BLOG Navigating Seasonal Changes: How to Prepare Your Garage Door for Extreme Weather Aug 24, 2025

Preparing your garage door for extreme weather is an important maintenance task that often gets overlooked. Whether it’s the sweltering heat of summer or the icy chill of winter, your garage door is one of the largest moving parts of your home and it needs to be ready to handle these extreme conditions. As a customer of Pikes Peak Overhead Doors, understanding how to protect this essential component can save you from unforeseen issues and costly repairs.

Start by conducting a thorough inspection of your garage door. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, dents, or cracks in the door panels. Pay attention to the weather stripping along the edges, which is crucial in keeping out drafts and moisture. Over time, weather stripping can become brittle or damaged, reducing its effectiveness. Replacing worn weather stripping ensures your garage is insulated against cold or hot weather and helps maintain energy efficiency in your home.

Next, lubricate all moving parts of your garage door. Seasonal changes can affect the lubrication, leading to squeaky or jammed doors. Use a high-quality garage door lubricant on rollers, hinges, and tracks to ensure everything moves smoothly. Avoid using grease, as it can accumulate dirt and cause further issues. Regular lubrication not only aids in quiet operation but also extends the life of the mechanical parts.

Another important step in preparing for extreme weather is adjusting the garage door's balance. A door that is not balanced puts undue stress on the opener and can lead to failure. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, it is likely balanced correctly. If it falls or rises, it may be time to call a professional from Pikes Peak Overhead Doors to address the issue.

Inspect the garage door opener as well. Test the reverse mechanism to ensure it is working correctly. Place a block of wood on the ground in the door’s path. If the door does not automatically reverse upon contact, you may need to adjust the settings. This is crucial, especially for safety reasons during stormy weather when debris can obstruct the door's path.

Seasonal changes can also affect the garage door springs. Springs bear the brunt of the door’s weight, and extreme weather exacerbates their wear. Be vigilant for signs such as gaps in the springs or excessive noise during operation. Since handling springs can be dangerous, it’s best to leave replacement or adjustment to a professional technician.

Securing your garage door against high winds is another consideration. If you live in an area prone to severe storms, reinforcing your door might be necessary. This can include installing a bracing kit or upgrading to a door built to withstand higher wind speeds.

In conclusion, as a conscientious homeowner and a valued client of Pikes Peak Overhead Doors, keeping your garage door in prime condition year-round protects your investment and enhances safety. By following these steps and reaching out to professional technicians when needed, you can ensure your garage door remains reliable regardless of the weather outside. Make these maintenance steps a part of your seasonal routine, and you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your garage is ready to face whatever Mother Nature throws its way.