Your garage door is a critically important part of your garage. Performing regular maintenance can help ensure that your garage will remain functional and in good shape.
At this time of year, many people start performing garage door repairs and maintenance to ensure that it will last throughout the year and into the next. At Overhead Door of Oklahoma City™, we recommend that you do the following 5 tasks every spring.
1. Check the Garage Door Safety Functions
Your garage door comes with a number of safety features like a photoelectric eye and an automatic reverse function. The photoelectric eye detects objects that step in the path of the door, while the automatic reverse function causes the garage door to reverse course any time it closes on something foreign.
Test these features by first placing a 2×4 board in the path of the garage door. Close the door. When the door touches the board, it should reverse course.
Next, waive a broom in the path of the closing door. Pass the broom in front of the photoelectric eye sensor near the base of the opening. The garage door should reverse course when you do this. If it does not reverse course during either of these exercises, have your door checked by a professional technician.
2. Replace Weather Stripping
Weather stripping keeps out cool air in the winter and warm air in the summer. It may start to become cracked or brittle if it is not replaced periodically. Check the weather stripping (found around the outside of the door) for cracks. Take down and replace the weather stripping if necessary.
While you’re at it, inspect the strip of rubber on the bottom of the garage door. If it too is cracked or worn, have it replaced by an expert.
3. Lubricate the Parts
Lubricate the moving parts of your garage door with a silicone spray. Doing this helps keep it functioning smoothly and also cuts back on any noises it might be developing.
4. Perform a Visual Inspection
Check your garage door for signs of trouble. Look at the gears that move it up and down. Corrosion and rust could be signs of a problem. Check the chain near the garage ceiling; it too should be free from rust and corrosion. If you notice these signs on your opener, this could be a sign that your garage has a leak or a moisture problem.
Next, look at the garage door itself. Check the door for signs of misalignment. Look for mold and mildew. If you detect any of these problems in your door or on your opener, contact a professional technician today.
5. Get a Tune-Up
The best way to keep your garage door in proper working condition is to get an annual tune-up. Your professional repair technician can perform a comprehensive inspection, point out possible issues, and make recommendations for repair.
At Overhead Door Company™, we perform garage door repair and maintenance in Oklahoma City. To find out more about how we can help you maintain your garage door, contact us today.
