How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door? Maintenance Guide for Homeowners

Your garage door is one of the most frequently used—and often overlooked—components of your home. Its smooth operation provides daily convenience, security, and protection. But when’s the last time you thought about its maintenance schedule?

This guide outlines when to service, what to look for, and why it matters, backed by credible sources to help you keep your garage door safe and functional.

How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door?

• At Least Once a Year for Frequent Use: Experts widely recommend having your garage door serviced by a professional at least once a year, especially if it’s used multiple times daily.
• Every Two Years for Light Usage: If your garage is used mainly for storage or infrequently accessed, a professional check-up every two years may suffice.
• More Often for High-Frequency or Extreme Conditions: Homes where the door is used multiple times daily or those exposed to extreme weather may benefit from bi-annual servicing—every six months—to catch potential issues early.
• DIY Checks Every Month: Between professional services, homeowners can perform quick visual inspections monthly, listening for noise, checking alignment, and ensuring smooth operation.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

1. Saves Money on Repairs: Routine maintenance helps catch minor wear before it escalates into serious malfunctions. Early fixes are significantly cheaper and reduce the risk of full system failure.
2. Enhances Safety: Regular checks ensure critical safety components—such as auto-reverse sensors and manual release mechanisms—remain functional, reducing the risk of accidents.
3. Extends Lifespan: A well-serviced garage door can last up to 20 years. Addressing small issues like misaligned parts or failing springs helps prevent premature replacements.
4. Prevents Inconvenience: Nothing’s more frustrating than a stuck garage door when you’re in a hurry. Regular service keeps your system reliable and responsive.

When to Call the Pros

Homeowner FAQs

Q1: How often should I service my garage door if I use it daily?

A: At least once a year; consider every six months if usage is heavy or weather is extreme.

Q2: Is twice a year overkill?

A: Not at all—twice-yearly is ideal for high-use doors or those exposed to harsh conditions.

Q3: Can I do any of this myself?

A: Yes. Monthly DIY checks—looking for noise, misalignment, or sensor issues—are valuable, but major repairs should be left to pros.

Q4: What’s included in a professional service?

A: Professionals typically inspect and lubricate moving parts, tighten hardware, test safety systems, and adjust balance. Call us at (253) 277-2510 to know more.

Q5: What if my garage door barely opens or makes strange noises?

A: Schedule a service immediately—delaying may strain the opener or cause a breakdown. CLICK HERE to schedule.

DIY Maintenance Checklist

Use this between professional visits to keep your garage door running smoothly and safely.

1. Monthly Visual & Sound Check

Once a month, stand inside your garage with the door closed, then open and close it while observing its movement and listening for unusual sounds.

• What to look for: Jerking, uneven movement, or a door that hesitates mid-cycle.
• What to listen for: Grinding, scraping, or loud squeaks—these can indicate worn rollers, misaligned tracks, or loose hardware.
• Why it matters: Early detection of small issues prevents bigger (and more expensive) repairs later.

2. Balance Test

A well-balanced garage door puts less strain on your opener.

• How to test: Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord (usually a red handle). Manually lift the door to about halfway and let go.
• Result: The door should stay in place without rising or falling.
• If it moves: The springs may be out of balance—this is dangerous and should only be adjusted by a professional.

3. Safety Sensor Test

Your auto-reverse system protects you, your family, and your pets from injury.

• How to test: While the door is closing, wave a broomstick or place a cardboard box in the sensor’s path. The door should stop and reverse immediately.
• If it doesn’t: Clean the sensors with a soft cloth and check their alignment. If the issue persists, call for service right away.

4. Basic Lubrication (Twice a Year)

Smooth, lubricated parts reduce wear and help your door operate quietly.

• What to lubricate: Hinges, rollers (especially if metal), torsion springs, and bearing plates.
• What to avoid: Do not lubricate the tracks—they should remain clean and dry so rollers grip properly.
• What to use: A high-quality silicone spray or lithium-based garage door lubricant. Avoid WD-40; it’s a cleaner, not a long-term lubricant.

5. Hardware Tightening

Vibration from daily use can loosen nuts, bolts, and screws.

• Where to check: Hinges, roller brackets, track bolts, and opener mounting brackets.
• How to fix: Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to snug them, but never overtighten, as this can strip threads.

6. Replace Weatherstripping When Needed

Weatherstripping seals gaps at the bottom of your garage door to keep out drafts, pests, and moisture.

• Signs it’s time to replace: Cracks, brittleness, or missing sections.
• DIY tip: Most hardware stores sell pre-cut garage door seals. Installation usually involves sliding the new seal into the channel on the bottom of the door.

Safety Reminder: Always disconnect the opener and keep hands away from high-tension parts like springs and cables. If you encounter damaged or frayed cables, bent tracks, or broken springs, call a professional immediately—these repairs are not DIY-safe.

Conclusion

Regular garage door service isn’t just about functionality—it’s about safety, savings, and protecting your home. Here’s a quick recap:

• Once a year for most homes.
• Every six months for high usage or tough climates.
• DIY checks monthly keep small problems from escalating.
• Professional servicing includes inspection, lubrication, adjustment, and safety checks.

Your garage door works hard—make sure it gets the care it deserves.

Looking for trustworthy, expert maintenance? Absolute Garage Door offers tailored annual and biannual service packages, including a full safety and performance tune-up. Keep your garage door running smoother, safer, and longer.

Contact us today at (253) 277-2510 or CLICK HERE to schedule professional maintenance—your peace of mind is just a service away!