Weather changes can wreak havoc on your home, and it’s normal to forget about protecting your garage from these oncoming outdoor changes. Whether it’s the sweltering heat of summer or the biting cold of winter, you should take care of your garage door and ensure that it can withstand these elements. garage door needs to be in top shape to withstand the elements. Steel City Garage Door is here to explain how to prepare your garage door for weather changes and why these steps can make a huge difference when it comes to taking care of your home.
Understanding the Impact of Weather on Garage Doors
Weather changes can significantly affect the performance and durability of your garage door. Extreme temperatures can cause materials to expand or contract, leading to warping or misalignment. Moisture from rain or snow can lead to rust and mold, which may compromise the integrity of your door. Knowing what can happen to your garage door due to extreme weather changes can help you prepare for it and hopefully prevent them from happening.
The hot summer days can cause the metal in your garage to expand, leading to increased difficulty in your door opening or closing. Alternatively, freezing temperatures in the winter result in brittleness and making moving parts more likely to break. If you have a wooden door, you want to protect it from higher levels of humidity, which may swell your door and make it difficult to operate.
The Importance of Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are an important part of maintaining your garage door. By conducting occasional checks, you can identify and address minor issues before they become major problems. Ideally, you should inspect your garage door at least twice a year, preferably before the onset of extreme weather conditions like in late spring or autumn.
During an inspection, check for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or warping. Pay close attention to the moving parts, like springs, rollers, and tracks, as these are the most likely spots to find damage. Take this opportunity to examine and tighten all bolts and screws to avoid any mishaps with those.
Lubricating Moving Parts
Lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of your garage door. Over time, the moving parts of your garage door may dry out and create friction, leading to wear and tear. Lubricating these parts reduces friction and prevents rust, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly.
Start by cleaning the moving parts with a cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, apply a high-quality silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks. It’s a good idea to avoid using grease or WD-40, as they can attract dust and cause buildup.
Sealing Gaps and Cracks
Another way to prepare your garage door for weather changes is by carefully examining the gaps and seals. These small, but crucial areas can allow air, water, and pests to enter your garage, leading to various issues. Sealing these gaps and cracks is an important step in protecting your garage and its contents from the elements.
Inspect the weatherstripping around your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. If it’s damaged or missing, replace it with a new weatherstripping to create a tight seal. You can also use caulk to fill any cracks or gaps in the door or frame.
Insulating Your Garage Door
If you live in an area with extreme heat or cold, you can greatly benefit from insulating your garage door to try and regulate the temperature and reduce energy costs. An insulated garage door keeps your garage warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making it more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Some of the most popular insulation options for garage doors are foam boards, reflective insulation, or fiberglass batts. Choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. You can install the insulation yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Checking and Adjusting the Balance
A balanced garage door is essential for its smooth and safe operation. Unbalanced garage doors put extra strain on your opener which can quickly damage other moving parts, leading to premature wear and tear. Checking and adjusting the balance of your garage door should be part of your regular maintenance routine.
To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. A balanced garage door will stay in place without any help, while an unbalanced door will rise or fall depending on where the imbalance lies. A skilled professional can rebalance your door by tightening or loosening the tension in your springs.
Preparing for Winter
Winter is one of the roughest seasons on a garage because the extreme cold tends to damage the moving parts. You can prepare for this season by insulating the door and sealing any gaps or cracks to keep the cold air out. Lubricating the moving parts helps prevent them from becoming stiff or brittle in the cold.
Check the weatherstripping and replace it if necessary to create a tight seal. Keep an eye on the entrances of your garage during this season and clear away any built up ice or snow as soon as possible.
Preparing for Summer
Excessive heat in the summer tends to warp or expand metal parts of your garage which results in operational issues. Preparing your garage door for summer involves inspecting and lubricating the moving parts, sealing any gaps or cracks, and checking the balance.
If you have a metal garage door, consider applying a reflective coating to reduce heat absorption. Regularly clean the tracks and ensure the opener operates efficiently. Insulating your garage door can also help keep the interior cool and reduce energy costs.
When to Call a Professional
While regular maintenance can address many issues, some problems require professional intervention. If you notice any significant damage, unusual noises, or operational issues with your garage door, it’s best to call a professional.
Professionals conduct thorough inspections, identify any underlying issues, and perform the necessary repairs or adjustments. Regular professional maintenance can also extend the life of your garage door and prevent costly repairs.
If you’re looking for reliable and expert garage door installation in Pittsburgh, Steel City Garage Doors is your go-to solution. With a dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, our team of professionals is ready to help you select and install the perfect garage door for your home. Let us transform your garage into a seamless part of your living space with our top-notch service and superior products.
