If you’re like most homeowners, you probably use your garage door every day but rarely think about its maintenance until something goes wrong. However, regular maintenance on your garage door is crucial not just for its smooth operation but also for your family’s safety and security. Here’s why keeping up with your garage door’s maintenance is more important than you might think.
1. Ensures Safety
Garage doors are heavy and involve complex mechanisms that can pose significant safety risks if not properly maintained. Broken springs, worn-out cables, or a malfunctioning opener can cause the door to operate unsafely, which could lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Regular checks and maintenance ensure that all components are in good working order and that the door operates safely at all times.
2. Prevents Expensive Repairs
Regular maintenance can help catch minor issues before they turn into major problems. For instance, lubricating the tracks and rollers can prevent them from getting stuck, while tightening loose hardware can avoid unnecessary strain on the door’s system. Addressing these small issues promptly can extend the life of your garage door and save you from costly repairs or replacements down the line.
3. Increases Lifespan
A well-maintained garage door can last many years. By regularly checking the balance of the door, ensuring that the tracks are aligned, and replacing any worn-out parts, you help extend the lifespan of the entire system. Think of it as regular check-ups that keep your garage door healthy and functioning optimally for as long as possible.
4. Enhances Security
The garage door is often a primary entry point to the home and, as such, needs to be secure. A neglected door can become an easy target for burglars. Regular maintenance checks ensure that the locking mechanisms and opener’s security features are working correctly, which helps protect your home and belongings from theft.
5. Saves Energy
If your garage is attached to your home and your door isn’t properly maintained, you might be losing heat or cool air through gaps caused by misalignments or worn-out weather stripping. Regular maintenance ensures that the door is properly sealed and insulated, which can help reduce your energy bills and keep your home more comfortable.
6. Maintains Home Value
A garage door that looks good and functions smoothly adds to the curb appeal of your home, which is crucial if you plan to sell your property. Regular maintenance keeps your door looking and working like new, supporting your home’s overall value.
How to Maintain Your Garage Door
Regular garage door maintenance isn’t complicated, and most tasks can be done without professional help. Here are a few things you can do:
•Visual Inspection: Check for signs of wear and tear like rust, loose hardware, or frayed cables.
•Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts like springs, rollers, and hinges with a garage door lubricant.
•Balance Test: Disconnect the opener and manually open the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment.
•Reversal Test: Place an object like a piece of wood on the ground where the door would close. The door should reverse after hitting the object. If it doesn’t, the opener’s sensitivity might need adjustment.
•Cleaning: Keep the tracks free of debris and wash the door occasionally to keep it looking fresh.
Consider scheduling an annual service appointment with a professional, like AAA Garage Door Service, to handle complex tasks like spring replacement or track realignment. Regular maintenance by both you and a professional ensures that your garage door remains a reliable, functional, and safe part of your home.