Seasonal Tips for Maintaining Your Garage Door: A Guide to IPS (Inspection, Prevention, and Servicing)

Your garage door serves not only as a functional component of your home but is also a vital aspect contributing to your property’s security and visual appeal. To ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and lasts longer, it’s essential to adopt a proactive approach to maintenance. 

In this article, we will explore the concept of IPS – Inspection, Prevention, and Servicing – tailored to each season, to help you keep your garage door in top-notch condition throughout the year.

SPRING

• Inspection: As the weather warms up, inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. Check the cables, springs, rollers, and hinges for rust, damage, or misalignment. Look out for any unusual noises or jerky movements during operation.
• Prevention: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to all moving parts, including hinges, rollers, and springs. This helps reduce friction, prevents rust, and ensures smoother operation. Tighten any loose bolts or screws and replace damaged weatherstripping to keep the elements out.
• Servicing: Schedule a professional garage door inspection and tune-up in the spring. A technician can identify potential issues early on and make necessary adjustments, ensuring your door operates efficiently throughout the upcoming months.

SUMMER

• Inspection: Summer brings higher temperatures, which can affect the performance of your garage door. Inspect the door for warping, especially if it’s made of wood. Check the balance of the door by disconnecting the opener and operating it manually.
• Prevention: Clean the tracks and remove any debris that may have accumulated. Make sure the photo-eye sensors are aligned and free from obstructions to prevent accidents. Consider applying a UV-resistant finish to wooden doors to protect them from the sun’s harsh rays.
• Servicing: Summer is an ideal time for a thorough garage door cleaning. Power wash the exterior, including windows and panels, and repaint if necessary. Ensure that the opener’s motor and electronic components are free from dust and debris.

FALL

• Inspection: With fall comes falling leaves. Check the tracks for debris and clean them regularly to prevent blockages. Inspect the weatherstripping for damage and replace it if needed to keep out drafts and moisture.
• Prevention: Lubricate the door’s moving parts once again to prepare for the colder months ahead. Ensure that the seals at the bottom of the door are intact to prevent pests and cold air from entering your garage.
• Servicing: Test the battery in your garage door opener’s remote control and replace it if necessary. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to address any issues before winter sets in.

WINTER

• Inspection: Cold temperatures can affect the flexibility of garage door seals. Check for any gaps or tears in the weatherstripping and replace it if necessary. 
• Prevention: Keep snow and ice away from the garage door area. Shovel regularly and use a de-icing agent to prevent ice buildup on the tracks. Applying a specialized lubricant designed for cold temperatures can help maintain smooth operation.
• Servicing: Schedule a professional inspection at the beginning of winter to address any potential issues that could be exacerbated by the colder weather. Ensure that the garage door opener is working efficiently in low temperatures.