While the average garage door today can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, it is still necessary to perform regular maintenance just as you would on any other major appliance of home equipment. Performing regular maintenance will help to maintain its suggested lifespan and the overall reliability of the garage door.
During the summer, you can take advantage of these easy maintenance tips that are sure to keep your garage door in tip top shape throughout the seasons. Best of all, these maintenance tips do not require a professional and only a little bit of knowledge regarding your garage door and equipment.
Inspecting the Hardware
The first and easiest step that you can take on your summer garage door maintenance project is to inspect the hardware for any wear and tear that may have occurred over the year. This can be done by simply looking over all of the visible parts and noticing if any hinges look loose, if the track seems to be misaligned and if bolts look to be missing. Tighten all visible bolts and replace those that are missing. By ensuring that all hardware is in proper working order, your garage door is sure to open and close smoothly and without interruption.
Lubricating Hardware
One of the easiest ways to keep your garage door running smoothly throughout the summer if to lubricate all of the hardware. Ensuring that hardware is lubricated will eliminate loud noises and screeches while opening and closing. Lubricate all hardware and parts of the door with a 3 in 1 type of oil. You should never use grease when lubricating your garage door.
Washing Your Garage Door
Improve the overall appearance of your garage by washing it during the warm summer months. Washing the door will remove dirt, grease and grime that has built up over time. Water and a mild household detergent can be used to clean the surface of steel and aluminum doors with ease.
Applying New Paint
After washing your garage door, you may choose to enhance its look by applying a fresh coat of paint. Choose the same color paint that you already have or create a brand new look on the outside of your home by opting for a new and unique color that sets it apart from the rest.
Insulation
Not only is garage door insulation beneficial during the winter months, but can also be extremely helpful during the summer. Keep out the heat and keep in the air conditioning by ensuring that your garage door is properly insulated. This can also help to keep out the heat in living spaces that may be located directly above the garage.
Reinforcing Your Garage Door
Reinforcing your garage door is ideal for areas that are likely to be hit by hurricanes and other extreme weather conditions. Check to make sure that there are no holes or openings within your garage door and that it is reinforced properly to keep your house safe from harm and damage during storms.
Removal of Rust
Remove visible rust on steel garage doors by sanding the damage, applying a primer and painting over with an exterior latex paint for the best results.
Testing Your Garage Door
One of the simplest maintenance tests that can be done on your garage door during any time of the year is to simply test out the garage door. Open and close the door to ensure that it is working properly, that nothing seems to be out of place and to ensure that it is not making any strange noises.
