Garage doors are more than just an entry point; they contribute to the security, aesthetics, and functionality of a home. While many homeowners might not think much about garage door maintenance until something goes wrong, staying proactive can save time and money in the long run. Knowing the essentials of garage door supplies can help you maintain a safe and smoothly operating garage door.
In this blog, we’ll cover key tips on what supplies to keep on hand, how to use them, and how to choose high-quality products that enhance your garage door’s longevity and reliability.
1. Invest in High-Quality Rollers
HD Doors specialises in providing top-notch garage door supply services as well as professional repairs to ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and efficiently. team of experts is dedicated to delivering high-quality service, using only the best materials and techniques to meet all of your garage door needs. Whether you require a simple repair or a complete replacement, you can trust us to handle the job with professionalism and expertise. With HD Doors, your satisfaction and the performance of your garage door are our top priorities.
Rollers are the unsung heroes of a garage door, playing a crucial role in smooth operation. Low-quality or worn-out rollers can create noise, lead to jerky movements, and put strain on other parts of the system. Here’s what to consider:
- Material: Opt for nylon rollers over steel ones if you want a quieter door. Nylon rollers tend to reduce noise and last longer without the need for frequent lubrication.
- Bearing Count: Higher-quality rollers often come with multiple ball bearings, which contribute to a smoother, quieter glide. Look for rollers with at least 10 to 13 bearings for durability.
- Replacement Timing: If your door operates noisily or seems sluggish, it might be time to replace the rollers. With a good set of rollers, you can expect around 10-15 years of functionality.
Keeping spare rollers on hand allows for quick replacements without the hassle of waiting for a technician.
2. Keep Lubricants for Smooth Performance
Proper lubrication is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your garage door running smoothly. However, not all lubricants are suitable for garage doors.
- Choose Silicone-Based or Lithium-Based Lubricants: These are ideal for garage door mechanisms, as they’re durable, don’t attract dust, and reduce friction effectively.
- Application Tips: Spray or apply lubricant to the hinges, springs, and tracks every six months. Avoid using grease, as it can clog up and cause debris to stick, leading to more wear over time.
- Avoid Over-Lubrication: Applying too much lubricant can cause parts to slip out of alignment. A light spray every few months should be sufficient.
A well-lubricated garage door reduces strain on the opener and helps prolong the lifespan of other parts.
3. Have Extra Springs on Hand
Springs are essential to the operation of your garage door, carrying the weight and making it easier to open and close. However, springs have a limited lifespan and are prone to breaking.
- Types of Springs: Torsion springs and extension springs are the two main types used in residential garage doors. Torsion springs are more common due to their durability and consistent balance.
- Choose Quality Springs: High-quality springs are worth the investment. Look for springs with a lifespan of 10,000 cycles or more for maximum durability.
- Replacement Safety: Broken springs can be hazardous, so it’s best to call a professional for installation. However, keeping spare springs available means you’re prepared when one inevitably wears out.
Always have extra springs specifically designed for your garage door’s weight and size to ensure smooth and safe operation.
4. Ensure Your Tracks Are Aligned and Clean
Tracks guide the rollers and allow the door to open and close smoothly. Misaligned or dirty tracks can lead to operational issues and cause unnecessary wear on rollers and springs.
- Check Alignment Regularly: Tracks can become misaligned over time, causing the door to jam. Check for gaps between the track and rollers and adjust them if needed.
- Clean the Tracks: Dust, debris, and buildup can accumulate in tracks, making the door stick. Wipe down the tracks with a damp cloth every few months to prevent issues.
- Avoid Lubricating Tracks: While lubrication is beneficial for rollers and hinges, it can lead to build-up on tracks, making them more difficult to clean and maintain.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning the tracks ensures they stay in optimal shape, preventing unnecessary friction.
5. Don’t Forget Safety Sensors
Garage door safety sensors prevent accidents by stopping the door if something is in its path. Keeping these in good working order is crucial, especially if you have children or pets.
- Test the Sensors Monthly: Place an object in the door’s path to make sure the sensors recognize it and stop the door. If they don’t, they may need cleaning or adjustment.
- Clean the Lenses: Dirty sensor lenses can interfere with proper functioning. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the lenses regularly, and ensure that they are aligned.
- Replace Damaged Sensors Promptly: Malfunctioning sensors can pose serious safety hazards. If they aren’t working as they should, replace them immediately.
Having a backup pair of sensors can help ensure your garage door always operates safely.
6. Have a Weather Seal Handy
A weather seal at the bottom of your garage door helps keep out dust, water, pests, and drafts. Over time, weather seals can wear out, especially in extreme weather conditions.
- Choose the Right Material: Weather seals come in various materials like rubber, vinyl, and silicone. Rubber is a popular option due to its durability and flexibility in different temperatures.
- Inspect Annually: Check for cracks, brittleness, or gaps. If you see any damage, replace the seal to keep your garage protected.
- Easy Installation: Many weather seals are straightforward to install with the correct tools, and having an extra seal on hand makes replacements convenient.
A well-maintained weather seal can improve energy efficiency and help protect items stored in the garage.
7. Stock Up on Remote Batteries
A garage door remote is convenient, but dead batteries can cause frustration. Having spare batteries ready ensures that you’re never left stranded outside.
- Type of Batteries: Most remotes use common battery sizes like CR2032 or AA batteries. Make a note of your specific model’s requirements.
- Replacement Tips: Batteries generally need replacement once every year, though this may vary based on usage.
- Keep a Backup Remote: In case of emergencies, a second remote with fresh batteries can save the day. Alternatively, a keypad entry system can be a useful backup.
Maintaining remote batteries ensures consistent operation and minimizes inconvenience.
8. Install High-Quality Insulation
If you use your garage as a workspace, gym, or storage area, consider insulating the door to keep it comfortable year-round.
- Insulation Kits: Many hardware stores offer insulation kits specifically for garage doors, which are easy to install and designed to fit standard door sizes.
- Material Options: Polystyrene and polyurethane are popular insulation materials that offer good temperature control and soundproofing.
- Additional Benefits: Insulated doors can reduce energy costs by maintaining temperature and are often quieter.
High-quality insulation also helps prevent dust and moisture from entering, making the space more versatile.
9. Upgrade Your Garage Door Opener
An outdated or noisy opener may be worth upgrading for added convenience, safety, and security.
- Smart Openers: Modern garage door openers come with smartphone compatibility, allowing you to monitor and control your door remotely.
- Battery Backup: Some openers feature a battery backup, so you’re not left without access in case of a power outage.
- Quiet Operation: Belt-driven openers are generally quieter than chain-driven options and ideal if your garage is close to living spaces.
Upgrading your opener can improve functionality and provide peace of mind.
Conclusion
Being prepared with the right garage door supplies can make a big difference in the functionality and lifespan of your garage door. From durable rollers and quality springs to reliable sensors and spare batteries, having these essentials on hand empowers homeowners to handle minor repairs and maintenance. Not only does this help avoid costly service calls, but it also ensures your garage door operates smoothly, safely, and efficiently all year round.
Whether you’re looking to enhance security, boost convenience, or improve energy efficiency, maintaining your garage door with high-quality supplies is a smart investment.
