How Weather Impacts Garage Doors and How to Manage It

Weather conditions can have an impact on many of the exterior elements of our properties, and garage doors are no exception. How does weather impact your garage door, and how can you manage garage door weather damage and keep your garage door in great shape?

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to serve as the one-stop shop for all things garage doors, entry doors, exterior doors, Pella windows and more around both Idaho and Utah. With locations located conveniently in Boise, Salt Lake City and St. George, we’re able to serve clients throughout both states. We offer a wide range of garage door repair services to our clients, including for issues of garage door weather damage. Here are some common examples of weather-related garage door issues, plus some seasonal garage tips and others to help you manage these concerns.

Common Seasonal Forms of Garage Door Weather Damage

Garage door weather damage can be found in a few different formats, most of which are related to seasonal changes throughout the year. These may include:

• Warping concerns: During hot summer months, some garage doors are susceptible to warping. This often occurs when the heat causes the door’s materials to expand and contract repeatedly, causing minor warps or bends that can impact function.
• Freezing and sticking: Conversely, during the colder winter months, moisture can accumulate on various garage door components and then freeze. When this happens, several parts may stick together and malfunction – particularly with doors that open outward.
• Spring issues: The transition from winter to spring is a common time for weather changes that cause springs to loosen or tighten on your garage door. These are responsible for much of its weight support and may need adjustments in such situations.
• Rust: Moisture, especially from outside, can cause rust to form on metal components of your garage door. Regular inspection and maintenance of these parts – such as hinges, rollers, tracks and springs – helps in preventing or rectifying any damage.

Luckily, a bit of advanced preparation and attention to your garage doors can help prevent each of these issues. Read on to find out more!

Weatherproofing Tips

In the majority of cases, garage door weather damage can be prevented entirely or heavily reduced by taking some basic weatherproofing steps ahead of time. These may include:

• Sealing: Check for gaps and spaces between the garage door and the surrounding walls, as well as around any windows, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Insulation: Proper insulation can help keep your garage warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and reduce energy costs. Consider adding insulation to your garage door if it’s lacking.
• Weather seals: Install weather seals along the bottom edge of your garage door to prevent drafts from entering. You may also want to add weather seals to any windows on your garage door.
• Clear debris: Make sure there isn’t any debris obstructing the track or preventing proper closing of the door. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate over time and affect the door’s functionality.
• Lubricate moving parts: Regularly lubricating the moving parts of your garage door can help them operate smoothly and prevent wear and tear. Use a silicone-based lubricant to avoid attracting dirt and debris.

Value of Inspection Before Harsh Seasons

In places like Utah and Idaho, there are a few crux points within a given year that tend to present the harshest weather conditions to your garage doors. In Utah, for instance, summers reach above 100 degrees in extremely dry conditions, while winters bring heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. These extreme weather conditions can take a toll on your garage door if it is not properly maintained.

That’s why it’s important to have your garage door inspected before the start of these harsh seasons. A professional inspection can help identify any potential issues and address them before they become major problems. This can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your garage door in good condition throughout the year. It not only helps prevent costly repairs but also ensures that your garage door operates smoothly and safely for you and your family.

Some common maintenance tasks include lubricating moving parts, checking for gaps, adjusting tension on springs and tracks, and inspecting the overall condition of your garage door. By regularly performing these tasks, you can catch any potential issues early on and address them before they become bigger problems.

And if you need assistance with any element discussed here, from weatherproofing to addressing garage door weather damage, our team at Price’s Guaranteed Doors is here to help. Contact us today for help with garage doors, entry doors or any other related need around Utah and Idaho!