When winter hits northwestern Wisconsin, it doesn’t hold back. Between freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, your home takes a beating and your garage door is no exception. If you’re not preparing for the cold, you could be setting yourself up for some chilly problems. That’s why winter garage door maintenance is so important.
Your garage door is one of the largest moving parts in your home, and when the temperature drops, it can really start to show signs of stress. From noisy operation to completely freezing shut, winter brings out the worst in an unmaintained door. But the good news is that with a little effort, you can get ahead of winter problems and keep everything running smoothly all season long.
Winter Garage Door Maintenance Tips
Here are 10 simple but effective ways to prepare your garage door for harsh winter weather.
1. Inspect the Weather Stripping
Start by checking the weather stripping around the top and sides of your garage door, along with the seal on the bottom. If it’s cracked, brittle, or missing altogether, cold air and moisture can sneak in. Replacing worn-out weather stripping and bottom seal is one of the easiest winter garage door maintenance tasks that can make a huge difference in keeping your garage warm and dry.
2. Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts
Cold air can make metal parts contract and stiffen, leading to grinding, squeaking, or even breakdowns. Lubricate the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs with a silicone-based lubricant designed for cold weather. This keeps your door operating smoothly even when the temperatures drop below freezing.
3. Test the Balance of the Door
A well-balanced garage door will open and close easily without too much effort from the opener. To test it, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the balance is good. If it slams shut or shoots up, it’s time to call a professional. This step in winter garage door maintenance ensures your door won’t strain or damage the motor during cold months.
4. Insulate Your Garage Door
If your garage door is older and lacks insulation, now is the time to consider upgrading. Insulated doors help regulate the temperature inside your garage, which protects your car, stored items, and even the interior of your home. Our team can install high-quality insulated doors that are perfect for Wisconsin winters.
5. Check the Tracks for Debris or Damage
Dirt, leaves, and even ice can get stuck in your garage door tracks. This prevents smooth movement and can cause your opener to overwork. Part of effective winter garage door maintenance is keeping these tracks clean and free of any obstructions. Use a brush and vacuum to clear them out and check for any bends or rust that may need repairs.
6. Examine the Door Panels
Winter weather can cause panels to warp or crack, especially if water gets inside and freezes. Look for signs of damage or weakness, especially at the bottom of the door. If you spot anything unusual, don’t ignore it. Small issues now can lead to big problems later especially in the middle of a snowstorm.
7. Test the Auto-Reverse Feature
Safety is just as important as performance. Your garage door should reverse automatically if it hits something or if the sensors detect movement. To test it, place a small object like a piece of wood under the door and try closing it. If it doesn’t reverse, your sensors may need to be cleaned, adjusted, or replaced. This is a crucial step in winter garage door maintenance.
8. Keep the Area Around the Door Clear
Snow and ice build-up around the base of your garage door can cause it to freeze shut. Shovel snow away from the door regularly and use ice melt sparingly to avoid damaging the concrete or weather stripping. Keeping the area clear not only helps the door function but also prevents slipping hazards. Snow build up under your door can also cause your opener to reset its limits. This could mean your door is no longer completely closing.
9. Replace Old Batteries in Your Opener
There’s nothing worse than trying to open your garage door on a freezing morning and realizing your remote or keypad batteries are dead. As part of your winter garage door maintenance, check and replace any batteries in your remote controls, wall units, and backup systems.
10. Schedule a Professional Inspection
While there’s a lot you can do on your own, the most thorough way to prepare is by scheduling a professional inspection. Our team at St. Croix Garage Doors can catch problems before they become emergencies. We’ll inspect the springs, sections, all hardware, and openers to ensure everything is winter-ready.
Our Team Can Help
If you’re not sure how to complete all of these steps, don’t worry. That’s where we come in. Our team has years of experience helping homeowners across northwestern Wisconsin handle the toughest winters with confidence.
We specialize in winter garage door maintenance and know exactly what to look for before the cold takes over. Whether you need weather stripping replaced, a new insulated door, or just a simple tune-up, we’ve got you covered.
By trusting professionals like us, you’re not just saving time. You’re protecting one of your home’s most important entry points. Don’t wait until the first big storm to find out your garage door can’t handle the cold. Let us help you stay ahead of winter with expert service and friendly support.
Regular winter garage door maintenance isn’t just about convenience. It’s about safety, energy savings, and peace of mind. You rely on your garage door every single day and it deserves the same care you give the rest of your home.
Let’s face it. Wisconsin winters aren’t easy. But with the right maintenance and the right team behind you, your garage door can handle whatever the season throws your way. We’re here to help you keep your garage secure, warm, and fully functional from the first snowflake to the last melt.
Contact Us Today
Don’t let winter catch you off guard. Make sure your garage door is ready with expert maintenance and care from the pros who know Wisconsin weather best. If you need help getting your garage door in top shape, contact our team today. At St. Croix Garage Doors, we’re proud to serve our neighbors across northwestern Wisconsin with reliable service and friendly support. Call us in Woodville at (715) 781-8989 or in Chippewa falls at (715) 723-4605 and let’s get your garage winter-ready.
