Garage Door Maintenance Tips For New Homeowners
Posted on: 8 November 2017
When it comes to general home maintenance and repairs, the garage door is often one of the most neglected and misunderstood. Many homeowners either dismiss it as an issue or only think of it when it's not doing what it's supposed to be doing. This kind of behavior can lead to serious malfunctions and costly repair bills. Before you find yourself with a bigger problem than you were really prepared to deal with, there are a few things that you should know about your garage door.
Routine Inspections Can Save You A Bundle (And A Lot Of Stress)
Because the garage door is so easy to overlook, most homeowners don't think about having it inspected. The truth is that having it inspected can actually help you to identify potential problems before they actually create an operational issue. In fact, while it's always best to have the inspection done by a professional, you can even do it yourself if you know what to look for.
Check the door structure itself for any dings, dents, scratches, or rust development. If the door is damaged, consider having it patched or replaced. Watch it open and close, looking for any sign of wobbling, wiggling, or hesitation. It should flow smoothly and without a lot of noise. The chains, springs, and rails should all be in good condition and properly lubricated, too. Make sure nothing looks warped, worn, or dirty. All of these things can contribute to declines in operation, so the more attentive you are, the better.
Fixing Problems As They Happen Prevents Them From Causing More Costly Damage
Whether your garage door is starting to whine a little, sticks a bit occasionally, or is acting up in any other way, it's important to address it right away. If you neglect this, it will allow the problem to worsen. Eventually, it can lead to more serious problems that can be much more expensive to fix, if they don't ultimately lead to needing a complete replacement.
Don't dismiss a problem that seems minor just because you don't think it's a big deal. Treat everything out of the ordinary as something that requires attention, because that's the only way to keep your garage door functioning at its best and to avoid serious malfunctions.
Don't Underestimate The Importance Of Safety When Doing Repairs
Remember that your garage door is a moving object, and a heavy one at that. Add in the tension that the springs are under and you're looking at some serious safety risks. Before you jeopardize your safety, make sure you're prepared before doing anything with it. Whether you're just cleaning the rails or tightening bolts and lubricating the system, you need to have the right protective gear.
You should wear safety goggles, boots, and thick gloves when you do anything with the door. That way, any rust, loose rails, or springs that come off the door won't cause you injury or a health risk.
To ensure complete safety, it's often best to leave this type of work to garage door repair professionals. It might be more financially advantageous to try to do the work yourself, but if you're not experienced and you don't know the proper safety precautions, you could put yourself and your family at risk of injuries. Talk with a garage door contractor before you commit to doing any work on the door by yourself.
The Right Parts Make All The Difference
Whether you're sourcing the parts to do the work yourself or you just want to have them on hand before the repair technician arrives, choosing the right ones is essential. There are many aftermarket parts available online and from smaller local sources. The problem is that if you choose substandard parts in an effort to save money, you could ultimately find yourself with malfunctioning equipment. Make sure you're selecting quality parts, even if they cost a little bit more. It could save you a lot of money in the long run.
For more information, contact companies like R & S Garage Door Inc.
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