As winter’s grip loosens and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your garage and garage doors some much-needed attention. After enduring months of harsh weather, ice, and salt, your garage door system deserves a thorough check-up to ensure smooth operation throughout the warmer months ahead. Here’s how to prepare your garage and doors for spring, with expert advice from Great Garage Doors.
Inspect and Clean Your Garage Door
Start with a visual inspection of your garage door. Look for:
- Visible damage to panels
- Rust spots or corrosion
- Loose or damaged hardware
- Weatherstripping that’s cracked or pulling away
Once you’ve assessed the door, give it a thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent with water to wash away winter grime, salt residue, and debris that can cause premature wear. Don’t forget to rinse thoroughly to prevent soap residue from attracting dirt.
Check the Mechanical Components
Your garage door’s moving parts need regular maintenance to function properly:
- Lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks with a silicone-based lubricant
- Tighten any loose bolts or screws (but don’t overtighten)
- Check that tracks are properly aligned and free of debris
- Test the balance of your door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting it halfway – it should stay in place without rising or falling
Test Safety Features
Safety should always be a priority with garage doors:
- Check photo-eye sensors by passing an object between them while the door is closing
- Test the auto-reverse feature by placing a piece of wood where the door meets the ground
- Ensure the emergency release handle is accessible and functioning
Organize Your Garage Space
Spring is the ideal time to declutter and organize your garage:
- Remove items stored against walls during winter
- Check for signs of pests that may have sought shelter
- Consider adding storage solutions to keep the floor clear
- Clean up any automotive fluid spills that may have occurred
When to Call the Professionals
While DIY maintenance is valuable, some issues require expert attention. Contact Great Garage Doors if you notice:
- Unusual noises during operation
- Door that’s significantly off-balance
- Damaged panels or extensive rust
- Opener that’s struggling or unreliable
For professional garage door maintenance, repairs, or installation, call Great Garage Doors:
- Mahoning: 330-743-7437 / 330-757-3000
- Trumbull: 330-392-4040