You might be surprised to learn that the average home in the United States now costs over $350,000. This number is projected to rise even higher in the future.
Although owning a home is a reliable way to control your housing costs, you’ll need to set aside money for home maintenance tasks, such as ordering replacement parts for your garage. While this type of home care might seem difficult, it’s easier than you anticipate.
We’ve put together a quick guide full of the necessary garage maintenance tips. Let’s get started with everything you need to know.
Clean the Tracks
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your garage door is to regularly clean the tracks. Over time, dirt, grease, and other debris can build up on these tracks, causing your door to become stuck or fall off the tracks entirely.
You can easily clean the tracks with a rag or brush. Just be sure to remove any grease or oil buildup, as this can cause the tracks to become slippery.
Tracks that are too lubricated can move too quickly while the door closes. This could lead to property damage or injury.
Inspect the Rollers and Hinges
While you’re cleaning the tracks, take a close look at the rollers and hinges. These are two of the most important parts of your garage door, and they can wear out as time goes on.
If you notice any damage, such as cracks or chips, be sure to acquire replacement parts. Eventually, this damage will become worse and lead to breakage.
Check the Springs
The springs are an integral part of your garage door that you should never neglect.
If you notice that your door isn’t opening or closing as smoothly as it used to, there’s a good chance that the springs need to be replaced. However, be sure to call a professional to handle your garage door spring repair, as springs can be dangerous if not done correctly.
Due to the tension in the springs, they can cause serious injuries to unwary homeowners who attempt to replace them.
Lubricate the Parts
Once you’ve finished inspecting and cleaning all of the parts of your garage door, it’s time to lubricate them. This will help to keep everything running smoothly and prevent any future damage. Use a lubricant that’s specifically designed for garage doors, such as WD-40.
However, be sure to avoid using too much lubricant, as this can attract dirt and debris. Ironically, this will then make the parts operate less efficiently.
Replace the Weatherstripping
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it’s a good idea to regularly replace the weatherstripping on your garage door. Over time, this material can become brittle and cracked, allowing cold air or moisture into your home. If left unchecked, this can cause serious damage to your door.
Tighten the Door’s Hardware
Another simple maintenance task you can do to keep your garage door in top condition is to regularly tighten the hardware.
This includes the screws, hinges, and bolts that hold everything together. Over time, these parts can become loose, which can cause your door to malfunction.
Inspect the Door Panels
Regularly inspect your door panels for damage. If you notice any cracks, chips, or other damage, be sure to replace these as soon as possible. Broken or damaged panels can cause your door to become stuck or fall off the tracks entirely.
The good news is that staying vigilant can help you resolve this issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
Test the Door
After you’ve finished all of your maintenance tasks, it’s time to test the door to make sure everything is working correctly. Open and close the door a few times to see if it’s running smoothly. If you notice any issues with the door’s operation, be sure to investigate them right away.
What Are Common Issues With Garage Door Maintenance?
One of the most common issues with garage doors is that they become noisy over time. If you notice that your door is starting to creak or grind when you open it, there’s a good chance that the rollers or hinges need to be replaced.
Another common issue is that the door doesn’t close all the way, leaving a gap at the bottom. This is usually due to a problem with the sensor. If you notice this, be sure to check the batteries first.
If they’re not the issue, then you’ll need to call a professional for garage door repair.
What Are the Dangers of Neglecting Garage Door Maintenance?
If you neglect to properly maintain your garage door, it can lead to a number of problems.
For one, it can become increasingly difficult to open and close the door. Additionally, the door may start to fall off the tracks. Neglecting to replace worn-out parts can cause the door to completely break down, leaving your home vulnerable to weather and pests.
As you might guess, a garage door that doesn’t operate correctly can also put you at risk of injury. So, it’s important to take garage door maintenance seriously.
Home Maintenance Is Easier Than It Seems
By following these simple home maintenance tips, you can keep your garage door in good working condition for years to come. Remember, however, that it’s always best to call a professional if you’re unsure about how to complete any of these tasks.
Looking for other useful info about homeownership? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.
