How to maintain Garage door
Last week I had to replace broken garage door springs. It costs me $400. That made me think about how to extend the life of Garage door.
Garage door basics
Your garage door and opener get used almost every day. The average residential garage door is opened and closed 3 to 5 times per day. This translates to about 1,500 cycles per year. The frequency of use significantly impacts the lifespan of the garage door and its components, particularly the torsion springs. For example, if you open and close the door twice a day, the springs might last 14 years, while opening it six times a day could shorten their lifespan to about 5 years.
Garage door repairs are costly. The cost to repair a garage door can range from $100 to $350 for minor issues like sensor adjustments or lubrication, and up to $500 or more for major repairs like spring replacement or panel damage. Garage door replacement can cost few thousand dollars, depending upon many factors. So, regular maintenance is important to keep them working properly and save money.
Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected failures but also enhances the overall functionality and safety of this essential entry point to your home. By adhering to a deliberate maintenance schedule, homeowners can detect minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs or significant safety concerns. Here is what I’ve learned to make sure garage door operates smoothly. Remember to follow all safety measures before you start working on garage doors. When in doubt , get help from licensed and insured professionals.
Before we jump into How to maintain Garage door….
1. Remember to use credit card that has additional Extended warranty benefit, such as Chase Freedom Unlimited Card if you are going purchase garage opener
2. Copy and Save your purchase receipts. you will need it later to file claim.
Now, Let’s take a look at How to maintain and extend life of Garage door
1. Get familiar with it
Learn everything about your garage door. There are many types of garage door ( wooden, metal, fiberglass ). Wooden doors are heavier than Metal and cost more to replace it. Doors come in different style ( Carriage, one panel, sectional, Tilt up ). Sectional type garage doors are very common and inexpensive. There are different types of springs ( torsion and extension ). Torsion springs are the most common type. Most garage door spring lasts 10,000 to 15,000 cycles ( open and close is one cycle ). Also, garage door has many other parts like, track, cables, rollers, opener, sensors. Spend some time to learn about your existing garage door so when the time comes to repair/replace you have the information handy.
2. Inspect the Door
Inspect the garage door operation about twice a year. Pay attention to sound it makes, how smoothly it operates or uneven movement. Most likely you will notice something if it is not working properly. Perform safety test on your garage door system.
a. check door balance
Disconnect the garage door from the opener so you can operate manually
Lift the door halfway and leave it
The door should remain in place, if not, it is not balanced, call professional
b. Test Mechanical Reverse feature
Place a piece of wood or brick on the floor where garage door touches the floor, close the door. when door touches the block, it should reverse the direction. If not, call professional
c. Door sensors
Check the alignment of sensors at the bottom of the door, neat the track. Close the door, wave between the path of two sensors, door should reverse, if not , call professional.
3. Clean the track
Clear debris and rust from the tracks to prevent binding and ensure smooth movement. Wipe the tracks with an old rag to remove oil and dust.
4. Check and lubricate Hardware
Over time, rollers can wear out and other hardware begin to loose. Apply a silicon based lubricant ( twice a year ) to rollers and hinges that connects panels. Nylon rollers crack as they get old while Steel rollers bearings worn out. Replace any worn-out rollers. Look for any signs of wear, rust or deterioration in the cables attached to the door. Cables are under high tension, so leave it to professionals to fix it.
5. Service the Opener
Check the drive chain or belt if you hear unusual sound as door opens or closes, there may be little slack. Read the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubricating the chain or any other regular maintenance. Follow all safety rules while working on opener.
6. Limit Garage door usage
Most Garage door spring has life of 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. Reducing the usage of garage door, extends the life of the door. Whenever possible, use other doors. It might be less convenient, but it could help cut down on ongoing maintenance. Reducing no of cycles per day, will reduce wear and tear on moving parts. This is the easiest thing to do and has most effective.
7. Clean the door and surrounding
Use a hose to rinse off vinyl or aluminum garage doors and then dry with microfiber cloth, For wooden door, wipe down with an old dry rag. Look for any bending or damage to the door. Use wood filler to patch on wooden doors. Applying a protective sealant or paint is advisable to resist rust and rot. Proper drainage around the garage door area is vital in preventing water accumulation. For wooden doors, a high-quality exterior paint or stain can offer both aesthetic appeal and protection against moisture damage. Steel doors, on the other hand, should be inspected for scratches or dents, which can expose the underlying material to corrosion if left untreated. Regularly remove dirt, cobwebs around sensors, track and door. Keep the area clean.
8. Weatherproofing Your Garage Door
Weatherproofing your garage door is a crucial aspect of home maintenance that can significantly extend its lifespan and improve its functionality. Various weather conditions such as rain, snow, humidity, and extreme temperatures can have a detrimental impact on garage doors, leading to issues such as rust, rot, and structural damage. By taking proactive measures, homeowners can effectively protect their garage doors from these harsh elements.
One of the primary steps in weatherproofing is the installation of weatherstripping. This material forms a seal around the edges of the garage door, preventing moisture intrusion and air leaks. Weatherstripping not only keeps unwanted elements out but also aids in maintaining a stable indoor temperature, thus reducing energy costs. It is essential to check the weatherstripping periodically for wear and tear, as it may need replacement to ensure maximum effectiveness.
9. Safety is the most important
Safety is perhaps the most significant consideration, as garage door mechanisms can be dangerous and pose injury risks if mishandled. Professionals possess the necessary training and tools to perform repairs safely. Furthermore, engaging an expert can prevent further damage, saving homeowners from potentially high repair costs or the need for complete replacements. Early identification of these red flags can result in timely interventions, ultimately extending the life of your garage door.
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