Garage Door Safety Tips for Summer
Garage door safety is paramount during the summer when doors are frequently used and exposed to high temperatures.
Now that summer is here, homeowners need to make sure their garage doors are safe and functional. The rise in temperatures and increased use of garages as hubs of activity—whether for projects, storage, or play areas—makes summer a critical time to focus on garage door safety. Here are essential safety tips provided by a professional garage door installer and repair company to help maintain the garage door in optimal condition during summer.
Inspect and Maintain Garage Door Hardware
The garage door should be correctly balanced to function safely and efficiently. Disengage the automatic opener and lift the door manually—it should lift smoothly with minimal resistance and stay open around three to four feet above the floor. If it doesn’t, the springs might need adjustment, a task that professionals can handle.
The vibration caused by the door’s movement can loosen hardware over the summer. Inspect and tighten all bolts and roller brackets with a socket wrench to ensure everything is securely fastened.
High temperatures can affect the lubrication of various parts of the garage door. For smooth, quiet operation, apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid heavy oils or grease, especially on tracks, as this can attract dirt and debris.
Test Safety Features
Garage doors should have an auto-reverse feature that prevents them from closing if an object is detected under the door. Place a roll of paper towels or something else that can be easily and inexpensively replaced, in the door's path; if the door does not reverse after contacting the object, the opener needs to be serviced.
The photo eye sensors that trigger the auto-reverse mechanism should remain aligned and clean. The sensors should be about six inches off the ground and free from obstructions. Realigning or cleaning the sensors might be necessary if the door doesn’t reverse when the beam is interrupted.
Secure the Garage Door
As people travel more frequently during summer, securing the garage door is crucial to prevent break-ins. Ensure the door opener’s automatic lock feature is engaged, or install a side lock mechanism for added security. Additionally, consider using a Wi-Fi-enabled opener to monitor and control the garage door remotely via a smartphone app.
Replacing worn-out seals or weatherstripping prevents insects and small animalsout of the garage. New seals or weatherstripping also help maintain the garage’s internal temperature and prevent hot air from entering, which can be particularly useful if the garage is used as a workshop or recreational area.
Child Safety
Children often see the garage as a play area, so it’s essential to educate them on garage door safety. Teach them never to place fingers between door sections and to keep clear of moving garage doors. Parents should keep remote controls out of reach of children and never allow them to play with garage door opener remotes or push buttons.
Regular Professional Check-Ups
Have a professional technician inspect the garage door system at least once a year. Summer can be a good time for a thorough check to ensure the system is ready for heavy use during the warmer months and beyond. Professional garage door technicians can identify issues that might not be immediately obvious, such as frayed cables or worn mechanical parts.
Garage door safety is paramount during the summer when doors are frequently used and exposed to high temperatures. These safety tips help prevent accidents and ensure the garage door operates reliably and efficiently. Regular maintenance and being proactive about safety can extend the garage door's life and provide peace of mind, knowing that the garage is a safe area for everyone in the home.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair offers full-service garage installation, repair and maintenance in Maricopa County. Emergency service available. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call (602) 610-0112.
