Beautifying My Garage Door

Properly maintaining and repairing your garage door is just part of owning your own home. By staying on top of repairs, you can ensure the problem doesn't worsen, causing more extensive repairs or a complete replacement. Check out these six tips for maintaining and repairing your automatic garage door.

Strange Noises & Inconsistent Movement Point to a Problem

Automatic garage doors are loud, but there are normal sounds and there are abnormal sounds. When you start to notice sounds that you haven't heard before, it may mean there is something broken. Common sounds that point to a problem include creaking, squeaking and grinding. Inconstant movement is another sign there is a problem with the garage door. If your door shakes, opens sluggishly, sags or is uneven, something is probably broken and needs to be replaced.

Moving Parts Should Be Lubricated

A garage door has a lot of moving parts, and they should be kept well-lubricated to ensure they move smoothly. An aerosol spray lubricate should be applied to the rollers, hinges, springs and bearings. While lubricating, don't forget to clean out any gunk or debris that may have built up. If your system has a chain, use grease on it, but don't use grease on any other moving parts because it can cause them to get stuck.

Replacing Springs and Cables Can Be Dangerous

Garage door springs are under a lot of pressure. Safety cables are necessary to prevent the springs from flying across the room if they become dislodged. If the safety cables fail, the springs can cause serious injury or even death.

If you notice the springs on your garage door have become loose or the cables are frayed, don't replace them yourself. Hire a professional. It may seem simple to replace the cables yourself, but to do so, you need to remove the springs. Even if the safety cables look like they are in good condition, you never know when something might go wrong.

Repairs and Maintenance Can Lower Your Energy Bills

Doors and windows are notorious for allowing energy to escape, and your garage door is the biggest door in your house. As weather-stripping wears down it can allow energy to escape. Even a garage door that doesn't sit flat can cause an increase in your energy bills. If your energy bills are rising, check your garage door, especially if you heat or cool your garage. If you have bedrooms above your garage, ensuring the garage has good insulation can go a long way in keeping those rooms cooler or warmer without using as much energy.

Repair Minor Cosmetic Concerns

Many garage doors have several panels, and if one of them gets damaged, you can simply replace the single panel. If the paint begins to chip, add a fresh coat to protect it from rust and rot. If your garage door has extensive cosmetic problems, such as holes, it may be better to simply replace it. A severely damaged door negatively impacts the appearance of your home and can allow energy to leak.

Your Garage Door Should Be Routinely Tested

Don't just wait for something to go wrong with your garage door. Be proactive and test your garage door about once every one or two months. Testing it is easy. Simply open and close it a few times, and while you do, watch for uneven movement, and listen for abnormal sounds. If you do spot a problem, try some of the previously mentioned maintenance tips, such as lubrication. If that doesn't work, contact a repair technician.

With routine repairs and garage door maintenance, you can keep your garage door working great longer. These tips will help you identify and prevent problems. If your garage door is in need of repair or replacement, visit resources like http://www.aaagaragedoorinc.com to contact a garage door technician in your area.