How to Extend the Life of Your Garage Door
On average, a garage door will last between 15 and 30 years. While 15 years is a significant period of time, there’s a big difference in wear and tear between a door that has lasted 15 years and one that has survived 30. The best way to ensure the long life of a garage door is to maintain it correctly.
The weatherstripping
Every garage door has weatherstripping around its edges. It helps prevent outside moisture and debris from entering the garage. Weatherstripping is made out of PVC, rubber, or vinyl.
This stripping, however, has a limited lifespan. Over time, if it’s not maintained adequately, the stripping will wear out. Worn out weatherstripping can impact the overall life of a garage door.
The material requires both proper lubrication and cleaning. Regularly remove the debris from the stripping with a clean, damp cloth. For heavy debris buildup, use an all-purpose cleaner.
Over time, the weatherstripping material will eventually dry out. You’ll need to examine the weatherstripping regularly. When the stripping appears dry, use a silicone-based lubricant. Adding a thin layer should protect the material from cracking.
Perform this weatherstripping maintenance every three months.
The hardware
Garage doors have several moving components. Hinges, springs, tracks, and rollers require regular maintenance to increase the door’s overall longevity. Here’s how to maintain these elements.
Hinges
Take a damp cloth and clean the hinges. Then apply a little lubricant to each door joint and hinge. Make sure the joints are dry when using the lubricant.
Springs
Remove any debris or dust from the garage door’s springs. Be careful not to damage any parts. Apply a very thin layer of lubricant. Take a lint-free cloth and remove any excess.
Tracks and rollers
Take a clean damp cloth and wipe the rollers and tracks on the garage door. Then, apply a little lubricant and remove the excess.
The balance
A garage door needs to be correctly balanced to avoid damage. If a garage door isn’t properly balanced, it can close much more rapidly than intended by the manufacturer and cause safety issues.
So, maintaining the garage door’s balance is essential. At least once a year, make sure that the door is checked for balance.
To check the balance, close the door, and disconnect it from the motor. Raise the door manually until it’s a couple of feet from the ground. Take a step back and observe. If the door starts slowly closing on one of the sides, the balance needs readjusting.
Call a garage door service and have it balance the door.
Garage door maintenance
With minimal effort, you can ensure that your garage door works properly for 30 years or more. Performing regular maintenance is essential. If you are unsure about any of the maintenance steps mentioned, call a garage door service provider.
Quality Overhead Door, Inc. is a full-service garage door installation and repair company for both residential and commercial customers in the GIlbert area 480-838-8850.
Our new location:
Quality Overhead Door Inc
1750 N. Rosemont., Ste 107
Mesa, AZ 85205
Office: 480.838.8850 Fax: 480.964.9942
