How to Protect Your Garage Door in Winter

Winter weather can be harsh, especially in the suburbs of New South Wales. At Emu Garage Doors, we specialize in helping homeowners protect their garage doors from the elements, ensuring they function smoothly all year round.

Our service areas include specific suburbs in Sydney, Rouse Hill, Marsden Park, and Blacktown where winter weather can present unique challenges for garage doors. Proper maintenance is crucial during this season to avoid common issues such as freezing, slower operation, and increased wear and tear.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to prepare and protect your garage door for winter.

Winter can significantly affect the functionality of garage doors. Cold temperatures often cause materials to contract, leading to sticking or slower operation. Strong winds and heavy rain, common in winter, can also cause damage to the door and its components. Additionally, the frequent opening and closing of the door during this season can increase wear and tear, potentially shortening the lifespan of your garage door.

But here in New South Wales, we also have to consider the risk of windstorms. These powerful gusts can damage the door itself, as well as potentially bending the tracks or dislodging the opener.

The key to protecting your garage door in winter is proactive maintenance. Here are some steps you can take:

• Inspection and Maintenance: Before winter arrives, schedule a thorough inspection of your garage door by a qualified technician. This will identify any potential problems that could worsen in cold weather.

• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate all moving parts of your garage door, such as the hinges, rollers, and tracks. This will help prevent them from freezing and ensure smooth operation.

• Weather Stripping: Inspect the weather stripping around the perimeter of your garage door for cracks or tears. Worn weather stripping can allow cold air, moisture, and even pests to enter your garage. Replace any damaged weather stripping promptly.

• Balance Check: A properly balanced garage door puts minimal strain on the opener. An unbalanced door can be heavier on one side, causing the opener to work harder and potentially wear out prematurely. You can find instructions on how to check and adjust your garage door’s balance online or in your owner’s manual.

Once you’ve completed the basic maintenance tasks, you can take additional steps to truly winter-proof your garage door:

• Insulation: Consider adding insulation to your garage door, especially if your garage is attached to your house. This will help regulate the temperature inside the garage, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to freezing and sticking.

• Seal the Gaps: Look for any gaps around the edges of your garage door where cold air and moisture can seep in. You can seal these gaps with caulk or weather stripping.

• Garage Door Blanket: For an extra layer of protection, consider using a garage door blanket or thermal barrier. These products attach to the inside of your garage door and provide additional insulation.

Here are some additional tips for maintaining your garage door throughout the winter:

• Regular lubrication: Don’t just lubricate once before winter – make it a regular part of your maintenance routine.

• Inspect weather stripping: Keep an eye on the weather stripping and replace it as needed.

• Clear debris: Remove any debris, such as leaves or snow, from around the bottom of the garage door to prevent freezing and sticking.

• Test the opener: Regularly test your automatic garage door opener to ensure it’s functioning properly. Check the battery backup and replace it if necessary.

At Emu Garage Doors, we offer a comprehensive range of maintenance services to keep your garage door in top condition throughout the year. Our qualified technicians can perform inspections, tune-ups, and repairs, ensuring your door operates smoothly and safely.

Don’t wait for winter to arrive before addressing any potential issues with your garage door. Contact Emu Garage Doors at 02 9030 0686 or email us at info@emugaragedoors.com.au. schedule a winterization inspection and service. We’ll help you keep your garage door functioning optimally throughout the cold months.

By following these tips and taking advantage of professional maintenance services, you can ensure your garage door survives the winter unscathed. Remember, a well-maintained garage door is a reliable and secure entry point for your home. Keep your garage door winter-proof with Emu Garage Doors!