5 Simple Steps to Extend Your Door’s Lifespan

Imagine arriving at your business early in the morning, only to find that your overhead door is stuck. Your deliveries are delayed, your employees are frustrated, and your schedule is thrown off track. Situations like these are not uncommon, but they can be avoided with proper maintenance. Whether you have grilles, sheet doors, fire doors, high-speed doors, fabric doors, or service slat doors, regular maintenance can significantly extend your door’s lifespan. Follow these five simple steps to keep your doors in top condition, saving time and money on costly repairs and replacements.

1. Regular Inspections

Visual Checks

Inspect your doors regularly for visible signs of wear and tear. Look for dents, cracks, rust, or any other damage on the door panels and hardware. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas where damage is more likely to occur.

Functional Tests

Test the functionality of the doors to ensure they open and close smoothly. Listen for unusual noises like grinding or squeaking, which can indicate a problem with the moving parts. High-speed doors and fabric doors require frequent checks due to their constant use to maintain the door’s lifespan.

Professional Inspections

While DIY inspections are important, scheduling professional inspections at least once a year can help identify potential issues that you might miss. Professionals have the expertise to detect early signs of problems and provide preventive maintenance.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts To Improve Door’s Lifespan

Lubrication Schedule

Regularly lubricate all moving parts of your overhead doors, including hinges, rollers, tracks, and springs. Proper lubrication reduces friction, prevents rust, and ensures smooth operation. This step is especially crucial for high-speed doors and service slat doors due to their frequent use.

Type of Lubricant

Use a high-quality, non-silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for overhead doors. Avoid grease, as it can attract dirt and debris, leading to more wear and tear.

Application Tips

Apply the lubricant sparingly to avoid buildup. Wipe off any excess to prevent it from dripping onto the floor or other parts of the door. Lubricate the moving parts every three to six months, or more frequently in high-use environments.

3. Up Your Door’s Lifespan by Tightening and Replacing Hardware

Checking Hardware

Regularly check all the hardware components of your doors, including bolts, nuts, and screws. Over time, these parts can become loose due to constant movement and vibrations.

Tightening

Tighten any loose hardware to ensure the door remains securely fastened. Use a wrench or screwdriver to adjust bolts and screws, making sure they are snug but not over-tightened, which can strip the threads.

Replacement

Replace any worn or damaged hardware immediately. Keeping spare parts on hand, such as extra bolts and nuts, can help you make quick repairs and prevent further damage.

4. Clean and Maintain Tracks and Rollers

Cleaning Tracks

Clean the tracks of your overhead doors regularly to remove dirt, debris, and buildup. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clear the tracks. For stubborn dirt, a mild detergent can be used.

Inspecting Rollers

Inspect the rollers for signs of wear and tear. Rollers should move smoothly along the tracks without sticking or wobbling. High-speed doors and fabric doors require frequent checks due to their constant movement.

Replacing Rollers

If the rollers are worn or damaged, replace them immediately. Worn rollers can cause the door to operate unevenly, leading to more significant damage to the door’s lifespan overtime.

5. Test Safety Features

Auto-Reverse Function

For overhead doors equipped with an auto-reverse feature, test this function regularly. Place a small object in the door’s path and close it. The door should reverse direction when it detects the object. If it doesn’t, the auto-reverse mechanism may need adjustment or repair.

Sensors and Alarms

Check the sensors and alarms on fire doors and high-speed doors to ensure they are working correctly. Sensors should detect obstructions and prevent the door from closing if something is in the way. Alarms should be functional and loud enough to alert in case of a fire or other emergency.

Professional Testing

While DIY testing is important, having a professional test and calibrate the safety features annually is recommended. Professionals can ensure that all safety mechanisms are working correctly and make any necessary adjustments.

Need Professional Help?

As we’ve learned, regular maintenance is key to extending your door’s lifespan. By performing regular inspections, lubricating moving parts, tightening and replacing hardware, cleaning tracks and rollers, and testing safety features, you can keep your doors in optimal condition. This proactive approach not only enhances the performance and safety of your doors but also saves you time and money on repairs and replacements.

If you can’t seem to find the solution yourself, explore our range of services by visiting Radford Garage Doors and Gates. Our expert team is here to help you with all your overhead door needs.