The Ultimate Guide to Winter Garage Door Maintenance
Winter in the Central Valley might not bring heavy blizzards, but the drop in temperature and increased moisture can wreak havoc on your garage door system. Cold metal contracts, lubricants thicken, and electronics can become sluggish.
At Browns Garage Door, we see a spike in repair calls during the colder months. Many of these issues are preventable. Whether you live in Visalia, Hanford, or up in Three Rivers, this guide will help you keep your garage door running smoothly all winter long.
Why Winter is Tough on Garage Doors
Your garage door is likely the largest moving object in your home. It relies on a complex system of metal springs, cables, and tracks.
- Metal Contraction: As temperatures drop, metal components contract (shrink). This adds tension to springs and can cause tracks to misalign.
- Thickening Grease: Old grease can harden in cold weather, forcing your opener to work harder to lift the door.
- Moisture: The Valley’s winter fog and rain can lead to rust and warped wood if the door isn’t sealed properly.
5 Essential Winter Maintenance Steps
1. Check and Lubricate Moving Parts
One of the most effective ways to protect your door is the “Lube & Tune.” Friction is the enemy of your garage door.
- What to do: Apply a high-quality silicone-based lubricant or white lithium grease to the rollers, hinges, and springs. Do not use WD-40, as it can strip away existing grease and attract dust.
- Need help? We offer a professional Gen Lube & Tune service to ensure every component is properly coated for the season.
2. Inspect Your Springs (The #1 Winter Failure)
Garage door springs are under immense tension. When the metal gets cold, it becomes more brittle. If your springs are near the end of their lifecycle, a cold snap is often the final straw that causes them to snap.
- The Warning Sign: If your door feels heavier than usual when you lift it manually, your springs may be failing.
- Safety Warning: Never attempt to adjust or replace torsion springs yourself. This is dangerous work. Visit our Coil Spring or Spring Replacement services to learn more.
3. Test the Weather Stripping
The rubber seal at the bottom of your door (the astragal) is your primary defense against rain, leaves, and pests. In the Central Valley, keeping moisture out is critical to preventing rust.
- The Test: Close the door and look for gaps between the bottom of the door and the concrete. If you can see light coming through, or if the rubber looks cracked and brittle, it’s time to replace it.
4. Align and Clean Safety Sensors
Winter weather often brings wind and debris. If your door starts to close and then reverses, your sensors might be blocked or misaligned.
- Maintenance: Wipe the “eyes” of the sensors gently with a dry cloth. Ensure they are pointing directly at each other.
- Learn More: See our detailed guide for troubleshooting tips.
5. Check Your Opener and Remote Batteries
Cold weather drains battery power faster. If your remote is acting temperamental, swap out the batteries before calling for a repair.
- Opener Strain: If the opener hums but the door doesn’t move, or if it struggles to lift, the door might be frozen to the ground (rare, but possible) or locked. If the motor is failing, check our Door Openers service for replacement options.
When to Call a Professional
While lubrication and cleaning are great DIY tasks, some issues require a certified technician. You should call Browns Garage Door if:
- You hear a loud “bang” (likely a broken spring).
- The door has come [Off Track].
- The cables are frayed or loose.
- The door is visibly sagging or uneven.
We have been serving Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties for over 30 years. Our team is equipped to handle everything from small adjustments to major repairs.
Trusted by Local Homeowners:
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Get Your Door Winter-Ready Today
Don’t wait for your door to get stuck in the rain. Whether you need a simple Repair, a Spring Change, or a completely new Garage Door Installation, Browns Garage Door is here to help.
- Service Areas: Visalia, Tulare, Hanford, Lemoore, Porterville, Clovis, Fresno, Exeter, and Three Rivers.
- Emergency Help: We offer 24/7 Emergency Services because we know garage doors don’t break at convenient times.
- Special Offer: Mention our Referral Program for a 10% discount on your next service!
FAQ’s
Can cold weather stop my garage door opener from working?
Yes. Cold weather can harden the grease on the drive screw or chain, making the opener think the door is stuck. It can also weaken the sensitivity settings of the motor.
My door is stuck to the floor. What do I do?
If we have a freeze, the bottom seal can stick to the concrete. Do not keep hitting the opener button—you will burn out the motor. Pour warm (not boiling) water along the bottom to melt the ice, then wipe it dry immediately.
Do you offer winter inspections?
Absolutely. We offer free quotes and can perform a full safety inspection and tune-up.
We model our professional services on the high standards for safety and ethics set forth by the International Door Association (IDA), ensuring our customers receive top-quality work.
Get Your Garage Door Maintenance Today!
The dedicated team at Browns Garage Door is ready to provide fast, professional garage door service.
