Garage door rollers are the wheels that run along the tracks of your garage door. These are the parts of your garage door that guide it up and down the track system. They are a critical component of your garage door, responsible for your door opening smoothly and evenly. And since they roll up and down the tracks, they are subject to considerable wear and tear.
Here’s what you need to know about garage door rollers and how to maximize their lifespan for a smoothly functioning garage door.
How Long Should Garage Door Rollers Last?
There’s no standard answer to this question because the truth is the answer’s up to you. It all comes down to how you care for and maintain your garage door rollers. This is also affected by the climate you live in (while we have warm winters in Elk Grove, California, they are also quite rainy). It’s also impacted by how often you use your garage door.
What Are Garage Door Rollers Made Of?
The fact is garage door rollers can come in a variety of materials. The most common materials are steel, plastic and nylon. Steel garage door rollers are by far the most superior because they last longer, but they can be expensive. Plastic rollers are your cheapest option, but they wear out fast and will need to be replaced more often. The beauty of nylon rollers is they are quiet. They are also affordable, but they don’t last as long as steel.
What Causes Garage Door Rollers to Wear Out Quicker?
The biggest factor that affects how long your garage door rollers will last is the material they are made of. Steel rollers last the longest, though weather can be an issue. Steel can rust faster when exposed to high amounts of water.
Another factor is how often your garage door is used. And last but not least, how well maintained your garage door is. We suggest regularly oiling your rollers and other parts of your garage door in order to optimize their longevity.
We also suggest that you regularly inspect your garage door rollers for signs of wear and tear. When they need to be replaced, replace them. You can do the job yourself or hire a professional garage door technician to do it for you.