Your garage door is the largest moving part of your home and gets used 3-5 times a day. Like your car, it needs regular maintenance to stay reliable. The good news: a basic checkup takes 20 minutes and can prevent $500+ repairs.
Every Month
- Visual inspection — Look at the springs, cables, rollers, and tracks for any visible wear or damage.
- Test the auto-reverse — Place a 2x4 flat on the ground under the door and close it. It should reverse immediately on contact.
- Listen — Any new sounds (grinding, squeaking, banging) need attention before they become expensive.
Every 6 Months (Spring & Fall)
- Lubricate everything — Springs, rollers, hinges, and the opener chain or screw. Use silicone or lithium spray.
- Check the balance — Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door to waist height. It should stay put. If it moves, the springs need adjustment.
- Inspect the weatherstripping — Cracked or missing seals let in water, pests, and hot Texas air.
- Tighten all hardware — Vibration loosens bolts over thousands of cycles.
Every Year
- Professional tune-up — A tech will catch issues you can't see and adjust spring tension, track alignment, and opener force settings.
- Check the cables — Fraying cables are a safety hazard. If you see fraying, call immediately.
- Test the safety sensors — Wave your hand through the beam while closing. Door should reverse instantly.
Texas-Specific Tips
DFW's extreme heat accelerates wear on rollers and weatherstripping. In summer, check the bottom seal monthly — it softens and cracks in 100°F+ heat. In winter, lubricate before the first cold snap to prevent stiff springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a garage door tune-up cost?
A professional tune-up in the DFW area typically costs $75-150 and includes lubrication, hardware tightening, balance check, and safety sensor test.
Can I do garage door maintenance myself?
Most of it, yes — lubrication, visual inspection, and hardware tightening are safe DIY tasks. Spring adjustment and cable work should always be done by a professional.
How long do garage doors last with proper maintenance?
A well-maintained garage door lasts 15-30 years. The opener typically lasts 10-15 years. Springs are the most commonly replaced component at 7-10 years.