Winterizing Your Garage Door

Despite the balmy temperatures recently, the first snow falling is a reminder that we are right around the corner from the real start of winter. Your garage door may not be at the top of your list of things to be concerned of with the change of season, but it should be. Your garage door is the largest entry into your home; therefore, it can be the biggest drain on your energy bill, if not sealed properly.

First item to check is the weatherseal. Look at the weatherstripping around the top and sides of the door, as well as the rubber along the bottom. Check for any gaps, rips, or missing pieces. Also, check if you can feel a draft or see any light. Over time the bottom rubber wears down and can become flattened out. If you notice any of this, it's a good idea to replace the pieces. It is something that you can purchase yourself or have us help you with.

Next, you should inspect and lubricate all metal moving parts. This is something that should be done periodically, but especially important in winter. If you don't have a garage door lubricant, WD-40 is fine to use in the winter, but not year round. You, also, don't want to use anything too heavy, that could clog and bind up the moving parts. It's a good idea to check the tracks for debris and dirt build up, as well.

With winter, comes snow and ice. It is important to make sure you shovel and chip away any ice build up in front of the garage door. The bottom rubber to your garage door will freeze to the cement in this weather. Then, when you try to run the opener, it can jam up the door and cause bigger problems that require a technician out for a repair. The gear set in the motor can be stripped or the top section of your door can buckle and pull away.

Remote batteries are susceptible to failure in cold temperatures. It's a good idea to replace any old remote control batteries. Also, check the wiring to the photo eyes and wall button. Moisture and freezing temperatures may cause shorts in the wiring.

Lastly, if you heat your garage and have an older door, it might be a good idea to upgrade to a higher insulated door. Your current garage door may have no insulation or polystyrene insulation. For heated garages, it's best to have a door with polyurethane insulation and a R-value of at least 16.

For the most part, these are some simple issues you should be able to check yourself and fix. It's always a good idea to do a once over of your garage door a few times each year. It is the biggest moving part of your home and you want to make sure it's safe and functioning properly.

As always, please contact us with any questions or concerns 

1-800-479-7172 or info@mortlanddoor.com

 www.mortlanddoor.com