From pruning the landscaping to scheduling HVAC maintenance, summer’s the perfect time to take care of the home improvement projects on your to-do list. One of the most important boxes to tick off is addressing the garage door, which protects your home and greatly contributes to the overall property value. Performing these regular maintenance tasks will help prolong its life span.

How to Protect Your Garage Door

1. Perform an Inspection

Using a flashlight, look for obvious damage such as loose hinges, misaligned tracks, frayed cables, or missing bolts. If your garage door has photoelectric eyes, test the automatic reverse feature by setting the door to close and then waving something in front of the sensor. If it fails, wipe the sensors with a clean rag, and call a repair professional to perform an inspection to ensure your family’s safety.

2. Apply Lubrication

When not properly lubricated, residential garage doors make loud screeching noises and become more susceptible to breaking down. Lubrication helps, but don’t use oil, as it can lead to the buildup of dust and debris. Using a lithium-based grease, spray all moving parts, including the rail, springs, rollers, and hinges, to keep the garage door operating smoothly.

3. Wash

Over time, dirt buildup and grease can accumulate on your garage door. Grab a cloth or sponge and clean the windows and door surface off using water and a mild detergent. Rinse off with a hose. For stubborn stains, spot clean them with a mixture of bleach and water.

4. Reinforce the Garage Door

This is especially crucial for homes that may experience harsh storms. For doors that open automatically, for example, you may need a garage door opener reinforcement bracket to withstand strong winds. It may also be wise to install steel reinforcement struts, especially on wide doors that have a lot of surface area. These parts should be installed by professionals, as they’ll know how to properly recalibrate the door to compensate for these new parts. 

 

Taking these precautions helps keep your garage door protected, but when problems do occur, call the experts at Felluca Overhead Door in Rochester, NY. For the past 100 years, they’ve grown to become the area’s leading company for a variety of garage door services, and their team of experts can diagnose any issues you may have and provide the timely and reliable solution you need. Schedule a quote by calling (585) 467-2391 or learn more about their products and services online.