Preparing Your Garage Door for Summer: Essential Tips
2024-01-10 6 min read
Getting Your Garage Door Summer-Ready in the Pacific Northwest
As the rainy Pacific Northwest spring transitions to our beautiful summer months, it's the perfect time to give your garage door some attention. The shift from our cool, wet winters to warm, dry summers can affect your garage door's performance in unexpected ways. This comprehensive guide will help University Place homeowners prepare their garage doors for the season ahead.
Why Summer Preparation Matters
Many homeowners don't realize that garage doors are affected by seasonal changes. During our wet winters, metal components can develop surface rust, weatherstripping absorbs moisture, and lubricants can become thick and gummy. As temperatures rise, different issues emerge – metal expands, lubricants can thin out, and the increased use of your garage (for summer projects, recreational gear, and yard equipment) puts additional stress on the system.
The Summer Preparation Checklist
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Start with a thorough visual inspection of your entire garage door system. Look for:
- Rust spots on springs, tracks, and hardware - Cracking or peeling paint on the door panels - Gaps in weatherstripping around the door frame - Debris in the tracks - Worn or frayed cables (DO NOT touch these – call a professional if you notice damage)
Step 2: Clean the Door and Tracks
Winter leaves behind dirt, salt residue (if you park in the garage), and general grime. Clean both sides of your door with a mild detergent and water. For tracks, use a damp cloth to remove accumulated dirt and debris. Avoid using lubricants in the tracks – the rollers need some friction to operate properly.
Step 3: Lubrication
Proper lubrication is crucial for smooth operation and prevents premature wear. Use a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant (NOT WD-40, which is a cleaner, not a lubricant) on:
- Hinges between door panels - Roller stems (but not nylon roller wheels) - Springs (wipe off excess) - The opener's rail or chain
Apply lubricant sparingly – a light coat is all you need. Excess lubricant attracts dirt and can drip onto your car.
Step 4: Test the Balance
A properly balanced door puts less strain on the opener and operates more safely. To test:
1. Disconnect the opener by pulling the release cord 2. Manually lift the door halfway and let go 3. A balanced door should stay in place; if it falls or rises, the springs need adjustment
Spring adjustment requires specialized tools and training. If your door is unbalanced, call Garage Door University Place for professional service.
Step 5: Check Safety Features
Test both safety features required on modern openers:
- Photo-eye sensors: Place an object in the door's path and try to close the door. It should reverse immediately. - Auto-reverse feature: Place a 2x4 flat on the ground under the door. When the door touches the board while closing, it should reverse.
If either test fails, adjust or repair immediately – these features prevent serious injuries.
Summer-Specific Considerations
Heat Management: If your garage gets extremely hot in summer, consider adding insulation to your door or installing ventilation. An insulated door can reduce garage temperatures by 10-20 degrees.
Increased Usage: Summer means more outdoor activities and more trips in and out. Listen for new sounds that might indicate developing problems.
Pest Prevention: Summer brings pests looking for shelter. Inspect and replace weatherstripping to keep insects and rodents out.
When to Call a Professional
Schedule a professional tune-up if:
- It's been over a year since your last inspection - You notice any unusual sounds or behaviors - The door moves unevenly or jerks during operation - Springs appear worn or rusty
At Garage Door University Place, our summer maintenance specials include a comprehensive 25-point inspection, lubrication of all moving parts, safety testing, and minor adjustments – all backed by our 3-Year Warranty. Call (253) 242-9931 to schedule your summer tune-up today.