Preventative Maintenance: Essential Garage Door Tips for NJ Winters Jul 19, 2025

Winter in New Jersey can be harsh, with temperatures plummeting and snow piling high, making it essential to ensure that your garage door is in top working condition. Regular garage door maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your garage door functioning smoothly throughout the cold months. As NJ Garage Door Experts, we know that taking a few preventative steps now can save you time and money later.

To start, inspect your garage door for any visible signs of wear and tear. Harsh winter conditions can exacerbate existing issues, turning small problems into significant nuisances. Check for any rust on metal parts, as salt and moisture from the roads can cause corrosion faster in the winter. If you spot rust, gently scrub it away and apply a rust-resistant spray to prolong the life of the metal components.

Next, it is crucial to lubricate all moving parts of the garage door, including rollers, hinges, and tracks. Cold weather can cause these parts to stiffen, leading to increased wear and tear. Use a high-quality silicone-based lubricant that remains effective even in low temperatures. This will not only help maintain the functionality of your garage door but also ensure it operates quietly and efficiently.

An often overlooked but critical aspect of garage door maintenance in winter is the weather stripping. The strip at the bottom of your garage door acts as a seal to keep out cold air and moisture. Over time, this strip can become cracked or brittle, reducing its effectiveness. Inspect the weather stripping for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. This simple step can help maintain your garage temperature and reduce your heating bill.

Checking the garage door's balance is another key step. A garage door that is out of balance will strain the opener, decreasing its lifespan. To check the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle, then manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If it falls or rises, you may need to adjust the springs, but this is a task best left to professionals to avoid injury.

Ensure that the garage door opener's safety features are functional, as the risk of accidents can increase with ice and snow. Test the auto-reverse feature by placing a small object, like a brick, in the door's path and attempting to close it. The door should reverse once it makes contact with the object. If it doesn’t, consult a technician to correct the issue.

Finally, keep an eye on the garage door sensors. These can become misaligned or obstructed by snow and debris, preventing the door from opening or closing. Regularly clean the sensors and wipe away any snow buildup to ensure they function correctly.

By following these preventative maintenance tips, you can avoid potential headaches and ensure your garage door remains reliable throughout the New Jersey winter. If you encounter issues that seem too complex to handle on your own, don’t hesitate to contact NJ Garage Door Experts. Our team is dedicated to providing you with professional service to keep your garage door running smoothly, no matter the weather.