Preparing Your Garage Doors for the Cold Season
Winter is fast approaching, so it’s time to prepare your garage doors for the cold months ahead. As temperatures drop, harsh weather conditions can damage your garage doors and cause malfunctions. Therefore, it’s crucial to perform winter garage door maintenance to ensure your doors are in good working order throughout the season. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your garage doors for winter.
Inspect Your Garage Door for Any Damage
Inspect your garage door for damage before winter arrives. Check for cracks, dents, or rust spots, as they can cause further damage and affect the door’s functionality. If you notice any damage, repair it before the cold weather hits.
Lubricate the Moving Parts of Your Garage Door
Lubricate the moving parts of your garage door. The cold weather can cause the parts to stiffen, leading to malfunctions and potential damage. To prevent this, use a multi-purpose or special garage door lubricant to ensure the parts are well-lubricated and protected from harsh conditions.
Check the Weatherstripping on Your Garage Door
Check the weatherstripping on your garage door. It seals your garage from the outside elements, so it’s essential to inspect it before winter arrives. Over time, it can wear out and become damaged. If you notice any cracks or gaps, replace it before the cold weather hits. This helps keep your garage warm and prevent drafts from entering your home.
Test Your Garage Door’s Balance
Test your garage door’s balance to prevent malfunctions and safety hazards. A garage door that is not balanced can cause potential damage. Disconnect the door from the opener and manually lift it halfway. If the door stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, call a professional to fix it.
Clean Your Garage Door and Tracks
Clean your garage door and tracks regularly to prevent dirt, debris, and leaves from accumulating, affecting the door’s functionality. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean your garage door and a stiff brush to clean your tracks.
Install a Garage Door Insulation Kit
Installing a garage door insulation kit is an effective way to keep your garage warm during winter. An insulation kit can reduce heat loss and prevent drafts from entering your home. Choose an insulation kit suitable for your garage door and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing it.
Hiring a Professional for Winter Garage Door Maintenance
If you’re not comfortable performing winter garage door maintenance yourself, hire a BBB accredited professional like AA Advantage Doors. A professional technician can inspect your garage door, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure your garage door is safe and functional during the cold months ahead.
In conclusion, preparing your garage doors for the cold season is essential to ensure they remain in good working order and are safe for you and your family to use. By following these tips, you can prepare your garage doors for winter and enjoy a warm and functional garage throughout the season. Remember to inspect your garage door for damage, lubricate the moving parts, check the weatherstripping, test your garage door’s balance, clean your garage door and tracks, install an insulation kit, and hire a professional if necessary.