Casey CartwrightGiving your garage door a little attention can prevent costly repairs and extend its lifespan. Follow along to learn the essential do’s and don’ts of garage door maintenance, helping you keep it running smoothly for years to come.
What You Should Do
An Impulse Research survey showed that 55% of Americans spend one to two hours each week in their garage. With this constant activity, regular maintenance is crucial to keeping everything running smoothly. These simple tasks can help you with your home care routine and ensure your garage stays in peak condition.
Do: Inspect It Regularly
Routine checks are a great way to stay on top of home maintenance. About once a month, take a few minutes to look over your garage door. Check the rollers, cables, springs, and pulleys for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or rust. While the door is in motion, listen for any unusual
noises, such as grinding or scraping, which could indicate a problem. A quick visual and auditory check can help you catch minor issues before they become major headaches.
Do: Test the Safety Features
Modern garage doors come equipped with essential safety features that require regular testing. To test the sensors and safety features, place an object (like a roll of paper towels) in the door’s path. When you try to close the door, it should immediately reverse.
What You Should Not Do
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do. Steer clear of these common mistakes to prevent damage and ensure your safety.
Don’t: Ignore Warning Signs
Before it has a total mechanical problem, your garage gives you signs that it needs maintenance. If your garage door starts making strange noises, moves unevenly, or seems slower than usual, don’t ignore it. These are often early warning signs of a bigger problem. Postponing a simple repair can lead to more extensive and expensive damage down the road.
Don’t: Attempt Complex Repairs Yourself
While routine cleaning and lubrication are great DIY tasks, some repairs are best left to the professionals. The springs and cables on your garage door are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if handled improperly. Always call a qualified garage door technician for these types of repairs.
Don’t: Neglect Professional Servicing
Even with regular home maintenance, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year. A trained technician can perform a comprehensive inspection, make necessary adjustments, and spot potential problems that you might miss. Think of it as a check-up for your garage door, ensuring everything is working safely and efficiently.
Keep Your Garage in Great Shape
Caring for your garage door is a straightforward way to protect your investment and maintain your home’s safety and security. Following these simple dos and don’ts for garage maintenance helps you continue through your day without the headache of major maintenance problems. A little bit of care goes a long way in preventing unexpected issues and giving you peace of mind.
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