Being a direct gateway to numerous homes, garage doors hold significant importance. Our mission extends beyond delivering functional garage doors; we aim to enhance your lifestyle with style, convenience and heightened security. While garage doors may seem like a substantial investment, they can provide long-lasting value when properly maintained. In this article, we will share valuable tips on how to maintain your garage door in order to extend its working life, ensuring it serves you for years to come.
Garage Door Maintenance in Central Jersey
Many homeowners make a very common mistake of assuming their garage doors are functioning properly without regular inspections or maintenance, solely based on their seemingly normal operation. However, the lack of routine maintenance on your garage door can lead to substantial consequences for both you and your family. The smallest repercussion could be getting trapped inside or outside the garage, causing significant inconvenience and necessitating expensive emergency repairs that could have been easily avoided. Moreover, there is also the potential danger of accidents if the door unexpectedly closes, posing a safety hazard.
Accidents Can Happen without Proper Garage Door Maintenance
By undertaking regular garage door maintenance, you can enhance safety, minimize repair expenses, and extend the lifespan of your garage door opener, as well as various components and hardware associated with the door.
Continue reading to discover effective strategies for caring for your garage door, including the implementation of a preventive maintenance plan that ensures optimal performance and functionality.
Preventive Maintenance For Your Garage Door
It is essential for every homeowner to establish a preventive maintenance routine that involves conducting regular self-inspections of their doors. Additionally, scheduling a professional garage door service at least once a year is highly recommended. This professional service will include garage door maintenance, necessary repairs, and adjustments. By following this routine, you can significantly enhance the performance of your garage door.
Learn How to Inspect Your Garage Door
Below is a straightforward step-by-step guide to conducting a thorough garage door inspection.
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Inspect Your Garage Door at Least Once per Month
As a responsible individual, it is crucial to actively observe your garage door's daily operation and remain alert for any peculiarities, such as unusual noises or unexpected behaviors. These are the irregularities you should be keen on noticing:
→ Unusual Noises: Upon acquiring your garage door, take the time to familiarize yourself with its typical sounds during the opening and closing processes. By doing so, you will be better equipped to detect any significant changes, such as the emergence of loud noises like rattling, grinding, or shaking.
→ Debris Buildup: The garage door tracks and photo-eye sensors are prone to gathering dirt and debris, which can impede the smooth operation of the garage door. It is essential to maintain a clean and tidy garage door area to ensure optimal functionality.
→ Parts Maintenance: Given that the garage door is a dynamic mechanism, certain components may loosen or experience a decrease in lubrication over time. It is crucial to be aware of the significance of tightening or replacing any such parts. Additionally, proper lubrication of the garage door chain and springs is vital to prevent the accumulation of rust. Pay close attention to signs of wear and tear, as well as inspect cables for any damage or fraying.
→ Balance Test: To assess the balance and functionality of your garage door, it is recommended to disconnect the garage door opener by utilizing the release lever. Then, manually lift the door, which should be a smooth and effortless process. The door should remain open at the top position without any difficulty. This test allows you to evaluate the balance and proper functioning of the door independently from the opener.
→ Check the Reverse: Every garage door is equipped with a safety feature that initiates a reverse action to prevent accidents or damage. Periodically test this mechanism by placing an object on the threshold while closing the door. If you observe any irregularities or if the mechanism fails to function correctly, it is crucial to contact a professional for immediate inspection and repair. Safety should never be compromised.
→ Check photo eyes: The garage door photo-eye sensors are responsible for generating a beam of light across the threshold of your garage door. When this beam is interrupted, the door is designed to automatically reverse its direction. If, for any reason, the door fails to respond accordingly, it is imperative to seek the assistance of an expert to rectify the issue promptly.
→ Test force: To verify the proper functioning of your garage door's safety feature, perform a quick test by reaching out and grasping the bottom edge of the door as it descends. Applying only a gentle amount of pressure should prompt the door to reverse its motion automatically. If the door does not respond as expected, it is crucial to contact an expert for a professional inspection and necessary repairs.
→ Inspect Tracks and Weather-Stripping: Ensure to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the garage door tracks, as it can significantly disrupt the smooth operation of the door. Additionally, be attentive to damaged weather strips, as they will fail to provide a proper seal, allowing outside air to infiltrate the garage.
✔ By following these steps, you can perform a comprehensive inspection of your garage door and address any potential issues promptly.
Benefits of Implementing a Regular Maintenance Plan
So, what are the benefits of performing a regular maintenance plan on your garage door?
✔ Improvement of your garage door looks
✔ Protection of your investment
✔ Reliability enhancement
✔ Prevention of future inconveniences and major mechanical issues
✔ Door's life span maximization
✔ Improvement in security and safety
As evident, the implementation of preventive maintenance brings forth numerous advantages in caring for your garage door. However, it is important to note that if your garage door is considerably old, a mere routine tune-up may not suffice, and a garage door replacement might be required to effectively address the underlying issues.
Garage Door Replacement by Overhead Door Co. of Central Jersey
Should you come across any of the following scenarios, it is recommended to consult with an expert to explore options for replacing and upgrading your garage door:
- Repeated repairs
- Extensive damage
- Old age
- Energy inefficiency
- Outdated appearance
No matter the circumstance, you can reach out to us at Overhead Door Co. of Central Jersey. With over 50 years of experience, we have been providing sales, installation, and maintenance services for overhead garage doors in the Central Jersey area since 1972. You can trust us to collaborate with you in establishing a tailored preventive maintenance plan that meets your specific requirements or assist you in selecting the ideal garage door for your project.
We provide exceptional garage door maintenance plans designed to keep your garage door operating in optimal condition. Our general recommendation is to schedule maintenance at least once a year. By adhering to this routine, you can significantly prolong the lifespan of your garage door and create a safe environment for your family.
Garage Door Experts in Central Jersey
Call us at 908-645-0718, request a home visit, or come to our showroom on Route 202 South in Branchburg, NJ between River Road and Readington Road. We have the largest showroom in the area with 20+ garage doors on display!
