Your garage door is a vital part of your home, providing security and protecting your car and belongings. But like any machine, it requires regular maintenance to function smoothly and safely. Luckily, Mass Garage Doors Expert is here to help you keep your door in top shape, but here are some key maintenance tips you can do yourself:
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Visual Inspection: Once a month, take a few minutes to visually inspect your garage door. Look for any signs of wear and tear on the door itself, such as cracks, dents, or loose panels. Check the weather stripping around the edges of the door for damage or gaps that could allow moisture or pests in. Don't forget to inspect the tracks and hinges for any debris or rust.
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Lubrication: Every few months, lubricate the moving parts of your garage door system. This includes the hinges, rollers, and the screw drive or chain (depending on your opener type). Use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for garage doors. Important safety note: Never lubricate the torsion spring or the tracks, as this can cause the door to become unbalanced and create a safety hazard.
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Balance Test: An unbalanced garage door can put extra strain on the opener motor and lead to premature wear and tear. Here's a simple test to check the balance: Disconnect the door from the opener (consult your manual for instructions if needed). If the door stays halfway open without budging, it's balanced. If it falls shut or swings right up, it's unbalanced and needs adjustment by a professional like Mass Garage Doors Expert.
When is the Best Time for Maintenance?
Ideally, you should perform a basic visual inspection monthly and lubricate the moving parts every few months. However, a more thorough inspection and any necessary adjustments are recommended twice a year. The best times to schedule these more comprehensive checkups are in the spring and fall. Why? Spring allows you to identify any winter-related issues and ensure your door is prepared for warmer weather. Conversely, a fall inspection helps prepare your garage door for the harsher conditions of winter, like snow and ice, that can put extra strain on the system.
What's Included in a Professional Maintenance Service?
A professional garage door maintenance service from Mass Garage Doors Expert typically includes a comprehensive inspection and tune-up of your entire system. Here's what you can expect:
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Visual Inspection: A technician will meticulously examine all components, including the door, tracks, hinges, rollers, weatherstripping, and opener (if applicable). They'll be on the lookout for any signs of wear and tear, damage, rust, loose parts, or anything else that could be causing problems.
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Lubrication: The technician will apply a silicone-based lubricant to the appropriate moving parts to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Important to note: we will typically not lubricate the torsion spring or the tracks, as this can cause safety hazards.
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Balance Check and Adjustment: A balanced door is essential. The technician will perform a test to see if the door is balanced and adjust if needed.
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Tightening Loose Parts: Over time, fasteners can loosen. The technician will check for and tighten any loose connections to ensure the entire system is secure.
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Cleaning: They may clean out any dirt, debris, or cobwebs that have accumulated in the tracks or around the moving parts to prevent future problems.
Additional Services:
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Safety Sensor Check: They will check the functionality of safety sensors that prevent the door from closing on someone or something.
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Opener Diagnostics: If you have an automatic opener, our technician will do a basic diagnostic check to ensure its functioning properly.
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Minor Repairs: if needed, we will replace worn-out rollers or weatherstripping as part of the maintenance service.
Remember, it's always a good idea to check with us what maintenance package is best for you before booking an appointment. We can ensure your garage door receives the expert care it needs to function smoothly and safely for years to come.