Weather can have a significant impact on the functionality and longevity of your garage door. Extreme temperatures, moisture, and seasonal changes can cause issues that disrupt its performance. Here’s how different weather conditions affect your garage door and what you can do to keep it running smoothly.
1. Freezing Temperatures
Cold weather can cause your garage door to stiffen and malfunction.
- Contracting Metal Parts: Springs and tracks may contract, making the door harder to operate.
- Frozen Components: Moisture can freeze around seals or tracks, preventing smooth movement.
- Solution: Lubricate moving parts with a silicone-based spray and keep the area around the door clear of ice and snow.
2. Heat and Humidity
High temperatures and humidity can lead to material expansion and warping.
- Expanding Metal: Heat can cause metal components to expand, affecting alignment.
- Warped Wood Doors: Wooden garage doors are particularly susceptible to warping in humid conditions.
- Solution: Use insulated doors to stabilize interior temperatures and treat wooden doors with weather-resistant sealants.
3. Heavy Rain and Flooding
Moisture can damage your garage door and its components.
- Rust Formation: Metal parts, including springs and tracks, can corrode over time if exposed to moisture.
- Water Damage: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken wooden doors and compromise weatherstripping.
- Solution: Check and replace weatherstripping as needed and ensure proper drainage around the garage.
4. Strong Winds and Storms
Severe weather can strain your garage door and its hardware.
- Forceful Impact: High winds can stress the door panels and hinges, causing damage.
- Loose Debris: Flying debris can dent or break parts of the door.
- Solution: Install a wind-resistant garage door and ensure tracks and hinges are secured.
5. Seasonal Changes
Fluctuating temperatures between seasons can impact your door’s operation.
- Expanding and Contracting Materials: Repeated changes in temperature can weaken seals and other components.
- Increased Wear: Seasonal adjustments in performance can put extra strain on springs and openers.
- Solution: Schedule seasonal maintenance to address wear and ensure optimal operation year-round.
6. Snow and Ice Accumulation
Winter weather can obstruct your garage door’s movement.
- Blocked Tracks: Snow and ice can build up near the door, causing operational issues.
- Frozen Weatherstripping: Ice may stick to the bottom seal, making it difficult to open the door.
- Solution: Clear snow and ice regularly and apply a silicone spray to the weatherstripping.
7. UV Damage
Prolonged sun exposure can fade and weaken your garage door’s materials.
- Faded Colors: UV rays can cause paint and finishes to deteriorate over time.
- Brittle Components: Prolonged exposure to heat can make some materials more prone to cracking.
- Solution: Use UV-resistant paint or finishes to protect your door and extend its lifespan.
8. Dust and Debris
Dry, windy conditions can clog tracks and sensors with dirt.
- Obstructed Tracks: Dust buildup can hinder the smooth movement of the door.
- Sensor Malfunction: Debris on photo-eye sensors can prevent proper operation.
- Solution: Clean tracks and sensors regularly to prevent dirt-related issues.
Weather conditions can affect your garage door in many ways, from freezing and warping to fading and corrosion. By understanding how different climates impact your door and taking preventive measures, you can ensure it operates efficiently and lasts longer.
Need help preparing your garage door for harsh weather? Contact us today for professional maintenance and repair services.
