Minneapolis winters can be tough on a garage door. Parts that move daily are subjected to strain by deep cold, heavy snow, and ice. Planning will save you from having doors jammed and unexpected repair costs. Here are a few easy tips to put your door in good shape before the first freeze.
Start With a Full Inspection
Begin by checking every part you can see. Inspect springs, cables, rollers, and hinges for rust, fraying or loose bolts. Observe the door opening and closing and look for any vibration or noise. Many homeowners book a fall check with a local garage door company in Twin Cities so repairs happen before the first freeze. January emergency calls are hard to put out; early fixes are easier.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
Cold weather thickens old grease, which makes parts work harder. Lubricate the rollers, hinges, and springs of the garage doors in the fall. The product that operates best is a product designed for low temperatures. Wipe clean if there is any excess so that dirt is not left. Clean the tracks with a cloth rather than oiling them. Smooth parts do less harm on the opener and can reduce the noise of the door.
Seal Out Cold Air and Moisture
Inspect the weather seal around the bottom and sides of the door. Damaged or broken rubber allows cold air, snow, and moisture in. Change out worn seals prior to winter. If the door is insulated, check for broken or cracked panels. By keeping the garage door tightly shut, it helps to keep the garage warmer, stored items safer, and ice buildup near the bottom of the garage door smaller.
Test the Safety Features
Try out the auto-reverse before winter. Roll some paper towels in the door’s way and close the door. It should turn around if it touches the roll. Then block the sensor beam and make sure the door will stop. Wipe down sensor lenses close to the ground. If either test fails, discontinue use of the opener and contact the technician.
Check Springs and Cables
Metal components may become brittle in cold weather, and springs and cables are more likely to be affected by cold in winter. Check for grinding, pops or an unevenly moving door. If it is not level, discontinue use of the door. Springs and cables are dangerous and under strain, so always contact a professional for assistance. Contact a qualified technician to make repairs.
Refresh the Opener and Remote
Cold drains batteries quickly. Replace batteries in remotes and the keypad before winter. Don’t ignore the opener if it sounds strained or simply doesn’t start as quickly in the frosty morning. If the motor is struggling, it could be a sign of a more serious problem, like lubrication or worn springs. Learn the location of the emergency release cord to use the door in case of a power outage.
Build Smart Winter Habits
Do not force doors open or close when frozen, as it may break parts. Remove snow or ice from the base of the door before closing the door. Avoid pulling the door by hand; use the remote. Save an emergency repair number on your cell phone for any problems that occur on the coldest days. Simple habits protect your door and your wallet.
Conclusion
Preparing your garage door for winter takes just a little time but saves a lot of trouble. Never wait till the first snowstorm to discover a problem. Check the components, oil moving parts, block the cold, and test safety functions. Pay attention to springs and cables, change batteries on the remote control, and don’t attempt dangerous repairs. These preparations in advance will help to ensure your door is ready for the cold winter months and make it comfortable, warm, and safe for your home until spring.
