Your garage door is more than just an entry point for your vehicle—it's a key component of
your home's safety, security, and curb appeal. Regular maintenance not only ensures smooth operation but also extends the life of your garage door. At Hanna Home Services, we want to help homeowners in NE Florida stay ahead of potential issues. Follow these simple tips to keep your garage door in top shape.
1. Inspect the Door and Its Components Regularly
Start by visually inspecting your garage door and its parts at least once a month. Look for:
Rust or wear and tear on the springs, cables, rollers, and other metal parts.
Cracks, dents, or warping on the door panels.
Loose bolts or screws on the hardware.
A quick inspection can catch small issues before they become costly repairs.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Keep all moving parts well-lubricated to reduce wear and tear. Use a silicone-based spray or
garage door lubricant (not WD-40) on the:
Rollers
Hinges
Springs
Lubricating these components every six months ensures quieter and smoother operation.
3. Test the Balance and Alignment
An unbalanced garage door can strain your opener, reducing its lifespan. Here's how to test it:
Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord.
Manually lift the door halfway.
If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If it falls, the springs may need adjustment.
Call a professional if you notice balance issues—spring tension is dangerous to adjust without proper training.
4. Clean the Tracks
Dirt, debris, and grime can accumulate in the tracks, causing misalignment. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and ensure there are no obstructions. Avoid using heavy grease as it can attract more dirt.
5. Check the Auto-Reverse Feature
Modern garage doors come with safety mechanisms like auto-reverse to prevent accidents. Test this feature monthly:
Mechanical Test: Place a sturdy object (like a piece of wood) under the door. It should reverse when it touches the object.
Photo Eye Test: Wave your foot or an object in front of the sensors while the door is closing. It should reverse immediately.
If the auto-reverse doesn’t work, consult a professional to fix it promptly.
6. Weatherproof Your Garage Door
In NE Florida, fluctuating weather can affect your garage door.
Replace worn weatherstripping to keep water, dirt, and pests out.
Clean the door surface regularly to prevent rust or damage from salt air.
7. Schedule Professional Maintenance
While DIY maintenance is essential, a professional inspection can identify issues you might miss.
Spring tension
Cable health
Motor performance
Overall door alignment
Your Partner in Home Maintenance
Your garage door deserves the same care as the rest of your home. Regular maintenance not only keeps it functioning well but also helps prevent costly repairs. If you're ever in doubt or need a professional inspection, Hanna Home Services is here to help.
We specialize in keeping NE Florida homes safe and functional, offering comprehensive home inspections, wind mitigation, and more. Contact us today to schedule your next inspection or ask about our services.
About The Author
Les Hanna is a Certified Master Inspector with a passion for uncovering the hidden details that make a difference in home inspections. Born and raised in Kissimmee, Florida, Les now calls Green Cove Springs home, where he lives with his wife, Kimberly. With a special interest in manufactured homes, historic homes and hard-to-find defects, he brings expertise and dedication to every inspection. In his free time, Les enjoys RV camping, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with his wife, three grown children, dog, and cat. He’s also an avid fan of good whiskey, fine cigars, and Pittsburgh Steelers football.
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