5 Ways to Get Your Garage Door Ready for Winter

As I’m writing this article, the weather here in Whitby and the GTA is surprisingly warm for early September. We’ve been experiencing record high temperatures, and the long-term forecast shows no signs of dropping below 20 degrees Celsius during the day. It’s almost like summer never ended!

But despite the balmy conditions, it’s officially fall now. And that means the chillier months aren’t far behind. While it might not feel like the right time to think about winter preparations, getting your garage door ready now can save you a lot of hassle later when the snow starts flying.

5 Steps to Prepare Your Garage Door for Winter

No one wants to deal with a malfunctioning garage door during a snowstorm. These simple steps can ensure your door remains operational throughout the winter season.

1. Inspect the Door’s Movement

Start by manually opening and closing the door. If you have an automatic opener, test it as well. Ensure the door moves smoothly without any unevenness, keeping its bottom parallel to the ground. Listen for any unusual noises, especially grinding sounds coming from the opener. These could indicate a potential issue that needs addressing sooner rather than later.

2. Secure Loose Connections

Your garage door panels connect via bolted hinges, and the entire assembly attaches to the tracks through rollers on both sides. Double-check all bolts securing these components and tighten any loose ones. This will prevent future issues caused by shifting parts.

3. Maintain the Weather Seals

Rubber seals located between panels, along the bottom edge of the door, and around the frame should be lubricated regularly. This prevents them from freezing, sticking together, or cracking due to extreme temperatures. A little maintenance goes a long way toward extending their lifespan.

4. Lubricate Moving Parts

Don’t forget to lubricate critical moving elements such as hinges, cables, springs, and rollers. Proper lubrication ensures smooth operation and reduces wear over time. Use a high-quality silicone-based lubricant for best results.

5. Test Safety Mechanisms

Garage door openers come equipped with dual safety features designed to protect users and property. The first reverses the door if it encounters an obstacle while closing, while the second halts movement if something crosses its path. To test the former, place a 2x4 on the floor where the door meets the ground and attempt to close it. It should stop immediately upon contact. For the latter, position an object (like a cardboard box) in front of the door as it closes and confirm that it stops before reaching the ground.

For more tips on maintaining your garage door and opener in top condition, reach out to Whitby Garage Doors at 905-665-8668.