As temperatures drop and the leaves begin to fall, it’s a good time to give your garage door a little attention before winter arrives. A few simple maintenance steps now can prevent costly repairs later, extend the life of your system, and help keep your garage safe and comfortable through the colder months.

Here are five fall garage door maintenance tips every homeowner should complete before the cold weather sets in.

1. Check for Drafts, Light Gaps, and Worn Seals

Start with a visual inspection of your garage door. Stand inside your garage during the day and look for any sunlight peeking through the sides or bottom of the door. Even small gaps can let in cold air, moisture, and pests once the temperatures drop. If you feel drafts near the door or windows, it may be time to replace the weatherstripping.

Inspect the seals along the edges and bottom of the door to see if they’re cracked, flattened, or brittle. Worn seals can let in cold air and make your heating system work harder, especially if your garage is attached to your home. Replacing damaged weatherstripping before winter will improve insulation and help protect your garage’s contents from the elements.

2. Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts

Cold air can cause metal parts to contract, leading to friction and noise when your door operates. Applying a fresh layer of lubricant now will keep everything running smoothly. Use a silicone-based or lithium-based garage door lubricant on the rollers, hinges, and springs, and wipe away any excess to prevent dirt buildup.

Avoid using WD-40—it’s a solvent, not a true lubricant, and can attract dust. Also, don’t lubricate the tracks themselves; just wipe them clean with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Taking a few minutes to lubricate your door’s moving parts will reduce noise, protect components from wear, and help your door glide smoothly even on the coldest mornings.

3. Test Door Balance and Safety Features

A well-balanced garage door is essential for reliable operation. To test the balance, disconnect the automatic opener and lift the door manually about halfway. If it stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls or rises, the springs may need adjustment—a job best left to a professional, since springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle.

While you’re checking the balance, test your safety features as well. Place a solid object, such as a block of wood, under the closing door. The door should automatically reverse when it contacts the object. Then test the photo-eye sensors by closing the door and waving an object through the sensor beam. The door should immediately stop and reverse. If it doesn’t, clean the sensor lenses and realign them if necessary. These safety checks take only a few minutes but can prevent accidents and protect your family.

4. Tighten and Inspect Hardware

Garage doors move thousands of times a year, and those vibrations can slowly loosen hardware. Take a few minutes to inspect the bolts, brackets, and roller mounts, tightening them with a wrench if needed. Look closely for any rust, dents, or signs of wear on the rollers and tracks.

If you notice any frayed cables or damaged springs, don’t try to fix them yourself—call a professional. These components are under heavy tension and require specialized tools and training. Addressing small issues now helps prevent major problems later and keeps your garage door operating safely and smoothly.

5. Clear Debris and Organize Your Garage

Fall often brings leaves, dirt, and other debris that can clog your tracks or block the garage door’s sensors. Clean out the tracks with a cloth or vacuum to ensure smooth operation, and sweep away any leaves or debris from around the garage entrance. This will help prevent uneven movement and keep your door area dry and clear through the wet, cold months.

While you’re at it, take the opportunity to reorganize your garage for the season. Store away summer equipment and move winter items—like snow shovels, salt, and car supplies—to easily accessible spots. A well-organized space allows for better airflow, easier access, and a cleaner overall environment.

Final Thoughts

A little maintenance this fall can go a long way in protecting your garage door through the winter. By checking seals, tightening hardware, lubricating parts, and ensuring your safety systems work properly, you’ll keep your door running efficiently and avoid costly repairs down the road.

If you notice anything unusual during your inspection or would rather have a professional handle the work, Lancaster Door Service is here to help. Our team provides expert seasonal tune-ups, inspections, and repairs for homeowners throughout Lancaster and the surrounding areas.

Contact Lancaster Door Service today to schedule your fall garage door maintenance and keep your system running smoothly all winter long.