As winter approaches, it's important to ensure your garage door is in top condition to handle the cold temperatures, snow, and ice that can take a toll on your door and opener. Preparing your garage door for winter not only helps prevent unexpected breakdowns but can also improve energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of your door. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to winterize your garage door and ensure it operates smoothly throughout the colder months.
1. Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold temperatures can cause garage door components, such as springs, rollers, and hinges, to stiffen up and operate less smoothly. Regular lubrication is key to preventing this.
How to Lubricate Your Garage Door:
Springs: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the garage door springs. These are the most tension-filled parts of the door and can seize up in freezing temperatures.
Rollers and Tracks: Use a lubricant designed for garage doors to keep the rollers and tracks operating smoothly. Avoid using WD-40, as it is not designed for long-term lubrication and can attract dirt and grime.
Hinges and Pulleys: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the hinges and pulleys to ensure easy movement.
2. Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping along the bottom and sides of your garage door helps seal out drafts, moisture, and debris. Over time, weatherstripping can become brittle or damaged, leaving your garage vulnerable to cold air.
How to Check and Replace Weatherstripping:
Inspect the rubber weatherstripping: Look for cracks, tears, or gaps in the weatherstripping along the edges of the door.
Check the bottom seal: Ensure the bottom seal (the rubber piece at the bottom of the door) makes good contact with the floor to prevent cold air and water from seeping in.
Replace as needed: If you notice any damage or signs of wear, replace the weatherstripping with a new one designed for your specific door type. This is an affordable and easy fix to enhance energy efficiency and comfort.
3. Test the Balance of the Door
A garage door that is out of balance can put unnecessary strain on the opener and other parts, causing wear and tear, especially during the winter when the door is exposed to more stress.
How to Test and Fix the Balance:
Manual test: Disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the release cord. Then, manually raise the door halfway and let go. If the door stays in place, it is balanced. If it falls or rises further, it may be out of balance and need professional adjustment.
Professional tuning: If the door is out of balance, contact a professional to have the springs adjusted. Do not attempt to adjust the springs yourself, as they are under high tension and can be dangerous.
4. Check the Garage Door Opener and Battery Backup
Winter weather can bring power outages and disrupt your garage door opener’s function. If your opener doesn't have a battery backup, a power outage can leave you stranded outside your garage.
Steps to Prepare Your Garage Door Opener:
Test the opener: Run the opener to make sure it is functioning properly. Listen for any unusual sounds such as grinding, squeaking, or straining, which could indicate a problem that needs addressing.
Install a battery backup: If you don’t already have one, consider installing a battery backup system. This ensures your garage door opener will continue to work during power outages.
Check the photo-eye sensors: Make sure the sensors are aligned and free from dust or debris. Misaligned sensors can prevent the door from operating correctly, especially in low light conditions that are common in winter months.
5. Inspect the Cables and Springs
The cables and springs are critical components that help raise and lower your garage door. Cold temperatures can cause these parts to contract and increase the risk of snapping or breaking.
What to Check:
Inspect cables: Look for any signs of wear or fraying on the cables. These are under a lot of tension, and any damage should be addressed immediately by a professional.
Check the springs: Cold temperatures can cause springs to become brittle or break. If you notice that your garage door is slow to open, or you hear any unusual noises when the door operates, it’s a good idea to have the springs inspected by a professional.
6. Clear Snow and Ice Around the Garage Door
Snow and ice buildup can obstruct the movement of your garage door, making it difficult for the door to open or close properly.
Tips for Snow and Ice Removal:
Shovel snow: Clear away any snow or ice from around the base of the door to ensure it can open freely.
Prevent ice buildup: Use a de-icing solution on the driveway and garage entrance to prevent ice from forming around the door tracks and seals. Be cautious when using salt, as it can damage the finish on your door or driveway over time.
Install a drip edge: If snow and ice are a recurring issue in your area, consider installing a drip edge above the door to help prevent water from dripping onto the door and freezing.
7. Check the Insulation
If you have an insulated garage door, winter is the time to check that it’s still functioning as it should. An insulated door helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside the garage, preventing energy loss.
Steps to Inspect Insulation:
Check for gaps: Look for any gaps in the insulation or areas where it may have become damaged or dislodged. Properly installed insulation helps regulate temperature and reduces heating costs.
Consider upgrading: If your garage door isn’t insulated and you live in a colder climate, consider upgrading to an insulated door. This is a more energy-efficient option that can help keep your garage warmer and lower your heating bills.
8. Prepare for Emergency Situations
Winter storms can bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and power outages. Make sure you’re prepared for unexpected garage door issues.
Winter Emergency Tips:
Manual operation: Ensure you know how to operate the door manually if needed. Most garage doors have a release mechanism (a red cord) that disconnects the door from the opener, allowing you to open it by hand.
Keep the garage door opener remote in a warm place: Cold temperatures can drain the batteries of your remote opener more quickly. Keep the remote inside your home or in a pocket to prevent it from freezing.
Have a professional inspection: If you notice any issues with your door or opener that you can’t fix yourself, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection before the winter season hits. A technician can identify potential problems and address them before they become costly repairs.
Conclusion
Getting your garage door ready for winter is an essential part of home maintenance. By taking the time to lubricate moving parts, check seals, test the balance, and prepare for colder temperatures, you can ensure that your garage door operates smoothly all season long. These simple steps not only enhance the performance of your door but also help improve energy efficiency and avoid costly repairs down the road.
If you’re unsure about how to perform any of these tasks or need a professional inspection, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to help get your garage door winter-ready, so you can rest easy knowing your garage will be secure and functional throughout the season.
Call and Ask about our Maintenance Packages to prep your DOOR for you!!
252-955-7662
Comments