Every garage door repair guide you’ll ever read recommends an annual inspection with regular maintenance. Garage doors weigh hundreds of pounds and are used several times a day. In any given year, that door can be used a thousand times. Parts naturally wear out and need replaced. Considering the size of the garage door, it can be a serious safety hazard for children and pets. A professional can check the adjustment of the garage door’s springs to be sure they don’t snap and cause injury. They can also make sure the tracks are level and properly aligned. They will also alert you to potential mechanical failings before they happen so you can fix them before you actually have a problem.

Quick DIY Garage Door Maintenance Checklist

1. Inspect Door Balance: Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. It should move smoothly and stay open halfway without assistance.
2. Check and Tighten Hardware: Tighten all roller brackets and bolts using a socket wrench to prevent the door from loosening over time.
3. Examine Rollers and Replace if Needed: Inspect the rollers (especially plastic ones) for cracks or wear. Replace any damaged rollers to ensure smooth operation.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply garage door lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using heavy grease, as it can attract dirt.
5. Test and Adjust Safety Sensors: Clean the sensors and check alignment. Test by blocking the beam to ensure the door reverses when obstructed.
6. Inspect Weatherstripping: Look for cracks or damage in the rubber weather seal along the bottom of the door. Replace if necessary to maintain insulation.
7. Clean and Clear Tracks: Ensure the tracks are free of debris. Wipe them clean with a damp cloth but do not lubricate them.
8. Check Auto-Reverse Feature: Place a sturdy object (like a block of wood) in the door’s path. The door should reverse upon contact. If not, adjust the opener settings or consult the manual.
9. Test Emergency Release Function: Pull the emergency cord to confirm the door can be manually operated and reattach it correctly afterward.
10. Inspect Springs and Cables: Look for signs of fraying, rust, or wear in the cables and springs. Caution: Do not adjust springs yourself; call a professional.
11. Call a Professional for Repairs: Don’t be a hero and try to save a few bucks on repairs. Just do what you can and be safe.
12. Book Your Annual Servicing: If you haven’t already, you should be booking your annual garage door tune-up and servicing by a pro. Keep this on your checklist just in case you forgot to book it.

This checklist helps keep your garage door running smoothly and extends its lifespan. For more complex issues, contact a professional to ensure safe and proper repairs.

We Repair Overhead Garage Doors in the Greater Sacramento Area

If it’s been a while since you’ve had your garage door inspected or are having issues with your garage door, contact Sac’s Garage Door Repair. Serving the Roseville and Greater Sacramento areas, we will repair your overhead garage door or inspect it just for basic safety issues to keep your family safe and your garage door in top working order. Contact us anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer a 100% satisfaction guaranty. Our all technicians are certified specialists. Give us a call today.