Your garage door is a vital part of your home, providing security and protection for your vehicles, belongings, and even serving as an access point to your home itself. Just like any other part of your house, regular maintenance is essential to ensure it operates smoothly and safely throughout the year.
However, with Australia’s diverse climate, it’s important to tailor your maintenance routine to the specific season. Here’s a seasonal checklist to keep your garage door in top condition all year round
Summer
Heat and Sun
The harsh summer sun can wreak havoc on your garage door’s materials. Inspect the door panels, opener, and any weatherstripping for signs of warping, cracking, or fading. Apply a fresh coat of sealant or paint if necessary.
Lubricate
The hot weather can dry out the moving parts of your garage door, leading to increased friction and wear. Lubricate all hinges, rollers, and tracks with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
Clearance
Check the clearance between the door and the ground. As temperatures rise, the asphalt driveway might expand, potentially causing the door to scrape. Adjust the opener settings if needed.
Pest Control
Keep an eye out for pests like spiders and rodents that might build nests in the garage door tracks or opener unit. Remove any webs or nests you find and seal any potential entry points.
Autumn
Falling Debris
As autumn leaves start falling, make sure to clear them away from the garage door tracks and opener unit. Leaves and debris can clog the tracks and hinder smooth operation.
Moisture
Autumn rains can bring increased moisture, which can lead to rust and corrosion on metal parts. Inspect the opener unit, tracks, and hardware for signs of rust and apply a rust preventative if necessary.
Balance Check
With the changing seasons, it’s a good idea to check the balance of your garage door. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. It should open and close smoothly without feeling heavy on either side. If it’s unbalanced, consult a qualified technician for adjustment.
Winter
Cold and Wind
Colder temperatures can cause the rubber weatherstripping around the door to become brittle and less effective. Inspect the weatherstripping for any cracks or tears and replace it if necessary.
Lubrication
Re-lubricate all moving parts of the garage door, as the colder weather can thicken the lubricant and make the door harder to operate.
Battery Backup
If your garage door opener has a battery backup, ensure it’s in good working order. This will come in handy during power outages, which are more common in winter storms.
Spring
Spring Cleaning
Give your garage door a thorough cleaning. Wash the door panels with a mild detergent and water, and remove any built-up dirt or grime. Clean the tracks and opener unit with a damp cloth.
Inspection
Conduct a comprehensive inspection of all parts of the garage door, including the panels, opener, tracks, hardware, and safety sensors. Look for any signs of damage, wear, or loose connections.
Professional Service
Consider scheduling a professional inspection and tune-up by a qualified technician, especially if your garage door is older or you haven’t had it serviced in a while.
