Winter Garage Door Problems and How to Prevent Them

Connecticut winters can be brutal on garage doors. From Darien to Norwalk, homeowners face unique challenges when temperatures drop. Here's how to keep your garage door repair needs minimal this season.

Common Winter Problems

Cold weather creates several issues for garage door systems:

Frozen Weather Seals

The rubber seal at the bottom of your door can freeze to the concrete floor, especially after snow or ice.

• Prevention: Apply silicone lubricant to the seal before winter
• Solution: Never force a frozen door open - you'll tear the seal

Contracting Metal Components

Metal tracks and hardware contract in cold temperatures, causing:

1. Increased friction and squeaking
2. Misalignment issues
3. Difficulty opening and closing

Battery and Electrical Issues

Cold weather affects your opener's battery backup and sensors:

• Batteries lose charge faster in cold
• Sensor alignment can shift due to temperature changes
• Circuit boards may malfunction in extreme cold

Protecting Your Electronics

Homeowners in Stamford and Darien should:

• Replace opener batteries before winter
• Check sensor alignment monthly
• Keep the garage above freezing if possible

Insulation Benefits

A well-insulated garage door provides:

• Better energy efficiency
• Protection for stored items
• Reduced strain on the opener motor
• Lower heating bills

Pre-Winter Checklist

Before the cold arrives, residents of New Canaan, Westport, and surrounding areas should:

1. Inspect and replace worn weather stripping
2. Lubricate all moving parts with cold-weather lubricant
3. Test the auto-reverse safety feature
4. Check cables for fraying or wear
5. Schedule a professional tune-up

Our technicians throughout Darien offer comprehensive winter preparation services.