Lubrication is one of the simplest but most effective maintenance tasks that will help you keep your garage door working correctly. A garage door that isn’t lubricated every so often can become noisy and stiff and eventually stop working properly.
Using the appropriate lubricant on important parts will lead to friction reduction, extended door lifespan, and improved performance. In this guide, we will show you how to properly lubricate garage doors, step by step, including every key component, from rollers to tracks to springs.
For those of you who are experiencing stubborn problems in spite of routine care and require garage door repair in Los Angeles, Rock Door Garage Repair is happy to help.
Why It’s Important to Lubricate a Garage Door
Most homeowners pay no attention to garage door maintenance until they hear loud noises, experience jerkiness in movement, or the opener struggle to pull it up. But there are a few important reasons why you need to lubricate regularly:
- Reduces friction and wear: Reduce stress on moving parts, leading to longer life.
- Minimizes noise: Well-lubricated components no longer produce squeaky or grinding sounds.
- Prevents rust and corrosion: Lubricants provide a barrier to moisture and dust.
- Improves operational efficiency: When the garage door is properly lubricated, it moves more smoothly and will put less strain on the opener and other parts.
- Saves money on repairs: Preventative maintenance prevents you from costly breakdowns.
If your garage door has become noisy or jerky, it’s time to lubricate it. Let’s begin with what tools and materials are needed.
What You Need Before You Start
The right lubricant and tools to use will make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Garage door lubricant – Use silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant. Do not use standard WD-40 since it’s a degreaser, not an actual lubricant.
- Clean cloth or rag – Used to wipe away dirt and excess grease.
- Step ladder – For safe access to high areas
- Protective gloves and safety glasses – These are used to protect your hands and eyes from lubricant splatter.
Make sure the garage door is clean before applying lubricant. You can use a dry cloth to wipe away dust, dirt, and old grease buildup. Once the door is cleaned, it’s time to lubricate.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Lubricate a Garage Door
Step 1: Lubricate Garage Door Rollers
Garage Door rollers are responsible for smooth movement on the tracks. However, when they stiffen, they create jerked motions and very loud sounds.
- Find the rollers on either side of the garage door.
- Add some lubricant to the rollers’ bearings. If you use nylon rollers, be careful not to apply lubricant to the nylon.
- Open and close the door a few times to spread the lubricant around.
Your rollers may need replacement if they are too worn or damaged. Rock Door Garage Repair can examine and replace worn-out rollers to get your garage door working efficiently again.
Step 2: Lubricate Garage Door Springs
The torsion and extension springs are responsible for lifting and lowering your garage door. Having them lubricated enables the smooth and balanced operation.
- Find the large springs over the garage door (torsion) or at the sides (extension).
- Apply a little lubricant along the length of each spring.
- Spread a thin layer using a clean rag.
Use caution when working around springs, for they are under high tension. Contact Rock Door Garage Repair if your springs appear to be badly worn or rusty for an inspection.
Step 3: Lubricate Garage Door Tracks
One of the common assumptions is that the tracks require lubrication. However, this is not entirely accurate. Rather than put lubricant on them, it would be best to clean them properly.
- Wipe away dirt, debris, and any hardened grease with a damp cloth.
- For deep cleaning, you can use a mild household cleaner if necessary.
- Only lubricate moving parts in the tracks like the rollers.
Good-maintained tracks should allow rollers to move smoothly without getting stuck.
Step 4: Lubricate the Garage Door Chain or Belt Drive
Garage door openers rely on a chain drive or a foam-drive system. Proper lubrication allows them to operate quietly and efficiently.
- For chain-drive openers: Spread a light coat of lubricant over the entire length of the chain.
- For belt-drive openers: Belt drives generally don’t require lubrication, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Operate the garage door a few times to spread the lubricant evenly.
If your garage door opener is making strange noises or failing to work properly, Rock Door Garage Repair can identify and repair the problem.
Step 5: Lubricate Garage Door Trolley and Hinges
The garage door trolley connects the opener to the door, while the hinges allow the door to bend at the panels.
- Apply lubricant to the trolley where it connects to the opener arm.
- Spray a small amount on the hinges, especially where they pivot.
- Open and close the door a few times to distribute the lubricant.
Properly lubricated hinges and trolleys ensure smooth movement and prevent stress on the opener.
Step 6: Lubricate Roller Garage Door Components
If you have a roller garage door, you should focus on lubricating its drum and side tracks.
- Apply a thin layer of lubricant along the edges where the roller moves.
- Do not over-lubricate to prevent buildup.
Maintaining roller doors properly will prevent unnecessary resistance and wear.
Best Practices for Lubricating a Garage Door
- Lubricate your garage door every 6 months or as needed if you notice stiffness or noise.
- Use the right lubricant. Avoid grease or petroleum-based products that can attract dirt.
- Do not over-lubricate. Excess lubricant can collect debris and create buildup over time.
- Inspect components regularly. If you notice rust, cracks, or excessive wear, get professional help.
If you’re unsure about proper maintenance or suspect bigger issues, Rock Door Garage Repair provides expert servicing to keep your garage door in peak condition.
Keep Your Garage Door Running Smoothly With Rock Garage Door Repair Today!
Regularly lubricating your garage door is an easy but essential maintenance task that improves performance, reduces noise, and extends the lifespan of your door. By following these steps and using the right products, you can keep your garage door running smoothly all year round.
If your garage door continues to make noise or operates inefficiently despite lubrication, it might be time for a professional inspection. Rock Door Garage Repair offers expert maintenance, repair, and installation services to ensure your garage door remains in top shape.
Contact us today for a thorough check-up and reliable garage door repair in Los Angeles tailored to your needs.
There are different styles of garage doors, but bifold garage doors are one of the practical and stylish options for homeowners who want efficiency and design flexibility. Bifold garage doors provide unique benefits whether you’re renovating your garage or designing a new structure.
But, as with any product, they also have their disadvantages. In this article, we dive into what bifold garage doors are, how they work, the pros and cons, and whether it is right for you!
Should you decide to opt for a bifold garage door, Rock Garage specializes in bifold garage door installation, repair, and maintenance. You can count on us when it comes to everything about bifold garage doors.
