Keep things on track with these Garage Door Maintenance Tips

1. Visual Inspection: The First Step

Regularly inspecting your garage door can help you catch minor issues before they turn into major problems. Here’s what to look for:



• Examine springs, cables, rollers, and hinges for signs of wear or damage.
• Look for rust, frayed cables, or loose bolts that may compromise the door’s function.
• Listen for unusual grinding or scraping noises when opening or closing the door.

If you notice anything concerning, it’s best to address it sooner rather than later.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts for Smooth Operation

To keep your garage door running quietly and efficiently, lubricate the moving parts at least twice a year.



• Use a silicone-based lubricant on rollers, hinges, and tracks.
• Avoid using WD-40, as it can attract dirt and debris, causing more harm than good.
• A well-lubricated garage door reduces strain on the motor and prevents premature wear.

3. Keep Tracks Clean and Aligned

Dirt and debris in the garage door tracks can cause it to operate improperly. Here’s how to keep the tracks in good shape:



• Wipe the tracks with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime.
• Check for any bends or misalignment. If the door is not running smoothly, slight adjustments may be needed.
• If tracks appear significantly bent or misaligned, contact a professional to avoid making the problem worse.

4. Test the Balance of Your Garage Door

A properly balanced garage door ensures that your opener doesn’t have to work harder than necessary. You can test the balance by:

1. Disconnecting the opener.
2. Manually lifting the door halfway.
3. If the door stays in place, it is balanced correctly. If it moves up or down, the springs may need adjustment.

Important: Adjusting springs is extremely dangerous and should only be handled by a professional.

5. Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping

The weatherstripping at the bottom of your garage door helps keep out dirt, moisture, and pests while improving energy efficiency. Over time, it can wear down and crack.



• Inspect the seal and replace it if you notice cracks, gaps, or brittleness.
• A good seal helps maintain temperature control inside your garage.
• Weatherstripping is easy to replace and can make a big difference in insulation and protection.

6. Test the Safety Features

Modern garage doors come with built-in safety features designed to prevent accidents. Regularly test these features to ensure they are working properly:



• Auto-Reverse Test: Place an object (such as a roll of paper towels) under the door and close it. If the door doesn’t reverse upon contact, the system needs attention.
• Photo-Eye Sensors: Wipe the sensor lenses with a clean cloth to remove dust and check their alignment. If the sensors aren’t working correctly, the door may not close properly.

If either of these features fails the test, don’t wait—call a professional to inspect and repair them.

7. Tighten Hardware and Check for Loose Parts

Because garage doors move up and down multiple times a day, the constant motion can cause nuts and bolts to loosen.



• Use a wrench to tighten brackets, rollers, and bolts.
• If you notice excessive wear on any parts, consider replacing them.
• Keeping everything securely fastened ensures a smoother and safer operation.

When to Call a Professional

While regular maintenance can prevent many issues, some repairs should always be left to the experts. Contact a professional if you notice:

• Broken springs or cables – These are under high tension and can be extremely dangerous to handle.
• Motor or opener issues – If your garage door opener isn’t responding properly, it may require electrical repairs.
• Severe misalignment or door off-track – A misaligned door can worsen over time and cause additional damage if not addressed properly.

Call a Professional Before Small Issues Become Big Problems

Regular garage door maintenance keeps your door working smoothly and extends its lifespan. While homeowners can handle basic upkeep, some problems require professional attention to ensure safety and proper operation.

At The Kansas City Door Company, we specialize in garage door maintenance, repairs, and installations. If you notice any issues beyond your expertise, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem—contact us today for professional service you can trust!