For many homeowners, keeping up with garage door maintenance can be a daunting task. However, understanding and tending to the most vital component—your garage door springs—is crucial to keeping your garage operating smoothly and your family safe. Here are four tips for maintaining your garage door springs that can help keep it in good condition for years to come!
Do Regular Inspections for Wear and Tear
A key part of home maintenance is regular inspection, and your garage door springs should be no exception. To begin, stand inside your garage with the door closed and observe the torsion springs above the door. Look for any separation or gaps in the coils, as these can be signs of wear and potential breakage. Similarly, you should check extension springs, which are on the sides of the door, for overstretching or any visible gaps. Any noticeable irregularities may indicate it’s time for a professional inspection or replacement.
Lubricate To Reduce Friction
Friction is the enemy of any moving part, and garage door springs are no different. Regular lubrication can significantly extend the life of your springs. Use a high-quality silicone or lithium-based grease to coat the springs, applying sparingly to avoid any accumulation of dirt and grime. Don’t forget to lubricate the spring’s bearings and any moving parts of the spring systems to ensure they all work in harmony. Implement this every six months to maintain the smooth operation of your garage door.
Perform Balance and Alignment Checks
Another tip for maintaining your garage door springs over the years is to keep them balanced. Imbalance can exert additional uneven strain on your garage door springs. To check the balance of your door, disconnect the automatic opener and attempt to manually lift and lower it, observing if it moves smoothly or seems to stick or move unevenly. If there are any alignment issues, the springs will wear out faster due to extra force exerted during operation. Making small adjustments like tightening loose cables can help maintain the door’s balance and keep the workload on the springs as consistent as possible.
Make Seasonal Adjustments
Extreme temperatures can affect garage door performance. In the cold, metal contracts and becomes more brittle, which can make springs more susceptible to breakage. During warmer months, metal expands, lengthening and ultimately weakening the springs. At the turn of each season, take time to observe the condition of the springs and make necessary adjustments.
Don’t wait for a broken spring to disrupt your day! If you’re in Pittsburgh and have noticed any issues with your garage door springs, get in touch with Steel City Garage Doors. We’re here to help. With our expertise in garage door spring replacement, we ensure a swift, professional service that’ll keep your garage door functioning perfectly all year. Contact us today to safeguard the heart of your garage door system and enjoy peace of mind. Steel City Garage Doors is your trusted partner in garage door maintenance!
