How to Care for the Garage Door
Do not attempt to adjust torsion springs, extension springs, red-painted hardware, or any component under high tension.
Spring is the perfect time to refresh a home, declutter, reorganise, and take on small improvement projects. As flowers bloom and temperatures rise, it’s easy to focus on indoor cleaning and yard work while overlooking one of the most frequently used and most forgotten parts of the home: the garage door. With the right garage door maintenance tips, homeowners can prevent expensive repairs, extend the system’s lifespan, and maintain safe daily operation. Seasonal care also supports smoother performance and helps identify issues before they turn into major problems.
Remember that some preventative maintenance tasks must only be handled by trained technicians. Do not attempt to adjust torsion springs, extension springs, red-painted hardware, or any component under high tension. These parts are dangerous to work with and should always be serviced by a professional.
Here are five maintenance tasks that homeowners can complete safely and effectively:
Monthly Visual Inspections
A monthly checkup is one of the easiest ways to stay ahead of potential problems. Start by operating the door while watching and listening closely. Jerky movement, scraping noises, or uneven travel may indicate misalignment or worn components. As part of a garage door inspection and troubleshooting, analyse the tracks to ensure they are free from debris that could interfere with the rollers. Take time to check for rust, dents, cracking paint, or structural wear. Catching irregularities early can prevent complete door failure down the line.
Monthly Door Balance Test
A properly balanced door places less pressure on springs, cables, pulleys, and the opener. If the door is out of balance, these components work harder, shortening their lifespan and raising the likelihood of mechanical failure. To test balance safely:
Make sure the door is fully closed.
Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle straight down.
Try to manually lift the door halfway.
If the door will not stay in place, this imbalance means the springs require adjustment. Because this repair involves high-tension parts, contact a professional immediately. Avoid using the door until the issue is corrected.
Monthly Automatic-Reversal Tests
Garage door safety tests are crucial for protecting people, pets, and property. Modern doors include two safety features designed to reverse movement automatically:
Mechanical test: Place a 2×4 board flat on the ground where the door would close. Activate the door. It should reverse instantly upon touching the board.
Photoelectric test: These beams detect movement beneath the door. With the door open, wave a broom or long object across the sensors. The door should stop and reverse immediately.
If the door fails either test, disconnect it from the opener and schedule service. These safety systems prevent injuries, and restoring them should be a top priority.
Semi-Annual Lubrication
Every six months, ideally in spring and fall, complete lubrication and hardware tightening to keep the system running smoothly. Apply a small amount of garage door-safe spray lubricant to hinges and pivot points. Avoid using WD-40 and avoid spraying the rollers or tracks directly, as lubrication in these areas can cause slipping. Instead, wipe the tracks clean with a damp cloth to remove dirt buildup. This step reduces friction, minimizes noise, and helps extend component life.
Annual Weatherstripping Inspection
Garage door weather stripping and seals protect against heat, cold, dust, and pests. Inspect the bottom threshold seal each year for brittleness, cracking, or gaps. Replace it promptly if damaged. While you're at it, check the side and top seals for wear. Fresh weatherstripping and insulation help maintain indoor comfort by keeping heat out in summer and retaining cool air in winter. Replacement materials are widely available and easy to cut and install.
Regularly Clean the Garage Door
Dirt, pollen, and grime can accumulate on garage doors throughout the year. Cleaning the surface not only improves curb appeal but also helps prevent premature wear. Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth, brush, or sponge to avoid scratching the finish. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. For doors with windows, clean the glass carefully to prevent streaks and maintain visibility.
Caring for a garage door with simple maintenance tasks improves performance, enhances safety, and reduces long-term repair costs. With consistent attention and professional service when needed, a garage door remains reliable, efficient, and ready to handle daily use season after season.
In addition to these routine tasks, homeowners benefit from scheduling a professional garage door inspection at least once a year. Trained technicians can identify hidden wear in springs, cables, rollers, and opener components that may not be obvious during visual checks. Professional servicing also confirms that tension, alignment, and safety systems are operating within safe limits, which helps prevent sudden breakdowns and unexpected repair costs.
Seasonal awareness also plays an important role in long term care. Temperature changes can affect metal expansion, lubrication performance, and seal flexibility. Paying extra attention during seasonal transitions allows homeowners to adjust maintenance habits as needed. By combining consistent homeowner care with timely professional support, garage doors continue to operate smoothly, quietly, and safely throughout the year.
Long term garage door care also includes paying attention to how the door is used day to day. Avoid slamming the door, forcing it open or closed, or allowing it to operate when resistance is present. These habits place unnecessary strain on springs, rollers, and the opener, increasing wear over time. Encouraging gentle, consistent operation helps preserve mechanical integrity and supports smoother performance.
Homeowners should also remain mindful of changes in sound, speed, or movement. A door that suddenly becomes louder, slower, or uneven is often signaling an underlying issue that requires attention. Addressing these changes promptly prevents minor concerns from turning into major repairs. With regular maintenance, careful observation, and professional service when necessary, garage doors continue to perform reliably and safely, protecting both the home and the people who rely on them every day.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair is a licensed, bonded, and insured full-service garage door company offering garage door inspection, garage door replacement, garage door drum replacement, garage door spring replacement, garage door cable repair and replacement, garage door roller replacement, garage door weather seal replacement, and 24-hour garage door emergency services. Call (602) 610-0112.
