Temperatures are dropping. Snow is falling. And it’s only a matter of time before we begin to see ice set in for the season. As a Winter enthusiast, the weather can be beautiful! But as a homeowner, you’ll want to watch out for ways the winter weather can affect your garage. Luckily, there are also actions you can take to prevent ice and snow from damaging your garage door. 

Can Ice and Snow Damage Your Garage Door?

The short answer – yes! Once your car is safely stored inside, you may not give much thought to how the weather outside can still affect other assets of your home. Specifically, your garage door. Below are just a few of the ways ice and snow can damage your garage door, and how you can prevent it.

Garage Frames and Springs

You’re not the only one feeling the chill! Your garage door parts and mechanisms are also feeling those super low temps. The snowy and icy conditions can cause garage door frames to contract, while springs begin to lose their strength. In fact, broken springs are the most common issues homeowners face during the winter season. Having an insulated garage door and climate controlled interior can help battle the effects of freezing temperatures.

The Garage Door Itself

Most of us still open and close our garage doors throughout the Winter season. If snow has accumulated on your garage door while it is open, you must clear it away before closing it again. Otherwise, you run the risk of the door not fully closing or the weight of the snow damaging the door. Furthermore, water and snow can easily accumulate at the bottom of your garage door, causing it to freeze. If you find yourself with a frozen garage door, try to scrape the ice underneath, pour hot water, or use a small space heater to melt the ice. Avoid a frozen garage door by sweeping snow, ice, and water away from the base of your garage door.

How To Prevent Ice And Snow Damage

The best way to keep your garage door running smoothly all year-round is to properly inspect and maintain its components! It’s recommended to check your garage door every three months by disconnecting the door opener and operating the door manually a few times. You can also invest in a weather resistant door that is built to withstand the effects of snow, ice and freezing temperatures.

Adam’s Door Systems has the expertise to figure out your winter garage door woes and provide you with affordable solutions. Contact us today! We can be reached at info@adamsdoorsystems.com or 905-602-6550 (Mississauga) or 416-502-2212 (Toronto). 

Want to avoid costly and time-consuming repairs during the Winter months? Then now is the time for some Fall garage door maintenance! By taking action now, you can prolong the service life of your garage door while identifying fixable issues before they become a problem. Ensuring a safe, working garage door for years to come. Follow our top 5 tips for Fall Garage Door Maintenance.

Seal Any Gaps That May Be Present

Visually inspect your garage door for places where light may be seeping in from outside and repair accordingly to minimize the winter elements from entering your garage. Remember to also look for air drafts along your garage door and windows as well. Repairing any gaps with weatherstripping or sealant.

Stay On “Track”

Your garage door tracks are extremely important. Spend time ensuring both tracks are free of rust and debris. You should also keep an eye out for any bends; the tracks should be perfectly vertical. If your tracks are bent, consult with a residential garage door professional to avoid further damage.

Consult With The Pros!

Consult with a professional garage door repair team for a seasonal inspection of your door and its major components. With years of experience and an eye for issues, they will be able to quickly identify problems and provide a quick solution. So you can leave your worries at the door.

Inspect Springs And Rollers

Please note garage door springs are under a high amount of tension; be mindful when working with them. After disconnecting your garage door from the power source, inspect rollers and springs for any damage, over-stretching, and general wear and tear. Worn parts should be replaced, dirty parts should be cleaned, and all moving parts should be lubricated.

Pro Tip! All metal parts used by your garage door require lubrication not once, but regularly year-round.

Organizing Isn’t Just For The Spring

Get ahead of Spring cleaning by preparing your garage interior in the Fall. Pack away Spring and Summer items, while moving all Fall and Winter items into easily accessible places You can also utilize shelving and stackable storage bins to make the most of the space while improving HVAC flow.

For your garage door to remain in proper working order, regular garage door maintenance is required, just like you would with your vehicle. Looking for more garage door maintenance tips? We can be reached at info@adamsdoorsystems.com or 905-602-6550 (Mississauga) or 416-502-2212 (Toronto).

Did you know the average life-span of a garage door is close to 30 years with the proper maintenance? While newer technology and improved aesthetics may encourage you to purchase a new garage door, staying up to date with care and maintenance will prevent you from needing to replace yours before necessary. If you want to ensure your garage door looks great and lasts for years to come, follow these 4 tips.

Keep It Moving

Lubricating all the moving parts on your garage door system is one of the easiest ways to expand its life expectancy. Once a year, take 10 minutes to spray lubricant on the opener’s chain or drive screw and on the door’s rollers, hinges, and tracks. You should also inspect the rollers at least twice per year as these parts only have a lifespan of 7 years.

Keep It Secure

Every time your garage door opens and closes, it creates vibrations that loosen the hardware – now consider that the average garage door is used 1,000 times per year. Regularly tightening your bolts and roller brackets is an important part of automatic garage door maintenance.

Keep It Balanced

A garage door that is off-balance creates unnecessary strain on the opener, shortening its lifespan. You can check your door’s balance by disconnecting it from the opener, pulling the manual release cord, and stopping when the door is about half-way up. If the door is properly balanced, it will stop on its own. If the door slides down or rides up, this is an indication that the spring’s tension needs an adjustment.

Keep It Sealed

Your garage door should always be sealed from the elements. If the weatherstripping below your garage door starts to decay, it can create dangerous situations and lead to damage. If you notice puddles in your garage, rusting around the door, or drafts coming in under the door, it’s a good sign that your weatherstripping needs some attention.

Uh-oh…have you been neglecting to keep up with your garage door’s maintenance? Let us help! Our professionals are standing by to assist with all of your repair and maintenance needs. Contact us today at info@adamsdoorsystems.com!