Getting Your Garage Door Ready for Winter

As the temperatures start to drop, you might take care of routine maintenance tasks like clearing your gutters. But don't forget about winterizing your garage! Proper preparation can safeguard it against moisture and other potential damage during the chilliest months ahead.

Understanding the Effects of Cold on Garage Doors

While your garage door is built to endure extreme temperatures, prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions can lead to wear and tear. For instance, cold weather tends to dry out lubricants, making it harder for the opener to function smoothly each time it's used. It can also cause springs to stiffen up, increasing the likelihood of malfunctions. Taking steps to prepare your garage door before winter can help maintain its performance year-round.

Think of it as giving your garage door a little extra TLC to make sure it holds up through the frosty season.

Common Issues You Might Face in Winter

Winter brings its own set of challenges that can affect your garage door. Here are some typical problems you might encounter:

1. DOORS GETTING STUCK IN COLD WEATHER

When temperatures plummet, metal components can contract, making it difficult for the door to move freely. This contraction can even throw the door off its tracks, leading to stuck doors. Additionally, frigid weather can weaken electrical connections, causing issues with sensors and preventing the door from opening properly. Snow accumulation under the door can also freeze it shut. Regularly clearing the area around your garage door can prevent these issues.

2. LOUD CREAKING SOUNDS

Another common complaint during winter is a noisy garage door. This often happens due to lack of lubrication or metal contraction, especially if the runners aren’t aligned correctly. Applying lubricant might help reduce the noise, but sometimes patience is key—wait for warmer weather to see if the problem resolves itself.

3. ELECTRONIC OPENERS MALFUNCTIONING

In cold weather, the opener might struggle to lift the door or fail completely. This could stem from an issue with the door itself or interference with the electronic sensors. For example, photo eyes might fog up due to condensation, tricking the system into thinking there’s an obstruction and keeping the door open. Ensuring everything is clean and functional before winter starts can prevent such issues.

Insulating Your Garage Door for Winter

Before diving into the insulation process, measure your door's width and thickness to select the appropriate weather stripping. Consider whether you'll use the space for anything other than storage and how durable the material needs to be. Once you've chosen the right weather stripping, remove old strips using a hammer and pry bar. Cut new pieces at a 30-degree angle at both ends to fit snugly along the sides.

Secure the new weather stripping with nails or screws while the door is closed, and apply caulk where it meets the frame. If you're unsure about handling this yourself, our professionals are always available to assist with expert installation. Check out this image below for reference:

our team is happy to perform professional weather stripping installation services

If basic weather stripping isn’t enough, consider upgrading to more robust solutions like rigid foam or batt insulation for added protection.

Additional Winter Maintenance Tips

Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

  • Lubricate moving parts: Before winter hits, lubricate critical areas like springs, hinges, and rollers to prevent them from seizing up in the cold.
  • Inspect and adjust your opener: Regularly check and service your opener throughout the winter to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
  • Remove snow and ice: Keeping the door area clear of snow and ice ensures smooth operation and protects the weather stripping from damage.

Partner with A Better Door Co., Inc. for Winter Readiness

No matter if you’re looking to improve insulation or simply want peace of mind knowing your garage door is prepared for winter, A Better Door Co., Inc. has got you covered. Alongside our standard repair services, we offer proactive maintenance packages to ensure your door remains reliable all season long. Don’t let winter catch you off guard—reach out to us today and enjoy worry-free winters ahead!

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