Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Garage Door | Midland Garage Doors
As the cold weather sets in across the UK, ensuring your garage door is prepared for winter is essential to keep it running smoothly and prevent potential damage. From freezing temperatures to damp conditions, winter can take a toll on your garage door’s functionality. At Midland Garage Doors, we’ve put together some simple yet effective winter maintenance tips to help you avoid any unwanted surprises during the cold months.
1. Inspect the Weather Seals
One of the key areas to check before winter arrives is the weather seals along the bottom and sides of your garage door. These seals play a crucial role in keeping out cold air, rain, and snow, while also preventing drafts that can cause higher energy bills.
- Tip: Look for any signs of wear or cracking. If your seals are damaged, replacing them will prevent water, ice, and cold air from entering your garage, keeping it warmer and more energy-efficient.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold weather can cause metal parts to contract and become less flexible, leading to stiffness or even malfunctioning components. Regular lubrication of your garage door’s moving parts is key to ensuring smooth operation during the winter months.
- Tip: Use a silicone-based lubricant on the rollers, tracks, hinges, and springs. Avoid using grease or oil-based products, as these can thicken in the cold, leading to buildup or clogs in the system.
3. Check the Balance of the Door
A well-balanced garage door is essential for optimal operation, especially in winter when the extra strain of cold temperatures can cause issues. An unbalanced door puts additional pressure on the opener, which can lead to breakdowns.
4. Clear Ice and Snow
Snow and ice can accumulate along the base of your garage door, freezing it shut or making it difficult to open. This can cause the weather seal to stick to the ground, potentially tearing it when you try to open the door.
- Tip: Clear any snow or ice buildup from around the base of your garage door regularly. If the door is frozen shut, DON’T force it open. Instead, use a hairdryer or hot water (sparingly) to melt the ice and free the door. If your garage door is frozen shut, check out our blog on how to open a frozen garage door.
5. Test the Auto-Reverse Safety Feature
In winter, your garage door’s safety sensors can sometimes be affected by dirt, ice, or debris, leading to malfunctioning auto-reverse systems. This is a critical safety feature that prevents the door from closing on objects or people.
- Tip: Test the auto-reverse function by placing an object, such as a broomstick, in the door’s path. If the door does not reverse when hitting the object, clean the sensors and retest. If it still doesn’t work, contact a professional for repairs.
6. Inspect Cables and Springs
The cables and springs are critical components of your garage door system. Cold temperatures can cause these parts to weaken or break, which can be dangerous and lead to costly repairs.
- Tip: Visually inspect the cables and springs for any signs of rust, wear, or fraying. If you notice any issues, it’s important to call a professional garage door technician to replace them before they fail.
7. Keep the Tracks Clear
Over time, dirt, debris, or even ice can build up in the garage door tracks, causing the door to operate poorly or become stuck. During winter, these issues can worsen as the cold makes the components more prone to sticking.
- Tip: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the tracks and remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using water that can freeze inside the tracks, and ensure the tracks are clean and clear for smooth operation.
8. Consider Insulation
If your garage door is uninsulated, it can let in a significant amount of cold air during the winter, making your garage and home colder and increasing your energy bills. Insulated garage doors are particularly beneficial for homeowners who use their garage as a workshop or living space.
- Tip: If you’re frequently noticing cold air seeping in, it may be worth upgrading to an insulated garage door. At Midland Garage Doors, we offer a range of insulated options that help maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature while saving on energy costs.
9. Open Your Garage Door Regularly
Even if you’re not using your garage every day during the winter, it’s a good idea to open and close the door regularly to prevent it from freezing shut. Keeping the door in motion will help ensure it doesn’t stick, and can prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems.
- Tip: Try to open your garage door at least once a day during particularly cold weather. This can help free up any components that may start to seize due to the cold.
10. Schedule a Garage Door Service
While DIY maintenance can help keep your garage door in good working order, scheduling a professional service before winter is a great idea. A professional can spot potential issues that you might miss and make necessary adjustments to ensure your door operates safely and smoothly all season long.
- Tip: Contact Midland Garage Doors for a full winter maintenance check-up. Our team of experts will inspect, lubricate, and service your garage door, ensuring it’s ready to face the harshest winter weather.
Why Winter Maintenance Matters
Maintaining your garage door during winter is crucial for its longevity and performance. Regular checks and simple preventative measures can save you time and money on expensive repairs. At Midland Garage Doors, we’re here to help you keep your garage door in optimal condition all year round.
Contact Midland Garage Doors Today
If you need assistance with winter maintenance or are considering upgrading to an insulated garage door, Midland Garage Doors is your trusted partner in the Midlands. Contact us today for expert advice, repairs, or to schedule a service.
