The frigid embrace of winter brings with it a plethora of concerns, particularly for homeowners pondering the well-being of their garage doors. Cold weather can significantly affect the functionality and longevity of these essential barriers between comfort and the frosty outdoors. The Jim Beam team has put together this guide to help Fort Collins homeowners understand how cold weather impacts their garages. Let’s get started!
Material Contraction and Expansion
As temperatures plummet, materials used in garage doors, whether metal, wood, or composite, undergo contraction. This natural response to cold can lead to warping or distortion, potentially compromising the door’s structural integrity. Over time, this cycle of contraction and expansion can be particularly detrimental, necessitating vigilant inspection and care.
Lubrication Breakdown
Lubrication is the silent sentinel ensuring smooth garage door operations. However, cold weather can lead to the thickening or breakdown of lubricants, impeding their efficacy. Ensuring the use of weather-appropriate lubricants can help maintain smooth and efficient door operations.
- Hinges: These pivot points are crucial for the folding action of the door panels as they move along the track.
- Rollers: The wheels that glide along the garage door track can benefit from lubrication to minimize friction and noise.
- Springs: Torsion springs, which are usually located above the garage door, or extension springs, located on either side of the door, should be lubricated to reduce tension and prevent rust.
- Bearing Plates: These are found on torsion spring-operated doors and should be lubricated where the springs turn on the plates.
- Locks and Latches: Keeping these parts lubricated ensures they remain easy to operate and don’t seize up, especially in colder temperatures.
- Pulleys and Cables (if applicable): On garage doors with extension springs, the pulleys and cables should be lubricated to maintain smooth operation.
- Track Rails: While the tracks themselves should not be greased (as this can attract dirt and debris), a light lubrication where the rollers move inside the tracks can be beneficial.
Using the correct lubricant, such as silicone-based or lithium-based grease, is essential for effective maintenance. Avoid using WD-40 as it’s primarily a solvent, not a lubricant, and can attract dust and dirt over time. Regular lubrication, as part of routine maintenance, can greatly enhance the performance and longevity of your garage door.
Increased Strain on Door Mechanisms
The frigid temperatures exert additional strain on the springs, rollers, and other moving parts of garage doors. The cold can render these components brittle, escalating the risk of cracks or breakages. This underscores the necessity for regular maintenance, especially as winter approaches. You might consider reading our article, Top Reasons Your Garage Is Stuck.
Impact on Springs
Garage doors typically use torsion or extension springs to facilitate opening and closing. In colder climates, the metal in these springs can contract, increasing tension and reducing flexibility. This heightened tension can lead to springs becoming brittle, which significantly elevates the risk of snapping. A broken spring not only impedes the door’s functionality but can also pose safety risks, as springs are under considerable tension and can cause injury if they break unexpectedly. You might consider reading our article, My Garage Door Spring Snapped. What Should I Do?.
Effect on Rollers
The rollers that enable the door to glide smoothly along the tracks can also suffer in cold conditions. The lubrication that keeps these rollers moving freely can thicken in low temperatures, causing the rollers to move less smoothly. Moreover, the material of the rollers, often nylon or steel, can become brittle in the cold, increasing the likelihood of cracking or breaking.
Other Moving Parts
Beyond springs and rollers, other moving components like hinges, cables, and pulleys can also be affected by cold weather. The contraction of metal can lead to misalignment, increased friction, and the potential for these parts to seize up or break.
Weather Stripping and Seals
Weatherstripping serves as a crucial barrier against the elements. However, cold weather can harden and crack these seals, reducing their effectiveness and potentially allowing cold drafts into the garage. Regular inspection and timely replacement of weather stripping are paramount in ensuring an airtight seal. If your garage is getting cold, you might have bad weather stripping! You can learn more about keeping your garage warm in our article, How to Keep Your Fort Collins Garage Warm in the Winter!
Automated Garage Door Openers
These modern conveniences are not immune to the effects of cold weather. Temperature fluctuations can impact the sensitivity and functionality of automated openers. Adjusting the sensitivity settings and ensuring the system is well-maintained can prevent cold weather-induced malfunctions.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance
Regular inspections and servicing are the linchpins of garage door longevity, particularly during winter. This includes checking for material damage, ensuring adequate lubrication, and confirming that all moving parts function seamlessly. Winter-specific maintenance, such as using silicone-based lubricants and reinforcing insulation, can go a long way in safeguarding against the cold’s detrimental effects. Make sure to also read our article, Addressing Common Fall and Winter Garage Door Repair Issues: Expert Solutions by Jim Beam’s Garage Doors, for more tips on getting your garage ready for cold weather.
Keep Your Garage “Happy” This Winter!
In conclusion, cold weather presents a series of challenges to the functionality and condition of garage doors. Understanding these impacts and taking proactive steps can ensure that garage doors withstand the ravages of winter, maintaining their role as steadfast guardians against the cold.
If you don’t know already, Jim Beam’s Garage Doors is one of the top-rated garage door installers and garage door repair services in the Northern Colorado area. With over 148+ reviews on Google and an average rating of 4.9 stars and top-rated status on HomeAdvisor, you can trust Jim Beam’s to do the job right the first time. Get a fast and free estimate on your garage repair, garage maintenance, or garage door installation today by contacting us!
