Prevent Winter Garage Door Problems This Holiday Season

Winter brings joy and holiday cheer, but it can also usher in harsh weather conditions that wreak havoc on your garage door. Taking preventive measures can save you from inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs during the festive season. Here’s how to prepare your garage door for winter and ensure it stays in top condition.

Common Winter Garage Door Problems

Winter weather poses unique challenges for garage doors. Here are some issues to watch for:

• Frozen or Stuck Doors: Ice buildup at the base can seal your garage door to the ground.
• Snapped Springs: Cold temperatures increase tension on the springs, leading to breakage.
• Warped Tracks and Rollers: Metal components can contract, causing alignment issues.
• Stiff or Brittle Weatherstripping: Reduced flexibility in cold weather leads to ineffective sealing.

Why Winter Garage Door Maintenance Is Essential

Before the first snow falls, scheduling a garage door inspection is crucial. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, extends your garage door’s lifespan, and ensures safety. Professional check-ups can identify worn springs, misaligned tracks, or damaged weatherstripping, addressing small issues before they escalate.

DIY Tips for Preparing Your Garage Door for Winter

Taking proactive steps to winterize your garage door is easy and cost-effective:

1. Inspect Weatherstripping:

    

   • Replace brittle or cracked seals.
   • Clean weatherstripping and apply a silicone-based lubricant to maintain flexibility.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts:
   • Use a silicone or lithium-based lubricant for hinges, rollers, and tracks to prevent freezing and reduce friction.
3. Check the Door Balance:
   • Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. If it doesn’t stay halfway open, call a professional to adjust the springs.
4. Seal Gaps:
   • Ensure the bottom seal is snug against the ground to prevent drafts and water intrusion.
5. Keep the Area Clear of Snow and Ice:
   • Regularly clear snow from around the door’s base to prevent ice buildup.

What to Do If Your Garage Door Freezes Shut

Frozen garage doors can be a hassle. Here’s how to safely address the issue:

1. Disengage the Opener: Use the emergency release cord to avoid damaging the motor.
2. Melt the Ice: Use a hairdryer or heat gun on low settings to thaw the area gently. Avoid pouring hot water, as it can refreeze.
3. Break the Seal Carefully: Tap the bottom of the door with a piece of wood, not directly on the metal, to loosen it.

When to Call a Professional

Some garage door problems require expert attention. Contact a professional if:

• Your springs or cables snap.
• The door doesn’t open or close smoothly, even after maintenance.
• You notice gaps in weatherstripping that you can’t fix on your own.

Preventing Holiday Package Theft

Garage doors are a prime entry point for thieves during the holiday season. Here’s how to secure your garage:

• Install a Smart Garage Door Opener: Use smartphone controls and receive alerts when the door is operated.
• Invest in a Garage Security Camera: Monitor activity in real-time.
• Keep Packages Safe: Use garage delivery options where couriers place packages inside your garage.

Schedule Winter Maintenance with Above & Beyond Door Systems

Preparing your garage door for winter is a wise investment in convenience and security. At Above & Beyond Door Systems, we offer comprehensive maintenance and repair services to keep your garage door running smoothly. Call us today at 330-494-4322 to schedule your inspection.