Garage Door Seasonal Maintenance: Keep It Working All Year Round

Living on Long Island means experiencing all four seasons in full force—from snowy winters to salty summer breezes. And just like your roof or HVAC system, your garage door needs year-round attention to stay in top shape.

Whether you're in Suffolk or Nassau County, taking a little time each season to maintain your garage door can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and extend the life of your investment. Here’s how to keep your garage door running smoothly through the changing Long Island weather.

Spring: Clean and Inspect After Winter

After a cold and often damp winter, spring is the perfect time for a fresh start—and that includes your garage door.

Key maintenance tasks:

• Clean the door and tracks: Salt, sand, and grime from winter roads can accumulate on your door and hardware. Rinse off the door and wipe down the tracks.

• Check weatherstripping: Inspect the bottom seal and frame for cracks or stiffness. Replace if it’s worn or brittle to keep out spring rain and pests.

• Test the balance: Disconnect the opener and lift the door manually. It should stay in place. If it drops or is difficult to lift, the springs may be out of balance—call a professional.

Summer: Protect Against Heat and Humidity

Long Island summers bring high humidity and salty coastal air, which can take a toll on your garage door’s finish and mechanical parts.

Summer tips:

• Lubricate moving parts: High heat can dry out lubricants. Use a silicone-based garage door lubricant on rollers, hinges, and springs to prevent squeaks and corrosion.

• Inspect for rust: Steel components are vulnerable to rust, especially near the shoreline. Catching it early means easier repair or treatment.

• Check insulation: A well-insulated door can help keep your garage cooler and protect stored items from heat damage. Upgrade if needed.

Fall: Prepare for Colder Months Ahead

Fall is your window to prepare for winter before temperatures drop and snow hits Long Island.

Must-do maintenance:

• Tighten hardware: Screws, bolts, and brackets can loosen from frequent use. Grab a wrench and give everything a once-over.

• Replace batteries in remotes and keypads: Cold weather drains batteries faster, so it’s best to start the season fresh.

• Test safety features: Check that the auto-reverse function works by placing a small object in the door’s path. This is especially important before winter when doors may freeze shut.

Winter: Monitor for Ice and Cold-Weather Strain

Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can interfere with how your garage door opens and closes.

What to watch for:

• Don’t let your door freeze shut: Keep the area around the bottom seal clear of snow and ice. If the door sticks, don’t force it—it can damage the opener.

• Listen for odd noises: Cold weather can cause metal parts to contract, leading to louder operation or stiff movement.

• Use a garage-safe space heater (if needed): If your garage houses plumbing or temperature-sensitive items, mild heating can help reduce cold-related door issues.

Garage Door Seasonal Maintenance: When to Call a Pro

While there’s plenty you can do yourself, some things are best left to the experts—especially when it comes to spring repairs, track adjustments, or motor issues. Scheduling a professional tune-up once a year ensures all parts are aligned, safe, and working efficiently.

Seasonal maintenance doesn’t just keep your garage door looking good—it ensures safe, reliable performance all year long. With just a little attention each season, Long Island homeowners can avoid common issues and keep their garage door working like new.

Need a seasonal tune-up or emergency repair? All Island Garage Door proudly serves homes across Long Island with professional garage door service, installation, and maintenance. Contact us today to schedule your seasonal checkup.