Have you ever been jolted awake by the screeching sound of your garage door as it begrudgingly opens or closes? It’s like the mechanical equivalent of nails on a chalkboard! At Alpine Garage Doors New England, we’re all about keeping your days and nights peaceful by making sure your garage door operates smoothly and quietly. Let’s dive into why lubrication is not just beneficial but crucial for your garage door’s health and functionality.
Why Lubrication Matters
Lubrication is the unsung hero of garage door longevity. Without proper lubrication, the moving parts of your garage door can wear out much faster due to increased friction. This wears and escalates to more significant, costly repairs down the line. Regularly applying the right kind of lubricant keeps the operation smooth and extends the life of your garage door components.
Minimizing Rust and Corrosion: Moisture and metal do not mix well, especially in the variable weather conditions we experience here in New England. Lubrication forms a protective barrier on metal parts, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion, which are common culprits behind garage door malfunctions.
Identifying the Key Lubrication Points
Hinges: These are pivotal (literally!) in your garage door’s folding mechanism. Each hinge on your garage door should be checked and lubricated to ensure it moves freely without resistance.
Rollers: Whether your garage door uses steel or nylon rollers, a little lubrication goes a long way in ensuring they glide smoothly along the tracks. Avoid lubricating nylon rollers with plastic wheels, though; only the bearings need a touch of grease.
Choosing the Right Lubricant
Silicone-based vs. Lithium-based: We recommend using a silicone-based lubricant for most garage door parts because it doesn’t attract dirt and debris. However, for parts under high pressure and load, such as the opener’s chain, white lithium grease might be more appropriate.
What to Avoid: It’s crucial to avoid using WD-40 as a lubricant. While great for cleaning and rust prevention, it’s not a suitable lubricant for long-term protection as it can dry out and attract more grime.
The Best Time to Lubricate Your Garage Door
Seasonal Maintenance: A good rule of thumb is to lubricate your garage door components every six months. Typically, doing this before the winter and summer seasons prepares the door for extreme conditions, ensuring smoother operation.
Listen to Your Door: If your door starts to make unusual noises or shows signs of resistance, it’s a good cue to check and reapply lubricant even if it’s not yet part of your regular maintenance schedule.
DIY Lubrication Tips
Cleaning First: Always clean the tracks and components before applying lubricant. Use a cloth to wipe away any dirt and grime so that the lubricant can be more effective and adhere better to the surfaces.
Application Techniques: Use a spray lubricant with a nozzle for precise application, especially in hard-to-reach areas. This method ensures a thorough coating without over-applying the product.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Lubrication: More isn’t always better. Excess lubricant can attract dust and debris, which can increase wear and tear. Apply just enough to cover the component lightly.
Neglecting Regular Checks: Lubrication is just one part of garage door maintenance. Regular checks for balance, alignment, and overall function are essential to keep your door in top condition.
When to Call the Professionals
Persistent Issues: If lubrication doesn’t resolve the noise or rough movement, it might be time to call in experts. There might be underlying issues that require professional garage door repair.
Upgrades and Replacements: Sometimes, parts are too worn to be salvaged by lubrication alone. In such cases, professional assessment and replacement might be necessary to ensure safety and functionality.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Keeping your garage door well-lubricated is a simple yet effective part of maintaining its functionality and longevity. At Alpine Garage Doors New England, we specialize not only in routine maintenance but also in comprehensive garage door installation, residential garage door repair, commercial garage door repair, and emergency garage door repair. Don’t let a squeaky, stubborn garage door disrupt your day-to-day life. Contact us today, and let’s give your garage door the care it deserves!