2024-01-10 6 min read
Cold weather can wreak havoc on garage doors. Metal contracts, lubricants thicken, and weatherstripping becomes brittle. Proper preparation before winter arrives can prevent costly repairs and keep your garage comfortable.
Weatherstripping seals gaps around your door, keeping out cold air, moisture, and pests. Check all sides of your door for cracked, brittle, or missing weatherstripping and replace as needed.
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid WD-40 or similar products that can gum up in cold weather. Proper lubrication ensures smooth operation even in freezing temperatures.
Cold weather can affect spring tension. Perform a balance test and call a professional if your door seems off. An unbalanced door works harder and wears out faster.
Ensure auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors work correctly. Place an object in the door's path to test the auto-reverse. Clean sensor lenses, which can get dirty from road salt and debris.
If your garage is attached to your home or you use it as a workspace, consider insulated doors or adding insulation panels. This improves energy efficiency and protects items stored in your garage.
Winter storms can cause power outages. A battery backup for your opener ensures you can still access your garage. Check existing backup batteries and replace if needed.
Need help preparing your garage door for winter? Garage Door Hilton offers comprehensive maintenance packages to keep your door performing all season long.