Garages can keep your automobiles safe and offer a convenient storage space. The garage doors can be opened with a remote, giving you immediate access to the garage. However, like most home installations, garage doors require maintenance. Read on to learn how contractors use these garage door maintenance and damage prevention strategies.
Garage Door Inspections
The contractor will begin with a visual inspection of the garage door. They’ll look for obvious issues and clean the tracks. They’ll use a damp rag to remove all dirt and other debris.
Next, the contractor will lubricate the tracks with grease, then test the roller. They will use a mild detergent to clean the door and remove all caked-on grime.
Check the Hardware
Next, they will check the hardware. The contractor will inspect the hinges and tighten any loose hardware. They’ll evaluate the springs and ensure that they have adequate tension.
Lubricate All Moving Parts
The contractor will lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. They’ll coat the rollers’ pins, bearing plates, torsion springs, and the hinge pivot points. Finally, they will apply lithium grease to the metal rail on the chain-drive opener.
Contractors do not use products like WD-40 on moving parts. This can flush grease out and cause damage. If you have a rubber belt-drive garage door, it doesn’t need lubricant.
Test All Safety Features
During photo-eye sensor testing, the contractor will check for debris or dust at the bottom of the door. They will run something in front of the sensors as the door engages. If the door doesn’t stop immediately, they will repair or replace the sensors.
To test the auto-reverse feature, they will place something flat on the floor in the door’s direct path. The door will reverse its direction when it touches the object. If it doesn’t, this feature is faulty and requires repairs.
Assess Door Balance
The contractors must test the door’s balance. The garage door opener’s motor could fail if the door springs aren’t supporting the door’s weight. The contractor will first pull the emergency release cord. This will disconnect the door from the opener.
Next, they will lift the door about halfway and release it. The door should stay in place and shouldn’t move. However, if it moves, the contractor will restore the door’s balance and repair it.
Contractors know how important it is for your garage door to perform as expected. If the door comes off the tracks, it won’t open properly or could become jammed. It could become easily compromised if the hinges break. You can protect your garage and home by learning about these garage maintenance and damage-prevention strategies. If you have concerns or require garage door maintenance services, contact Absolute Services in Lexington, KY.