Tips on How to Protect Your Garage Door in Winter

As winter approaches, homeowners often prepare their homes for colder weather, but the garage door is frequently overlooked. This crucial part of your home endures a lot during the winter months, from freezing temperatures to icy buildups. Properly maintaining and protecting your garage door ensures it operates smoothly and efficiently all season long. Here are some essential tips to safeguard your garage door during the winter months.

Inspect the Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is a vital component of your garage door, designed to keep cold air, snow, and moisture out of your garage. Over time, the weatherstripping can crack, peel, or become worn, compromising its effectiveness. Start by checking the bottom seal and sides of the door for any gaps or damage.

If the weatherstripping is damaged, replace it promptly. Many home improvement stores carry easy-to-install weatherstripping kits. A proper seal will not only keep your garage warmer but also prevent water and ice from entering, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion on your door and its components.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Cold temperatures can cause the moving parts of your garage door to stiffen, leading to operational issues or increased wear and tear. Applying a high-quality silicone or lithium-based lubricant to components such as the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks can prevent this.

Clean and Clear the Tracks

Dirt, debris, and ice can accumulate in your garage door tracks, causing misalignment or obstructing the door’s movement. Regularly inspect and clean the tracks using a damp cloth to remove buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the metal.

If ice forms in the tracks, gently remove it with a scraper or de-icer. Keeping the tracks clean ensures the door operates smoothly and reduces the risk of damage to the rollers.

Insulate Your Garage Door

An insulated garage door helps regulate the temperature inside your garage, reducing energy costs and protecting stored items from freezing temperatures. If your garage door isn’t insulated, consider adding insulation panels designed for garage doors.

Protect the Opener

Garage door openers can also struggle in cold weather, especially if the batteries are old or weak. Check the batteries in your remote and replace them if needed. Additionally, ensure the opener’s motor is functioning properly.

Prevent Freezing with Regular Maintenance

Moisture and cold temperatures can cause your garage door to freeze shut. To prevent this, keep the area around the bottom seal clear of snow and ice. Spraying a de-icer or applying a silicone-based lubricant to the bottom edge of the door can also help.

If your garage door does freeze shut, avoid forcing it open, as this can damage the door or opener. Instead, use a hairdryer or heat gun to carefully thaw the frozen areas.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While routine maintenance can be done by homeowners, scheduling a professional tune-up is a wise investment. A technician can identify and fix potential issues, ensuring your garage door is in top condition for the colder months.

Professionals will also inspect critical components, such as springs, cables, and rollers, to ensure they’re functioning correctly and safely. Preventative maintenance can save you from inconvenient breakdowns and costly emergency repairs during winter.

Contact George & Sons Garage Doors for Repairs or Maintenance

Winter can be tough on your garage door, but with the right care and attention, you can keep it running smoothly and efficiently all season long. Regular inspections, lubrication, and proper insulation are key to protecting your door from the harsh effects of winter weather. If you notice any major issues this winter, don’t hesitate to contact George & Sons Garage Doors. We proudly provide garage door repair and maintenance services to homeowners and business owners in Northern Nevada.