Garage Door Maintenance: How Often Should You Service Your New Door?

If you own a garage door, it’s essential to maintain it to ensure it operates efficiently and safely. Regular maintenance can also extend its lifespan, saving you from costly repairs and replacements. But how often should your garage door be serviced?

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about garage door maintenance, including how often it should be serviced and why it’s important.

Why Regular Garage Door Maintenance is Important

Your garage door is a complex system made up of various moving parts that require regular attention. With time and use, these parts can wear out or become damaged, which can affect the door’s performance and safety.

Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues before they become major problems, reducing the likelihood of emergency repairs or replacements. It also ensures your door is working efficiently and safely, preventing accidents and injuries.

Signs That Your Garage Door Needs Maintenance

While it’s recommended to service your garage door regularly, some signs indicate the door needs immediate attention. These include:

• Unusual sounds or grinding noises when opening or closing the door
• Difficulty opening or closing the door
• Door moving unevenly or shaking
• Door not responding to the remote control or keypad
• Squeaking or squealing noises
• Door closing too quickly or too slowly

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to call a professional garage door service company to inspect and repair your door.

How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door?

While it’s essential to service your garage door regularly, the frequency depends on various factors, including:

• The door’s age and condition
• The frequency of use
• The weather conditions in your area
• The type of garage door opener

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to service your garage door at least once a year. However, if you use your garage door more frequently or live in areas with extreme weather conditions, you may need to service it more often.

It’s also important to note that some manufacturers recommend servicing their doors every six months or less. Always refer to your manufacturer’s manual for specific maintenance recommendations.

What Happens During a Garage Door Service

During a garage door service, a professional technician will perform a thorough inspection and maintenance of the door and its components. This includes:

• Checking and tightening all nuts, bolts, and screws
• Lubricating all moving parts, including hinges, springs, rollers, and tracks
• Checking and adjusting the door’s balance
• Inspecting the garage door opener and its components
• Testing the door’s safety features, such as the auto-reverse function
• Inspecting the weatherstripping and seals

If any issues are detected, the technician will provide recommendations for repairs or replacements.

DIY Maintenance Tips

While it’s recommended to have a professional technician service your garage door regularly, there are some DIY maintenance tips you can perform between services to keep your door in good condition. These include:

• Lubricating all moving parts regularly
• Cleaning the door and its components
• Inspecting the door for damage or wear
• Testing the door’s safety features regularly

However, it’s crucial to note that some garage door problems require professional attention, and attempting to fix them yourself can be dangerous. Always call a professional if you’re unsure or have any doubts.

Common Garage Door Problems

Even with regular maintenance, garage doors can experience common problems over time. These include:

• Broken springs
• Worn or damaged rollers
• Bent or misaligned tracks
• Malfunctioning opener or sensors
• Damaged panels or weatherstripping

If you notice any of these issues, it’s crucial to call a professional garage door service company to inspect and repair your door. Ignoring these issues can lead to further damage or accidents.

Garage Door Safety Tips

Garage doors can be dangerous if not operated safely. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always keep the area around the door clear
• Never let children play with the garage door or remote
• Test the door’s safety features regularly
• Don’t attempt to fix or adjust the door’s springs yourself
• Call a professional for any repairs or replacements

How to Choose a Garage Door Service Company

When choosing a garage door service company, it’s essential to choose a reputable and experienced one. Here are some tips to consider:

• Look for a company with positive customer reviews and ratings
• Ensure they’re licensed, insured, and certified
• Ask for references
• Inquire about their experience and expertise
• Get a detailed estimate before hiring

The Cost of Garage Door Servicing

The cost of garage door servicing varies depending on various factors, including the type of door, the extent of the service, and the service company’s rates. On average, the cost of a garage door service ranges from $100 to $300.

How to Save Money on Garage Door Servicing

Here are some tips to save money on garage door servicing:

• Schedule regular maintenance to prevent major issues and costly repairs
• Look for coupons or promotions from service companies
• Consider a service package or maintenance plan
• Do some basic maintenance tasks yourself

Benefits of Regular Garage Door Servicing

Regular garage door servicing provides several benefits, including:

• Improved performance and efficiency
• Extended lifespan
• Improved safety and security
• Reduced risk of emergency repairs or replacements
• Cost savings

Conclusion

Regular garage door maintenance is essential to ensure your door is operating efficiently and safely. It’s recommended to service your garage door at least once a year, but frequency depends on various factors. Always call a professional garage door service company if you notice any issues or have any doubts. Remember to prioritize safety and choose a reputable and experienced service company.

FAQs

What is included in a garage door service?

A garage door service includes a thorough inspection and maintenance of the door and its components, such as lubrication, tightening, adjusting the door’s balance, and testing safety features.

How often should I lubricate my garage door?

It’s recommended to lubricate your garage door’s moving parts every three to six months, depending on the frequency of use and weather conditions.

Can I fix my garage door myself?

Some DIY maintenance tasks are safe to perform, but it’s crucial to call a professional for repairs or replacements to avoid accidents or further damage.

How much does it cost to replace a garage door opener?

The cost of replacing a garage door opener depends on various factors, such as the type of opener and the extent of the installation. On average, it can cost between $200 to $500.

Can regular maintenance extend my garage door’s lifespan?

Yes, regular maintenance can extend your garage door’s lifespan by preventing major issues and identifying potential problems early on.

Source

1. “Garage Door Maintenance Tips” by Clopay: https://www.clopaydoor.com/blog/post/2014/05/06/garage-door-maintenance-tips
2. “How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door?” by Precision Door Service: https://www.precisiondoor.net/blog/how-often-should-you-service-your-garage-door
3. “Garage Door Maintenance: How to Extend the Life of Your Garage Door” by The Family Handyman: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/garage-door-maintenance-how-to-extend-the-life-of-your-garage-door/