo eyes after storms, Monitor for increased friction in cold weather, Clear snow from door path
- Deep clean door surfaces, Inspect for winter damage, Schedule professional tune-up, Check for pest infiltration
- Inspect for heat-related warping, Clean and lubricate before vacation, Test safety features, Check insulation integrity
Contact a professional immediately if you notice: - Broken or frayed cables, Gaps in spring coils, Door off track, Opener making grinding noises, Door not responding to opener
At Garage Door Kent, we offer comprehensive maintenance packages that include all the professional services your door needs. Regular professional maintenance can extend your door's life by years and prevent costly emergency repairs.
Call us at (253) 600-3094 to schedule your annual tune-up today!