Seasonal Garage Door Maintenance Checklist

Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your garage door and preventing costly repairs. Follow this seasonal checklist to keep your door running smoothly throughout the year.

Monthly Quick Check (5 Minutes)

These simple checks should be done monthly by homeowners in Darien, Stamford, and throughout Connecticut:

• Visual inspection: Look for frayed cables, rust, or damage
• Listen: Note any unusual sounds during operation
• Test the balance: Disconnect the opener and lift the door manually – it should stay in place
• Check the reversal feature: Place an object under the door; it should reverse when touching it

Spring Maintenance (March-April)

As temperatures rise, it's time for a thorough spring cleaning:

Clean the Tracks

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the tracks. Remove dirt, debris, and cobwebs that accumulated over winter. Check for dents or bends that could affect operation.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply a silicone-based lubricant (not WD-40) to:

• Rollers
• Hinges
• Springs (exterior only)
• Bearing plates

Summer Maintenance (June-July)

Connecticut summers bring humidity and heat that can affect your garage door:

Inspect Weather Seals

Check the rubber seal at the bottom of the door and the weatherstripping around the frame. Replace if cracked or worn – this keeps out rain, pests, and humidity.

Touch Up Paint

Wooden doors especially need attention. Sand any peeling areas and apply fresh paint to prevent moisture damage. Residents in Darien and New Canaan know how important this is for maintaining curb appeal.

Fall Maintenance (September-October)

Prepare your garage door for winter:

Tighten All Hardware

Vibration from thousands of cycles can loosen bolts and brackets. Use a socket wrench to tighten everything.

Test the Opener

Replace remote batteries, test the wall switch, and ensure the safety sensors are properly aligned.

Check the Springs

Look for signs of wear, rust, or gaps. Springs typically last 7-10 years. If yours are aging, consider proactive replacement before winter.

Winter Maintenance (December-February)

Cold weather presents unique challenges for garage doors in Norwalk, Westport, and throughout Fairfield County:

Prevent Freezing

• Keep the bottom seal clear of ice and snow
• Don't let the door freeze to the ground – break the seal gently if needed
• Consider applying a silicone spray to the seal to prevent sticking

Protect Against Salt

Road salt can cause corrosion. Rinse the bottom of your door periodically during winter.

When to Call a Professional

Some tasks require professional service from Round Hill Garage Door Repair:

• Spring adjustment or replacement
• Cable repair
• Track realignment
• Opener motor problems
• Any issue you're not comfortable handling