Top 5 Garage Door Maintenance Tips and When to Call a Professional Service

Your garage door is one of the hardest-working features of your home, opening and closing several times a day while protecting your vehicles and belongings. Yet, many homeowners overlook its maintenance until something goes wrong. With just a little care, you can extend the life of your garage door, prevent costly repairs, and keep it operating safely and smoothly. In this guide, we’ll cover five essential garage door maintenance tips every homeowner should know—and explain when it’s time to call in a professional for service.

1. Check and Tighten Hardware

With daily use, nuts, bolts, and hinges can loosen over time. Grab a wrench and check all visible hardware—especially the brackets and tracks. Tightening them regularly can prevent rattling and misalignment.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts

Squeaky garage doors aren’t just annoying—they’re a sign that parts need lubrication. Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks every few months. This reduces friction, ensures smooth movement, and prevents wear.

3. Inspect the Door Balance

A properly balanced garage door takes less effort to open and puts less strain on the opener. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs might need adjustment—something best left to a professional.

4. Test the Safety Features

Modern garage doors have auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors to prevent accidents. Test them by placing a small object under the door while closing. If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, call for service.

5. Keep It Clean and Weather-Proof

Dirt, dust, and debris can cause premature wear. Wipe down the door panels and clean the tracks regularly. Also, check the weatherstripping along the bottom—replace it if cracked to keep out drafts, pests, and moisture.

Final Tip:

Routine maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also boosts your home’s security and curb appeal. If you notice unusual noises, slow movement, or visible wear, contact a professional garage door service right away.

At Hayden Doors, we offer expert garage door inspections, repairs, and installations to keep your door looking great and working flawlessly.