Summer in the Mid-Willamette Valley is a season for backyard barbecues, family vacations, and home improvement projects. But while you’re enjoying the sunshine, your garage door is working harder than you might think.
High temperatures, increased daily use, and exposure to direct sunlight can all take a toll on your garage door system. Fortunately, a little preventative maintenance can go a long way toward avoiding unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Here are seven simple ways to keep your garage door operating safely and smoothly all summer long.
1. Inspect Your Weather Seal
The rubber weather seal along the bottom of your garage door helps keep out dust, insects, moisture, and hot air. Over time, the summer sun can cause it to crack, dry out, or become brittle.
Take a few minutes to inspect the seal for gaps or visible wear. Replacing a damaged seal is an inexpensive way to improve your garage’s comfort while helping protect everything stored inside.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Heat can increase friction on your garage door’s moving components. Rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks all benefit from periodic lubrication.
Use a garage door lubricant specifically designed for these components—not standard grease or WD-40. Proper lubrication helps reduce noise, minimizes wear, and keeps your door operating smoothly throughout the season.
3. Check the Door’s Balance
A garage door that is out of balance places unnecessary strain on the opener and other hardware.
To perform a simple balance test:
● Disconnect the opener using the emergency release.
● Lift the door halfway by hand.
● Carefully let go.
If the door stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it quickly moves up or down, it’s time to have a professional inspect the spring system.
4. Watch for Signs of Heat Damage
Oregon summers may not be as extreme as some parts of the country, but prolonged UV exposure can still affect your garage door.
Keep an eye out for:
● Fading paint or finish
● Warping on wood doors
● Cracked weatherstripping
● Expanding metal components that affect alignment
Addressing these issues early helps extend the life of your garage door and keeps it looking its best.
5. Test Your Safety Features
Your garage door’s safety systems should be tested regularly.
Make sure the photo-eye sensors are clean and aligned. Then test the auto-reverse feature by placing a small object beneath the door. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately upon contact, discontinue use and schedule service right away.
These safety features help protect your family, pets, and vehicles.
6. Keep the Tracks Clean
Summer means more dust, pollen, grass clippings, and debris finding their way into your garage.
Inspect the tracks periodically and remove any buildup using a clean cloth. Keeping the tracks clear helps the rollers move freely and reduces unnecessary wear on the opener.
7. Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Just like your HVAC system benefits from seasonal service, your garage door performs best with routine professional maintenance.
A trained technician can inspect springs, cables, rollers, bearings, safety features, opener settings, and hardware before small problems become costly repairs.
Preventative maintenance not only extends the life of your garage door but also gives you peace of mind during the busiest months of the year.
Keep Your Garage Door Ready for Summer
Your garage door is one of the hardest-working systems in your home. Giving it a little attention during the summer can improve reliability, enhance safety, and help you avoid unexpected breakdowns when you need it most.
Whether your door needs routine maintenance, repairs, or you’re ready to upgrade to a beautiful new garage door, the experienced team at Overhead Door Company of Salem is here to help. We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Salem and the Mid-Willamette Valley with trusted products, professional installation, and dependable service.
Contact us today to schedule your garage door inspection and keep your home running smoothly all summer long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my garage door serviced?
Most garage doors should receive professional maintenance once a year. Homes with heavy daily use may benefit from more frequent inspections.
Is summer a good time to replace my garage door?
Yes. Summer’s favorable weather makes it an ideal season for garage door installation, allowing homeowners to complete projects before fall and winter arrive.
Why is my garage door louder during hot weather?
Heat can dry out lubrication and cause metal components to expand, creating additional friction and noise. Lubrication and routine maintenance often resolve the issue.
Can the sun damage my garage door?
Yes. Continuous UV exposure can fade paint, dry out weather seals, and contribute to warping on certain materials over time.
When should I call a professional?
If your garage door is making unusual noises, moves unevenly, won’t open or close properly, or fails any safety test, it’s best to have it inspected by a trained garage door technician as soon as possible.
