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If your garage door starts squeaking like an old rocking chair or moving slower than a snail in molasses, it might be time for a little TLC. Lubricating your overhead garage door components is a straightforward way to keep things running smoothly. And the best part? You can do it yourself! Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it.

Gather Your Gear

Before diving in, make sure you have everything you need. You don’t want to be halfway up a ladder and realize you forgot something.

What you’ll need:

  • A good silicone-based or lithium-based spray lubricant (stay away from WD-40; it’s not the right tool for the job)
  • A clean cloth or rag
  • A step ladder (if needed)

Safety First

Before you start, make sure your garage door is closed. You don’t want any surprises like the door suddenly moving while you’re working on it. Safety goggles and gloves are a good idea, too, especially if you’re prone to clumsiness.

Start with the Hinges

The hinges are the joints that allow your door panels to move. They take a lot of the stress every time your door goes up and down.

  1. Locate the Hinges: These are the metal joints between each panel of your garage door.
  2. Spray Lubricant: Give each hinge a good squirt of lubricant. Be generous, but don’t go overboard. You don’t want to drown them.
  3. Wipe Off Excess: Use your cloth to wipe away any extra lubricant. Too much can attract dirt and grime, which is the last thing you want.

Rollers Need Love, Too

The rollers are the wheels that glide your door along its tracks. If they’re squeaking, they’re begging for some attention.

  1. Find the Rollers: These are the small wheels on either side of your garage door.
  2. Apply Lubricant: Spray the lubricant on the roller’s shaft and bearings. Make sure to get it inside the wheel itself where it turns on the shaft.
  3. Clean Up: Wipe off any excess to keep things tidy.

Tackle the Tracks

The tracks guide the rollers as your door opens and closes. Keeping them clean and lubricated is key to smooth operation.

  1. Inspect the Tracks: Look for any dirt, debris, or old lubricant that could cause issues.
  2. Clean Them: Wipe the tracks down with a dry cloth. If they’re really dirty, you might need to use a mild cleaner, but be sure to dry them thoroughly afterward.
  3. Lubricate: Spray a small amount of lubricant on a cloth and wipe it along the inside of the tracks. Don’t spray directly into the tracks to avoid excess buildup.

Springs and Bearings

The springs and bearings take a lot of the load and help lift the door. A little lube here goes a long way.

  1. Identify the Springs: These are the large coils, usually found above the door.
  2. Spray Lubricant: Apply a good dose of lubricant along the length of each spring.
  3. Bearings: If you see any exposed bearings (typically near the springs), give them a quick spray, too.
  4. Cycle the Door: Open and close the door a few times to help distribute the lubricant evenly.

Don’t Forget the Chain (if you have one)

If your garage door opener uses a chain drive, it needs some attention, too.

  1. Locate the Chain: It’s the long metal chain running from your garage door opener to the door itself.
  2. Lubricate: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the chain. Too much can cause slippage, so just a light coat will do.
  3. Wipe Off Excess: Again, less is more. Wipe away any extra to keep things from getting messy.

Test and Adjust

Once you’ve lubricated all the components, it’s time for a test run.

  1. Open and Close the Door: Listen for any remaining squeaks or rough spots.
  2. Inspect: Check that the door moves smoothly and evenly.
  3. Adjust: If you still hear noise or notice rough movement, you might need to reapply the lubricant or check for other issues.

Call Our Team For Assistance!

Lubricating your overhead garage door components is like giving them a good massage. It keeps everything running smoothly and can extend the life of your door. Plus, it’s a simple task that you can easily tackle in the afternoon.

If your garage door is still giving you trouble after lubrication, it might be time to call in the pros. Our team at Garage Door Repair Specialist (713-379-6597) is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance needs, so contact us today.

 

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