When it comes to emergency preparedness, homeowners often focus on essentials like food supplies, emergency kits, and evacuation plans. However, one crucial aspect that’s often overlooked is the garage door. Here are some tips to help you keep your garage door in top shape throughout the year.

A Garage Door’s Role in Emergencies

Your garage door plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of your home during various emergencies. Here are some examples:

• During severe weather, the garage can serve as a shelter, and a secure door protects against the elements.
• In emergencies like fires, a functional garage door is a primary exit point, facilitating a swift evacuation.
• A secure garage door is a barrier against intruders, safeguarding your property during crises.
• Many households store emergency supplies in the garage — a functional door ensures easy access to these necessities.
• A functional garage door provides a convenient entry point for first responders during medical emergencies.

Seasonal Considerations

Different seasons pose distinct challenges to your garage door. Here are a few tips for how you can tailor your garage door maintenance routine to address seasonal concerns:

Spring

Spring is the time for cleaning and maintenance after the long winter months. In addition to clearing out and cleaning the inside of your garage, it’s a great time to hire a professional to keep your garage door in good condition and complete the following garage door maintenance tasks:

• Inspect the garage door’s balance and alignment
• Check all the door’s moving parts, including the rollers and pulleys
• Check the weatherstrip for signs of wear or damage
• Inspect the safety cables

Summer

Summer is a great time to get outside and care for your garage door. Keep your door in good condition by hiring a professional garage door company to:

• Clean the outside of the garage door and its components to remove dust and debris
• Ensure the photo-eye sensors are clean and properly aligned
• Inspect the seals and weatherstrip around the door to prevent pests from entering
• Check the opener’s safety sensors to ensure they’re functioning properly

Fall

As the leaves start falling, taking care of your garage door is essential to prevent weather-related issues. Here are some tips that your local garage door professional should undertake on your behalf for fall garage door maintenance:

• Clear leaves and debris from the garage door tracks
• Check for any loose or damaged hardware and tighten or replace it as needed
• Test the auto-reverse feature to ensure it functions correctly

Winter

Winter can be harsh on your garage door, so take extra care during this season. Here are some tips for winter garage door maintenance that the team at Creative Door Services^TM can complete on your behalf:

• Clear snow and ice from around the door to prevent it from getting stuck or damaged
• Inspect the weatherstrip to prevent moisture and cold air from seeping into your home
• Check the garage door opener battery and replace it if necessary
• Adjust the opening and closing settings

Regular maintenance ensures the security and longevity of your home’s garage door. A little bit of effort can help prevent costly repairs and replacements down the road, providing you with peace of mind and a safer, more secure home.

Essential Preventative Maintenance Tips

Every detail matters in emergency preparedness — and your garage door is no exception. Here are a few maintenance tips to keep in mind, no matter the season:

1. Conduct regular inspections. Conduct visual inspections of your garage door at least once a month. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables, rust, or misaligned tracks. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major problems.
   
2. Lubricate all moving parts. Keep all moving parts well-lubricated to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant on hinges, springs, rollers, and other moving components. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and debris.
   
3. Replace the weatherstrip. Weatherstrip is crucial in keeping out drafts, pests, and moisture. Replace any damaged or worn weatherstrip promptly to maintain a secure and energy-efficient garage space.
   
4. Invest in professional maintenance. Schedule annual professional maintenance checks to assess the overall condition of your garage door. At Creative Door Services™, we offer a planned maintenance program to prevent minor problems from turning into major issues. An annual inspection will keep your door functional for longer. Remember that even a small effort today can make a big difference when it really counts.

Garage Door Maintenance in Any Season

At Creative Door Services™, we know how important it is to have a garage door that’s both functional and reliable throughout the year. We have a wide selection of garage doors designed specifically for extreme climates, so you can rest assured that your door will hold up even in the harshest conditions. We also have the latest garage door openers with Wi-Fi capabilities.

Contact us today for a free quote or to schedule a consultation. We have eight locations from which to serve you, including Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.