3 Insider Tips for Garage Door Upkeep

September 22, 2020

Yearly weather can swiftly weaken crucial items on the garage door, causing them to rust or seize. Since it is such an important part of your home that provides service and security, it must run efficiently. The associates at Schauer's Hardware can help you find items you need to get this done.

While general maintenance is pretty straightforward, you can hire an experienced pro, or what they call an overhead door technician, if the job is too intimidating. During an inspection, they will highlight signs of decay and show you what to look for in the future. If you decide to deal with the chore on your own, consider these 3 tips from the International Door Association…

1. Oil

Overhead doors require many moving parts to operate smoothly and accurately. A way to support their integrity is by greasing each part. This should include the rollers, hinges, bearings, springs, and chains. The IDA suggests using a drop of engine oil on each roller, which will distribute the lube to the door’s bearings. By lightly greasing the springs and hinges, you weaken the risks of the door becoming jammed and unusable. While engine oil is usually a sufficient lubricant, check with the garage door unit’s manufacturer to see if there is a different fluid they recommend. Some might request a silicone lubricant or one made specially for garage door components.

2. Garage Door Balance

You could notice obvious signs when an overhead door is unbalanced. Problems, like jamming, strange noises and delayed or disrupted operation can be common. Even if you don’t spot any warning signs, use these painless steps to test for balance as a part of routine maintenance.

1. Close the garage door like normal.

2. Find and engage the release handle to access manual operation.

3. Lift the door three to four feet above the ground. If it doesn’t remain open, there is an imbalance that must be addressed.

While any house owner can complete testing, a professional should handle the process of rebalancing. It requires adjusting and coordinating the system of springs and can be dangerous if done improperly.

3. Clean the Tracks

Assuring your garage door has a clear track to roll on is imperative to its excellent effectiveness. You can keep them in top condition by wiping the system with a rag or vacuuming out loose debris.

So, If you are hearing anything squeaky or different on your garage door and need guidance with any tools, lubricants, or suggestions…Give Schauer's Hardware a visit today.

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