January 10, 2024 7 min read
Washington's Tri-Cities region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. These extreme conditions can take a toll on your garage door system if not properly maintained. Here's your complete guide to summer-proofing your garage door.
Metal Expansion: Steel and aluminum components expand in heat, which can cause binding, squeaking, and misalignment. This is especially noticeable in the tracks and spring systems.
Lubricant Breakdown: High temperatures cause standard lubricants to thin and evaporate, leaving moving parts unprotected and prone to wear.
Weatherstripping Degradation: Rubber and vinyl weatherstripping can crack, harden, and lose flexibility when exposed to intense heat and UV radiation.
Opener Strain: Garage door openers work harder in extreme heat, especially if the door isn't properly balanced or lubricated.
Switch to a high-temperature silicone-based lubricant designed for extreme conditions. Apply to all rollers, hinges, springs, and the opener's rail or chain. Avoid WD-40, which is a cleaner, not a lubricant.
Check all weatherstripping for cracks, gaps, or hardening. The bottom seal is particularly important for keeping out dust and maintaining energy efficiency. Replace any damaged sections before summer heat sets in.
Inspect tracks for warping or gaps. Heat expansion can gradually misalign tracks. Use a level to check vertical sections.they should have a slight backward lean of about 1/4 inch per foot of height.
Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. It should stay in place. If it rises or falls, the springs need adjustment.a job for professionals due to the dangerous tension involved.
Ensure your garage has adequate ventilation. Consider adding a vent fan to reduce heat buildup, which protects both your opener motor and anything stored in your garage.
An insulated garage door can reduce energy costs significantly. If your door lacks insulation, consider upgrading or adding aftermarket insulation panels. Keep the garage closed during the hottest parts of the day.
Watch for these warning signs: unusual noises when operating, door sticking or jerking, visible gaps in weatherstripping, opener running hot or shutting off, and door not closing completely.
If you notice any of these issues, contact Richland Garage Doors for a professional inspection before minor problems become major repairs.