Top 6 Garage Door Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

 

The garage door is often the largest moving part in your home, yet it tends to be the most neglected. Regular garage door maintenance is essential—not just to keep things running smoothly, but to improve home security, reduce energy bills, and extend the lifespan of the door system itself.

In this blog, we’ll explore six essential garage door maintenance tips that every homeowner should follow. We’ll also highlight how regular care can help you avoid costly garage door repairs or even a full garage door replacement.

Why Garage Door Maintenance Matters 

Your garage door works hard—opening and closing thousands of times each year, often in extreme weather. Over time, this wear and tear can lead to:

• Noisy or jerky operations
• Higher energy bills due to poor insulation
• Damaged springs, cables, or tracks
• Costly emergency garage door repairs
• The need for early garage door replacement

With proper upkeep, you can avoid most of these issues—and enjoy a safe, efficient, and long-lasting garage system.

1. Inspect Your Garage Door Monthly

Start by giving your garage door a monthly once-over. Spend 5–10 minutes inspecting key components:

• Springs – Check for rust, gaps, or signs of weakening.
• Cables – Look for fraying or looseness.
• Tracks – Make sure they are straight and free of debris.
• Rollers – Watch for chips, wear, or sticking.
• Weatherstripping for a door – Ensure it’s sealed properly to block air and pests.

Early detection of minor faults can help you avoid major garage door repairs later on.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts Twice a Year

Smooth operation starts with proper lubrication. Use a lithium-based grease or garage door-specific lubricant (avoid WD-40) to coat:

• Hinges
• Rollers
• Tracks
• Bearings
• Springs

Also, lubricate the opener chain or screw if applicable. A quiet, smooth-running door puts less strain on the motor, reducing the need for early garage door replacement.

3. Seal Gaps with Proper Weatherproofing

Insulation isn’t just for walls. Your garage door plays a major role in keeping your home energy-efficient and weather-resistant.

Here’s how to seal it properly:

• Weatherstripping for a door – Apply around the sides and top of the door to stop drafts.
• Threshold at door – Add or replace the threshold in doors to block water and dust.
• Door stop for drafts – Use along the door frame where light or air seeps in.
• Expanding foam tape – Ideal for sealing small gaps or uneven edges.
• Outside tap cover – While not on the door itself, it prevents freezing issues that can cause dampness near the garage area.

These small additions protect your garage, reduce wear on the door, and lower your energy costs.

4. Clean the Garage Door Regularly 

A clean garage door not only looks great—it works better too. Dust, road salt, and grime can cause corrosion and interfere with moving parts.

Cleaning tips:

• Use warm water with a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
• Avoid high-pressure washers unless your door is rated for it.
• Wipe both the interior and exterior.
• Dry completely and consider waxing metal doors to prevent rust.

Cleaning every few months helps maintain performance and reduces the chances of requiring garage door repairs due to avoidable buildup.

5. Test the Auto-Reverse and Door Balance

Every garage door opener should have an auto-reverse function for safety. Test it monthly:

• Place a soft object like a roll of paper towels under the closing door.
• If the door doesn’t reverse, the sensors may need realignment.

To test the balance:

• Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway.
• If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or lifts, the springs need adjustment.

An unbalanced door puts extra load on the opener and increases the risk of garage door replacement sooner than necessary.

6. Schedule Professional Garage Door Service Annually

Even with diligent DIY garage door maintenance, a yearly professional inspection is highly recommended. Expert technicians can:

• Spot hidden wear or stress cracks
• Tighten loose bolts and hardware
• Adjust spring tension
• Realign sensors and tracks
• Advise on needed upgrades or garage door replacement options

This step ensures your garage door is safe, reliable, and up to modern standards.

When to Consider Garage Door Replacement

Sometimes repairs aren’t enough. You might need a garage door replacement if:

• Your door is 15+ years old
• It breaks down frequently
• Panels are visibly damaged or sagging
• It makes grinding or screeching noises
• It lacks smart features or safety tech

Upgrading your garage door boosts home value, improves insulation, and offers quieter, smarter functionality.

Final Tips for Ongoing Maintenance

✔ Tighten screws, nuts, and bolts every six months
✔ Replace cracked or damaged panels immediately
✔ Check opener remotes and keypads regularly
✔ Repaint wooden doors to prevent rot
✔ Look out for flashing lights on the opener—it usually signals an issue

Regular garage door maintenance isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, efficiency, and long-term savings. From applying weatherstripping for a door, sealing gaps with expanding foam tape, to installing a threshold at the door, every small step helps.

If your garage door is making noises, leaking air, or due for an upgrade, don’t wait. Trust the experts at SAMT Online for reliable garage door repairs, installations, and full garage door replacement services across Australia.