do you lubricate garage door tracks
Garage doors are an essential part of most homes, providing convenience, security and protection to our vehicles and belongings. Of the various components that make up a garage door system, the tracks play a vital role in its smooth operation. Many homeowners overlook the importance of properly lubricating garage door tracks, resulting in unnecessary wear, running noise, and even a safety hazard. In this blog post, we’ll explore why lubricating your garage door tracks is critical, and how this simple maintenance task can greatly improve your garage door’s overall performance and lifespan.
Why Lubricate Garage Door Tracks?
1. Reduces friction and wear: Over time, the tracks on which garage door rollers move can accumulate dirt, debris, and other particles. This buildup increases friction, causing premature wear on rollers, tracks and other moving parts. By regularly lubricating the tracks, you can reduce friction, minimize the risk of damage and extend the life of your garage door.
2. Prevent Noisy Operation: Improperly lubricated garage door tracks can create harsh noises when opening and closing. This can be especially troublesome if your garage is attached to your home or if your living space is adjacent to the garage. Regularly lubricating the tracks will help eliminate squeaks, rattles and other annoying sounds, keeping your garage door running quieter and more peacefully.
3. Keep smooth function: When the garage door track is well lubricated, the rollers can move smoothly without any jamming or resistance. This allows the garage door to open and close effortlessly, providing convenience and avoiding sudden jerks or stops in operation. Lubricating tracks is especially important in areas that experience extreme weather conditions, as tracks can shrink or expand with temperature fluctuations.
4. Enhanced safety: A smooth-running garage door is inherently safer to operate. Proper lubrication minimizes the chances of the door getting stuck, which could lead to accidents or injuries. Additionally, a well-maintained garage door deters would-be intruders, as smooth operation indicates an active and well-cared-for property.
How to effectively lubricate garage door tracks:
1. Before you start: First make sure the garage door is closed and disconnected from the door opener. This step is critical to prevent accidental opening or closing while working. Also, use a brush or vacuum to remove any dirt or debris from the tracks.
2. Choose the right lubricant: Use a silicone- or lithium-based lubricant designed for garage door tracks. Avoid WD-40 or similar products, as they tend to attract dirt and debris, which can exacerbate the problem.
3. Lubrication process: apply a small amount of lubricant along the length of the track, mainly in the area where the rollers come into contact. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil can collect dirt and prevent smooth movement. Wipe off excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
4. Regular Maintenance: To ensure optimum performance, repeat this lubrication process every six months or as recommended by the manufacturer. It is also recommended to regularly inspect the tracks for signs of damage or misalignment and to address any issues promptly.
in conclusion:
Lubricating garage door tracks is an important maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Benefits of regular lubrication include reduced friction and wear, quieter operation, smoother function, improved safety and enhanced safety. By spending a small amount of time and effort on this simple task, you can extend the life of your garage door, save on costly repairs, and enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of a functioning garage door. So don’t forget to incorporate track lubrication into your maintenance routine and reap the rewards of a well-maintained garage door.
