Your garage door is one of the largest and most frequently used moving parts in your home. Whether it’s protecting your car from the elements, serving as a main entryway, or adding value to your property, it plays a vital role. But like any mechanical system, garage doors don’t last forever — unless you take care of them.
With regular maintenance and a few smart habits, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door, avoid costly repairs, and keep everything running smoothly for years to come.
Here are some expert tips to help you do just that.
Keep It Clean and Rust Free
Dust, dirt and grime can easily build up on your garage door’s surface and hardware, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather. Regular cleaning not only keeps your door looking great but also prevents rust and corrosion.
What to do:
- Wipe the door down with mild soap and water every few months
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth
- Inspect the tracks and hardware for rust and debris- clean and lubricate if needed
Lubricate Moving Parts Regularly
A well-lubricated garage door operates more quietly and smoothly. More importantly, it reduces wear and tear on moving parts like rollers, hinges and springs.
What to do:
- Use a silicone-based lubricant or garage door specific spray (not WD40) every 6 months
- Apply a light coat to rollers, hinges, tracks, springs, and the opener chain or screw
- Wipe off any excess to prevent dirt buildup
Check and Tighten Hardware
The average garage door opens and closes over 1,000 times a year. All that motion can loosen nuts, bolts and brackets over time, leading to misalignment and increased strain on the system.
What to do:
- Check and tighten all screws annually
- Pay special attention to roller brackets and bolts on the tracks
Test the Balance of the Door
If your door is out of balance, the opener must work harder – which can shorten its life. A well-balanced door should stay in place when partially opened manually.
What to do:
- Disconnect the opener and lift the door halfway
- If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment
- Important note: never try to adjust torsion springs yourself – always call a professional
Inspect Seals
The rubber seal at the bottom of your door (and along with sides, if applicable) keeps out water, debris and pests- and helps with insulation. Over time, it can crack or become brittle.
What to do:
- Check for cracks or gaps every few months
- Replace seals if it’s damaged
- A good seal reduces energy costs and keeps your garage cleaner
Be Mindful of How You Use It
Garage doors are built to last if you buy high quality, but misuse can significantly shorten its life. Avoid forcing it open when it gets stuck or using it as a main entrance to your house when unnecessary.
What to do:
- Limit unnecessary open / close cycles
- Use other entrances to reduce wear and tear
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Some issues aren’t necessarily visible to the untrained eye. An inspection every now and then by a garage door specialist can help catch small problems before they turn into big repairs.
What to expect:
- Professionals will check the spring tension, align tracks, test safety sensors, inspect cables and fine tune the opener
- Early detection often means lower repair costs and a longer lifespan
Your garage door is an investment — and with the right care, it can serve you well for 15, even 20 years or more. By following these simple maintenance steps, you not only extend the life of your garage door but also improve safety, energy efficiency, and performance.
At Garage Doors 4 You, we offer comprehensive maintenance services, expert repairs, and high-quality installations to keep your garage door operating like new. Our reliable repair and maintenance services will help make your garage doors operate smoothly again for years to come. Usually, we can fit issues in a single visit and can even repair older models.
If you’re in Kent and in need of a garage door repair, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please complete the form here or get in touch on 01634 244452
