Garage Door Service Calls
Most individuals only take care of their garage door when something breaks, or it starts to show visible signs of frailty. Unfortunately, this is a risky strategy that may ultimately result in paying for a replacement before its time.
It is important to routinely examine and service your garage door since, like other mechanical systems, garage doors can endure wear and tear over time.
When Should I Get My Garage Door Serviced?
Most experts recommend having your garage door serviced at least twice a year.
While that may seem like a lot, it becomes more crucial as your garage door ages and the chances for parts to deteriorate with time increases.
While there are a few general maintenance tasks you can do to lengthen the life of your door, such as tightening bolts and screws and routine lubrication, it’s still a good idea to have a qualified garage door technician come out to look things over.
The cost difference between some simple repairs and a total replacement can be significant.
Ideally, you’ll want to have your garage door system checked once in the fall and again in the spring. This way, you’re prepared for cold winter temperatures, snow, and ice, and you’re covered for when the temperatures change again and the chance for moisture getting in goes up.
What To Look For
Here are some things that should be checked regularly and addressed should there be any issues:
1) Lubrication
Do you sometimes hear an odd squeaking sound when you open or close your garage door? This indicates your door may need lubrication. Apply a non-greasy, non-silicone-based garage door lubrication to all metallic moving parts. Remember to open up the motor assembly and apply lube to all the nylon components, especially the driving gear. Pay additional attention to hinges, rollers, and springs, particularly in the winter when these components may need extra lubrication.
2) Rollers and Hinges
The rollers and hinges must remain in pristine condition at all times. Because these components are prone to splitting and cracking, they must be inspected and fixed regularly to ensure they do not become compromised.
3) Door Balance
If your garage door is halfway open and you notice it shifting up and down, it is a sure signal that your garage door’s torsion needs to be adjusted. When springs get old—especially during the winter when it’s cold—they can often break. To solve this issue as quickly as possible, call for the assistance of a qualified repair technician.
4) Garage Door Seals
The weather and bottom seals might need to be replaced, depending on how well they’re holding up. There shouldn’t be any openings or gaps in the garage door that let air or light in. If you see this happening, the bottom seal may be experiencing wear due to shrinkage from moisture or possible animal activity.
In many cases, all your garage door may need is a simple tune-up to keep it healthy and long-lived.
What Is A Garage Door Tune-Up?
A garage door tune-up involves a short visual examination of all the working parts of your garage door system. A qualified technician initially evaluates the garage door’s exterior appearance, paying particular attention to any joints or gaps that could allow water damage and require some rapid repair. They’ll alert you to problems like rust stains and flaking paint that could shorten the life of your door.
The technician moves on to the mechanisms that allow the door to open and close. They replace cracked or damaged components and oil door springs and rollers to make movement easier. They will also choose the best lubricant for your door’s specific parts. Then the bearings and bolts on the roller hinges will be checked and cleaned. They’ll use a level to check your rails’ straightness and adjust them to the manufacturer’s specifications if needed. Finally, the garage door technician will run through a diagnostic process for your door’s opener, safety settings, and counterbalance system.
Satisfaction and Safety are Our Top Priorities
Your safety and satisfaction are our main priorities at Hostetler & Askew Door. When you call, we will send our experts to your home or business to examine your garage door, service as needed, and inform you of any serious issues that need further attention.
You want local experts you can trust in Northern Indiana. Hostetler & Askew Door is ready to help. Call now! 574.444.9700