As the cold weather arrives in Toronto, you may notice some commonly occurring problems with your garage door. The door opener and the many moving parts of your garage door can be prevented from working properly due to frigid temperatures and weather-related issues. This can leave you unable to open and close your door which is certainly an inconvenience. While some of these problems may need to be solved by a technician, some have easy solutions. Here are some of the common garage door problems that can occur in the cold weather.
1. The garage door does not roll easily
It is recommended to lubricate all moving parts of your garage door at least a couple of times per year. In the cold, it is possible for the lubricant to freeze which can cause the door to not move smoothly or cause it to get stuck. If this occurs, you can try to remove the frozen lubricant with some grease solvent, then you can reapply lubricant. It is best to use a silicone based one as it can resist cold temperatures.
2. Opener malfunction
Automatic electric garage door openers can sometimes be affected by the cold. Cold temperatures may prevent the motor and other key parts of the opener, keeping it from working properly or even at all. If you disconnect the opener from the door and there is no issue with opening the door manually, then you know it is a problem with the electric opener. If you are having trouble with your keypads, it may be the batteries. Cold weather can cause the batteries to discharge quickly.
3. The garage door is frozen
Snow and ice can accumulate at the bottom and sides of the door, freezing it shut. If this happens, do not try to force the door open as you could damage the door and break off the weather-stripping. You can try to chip the ice away slowly and carefully and/or try melting it with some hot water.
4. Metal components have contracted
The cold can cause metal parts to contract which can create more friction between moving parts. Metal parts may also seize in the cold. It is important to make sure all parts are well lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant.
5. Broken springs
Springs can break any time of the year, in any weather. However, springs are more likely to break when the temperature is cold outside. This is because the metal can become brittle especially it is an older spring with some wear and tear.
If you are having difficulty with your door due to the cold temperatures and need assistance, ONC Doors is here to help. Our technicians are more than familiar with these common problems and will have your garage door up and running in no time.
