This is a brief checklist of easy things to keep in mind when you are either doing a routine garage door check, or just going in and out regularly as you go about your business. Developing a modest sense of what your garage door operation sounds and looks like can go a long way towards minimizing and correcting any developing problems. Most problems, if caught early, are no big deal to fix, and can often be taken care of on a lazy Saturday afternoon.
Look
You can visually inspect several components, starting with the door itself. When the door is fully open and fully closed – is it sitting evenly, or is it slightly ajar? As you open and close the door, does it operate in a smooth manner, or are there moments of jerkiness? View the opening and closing motion from both the inside and outside of the door during this exercise. Take note of the springs at the sides (from the inside) – are they expanding equally/symmetrically? The answers to these questions can begin to give hints if a problem is developing, or not.
Listen
When opening and closing, does the operation sound smooth/consistent through the entire motion? Is there any evidence of grinding or otherwise alarming sounds? Take note of any odd vibrations or otherwise potentially loose hardware. Does the motor sound like it is straining at any point during the operation? Any odd or distressing sounds should be evaluated and addressed as soon as possible.
Maintain What You Can
Most maintenance can be reasonably done by anyone, while other components should be left to professionals. Things that can be relatively safely done include clearing the tracks of debris, replacing the weather stripping around the door, and of course the all-important regular wash and possible fresh coat of paint. Many folks may also opt to do the yearly lubrication themselves. When it comes to checking the high-tension cables, and even to some extent replacing rollers – you may want to consider consulting with local professionals.
Start Having Your Door Serviced Annually
Regular professional services calls for your garage door ensures great performance and longevity. It is tempting to overlook regular servicing if your garage door appears to be working fine but you shouldn’t. Preventative care and inspections carried out by professionals should be done annually. They can catch problems you may not see yourself.An annual service by a professional help identify issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Trained technicians possess the expertise to inspect every component of your overhead door. Everything from springs, cables, rollers, tracks, to the opener system. They can spot signs of wear and tear, misalignments, or any other mechanical or electrical faults. Problems that may compromise the door’s performance or pose safety hazards. By addressing these issues in their early stages, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns or accidents. Regular service calls you from garage door breakdowns and expensive repairs in the long run.