A colder wetter winter. Words to warm the hearts of any Ottawa resident, surely, but especially for homeowners in the Ottawa Valley wondering how they are going to keep their houses warm and safe.
In this article we are looking at 5 simple things that can prevent your door from jamming, squeaking, creaking or grinding. If you are unsure ask a Capital Garage Door Ottawa professional to service your garage. Keep reading to find out how you can ready your garage door for the cold and snow load.
How do you winterize a garage door?
A well-maintained door will protect the building envelope, keep your possessions and keep you comfortable when you work in the garage. Here are a few simple maintenance tips to prepare your garage door for winter.
- Replace weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is the rubber/foam tip at the end of the garage door that completes a tight seal against the garage floor. It will harden and break over time as the door is used and with changing seasons. Over time small cracks will start to let in cold air and water. Replace weatherstripping if it has become particularly hard to touch or is looking worse for wear.
- Check rollers
Rollers guide the movement of the door along the rails. There are several different types: some have exposed bearings, others are sealed. Check if the rollers are moving without skipping or squeaking. Rollers with exposed bearings can be sprayed with a little grease to lubricate the parts.
- Lubricate moving parts
Moving parts like springs, joints, door hinges and pulleys are crucial for the operation of the door. Lubricate parts (safely!) to protect them from moisture damage and prevent jams. Use a little WD40 to clean the rail if needed.
- Tighten hardware
Slightly slack springs, loose chains don’t make all that much of a difference during summer but cold weather can exacerbate the problem hugely. Snow load in particular places a lot of stress on components and anything that is not properly screwed together can shear because of the forces involved.
How often do garage doors need maintenance?
There is no strict advice on how regularly garage doors need to be maintained. Quality doors and openers can last at least a couple of years with no maintenance but will start to emit a lot more noise and vibration during operation. For older doors regular maintenance is essential.
Do garage doors need regular maintenance?
Yes, Canada’s cold winters place immense stresses on garage door components. Things like springs and motors need to be checked for safety; moving parts need to be serviced; doors need to be realigned slightly too to ensure a watertight building.
Can cold weather affect your garage door?
Yes, the cold will change the properties of the springs, make motors sluggish; old cables are known to snap in the extreme cold too (cold causes metals to contract). Rubber bushings and weatherstripping become brittle after constant exposure to cold and can make the door less safe.
Schedule a service call with Capital Garage Door Ottawa. We schedule visits at times convenient to you and offer competitive rates.
