
As the temperatures drop, garage doors often face a new set of challenges. Cold weather can impact everything from your door’s ability to open smoothly to the performance of key components like springs and sensors. At Prutch’s Garage Door, we know how important it is to have a dependable garage door, especially in winter. Here, we’ll cover some common cold-weather issues and offer preventive steps to keep your garage door functioning seamlessly all season long.
1. Frozen Tracks
Problem: When temperatures dip, moisture can accumulate and freeze on the garage door’s metal tracks, causing the door to stick, slow down, or even get jammed altogether.
Solution: Keep the tracks clean and dry. Regularly wipe them down to remove dirt and moisture. For extra protection, apply a silicone-based lubricant to prevent freezing. Avoid using grease-based lubricants, as they can thicken in the cold, making the problem worse.
2. Cold Weather Stiffening Lubricants
Problem: Lubricants used on the garage door’s moving parts, such as rollers and hinges, can become thick and sticky in colder weather, leading to slow or uneven operation.
Solution: Switch to a cold-weather-compatible, silicone-based lubricant. Lubricate all moving parts before the coldest months hit, and check the door’s operation periodically to ensure everything moves smoothly. Silicone-based lubricants don’t thicken as much in low temperatures and provide a more reliable performance.
3. Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener
Problem: Extreme cold can impact the garage door opener’s motor, making it work harder or malfunction. Additionally, the lubricant in the motor gears can thicken, causing strain.
Solution: Consider upgrading to a newer garage door opener, particularly one designed for colder climates if you live in a region with harsh winters. For existing units, make sure they’re well-maintained and insulated, and avoid overusing the opener if temperatures are especially low. Keeping the garage warm (or at least above freezing) can also help prevent motor strain.
4. Contracting Metal Springs and Parts
Problem: Cold temperatures can cause metal components, like springs, to contract. This contraction puts added stress on the springs, leading to potential breakage or decreased functionality.
Solution: Have a professional inspect your garage door springs annually, preferably in the fall before the cold sets in. If your springs are aging, consider replacing them to prevent winter issues. Regular maintenance checks ensure that springs remain in good working order and can handle the weight of the door even in colder weather.
5. Misaligned Sensors
Problem: Cold weather can cause the sensors located at the base of the garage door to shift or get blocked by snow, ice, or debris, leading to problems with the door’s operation.
Solution: Check the sensors regularly to make sure they’re clean and aligned. Wipe away any moisture or debris that could obstruct the sensors. If they’ve shifted, carefully realign them so they face each other directly. Many sensor alignment issues can be resolved by ensuring they’re not exposed to direct snow or ice.
6. Weather Seal Damage
Problem: Weather seals at the bottom of the door can harden, crack, or freeze to the ground during the winter months, making it hard for the door to open or close fully. Damaged seals can also lead to drafts and higher energy bills.
Solution: Inspect your weather seals in the fall and replace any that are worn or damaged. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the bottom seal can help prevent it from freezing to the ground. If you notice drafts, consider investing in a higher-quality, insulated weather seal for added warmth and energy efficiency.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Winter-Ready Garage Doors
Taking these proactive steps before the cold weather arrives can help avoid frustrating issues:
Schedule a Fall Tune-Up: Having a professional check your garage door system in the fall can identify and fix potential issues before winter hits.
Keep the Garage Warm: A slightly warmer garage keeps metal parts from contracting and lubricants from thickening. Consider adding insulation to both the garage door and the walls if your garage isn’t already insulated.
Test Safety Features: Cold weather can impact the garage door’s safety mechanisms. Test the automatic reverse function and safety sensors to make sure everything works properly.
Clear the Area Around the Door: Keep the area around your garage door clear of snow, ice, and debris. This prevents issues with the sensors and weather seal.
By following these preventive steps, homeowners can avoid the inconvenience of cold-weather garage door problems and keep their doors working efficiently all winter. At Prutch’s Garage Door, we’re here to help with maintenance, upgrades, and repairs to make sure your garage door stands up to winter’s challenges. Schedule a fall tune-up with us today and enjoy a stress-free season with a garage door that performs flawlessly, no matter how low the temperature drops.
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