It pays to be on top of your garage door maintenance, as damaged or improperly working garage doors can be both a safety hazard and a security concern. Check monthly for any rust, rot or other damage done to the panels of your garage door. Additionally, the springs, cables, rollers and tracks should be checked regularly for wear and tear. If damage is found, you should immediately seek garage door repair.
Another important aspect of garage door maintenance is the balance of the door. The balance of the garage door should be checked monthly, and an unbalanced garage door may require adjustment or spring replacement. If your garage door is balanced, it will raise and lower itself in a controlled manner, without any slamming or jerking movements. When the door is in its open position, the bottom of the door should be aligned with the bottom of the door opening.
Garage doors should be lubricated at least once a year. Bearings, hinges and springs should all be lubricated to ensure continued performance. However, you should never lubricate the track of your garage door. Doing so can cause build up of grease that will inhibit your garage door, and may require serious garage door repair. Only trained professionals should attempt to repair or replace your garage door, so call your garage door service for safe repair.
Washing your garage door is also important to retain its performance. Wash your door at least once yearly, using any common laundry detergent. It's important to rinse your garage door thoroughly after washing to avoid any residue that could damage the door. With regular checking, lubrication and washing, your garage door should last you and your family a lifetime.