15 YEARS OF SERVICE
Garage doors play a big role in our daily lives. They protect your belongings, keep your home secure, and make coming and going a breeze. But honestly, how frequently do you consider the condition of your garage door? If the answer is “rarely,” you are not alone. Many homeowners in Des Moines overlook the importance of annual garage door maintenance until something goes wrong. But here is the truth: with a little care, you can keep your garage door safe, reliable, and cost-effective.
Let us dive into why annual garage door maintenance should be at the top of your to-do list.
What Is Annual Garage Door Maintenance?
Before we start, let us talk about what it means to do annual garage door maintenance. It is more than just glancing at your garage door. Maintenance involves a thorough inspection of your door and its components to catch problems early. That includes checking springs, rollers, tracks, cables, and safety sensors. It also involves cleaning, lubricating, and testing the system to ensure everything works as it should.
Think of it like taking your car for a regular oil change. It is all about keeping things running smoothly and avoiding bigger issues down the road. Garage door experts have the tools and knowledge to inspect and fix any potential problems. But do not worry—you can also handle some basic upkeep yourself, which we will cover later.
Benefits of Regular Garage Door System Check-Up
Having your garage door checked yearly has its benefits. Here are some of them:
1. Prevent Costly Repairs
Would you rather spend a little now or a lot later? That is the question to ask yourself when it comes to garage door maintenance. Before you know it, minor issues like worn-out springs or misaligned tracks can turn into major headaches that cost more to fix.
For example, a squeaky garage door might not seem like a big deal, but it could be a sign of failing rollers. Catching these issues now saves you from shelling out big bucks down the line.
2. Stay Safe
A malfunctioning garage door isn’t just inconvenient—it is also dangerous. Imagine your garage door suddenly dropping while you are walking underneath it. It is scary, right? Annual maintenance ensures that safety features, like auto-reverse sensors, are working properly. These features protect your family and pets from accidents.
3. Extend Your Garage Door’s Lifespan
Everything lasts longer when you take care of it, and your garage door is no different. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can keep your door in good shape for years to come. So why replace an entire door prematurely when a little care can help it last?
4. Better Performance
Does your garage door make loud, creaky noises? Does it open and close slower than usual? These signs are not just annoying—they indicate a problem. Annual garage door maintenance ensures your door operates smoothly and quietly. Plus, a well-maintained door uses less energy, which can save on electricity costs if you have an automatic opener.
5. Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Your garage door is one of the first things people notice about your home. A dirty or damaged door can hurt your home’s curb appeal. Regular maintenance keeps your door clean and functioning properly, which helps maintain the value of your property.
What Happens If You Skip Garage Door Maintenance?
It is easy to ignore your garage door until something breaks. But what is the cost of neglect?
1. Breakdowns at the Worst Times
Ever been in a hurry, only to find your garage door stuck? Neglecting maintenance increases the chance of unexpected breakdowns, often when you need your garage door the most.
2. Compromised Security
A faulty garage door is an open invitation for intruders. If your door does not close like it used to before, your home and valuables could be at risk.
3. Higher Long-Term Costs
Skipping maintenance might save you money in the short term. However, it often leads to expensive repairs or replacements later. Wouldn’t you rather spend a small amount now than face a big repair bill later?
What Happens During Professional Maintenance?
When you hire a professional for annual garage door maintenance, they will follow a thorough process. Here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Garage Door Inspection
The technician will check all components, including springs, cables, rollers, and tracks, for signs of wear or damage.
Step 2: Garage Door Lubrication
They will lubricate all moving garage door parts to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
Step 3: Testing Safety Features
Safety mechanisms like sensors and auto-reverse systems will be tested to confirm they are working correctly.
Step 4: Tightening Garage Door Hardware
Loose nuts and bolts can cause serious problems. The technician will tighten everything to ensure stability.
Step 5: Recommendations
If they spot anything that needs fixing or replacing, they will let you know.
Now, you might be wondering, can you handle some of this yourself? Absolutely! Let us go over some maintenance tasks you can do.
DIY Garage Door Maintenance Tips
Before having a professional do the heavy work, there are easy tasks you can do to keep your garage door in good shape.
- Clean the Tracks – In some cases, dirt and junk can make your garage door stick. Wipe the tracks regularly with a damp cloth.
- Inspect for Damage – Check the door’s springs, cables, and rollers for visible signs of wear or rust.
- Test the Balance – Unplug the garage door opener and lift the door halfway up by hand. If it does not stay in place, it might be unbalanced and need professional attention.
- Listen for Unusual Sounds – Is your door making new or louder noises? It is a sign that something might be wrong.
- Lubricate Moving Parts – Use a silicone-based lubricant on hinges, rollers, and springs to keep them moving smoothly.
Just remember: Some tasks—like replacing springs or cables—are best left to professionals. These components are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle.
So, when was the last time your door got a professional check-up and servicing? If you can’t remember, it is probably time for your annual garage door maintenance. A little effort today can save you from big problems tomorrow.
Garage Door Maintenance Near Me
Is your garage door ready for the year ahead? Keep it running smoothly with annual garage door maintenance from Titan Garage Doors Des Moines. Our expert team handles everything from garage door lubrication to garage door spring adjustments and more.
Need a quick fix? We also offer reliable garage door repair and installation services. Serving Des Moines and nearby areas, we make it easy—you can even pay over time! Call us today and give your garage door the care it deserves.
