This DIY video from Advantage Inspection Service show you what to look for when inspecting a garage door, and shows you the basic maintenance that should be performed. Regular maintenance is important for keeping your garage door operating properly. While repair issues should be fixed by a professional, most ongoing maintenance can be handled by homeowners.
An inspection and regular basic maintenance should be performed every three months. Proper maintenance can prevent the need for expensive repairs.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Oil. Penetrating oil in a spray can or light motor oil usually works best.
- Brake cleaner.
- Latex gloves.
- Step ladder.
- Cleaning cloth.
Steps To Inspect and Maintain a Garage Door
- Visually inspect the door and listen for strange noises when it opens and closes. Squeaks, squeals, clunking noises, and/or a jittery motion, can be indications of problems.
- Be sure to inspect the springs, cables, tracks, rollers and hinges for loose parts, broken pieces or excessive rust. If you see frayed cables or cracked or broken springs, call a professional for repairs. Garage door springs can be dangerous to work with.
- Springs should be sprayed with a penetrating oil.
- Roller bearings and hinges should be lubricated with a light oil or penetrating oil. The roller tracks should not be lubricated.
- Roller tracks should be cleaned using brake cleaner and a cloth. Be careful using brake cleaner, because it can damage some auto paints. It’s also a good idea to wear eye protection when working with brake cleaner.
- If the garage door opener uses a chain drive, lightly spray the length of the chain with motor oil. Never do this while the door is moving. It is usually easiest to access the chain while the garage door is down.
- Read the user manual for the garage door opener. Manufacturers sometimes recommend that the top rail that guides the opener arm be cleaned and lightly lubricated with grease. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper maintenance techniques and supplies to use.