When it comes to home maintenance, your garage door is often overlooked. We’re not here to shame anyone, though! It’s easy to forget about garage door maintenance until a spring snaps or the track gets out of alignment, and suddenly your car is stuck in your garage.
Regular maintenance for both new and previously repaired doors can help catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems and ensure your door continues to operate smoothly year-round.
Let’s take a closer look at why an annual inspection is a smart move for homeowners.
Checking For Any New Damage
The first thing a garage door technician will do is a visual inspection to assess the current condition of your door and opener and identify any areas of concern.
New garage doors that are about a year old typically do not see any major issues, so you can expect a smooth and quiet operation. That being said, an annual check-up is still a good idea! Since we experience all four seasons in Iowa, your doors’ performance will likely be affected. An annual inspection will identify any damage from moisture or extreme cold.
Older doors that have been repaired also benefit from annual maintenance. Like new doors, the weather can affect the different parts, no matter the age of your door. On top of that, if the repair is proving not to be a long-term solution, an inspection from a professional technician will catch that before the damage is irreversible.
Ensure Parts are Working Properly
While your technician looks for any damage, they will also make sure all parts are in working order. This ensures the safety and longevity of your door.
They will look at the tracks and cables to confirm things are in alignment and inspect the hinges to ensure bolts are tightened properly. Rollers will also be assessed to make sure they are rolling rather than sliding down the track.
The spring system is also a major part of your garage door and opener. Springs generally last about 10,000 cycles. A cycle is considered one time up and down. Proper lubrication can help prolong their lifespan.
They will also make sure that parts are properly lubricated with garage door lubricant. This includes springs, ball bearings, hinges, and track.
Signs Your Door Needs Service
Between annual services, there are things you can look out for that signal that your door needs repair.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squeaking, or rattling sounds can signal worn-out rollers, loose hardware, or issues with the opener.
Slow or Jerky Movement
If your door moves more slowly than usual or seems to jerk while opening or closing, it could point to problems with the tracks, rollers, or motor.
Door Doesn’t Open or Close Fully
A door that stops halfway or reverses unexpectedly may have sensor issues, spring problems, or misaligned tracks.
Sagging Sections
If parts of the door appear uneven or sag when it’s open, the springs, cables, or balance may be off.
Visible Wear and Tear
Frayed cables, rusted hardware, or cracked panels are clear signs your door needs attention.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance With Amega
Your garage door works hard every day—don’t wait for something to break before giving it the attention it deserves. If it’s been a while since your last inspection, the Amega team is here to help.
Contact us today and schedule a garage door inspection with one of our expert technicians!