You probably wouldn’t keep driving your car day after day if the engine light was flashing. Nor would you continue eating food from a refrigerator with no power. Your garage door is a large, moving part that deserves to be looked after—especially because it can affect the safety of your loved ones.

Although few homeowners give their garage door much thought once it’s installed, this equipment requires regular maintenance. In addition to ensuring the door opens and closes when needed, basic upkeep can prevent costly repairs and extend its lifespan. Plus, a neglected garage door poses a hazard to you and your family, which means maintaining it is an essential safety measure.

If you want to make sure your garage door is safe, easy to use and remains in good condition, here are 11 maintenance tips to follow.

1. Be vigilant

A simple way to avoid major problems is to keep your eyes and ears open every time you use your garage door. If it doesn’t open smoothly or all the way, it’s best to address the issue immediately. Other signs of a malfunction include strange noises, such as grinding or scraping, and a slow response time.

2. Tighten the hardware

Over time, the movement of your garage door can loosen the hardware. Regularly check that the bolts and brackets are secure, especially if you hear a rattling sound when the door is in motion. Use a socket wrench to tighten components as needed. Be careful not to over-tighten them, however, as this could strip the bolts and damage the door.

3. Lubricate moving parts

Apply lithium- or silicone-based grease to the rollers, hinges, armbar and bearing plates about twice a year to keep your garage door operating smoothly and quietly. Avoid using a multi-use product like WD-40, as it will actually remove grease. Lay down a tarp to protect the floor from stains and have a rag on hand to wipe away any drips.

4. Wipe down the tracks

Dirt, grease, and dried leaves can build up along the tracks over time, blocking the door’s path and potentially causing damage. Start by vacuuming up dry, loose debris, then wipe down the entire surface with a damp rag. To remove stuck-on grime, you can use an automotive brake or grease cleaner and an old toothbrush.

5. Check the seal

If your garage door doesn’t have a tight-fitting seal, it can easily let in water, cold air, and debris. The easiest way to check the rubber seals is to stand inside your garage with the door closed. If you notice light peeking through, there’s likely a gap or break in the seal. A Creative Door Service^TM technician can help you replace or repair the component.

6. Replace the weatherstrip

To keep water, snow and ice out of your garage, make sure the weatherstrip that runs along the bottom of the door is in good condition. If the rubber is cracked or appears to be breaking off, you can pick up weatherstrip and other garage door parts at a Creative Door Service^TM location near you. Simply cut the new piece to size and insert it in the grooves beneath the door. Make sure the wide-angle of the flange is inside the door.

7. Examine the cables

If a cable snaps, it can cause the door to become unbalanced and then sag or fall shut. This is why it’s crucial to keep an eye out for rusty or frayed cables. If you notice signs of wear or damage, be sure to contact a Creative Door Services^TM team member. Repairing garage door cables can be dangerous and is a job best left to the professionals.

8. Inspect the rollers

Rollers allow your garage door to operate smoothly and quietly, so check them at least twice a year for cracks and other signs of wear. If they need to be replaced, it’s best to schedule a service call as soon as possible. Damaged rollers can lead to the opener wearing out prematurely and may even cause the door to jump the tracks.

9. Perform a balance test

An unbalanced garage door can cause the opener to fail prematurely. It may also strip the hardware and break a cable or spring. To check if your door is balanced, start by closing it and then disconnecting it from the opener. Lift the door about halfway, then carefully release it. If the door doesn’t remain in place, call a Creative Door Services^TM team member, as the springs likely need to be adjusted or replaced.

For information about how to troubleshoot a garage door that’s uneven or sagging, read our comprehensive guide on the topic.

10. Test the safety features

To prevent accidents and injuries, periodically test your garage door’s auto-reverse function. Place an object on the ground in the path of the door. When it touches the object, the door should reverse and begin to open again. You should also make sure the photo eye sensors trigger the door to reverse if anything enters its path while it’s closing.

11. Watch for water damage

If your garage door is made of wood, look for signs of water damage and rot around the trim and the bottom of the door. For steel garage doors, be on the lookout for rust spots, especially if you live in a coastal region. Use a cloth soaked in white vinegar to wipe off the rust, then thoroughly clean the door before applying paint to the exposed metal.

Garage Door Sales and Services In Western Canada

At Creative Door Services^TM, we understand that garage door maintenance might not be your top priority. That’s why we offer a hassle-free planned maintenance program for our residential clients. You can count on our certified technicians to keep your garage door in optimal condition and tackle any necessary repairs.

Contact us today to schedule a service call or request a free quote. We have locations in Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.