Your garage door is an important aspect of your home or business premises, protecting you from unauthorized access. But have you ever thought about its safety? Regular maintenance can help you to prevent accidents and costly garage door repairs. Simple checks can make a world of difference.
Let’s check out these 5 garage door safety tips to ensure your garage door remains in top-notch condition while keeping you and your family safe.
Visual Inspection Check
First things first, start with a thorough visual inspection of your garage door. Look for any signs of wear and tear. Cracks, dents, or rust can all cause potential danger. Furthermore, examine the weather stripping along the sides and bottom. If it’s cracked or missing, it may not provide adequate insulation against the elements.
You should also pay attention to the rollers and hinges. Ensure they are intact and free from debris that could hinder movement. Finally, watch for any gaps when the door is closed. This might suggest misalignment or damage that needs addressing.
Don’t forget about garage door safety sensors, too! Check to make sure that they’re clean and unobstructed, allowing them to function properly when needed.
Replace Springs
Garage door springs have a big role in the operation of your door. They bear the weight and ensure smooth opening and closing. Over time, these springs can wear down or even break. This is something you can notice by visually inspecting the doors.
When you notice unusual noises or if your door doesn’t open properly, it might be time to check the springs. Visual signs of corrosion or stretching are red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.
Needless to say, spring replacement is not just about safety. It’s essential for functionality as well. A broken spring can lead to an accident, causing injury or damage to property.
If you’re unsure how to replace them safely, consider calling a garage door professional. Handling garage door springs without expertise can result in serious injuries due to the high tension involved in their mechanics. If you need any help, don’t hesitate to contact a garage door repair company.
Check Cables and Tracks
Another thing you need to do for the safety of your doors is to check your garage door cables and tracks. This is key to ensuring smooth operation. Cables are responsible for lifting the heavy door, so any fraying or wear can lead to severe issues.
Inspect the cables closely for signs of damage. Look for rust spots or broken strands. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to consult a professional.
Tracks should also be free from debris and misalignment. A simple visual check can reveal if they’re bent or obstructed by dirt or grime. Clean them with a damp cloth to keep everything running smoothly.
Pay attention to how the door moves along the tracks during operation. Any jerking movements might indicate trouble ahead, signaling the need for further inspection or adjustment before it escalates into a bigger problem.
Emergency Release
Do you know what your garage door’s emergency release is? This feature allows you to disengage the door from the garage door opener, especially during a power outage or malfunction.
To locate it, look for a red cord hanging down from the motor unit. Pulling this cord will enable the manual operation of your garage door. However, it’s important to test this function regularly. Make sure it works smoothly so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
Keep in mind that once you’ve used the emergency release, you’ll need to reconnect it properly before using the automatic garage opener again. Additionally, you can educate family members about its use. Everyone should know how and when to use this safety feature in case of unexpected situations.
Regular Maintenance
The final and most important thing for ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your garage door is regular maintenance. Schedule regular inspections at least once a year to check all components. Look for signs of wear, rust, or damage that may have occurred over time.
Lubricate moving parts like rollers and hinges to keep them functioning smoothly. This simple task can prevent unnecessary strain on the motor and extend its life. Don’t forget to test the safety features regularly as well. This includes reversing mechanisms that should activate when they detect an obstruction.
You can also have a checklist that can help track maintenance tasks you have completed throughout the year. If you notice anything unusual during your inspection, don’t hesitate to call a professional technician who specializes in garage doors.
If you need any assistance, book your appointment today. We can help with anything, from garage door emergencies to regular yearly maintenance.
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