Hey there! If you’ve ever wondered how to lubricate your garage door and keep it running smooth as silk, then you’ve come to the right place. Well-lubricated garage doors will not only function quietly but will also live longer for years to come. Besides, taking care of your garage door is easier-and cheaper-than you think! Now, let’s get into it, and as always, if you need professional help give us a call at (253) 400-3880. We’re always here to help at Overhead Door of Puget Sound.
Why It's Important to Lubricate Your Garage Door
Your garage door is probably one of the most hardworking parts of your house. Each time you hit that button, it opens and closes, keeping all of your things safe and making access to space easy. But like all things mechanical, it needs just a little TLC to keep it running right. Here’s why lubrication matters:
Reduces Noise: No one wants to hear that loud screech every time they open or close their garage door. Proper lubrication keeps things whisper-quiet.
Prevents Wear and Tear: The grinding of metal parts together can wear down over time. A little lubrication minimizes friction and extends the life of your garage door.
Saves Money: Regular maintenance means fewer costly repairs down the road. Think of it as a small investment in your garage door’s future.
Tools You’ll Need to Lubricate a Garage Door
Before we start, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Silicone-Based Lubricant: Skip the WD-40! It’s a cleaner, not a lubricant. Look for a silicone-based spray specifically designed for garage doors.
- Clean Cloth: This will be useful in wiping away the dirt, dust, or old grease.
- Step Ladder: For the higher parts of the door, which may require reaching.
- Gloves (Optional): If you mind getting your hands dirty.
How to Lubricate Your Garage Door:
Follow these steps, and you’ll have your garage door running like new in no time:
- Clean the Door Tracks
Start by taking a look at the metal tracks on either side of your garage door.
Wipe down with a clean dry cloth for the removal of dirt and debris.
Pro Tip: Do not lubricate the tracks! It may accumulate more dust and debris, making things worse as time goes by.
- Lubricate the Rollers
The rollers are small wheels that move along the tracks. Their proper functionality is highly important for smooth movement.
Spray a small amount of lubricant onto the roller bearings – the area where the wheel meets the shaft.
- Hit the Hinges
These are those parts of your door which allow it to bend and flex while opening and closing.
Hit the pivot points, where moving parts of metal rub against each other, with some lubricant.
Don’t over-spray-a little will do.
- Give It to the Springs
Garage door springs carry the weight of the door, so they’re under a lot of tension.
Apply lubricant to the torsion springs (the ones above the door) or extension springs (the ones along the sides).
Safety First: Keep your face and body clear of the springs while working. If you’re unsure, call a pro.
- Don’t Forget the Bearings and Pulleys
If your garage door has pulleys and bearings, give those a quick spray too. That keeps everything running along nice and smooth.
- Lubricate the Lock and Armbar
If your door has a manual lock or armbar, take some lubricant to those moving parts to prevent sticking.
- Test the Door
Now, open and close your garage door a few times to evenly distribute the lubricant. Any unusual sounds might indicate you missed a spot.
How Often Should You Lubricate Garage Doors?
Well, consistency is key! A good rule of thumb is to:
Every 6 Months: Lubricate all the moving parts.
Every Year: Inspect your garage door system for wear and tear. If you notice any issues, address them before they become bigger problems.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
Over-Lubricating: More is not better. Too much lubricant will drip onto the floor and attract dust.
Skipping Regular Maintenance: The wait-until-it-breaks approach can result in bigger, costlier problems.
What is the best way to lubricate a garage door?
The best way to lubricate a garage door is to use a silicone-based or lithium grease spray on the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs while avoiding excess buildup.
What is the best garage door lubricant?
A high-quality silicone-based spray or lithium grease is best for lubricating garage door components, as they reduce friction and prevent rust.
Can I use WD-40 on a garage door?
No, WD-40 is not recommended as a garage door lubricant since it is a cleaner and water displacer rather than a long-lasting lubricant.
Do garage door chains need to be oiled?
Yes, garage door chains should be lubricated with a light coat of chain lube or lithium grease to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear.
When to Call a Pro
If you have tried all these and your garage door is still noisy, sticky, or simply not operating right, then perhaps it’s time to call in the professionals. Some issues, such as broken springs or damaged tracks, necessitate professional tools and expertise. At Overhead Door of Puget Sound, we’re just a call away at (253) 400-3880. We’d love to help you keep your garage door in tip-top shape.
Taking a little time to lubricate your garage door can make all the difference in the world. It’ll run smoother, last longer, and save you money in the long run. Plus, it’s simple, and you can knock it out in under an hour. So grab that silicone spray and give that garage door some TLC!
