How Do I Clear Snow From My Garage Door?
- Nicole Hamilton
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Winter on Long Island can be tough on your garage door. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures don’t just create inconvenience, they can cause real damage if not handled properly.
At All Island Garage Door, we see the same issues every winter. The good news? Most of them are preventable.
Why Snow and Ice Are a Problem
When snow piles up against the bottom of your garage door, it can freeze overnight and bond the door to the ground. If you try to open it with your automatic opener, you risk:
Stripping gears in the opener
Bending door panels
Snapping cables or stressing springs
Burning out the motor
Your opener is designed to lift weight vertically - not break through ice.
How to Safely Clear Snow and Ice
1. Shovel Early and Often. After snowfall, clear the area directly in front of and along the bottom of your garage door. Don’t let snow sit and compact.
2. Break Ice Gently. If ice has formed along the bottom seal, never force the door open. Use a plastic shovel or ice scraper to carefully chip away buildup. Avoid metal tools that could damage the seal or door.
3. Use Safe De-Icing Methods. Warm (not boiling) water can help loosen ice. You can also apply a pet-safe ice melt around the base of the door. Avoid harsh chemicals that may corrode metal components.
4. Check the Weather Seal. Cold weather can make rubber seals brittle. If your bottom seal is cracked or worn, water will seep underneath and refreeze. Replacing a seal is inexpensive compared to repairing a damaged opener.
What Not to Do
Don’t repeatedly hit your wall button hoping it “pushes through.”
Don’t yank the emergency release unless you’re certain the door isn’t frozen in place.
Don’t ignore grinding or straining sounds from your opener.
If your door won’t open, stop and assess. Forcing it almost always turns a small issue into a larger repair.
Preventive Tip for Long Island Winters
Before heavy storms, spray the bottom rubber seal lightly with silicone lubricant. This helps reduce freezing adhesion. Also, schedule a winter tune-up to ensure springs, rollers, and tracks are properly adjusted and lubricated.
If your garage door is stuck, noisy, or struggling this winter, our team is here to help - even during snowstorms! You don't have to stay stuck - contact us.
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