Garage Door Maintenance Tips and Tricks for Houston, TX Homeowners

A little routine care goes a long way with garage doors. Here are practical tips we share with Houston-area homeowners to keep doors running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Lubricate Moving Parts Twice a Year

Rollers, hinges, and the torsion spring (or extension springs) need a light coating of garage-door-specific lubricant. Avoid WD-40 for long-term use; it can attract dust. Silicone or lithium-based lubricants work best. Wipe off excess to prevent buildup.

Check Balance Once a Season

An unbalanced door strains the opener and can lead to early failure. With the door closed, disconnect the opener (pull the release cord). Manually lift the door halfway and let go. If it doesn't stay put or slides quickly in either direction, the springs need adjustment. Leave spring work to a trained technician.

Keep Tracks Clean and Aligned

Dirt and debris in the tracks cause noise and wear. Wipe the tracks with a damp cloth and check that they're securely mounted. Loose or bent tracks can cause the door to bind or come off track. If you notice gaps between the track and the door, schedule a professional inspection.

Test Safety Features Monthly

Auto-reverse and the force settings on your opener are there to protect people and property. Place a roll of paper towels under the door and close it. The door should reverse on contact. If it doesn't, have the safety settings adjusted by a qualified technician.

When to Call a Pro

Squeaking that doesn't improve after lubrication, doors that stick or jerk, and any issue with springs or cables should be handled by professionals. Chez Garage Doors offers tune-ups and repairs across Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, and Katy. Contact us today for a free consultation.