Winter Garage Door Upkeep Considerations

There are a few components of our homes that may require just a bit of simple care over the course of the long Utah winter, and your garage door is a great example. While you absolutely do not have to be inspecting or caring for your garage door on a daily basis or anywhere near it, some basic periodic approaches can go a long way toward maintaining door and property quality.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to help clients around Salt Lake City, Bountiful, Park City, Heber City and many other areas of Utah with all their garage door and exterior door needs, including basic upkeep, repairs or any similar need this winter. Here are some basic approaches to winter garage door maintenance to keep in mind, whether on your own or with help from our professionals wherever you might need it.

Basic Cleaning

Because winter can come with a host of harsh conditions like snow, ice and other weather events that can impact your garage door, the first step here is a simple cleaning. Look for any signs of dirt, grime or debris on or around your garage door – this sort of buildup can lead to corrosion issues if left unattended to over time.

If you notice any such material on the door, use a mild detergent to clean it. This will remove the buildup and prevent any potential issues down the line. Be sure not to use abrasive or harsh chemicals, which can damage the door’s material.

Inspection and Lubrication

Next up is a simple inspection of your garage door’s moving parts, including rollers, hinges and tracks. Look for any signs of wear and tear or damage, such as rust or cracks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them sooner rather than later to prevent further damage or costly repairs.

While you’re inspecting, be sure to also lubricate all moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help prevent any excess friction that can lead to wear and tear over time, keeping your garage door running smoothly throughout the winter. Be sure not to just hit your garage tracks, but also important parts like springs and hinges.

Weatherstripping

Another important aspect of winter garage door maintenance is checking your weatherstripping. This material helps keep out cold air, moisture and debris from the area around your garage door.

If you notice any cracks or gaps in your weatherstripping, replace it as soon as possible to prevent any damage to your garage or home’s interior.

Snow and Ice Clearance

Over the course of the winter, snow and ice buildup can cause issues with your garage door’s opening and closing mechanisms. Make sure to regularly clear any snow or ice from around the door, as well as on top of it if it has accumulated there.

If you notice that your garage door is struggling to open or close due to a large amount of snow or ice, do not force it open manually. Rather, do your best to move the snow using shovels and other basic items – if the issue is frozen ice that simply will not budge, you may need to call our professionals for assistance.

Check for Rust or Mold

Because of the higher moisture levels of winter, it’s important to keep an eye out for rust or mold on your garage door. If you notice any signs of either, address them immediately to prevent further damage and potential health hazards.

In some cases, the growth of mold or rust may require professional cleaning or repairs. If you’re unsure about how to handle it yourself, don’t hesitate to call our team for assistance.

Professional Inspection or Repairs

Especially if it’s been a few years since you’ve had your garage door inspected, it may be worth getting a professional inspection done this winter. This can help catch any small issues before they become larger and more costly. Consider this an investment in the long-term quality of your garage door and home’s value.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re proud to offer a wide range of garage door and exterior door services, from basic maintenance to repairs and more. We have years of experience helping clients across SLC, Bountiful, Park City, Heber City and other parts of Utah with all their needs. Are you interested in learning more about any of our garage door services, or simply looking for assistance this winter? Speak to one of our staff today.