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Your garage door plays a big role in your home’s security and convenience. To keep it working smoothly, it’s essential to understand its key components and how to maintain them.
Here’s a breakdown of the main parts of your garage door and simple tips to keep them in top shape.
1. Panels
The panels make up the outer face of your garage door. They come in materials like steel, wood, or aluminum. While mainly decorative, damaged panels can impact your door’s performance.
Maintenance Tip: Wash panels regularly to remove dirt. Inspect for cracks or peeling paint. Touch up or replace panels as needed to keep your door looking and functioning its best.
2. Springs
Springs do the heavy lifting when your garage door opens or closes. Torsion springs are above the door, while extension springs run along the sides.
Maintenance Tip: Look for rust or gaps in the coils. Avoid handling springs yourself—they’re under high tension and can be dangerous. Call a professional if they need repair or replacement.
3. Rollers and Tracks
Rollers glide along the tracks to move the door up and down. Both need to stay clean and aligned for smooth operation.
Maintenance Tip: Wipe tracks clean and lubricate rollers every few months. If you hear squeaking or the door wobbles, the rollers might need replacement.
4. Cables
Cables work with springs to control the door’s movement. They’re strong but can fray or wear over time.
Maintenance Tip: Check cables for rust or fraying. If they’re damaged, stop using the door and call an expert.
5. Garage Door Opener
The opener powers your door’s movement. It includes remotes, wall controls, and safety sensors.
Maintenance Tip: Test safety sensors regularly to ensure the door reverses when something is in its path. Clean the opener and replace remote batteries when needed.
6. Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping seals the bottom of your door. It keeps out drafts, pests, and dirt.
Maintenance Tip: Inspect it for cracks or gaps. Replace worn or torn weatherstripping to keep your garage well-sealed.
7. Hinges and Hardware
Hinges and hardware keep your door sturdy and functional. Loose screws or damaged brackets can cause operational problems.
Maintenance Tip: Tighten screws and lubricate hinges to prevent squeaking. Replace worn parts to keep everything secure.
Call the Experts for Help
Some parts, like springs and cables, can be tricky and dangerous to fix yourself. For major issues, reach out to a reliable garage door company in Nashville to ensure safe and effective repairs.