Common Garage Door Problems in Winter
There is some of us who love the colder temperatures, and some who dread the winter. Just like our bones creak and bodies might move a little slower during these months, your garage door may also seem a little finicky in the cold weather. We have a list of common garage door problems, some that are a simple fix, others that require professional help. Check out this guide for tips to survive any garage door problems in winter.
Garage Door Opener Malfunctioning
Unfortunately, cold temperatures can hinder the performance of your garage door opener’s motor and other essential components. This can become frustrating because it is in the colder temperatures where you realize how convenient it is not having to get out of your warm car to open your garage door. If your opener is finicky, first, simply try disconnecting and re-connecting the main power source. Also, change the batteries in your remote. If you still cannot get the opener to work, it may be time to call in a professional for an evaluation.
The Door Seems Really Heavy
Frigid temperatures can wreak havoc on your garage door springs, causing them to become brittle, and possibly break. Here are signs your garage door springs may have broken:
- Your door suddenly stops opening.
- You hear a crashing or loud snapping/popping sound.
- The door is very heavy to open manually.
Should you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, contact a professional. Working with garage door springs can be dangerous because of the tension in the coils. Therefore, it is best that an experienced technician perform the repair.
Your Door is Not Moving Smoothly
Rollers are a vital part of your garage door operating system. These rollers require seasonal lubrication for smooth efficient movement. Sometimes in winter, the lubrication freezes, thus causing a bit of a jerky rolling as your door opens and closes. The first step is to clean off the old lubrication, then reapply a silicone-based lubricant. If this does not solve the problem, you could have issues with bent tracks, which require professional attention.
Frozen Door
If you have experienced a few days of wintery precipitation such as snow, sleet, or freezing rain, and your garage door will not open, the bottom may be frozen to your garage floor. First, shovel any snow away from the door. Then inspect both inside and out for signs of ice. Should you discover the door is frozen, carefully chip away at the ice or use hot water to melt it. Never force the door open as you may tear away the weather stripping. Hence, allowing additional ice, snow, and cold air inside.
Safety First!
If you experience any of these common garage door problems in winter, contact Door Tech for a free evaluation. You can trust our technicians to provide an honest inspection and repair recommendation. Remember, some repairs may be dangerous and require a professional. Safety first!