Your garage door is probably one of the most-used entry points in your home. It gets opened and closed multiple times a day. You might think about maintaining other components in your home, but this is one that often gets overlooked.
Taking a working garage door for granted is easy until something goes wrong. A door that will not open when you’re in a hurry or one that suddenly slams shut can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be dangerous.
Regular maintenance keeps your garage door running smoothly, extends its lifespan, and helps you avoid repairs. Here are a few reasons garage door maintenance should be on your home care checklist.
Keeps Your Family Safe
Garage doors are heavy. Many of them can weigh 200 pounds or more. If the door has a broken spring or a misaligned track, the door could come crashing down. That is a scary thought, especially if you have kids or pets.
A neglected garage door can become a safety hazard. Springs wear out, cables fray, and auto-reverse sensors can stop working. When you check these components on a regular basis, your garage door will be far less likely to fail or cause an injury.
Maintenance also makes sure that all safety features work. Most modern garage doors have an auto-reverse function that stops them from closing if something is in their path. This feature protects people, pets, and even your car. However, if the sensors are dirty or misaligned, they might not function correctly. Maintenance will help make sure that these components are in top shape.
Proper maintenance can even help secure your home. Sometimes, burglars target garage doors since they are a weak point. If your door is not closing properly or the lock is faulty, that would be an open invitation for intruders. Performing maintenance makes sure that those security features are working to keep your home and family safe.
Saves Money on Repairs
As it is with most things in your home, catching small problems early prevents big, expensive repairs later. A strange noise, slow movement, or a little jerkiness might not seem like a big deal. However, these are signs your garage door needs attention. Regular maintenance, like lubricating the moving parts and tightening loose bolts, can prevent these minor issues from escalating.
Along with that, you can avoid emergency repairs. The garage door always seems to break at the worst time. Keep in mind that emergency repairs are not cheap. Regular maintenance reduces the chances of these unexpected headaches.
A well-maintained garage door can last 15 to 30 years. But if you ignore them, worn-out parts will put extra strain on the whole system. In turn, that can shorten its lifespan. A little upkeep goes a long way in getting the most out of your investment.
Improves Energy Efficiency
A poorly maintained door can let in drafts if your garage is attached to your house. That can make your HVAC system work harder. Maintenance also includes inspecting the weatherstripping around the door. This seal can keep out cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer.
Over time, it can crack or wear out. You might notice there is a problem when you have higher energy bills. If the weatherstripping is broken or damaged, it might need to be replaced to keep your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Even if you do not use your garage as a living space, maintaining insulation can protect stored items from extreme temperatures.
Ensures a Smooth and Quiet Operation
If you have noticed your garage door making a loud grinding noise, that is not good. It could be a sign that something is not working or is broken. Over time, the metal parts in your garage door system can dry out. In turn, that can cause squeaks and resistance. A little lubrication on the springs, rollers, and hinges can make your door move more smoothly and quietly.
Also, vibrations from daily use can loosen nuts, bolts, and screws. A quick inspection every few months keeps everything tight and secure. As a result, it can prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Maintenance also keeps tracks and rollers in check. These components might be misaligned if your garage door feels wobbly or jerky when opening. They may need to be replaced or repaired. A full inspection can prevent damage to the motor and other components.
Your garage door opener does a lot of heavy lifting. If your door is not properly maintained, the opener has to work harder and will wear out faster. Maintenance helps to reduce any strain on the motor. A balanced, well-maintained door should open and close easily. Regular maintenance makes sure everything is in sync. As a result, it can extend the life of your motor.
Let’s not forget about the remote and keypad. Nothing is worse than getting stuck outside because your garage door opener remote won’t respond. Maintenance can help. Checking batteries, resetting the system, and cleaning the sensors can prevent this frustration.
Maintains Your Home’s Value and Curb Appeal
Your garage door is one of the first things people notice about your home. A dented, rusted, or squeaky door does not make a great impression. Maintenance can help to prevent rust and damage. Garage doors are exposed to the elements. With that, they can rust or fade over time. Cleaning your door and applying a protective coating helps maintain its appearance and durability.
Sometimes, you might have to take another step in your maintenance tasks. If your garage door looks worn out, you should have it repainted. That can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal. Plus, it adds a layer of protection against the weather.
A Professional Can Help With Maintenance
When a technician comes out for a maintenance visit, they give your garage door a full examination. They listen for strange noises, check for any wobbles or jerky movements, and make sure everything is balanced properly.
One of the most important things a technician does is inspect the springs, cables, and rollers. A tech will look for frayed wires, rusted springs, and worn-out rollers. If they look damaged, the technician will replace them before they cause trouble.
A good technician will also take care of something homeowners often forget, which is lubrication. A little bit of lubricant in the right places makes a huge difference. Safety is another big part of the job. A technician will clean and adjust these components to make sure they’re functioning properly.
Having a professional inspect your garage door on a regular basis keeps everything running smoothly and helps prevent bigger, more expensive problems down the road. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing that the door you use every day is safe, secure, and in good working order.
If you want to schedule maintenance for your garage door in Christiansburg, VA, our team at Halls Garage Doors can help. Since the 1980s, we have provided residential and commercial garage door services, including installation, maintenance, and repairs. We will make sure that your garage door always works as it should. If you would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
