Garage Door Maintenance

A Comprehensive Guide

Ski Town Garage Doors

12/19/20242 min read

Essential Garage Door Maintenance Tasks

Your garage door is one of the largest moving components of your home and can experience significant wear and tear, especially in regions with cold winters like Steamboat Springs. Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation, extends the door's lifespan and maintains home security. Here's what you need to know about keeping your garage door in top condition.

1. Regular Visual Inspection

  • Examine all components seasonally for signs of wear, damage, or rust

  • Check cables for fraying or breakage

  • Look for loose or damaged hardware

  • Inspect weather stripping for cracks or deterioration

  • Watch the door's movement for any unusual behavior or sounds

2. Lubrication Maintenance

  • Apply lubricant to moving parts every 3-4 months

  • Focus on springs, rollers, hinges, and chain/belt drive

  • Use silicone-based or lithium-based lubricants specifically designed for garage doors

  • Clean off excess lubricant to prevent debris accumulation

3. Weather Seal Protection

  • Check bottom seal for gaps or damage

  • Ensure side seals are intact and properly aligned

  • Replace weatherstripping when cracked or brittle

  • Consider upgrading to cold-weather-specific seals for better insulation

  • Inspect seals regularly to prevent ice buildup in winter

4. Spring System Care

  • Listen for unusual noises during operation

  • Check for signs of rust or wear on torsion springs

  • Never attempt to adjust or repair springs without professional help

  • Schedule professional spring inspections annually

  • Be aware of your spring's estimated lifespan (typically 7-10 years)

5. Track Maintenance

  • Keep tracks clean and free of debris

  • Check for proper alignment and spacing

  • Tighten any loose bolts or brackets

  • Look for bent or damaged sections

  • Ensure rollers move smoothly within tracks

6. Balance Testing

  • Disconnect the automatic opener

  • Manually lift the door halfway

  • Door should remain in place without support

  • If door drops or rises, spring adjustment is needed

  • Perform this test every six months

7. Safety Feature Verification

  • Test auto-reverse mechanism monthly

  • Check photo eye sensors for proper alignment

  • Verify emergency release mechanism functionality

  • Test manual operation capabilities

  • Ensure all safety labels are visible and legible

8. Winter-Specific Maintenance

  • Clear ice and snow from door bottom and threshold

  • Apply cold-weather lubricant before winter season

  • Check weatherstripping for proper seal against cold air

  • Inspect hardware for rust from salt and moisture exposure

  • Consider installing a garage door heater for extreme conditions

9. Opener Maintenance

  • Test battery backup system if equipped

  • Clean and adjust chain/belt tension

  • Listen for unusual motor sounds

  • Check and replace remote batteries as needed

  • Verify proper force settings

10. Professional Service Schedule

  • Schedule annual professional inspection

  • Address repairs promptly to prevent larger issues

  • Keep maintenance records

  • Update opener software when available

  • Consider preventive part replacement based on age

Regular maintenance is particularly crucial in cold climates where temperature fluctuations, ice and moisture can accelerate wear and tear. A well-maintained garage door not only operates safely and efficiently but also helps maintain your home's energy efficiency during harsh winters.

Remember that while many maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, some repairs should only be handled by qualified professionals, particularly those involving springs, cables, and electrical components. By following these maintenance guidelines, you can extend your garage door's life, ensure reliable operation, and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Taking care of your garage door is an investment in your home's security, safety, and functionality. Make maintenance a regular part of your home care routine, and don't hesitate to contact Ski Town Doors for any issue, large or small. With proper attention and care, your garage door can provide reliable service for many years to come.