Your Garage Door Works Hard. Keep It That Way
Your garage door opens and closes thousands of times each year. Whether it’s protecting your vehicle, adding security, or just giving you easy access to your home, it’s a system you depend on daily.
But like any mechanical system, it needs proper care. Without routine maintenance, your garage door can become noisy, unreliable, or even dangerous. At Lopes Door and Glass, we’ve helped homeowners across Toronto extend the life of their garage doors with simple but consistent upkeep. In this guide, we’ll show you what matters most and how to keep your door running smoothly for years.
ESSENTIAL GARAGE DOOR MAINTENANCE GUIDE
One of the easiest ways to prevent wear and tear is to keep all moving parts well-lubricated.
What to lubricate
- Rollers and hinges
- Springs
- Bearing plates
- Chains or belts on the opener
- Tracks (lightly, only if needed)
What to use
Use a silicone-based lubricant or garage door-specific spray. Avoid heavy grease, which can attract dirt and gum up the system.
How often
Every 6 months or after extreme seasonal weather
Garage doors move a lot, and that vibration can loosen parts over time.
Parts to inspect
- Roller brackets
- Track mounting bolts
- Hinges
- Back hang supports
Use a socket wrench to carefully tighten anything that’s come loose. Be cautious not to overtighten or disturb spring systems.
An unbalanced door strains the opener and can wear out parts faster.
How to test
- Disconnect the opener using the emergency release cord
- Manually lift the door halfway
- If it stays in place, the balance is good
- If it falls or shoots up, the springs may need adjustment
Important
Do not attempt to adjust torsion springs yourself. Always call a professional for spring issues.
Modern garage doors are equipped with auto-reverse to prevent injury or damage. Testing it regularly helps ensure safety.
Two ways to test
1. Sensor test: Place a small box in the door’s path. The door should reverse as soon as it touches the box.
2. Beam test: Close the door and wave something across the sensor beam. The door should immediately reverse.
If it does not, clean the sensors and try again. If the issue persists, it’s time for professional servicing.
Dirt, leaves, and debris can build up in the tracks, making your door jerk or squeal.
How to clean
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the tracks
- Avoid using lubricant in the tracks as it can attract grime
- Check for dents or warping that may interfere with roller movement
The rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door keeps out drafts, pests, and moisture.
What to look for
- Cracks or brittleness
- Gaps along the edge
- Sections that peel or sag
If the seal is damaged, it’s usually an easy fix. We can replace weatherstripping quickly with durable materials suited for Toronto’s changing seasons.
Grinding, squeaking, or rattling often signals a problem before it becomes serious.
What sounds can indicate
- Rattling: Loose nuts or bolts
- Squeaking: Dry hinges or rollers
- Grinding: Misaligned tracks or motor trouble
- Banging: Roller or spring failure
Don’t ignore new or worsening noises. They’re your first sign that something needs attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I service my garage door?
We recommend a full professional inspection once a year. Homeowners can handle basic checks every 3 to 6 months.
What kind of lubricant should I use?
Use a garage door spray lubricant or silicone-based spray. Avoid WD-40, which is a cleaner, not a true lubricant.
Is it worth replacing old rollers or hinges?
Yes. Upgrading to nylon rollers or heavy-duty hinges can significantly improve performance and reduce noise.
Can I maintain my garage door opener myself?
Yes, you can clean and lubricate parts and test the auto-reverse. But for anything electrical or involving the motor, call a technician.
Do you offer maintenance services in Toronto?
Yes. Lopes Door and Glass provides full garage door tune-ups and safety checks across the Greater Toronto Area.
PROTECT YOUR GARAGE DOOR AND YOUR HOME
Garage door maintenance doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right routine and a little expert help, you can avoid breakdowns, save money, and extend the life of your system.
At Lopes Door and Glass, we make it easy. Whether you need a quick check-up, seasonal tune-up, or repair, our Toronto team is just a call away.