Having a garage door that makes that infuriating squeaky sound every time it’s opened or closed can be very irritating. But did you know it can also be a clear indication that the door may need a service? That in itself may sound like quite a job, but it’s actually easier than you think.
Getting an automatic garage door Melbourne contractor to service your squeaky door is the best way to go. It will be done correctly the first time. But, if you want to try yourself, we have valuable tips below.
7 Important Steps
Often, the cause of a squeaky door is one or several parts needing some lubrication. But it’s a lot more complex than just spraying some oil and hoping for the best. Here are a few tips to do it the right way.
Secure the scene
Because your garage door is probably the biggest and heaviest movable object on your premises, it’s important to ensure that you take a few safety precautions:
- The area where you’re going to work needs to be adequately lit.
- Ensure that you have a sturdy step ladder to stand on. Do not use a chair or bench because it may tip over and you’ll get hurt.
- To prevent the door accidentally being opened while you’re working, disengage the door from the automatic opener or disconnect the power source.
Cleaning the Tracks
The first thing to do is clean out the tracks. These are the metal strips that the rollers move on to open and close. Over time dust builds up in the tracks. This needs to be cleaned out before you move onto the next step. Using a damp cloth, wipe out the build-up and grime. You can also use your vacuum to suck out dust.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
Once the tracks have been cleaned out, let them dry for a few minutes before lubricating the door. An important point to remember is that you can’t use just any oil to lubricate the door. What you’ll need is lithium-based grease, easily obtained from your local hardware store.
Why not use oil? Oil attracts dirt and it will also drip from the tracks, making a mess and creating a possible slip hazard. Ensure that the grease you use is specific to garage doors. Look for the kind that comes in spray cans.
Hinges
Lift the door up manually and use the spray can to add lubricant to all the hinges. Add extra to the hinges that bear the most weight. This should make opening and closing the door a lot smoother.
Rollers
Next, you’ll need to lubricate the rollers. These are the circular parts attached to the hinges. There are also small ball bearings inside the rollers that will need to be lubricated. Use the spray nozzle to ensure that you spray lubricant inside the rollers. Here you’ll need to spray the lubricant as evenly as possible to avoid the rollers becoming imbalanced.
Springs
The top of the garage door usually has springs which also need to be lubricated. Spray the grease on the outside of the springs and bearing plates. Open and close the door a few times to spread the grease to all the moving parts.
Remember the Locks and Rails
While you’re at it, you might as well lubricate the lock and the arm bar. This will make locking and unlocking the door a whole lot easier. You can also lubricate your garage door opener, but for this you’ll need to consult your garage door’s user manual to ensure it’s done correctly.
Custom Garage Doors
To take over the servicing of your doors or if you’re in need of new, unique looking garage doors, professional installers from Dandenong Garage Doors Melbourne will be happy to help! Let’s streamline how your doors work or give your building a new look! Experts will be able to design and manufacture any style.
Whether it’s electric garage doors you need or the automated alternative, make use of the best custom garage doors Melbourne contractors can offer. Call Dandenong Garage Doors on 97914933 for a FREE site inspection and quote.
