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Your garage door is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects your car, belongings, and family from the elements, intruders, and pests. But did you know that extreme weather can harm your garage door’s performance and lifespan?
Extreme weather can be anything from heavy rain, snow, hail, wind, heat, cold, or humidity. Depending on where you live, you may experience some or all of these conditions throughout the year. And while your garage door is designed to withstand normal wear and tear, it may not be able to handle the stress and damage caused by severe weather.
In this article, we will explain how extreme weather can affect your garage door, and what you can do to protect it from harm. We will also share some tips and tricks for maintaining your garage door in different weather conditions, and how to find a reliable service for garage door repair Gibbons if you need one. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to keep your garage door in good shape, no matter what the weather throws at it.
The Effects of Extreme Weather on Your Garage Door’s Performance and Lifespan
Extreme weather can have various effects on your garage door, depending on the type and severity of the weather condition.
Some of the most common effects are:
- Rain, snow, and hail: These can cause water damage, rust, corrosion, and mold on your garage door panels, hinges, springs, and other metal parts. They can also affect the electrical components of your garage door opener, such as the sensors, wires, and circuit boards. Water damage can also warp and crack your wooden garage door panels, or peel off the paint and finish.
- Wind: Strong winds can exert a lot of pressure on your garage door, causing it to bend, dent, or even break. Wind can also blow debris, such as branches, leaves, rocks, or trash, into your garage door, scratching or damaging it. If your garage door is not properly secured, wind can also blow it open or shut, creating safety hazards and security risks.
- Heat: High temperatures can cause your garage door to expand and contract, affecting its alignment and balance. Heat can also damage the rubber seals and weatherstripping on your garage door, making it less energy-efficient and more prone to air leaks. Heat can also fade and crack the paint and finish on your garage door, reducing its aesthetic appeal.
- Cold: Low temperatures can cause your garage door to shrink and stiffen, affecting its movement and operation. Cold can also freeze the lubricant on your garage door parts, making them less smooth and more noisy. Cold can also affect the battery life and performance of your garage door opener and remote control.
As you can see, extreme weather can have a significant impact on your garage door’s performance and lifespan. That’s why it’s important to protect your garage door from damage caused by extreme weather and to seek a professional service for your garage door repair in Gibbons if you notice any signs of trouble.
How to Protect Your Garage Door from Damage Caused by Extreme Weather
Extreme weather can damage your garage door in many ways, but there are some steps you can take to protect it and prevent costly repairs.
Here are some of the best practices for protecting your garage door from extreme weather:
- Inspect and maintain your garage door regularly: You should inspect your garage door at least once a year, or more often if you live in an area with frequent extreme weather. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, rust, corrosion, mold, or misalignment. Check the functionality of your garage door opener, sensors, springs, cables, rollers, and hinges. Lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based spray, and replace any worn or damaged parts. If you notice any issues that you can’t fix yourself, contact a professional garage door repair company as soon as possible.
- Install a garage door weather seal: A garage door weather seal is a strip of rubber or vinyl that attaches to the bottom, sides, and top of your garage door. It creates a tight seal between your garage door and the garage floor, walls, and ceiling, preventing air, water, dust, and debris from entering your garage. A garage door weather seal can also improve the insulation and energy efficiency of your garage, keeping it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. You can buy a garage door weather seal kit from your local hardware store, or hire a professional to install it for you.
- Upgrade your garage door insulation: If your garage door is not insulated, or has poor insulation, you may want to consider upgrading it to improve its resistance to extreme weather. Garage door insulation can reduce the heat transfer between your garage and the outside, keeping your garage more comfortable and reducing your energy bills. Garage door insulation can also reduce the noise and vibration caused by your garage door, making it quieter and smoother. You can choose from different types of garage door insulation, such as foam, fiberglass, or reflective. You can also buy pre-insulated garage door panels, or hire a professional to install the insulation for you.
By following these tips, you can protect your garage door from damage caused by extreme weather, and extend its performance and lifespan.
Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Your Garage Door in Different Weather Conditions
Extreme weather can affect your garage door in different ways, depending on the season and the climate. That’s why it’s important to maintain your garage door in different weather conditions, to ensure its optimal performance and durability.
Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining your garage door in different weather conditions:
- Spring: Spring is the time to check your garage door for any damage caused by the winter weather, such as rust, corrosion, cracks, or misalignment. You should also clean your garage door with a mild detergent and water, and wipe it dry with a soft cloth. You should also lubricate the moving parts of your garage door with a silicone-based spray, and tighten any loose screws or bolts. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, you should contact a professional garage door repair service in Gibbons to fix them.
- Summer: Summer is the time to protect your garage door from the heat and the sun, which can cause it to expand and contract, or fade and crack. You should apply a fresh coat of paint or finish to your garage door, or use a UV-resistant sealant to prevent fading and cracking. You should also check the rubber seals and weatherstripping on your garage door, and replace them if they are damaged or worn out. You should also avoid leaving your garage door open for long periods, as this can let in dust, insects, and rodents into your garage.
- Fall: Fall is the time to prepare your garage door for the winter weather, which can cause it to shrink and stiffen, or freeze and malfunction. You should inspect your garage door for any gaps or leaks, and seal them with caulk or foam. You should also replace the batteries in your garage door opener and remote control, and test them for functionality. You should also clear any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or dirt, from your garage door tracks, rollers, and hinges, to prevent them from jamming or clogging.
- Winter: Winter is the time to keep your garage door warm and cozy, to prevent it from freezing and breaking. You should insulate your garage door with foam, fiberglass, or reflective insulation, or buy pre-insulated garage door panels, to improve its energy efficiency and comfort. You should also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or grease to the metal parts of your garage door, to prevent them from freezing and rusting. You should also avoid using your garage door opener if the temperature is below freezing, as this can damage the motor and the circuit board. Instead, you should manually open and close your garage door, or use a backup power source.
By following these tips and tricks, you can maintain your garage door in different weather conditions, and prevent any problems or issues that may arise.
Conclusion
Extreme weather can have a serious impact on your garage door’s performance and lifespan. That’s why it’s important to protect your garage door from damage caused by extreme weather and to maintain your garage door in different weather conditions. By following the tips and tricks we shared in this article, you can keep your garage door in good shape, no matter what the weather throws at it.
However, if you ever need a professional garage door repair in Gibbons, you can count on Iceberg Overhead Doors, the best garage door service company in Gibbons. We have the experience, skills, and equipment to handle any type of garage door problem, no matter how big or small. We offer fast, reliable, and affordable garage door services, including installation, repair, maintenance, and replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my garage door needs repair?
Some common signs that your garage door needs repair are: it doesn’t open or close properly, it makes loud or unusual noises, it has visible damage or wear and tear, it has poor insulation or energy efficiency, or it has faulty or broken parts. If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a professional garage door repair service as soon as possible.
How often should I maintain my garage door?
You should maintain your garage door at least once a year, or more often if you live in an area with frequent extreme weather. You should inspect, clean, lubricate, and adjust your garage door regularly, and replace any worn or damaged parts. You should also protect your garage door from extreme weather by installing a weather seal, upgrading your insulation, and applying a fresh coat of paint or finish.
How much does it cost to repair or replace a garage door?
The cost of repairing or replacing a garage door depends on several factors, such as the type, size, material, and condition of your garage door, the extent and nature of the damage, and the labor and parts required. That’s why it’s best to get a free estimate from a reputable garage door repair Gibbons service before you decide.
