Garage door lubrication is an essential part of garage door maintenance. Most of us consider the garage door a major component of our homes. A faulty garage door can cause serious problems for your home and family. Proper garage door lubrication, however, can prevent those problems from happening. Furthermore, lubricating your garage door will help reduce future repairs and prolong your door’s lifespan. This feature will teach you the basics of garage door lubrication.
Three Types of Garage Door Lubricant
There are three types of garage door lubricants – oil, silicone, and white lithium. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Oil-based lubricants
Oil-based lubricants are the most common but are messier and must be applied more often.
Silicon grease
Silicon grease is longer-lasting and the most weather-resistant. In addition, it helps protect your door from dirt and provides rust resistance.
White lithium grease
White lithium grease lubricates the metal parts of your garage door. But it is not the best choice if you live in an area with lots of rain.
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Spray or Gel, Not WD-40
Garage door lubricants come in spray and gel. Either works well, but sprays with straws attached get into the smaller areas of your garage door and its mechanism. A combination of both spray and gel often makes your job easier. While you may be tempted to lubricate your garage door with WD-40, it is not a good option. WD-40 is a degreaser – the opposite of what you need for this job.
Tools Needed for Garage Door Lubrication
To complete the maintenance on your garage door, ready these items to make the job easier and safer:
- Cleaning rags
- Vacuum with hose attachment
- Step ladder
- Lubricant
Parts That Needs Garage Door Lubrication
Lubrication is an essential part of your garage door maintenance. Do not postpone it until you hear squeaks – the garage door may already be damaged. If your garage door is well maintained and lubricated, you limit its wear and tear. To lubricate effectively, get familiar with its moving parts. Immobile parts do not need lubrication, but wiping them clean with your rag is smart.
Tracks
Your tracks do not need lubrication, but you should clean them regularly to keep out dust and dirt. First, vacuum the tracks to pick up loose debris and cobwebs. Then give them a good wipe down, so your rollers glide on a clean surface. Next, use a stepladder to reach the higher tracks.
Hinges
Note whether your hinges have metal or plastic parts. Clean plastic hinges with your rag to remove dirt and debris, but don’t grease them. Metal hinges need to be lubricated at their pivot points.
Rollers
The wheels on your rollers may be either metal or nylon. For metal wheels, coat the rollers in lubricant and use a rag to remove any excess to keep it from dripping onto the floor or your vehicle. Nylon wheels require a bit more care. Just lubricate the bearings that help the wheels rotate.
Springs and Bearing Plates
Use a step ladder to reach the springs at the top of both sides of the door. Lubricate both the springs and bearing plates.
Top Rail
The top rail is on your ceiling, so use your step ladder to reach it. A chain inside the rail raises and lowers your garage door. The chain slides along the top of the rail, so make sure the tops on both sides are well-lubricated.
Locking Mechanism
You don’t need to lubricate the lock unless it’s hard to lock or unlock it or if your key sticks. An aerosol lubricant makes it easier to get the lubricant down into the lock’s moving parts.
Timely Garage Door Lubrication
Now that you know what lubricant is best for your garage door, set time aside to perform this necessary maintenance. It will help your door last longer and keep noise to a minimum. If your door still makes too much noise or does not properly function after you perform this maintenance, call in a professional for help.
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Garage Door Service Near Me
Titan Garage Doors NE is a leading garage door maintenance and repair service provider in the Omaha region. We pride ourselves on our quality workmanship and our commitment to customer satisfaction. Our full range of services includes garage door installation, garage door opener repairs, and garage door spring replacement. We also offer various products, from garage door lubricants and sealants to weatherstripping and replacement parts. Whatever your needs, Titan Garage Doors NE is here to help. So give us a call today!
