Warning Signs Your Garage Door Spring Is Wearing Out

Most homeowners don’t think about garage door maintenance… until the door won’t open. But just like your car, your garage door needs routine care to stay safe, smooth, and reliable.

How Summer Heat Affects Your Garage Door

California summers can be intense, especially in inland regions like the Central Valley and Southern California deserts, where temperatures often reach triple digits.

The Impact of Heat

• Metal parts expand: High heat can cause springs, tracks, and metal components to expand slightly, leading to misalignment or difficulty opening and closing.
• Fading and warping: Wooden garage doors are especially vulnerable to warping and cracking under prolonged sun exposure. Painted metal doors may also fade.
• Overheating openers: Your garage door opener’s motor can overheat when forced to work harder in hot conditions.

Care Tips for Summer

• Lubricate metal parts to reduce friction and prevent sticking.
• Consider installing insulation to regulate garage temperature.
• Shade your garage door with an awning or plantings to minimize direct sunlight.
• If you live in extremely hot areas, choose a light-colored door to reflect heat.

How Winter Cold Affects Your Garage Door

California winters are mild in coastal areas, but in northern and mountain regions, temperatures can dip below freezing and snow is common.

The Impact of Cold

• Brittle springs and seals: Cold weather can make springs and rubber seals more brittle, increasing the risk of cracks or breakage.
• Thickened lubricant: Lubricants may stiffen, causing the door to move sluggishly.
• Frozen components: Moisture can freeze in tracks or around seals, making the door difficult to open.

Care Tips for Winter

• Replace worn weatherstripping to block out cold air.
• Use a silicone-based lubricant that resists thickening in low temperatures.
• Keep the area around your garage door clear of snow and ice.
• If you live in snowy areas like Lake Tahoe or Big Bear, check your door regularly for ice buildup.

How Rain and Moisture Affect Your Garage Door

California’s rainy season usually runs from late fall through early spring, especially in the Bay Area and Northern California.

The Impact of Moisture

• Rust and corrosion: Steel garage doors and hardware can rust if exposed to constant moisture.
• Swelling wood: Wooden doors may swell and warp when absorbing rainwater.
• Damaged weatherstripping: Constant wetness can wear out seals, leading to water leaks inside your garage.

Care Tips for Rainy Season

• Apply a weather-resistant sealant to wooden garage doors.
• Inspect and replace worn weatherstripping to keep water out.
• Regularly clean and dry the tracks to prevent rust.
• Consider upgrading to rust-resistant hardware if you live near the coast.

How Coastal Air Affects Your Garage Door

Many Californians live near the coast, where salty sea air creates unique challenges.

The Impact of Coastal Climate

• Corrosion from salt: Salt accelerates rust on steel garage doors, hinges, and springs.
• Humidity damage: Moisture can warp wooden doors and encourage mold growth.

Care Tips for Coastal Areas

• Rinse your garage door with fresh water periodically to wash away salt deposits.
• Use stainless steel or galvanized hardware that resists corrosion.
• Apply protective coatings or paint to seal your door against salty air.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for California Homeowners

No matter where you live in California-sunny Los Angeles, foggy San Francisco, or snowy Mammoth Lakes—your garage door needs regular attention. Here’s a quick seasonal checklist:

Spring

• Inspect cables, rollers, and springs for wear.
• Clean the tracks and lubricate all moving parts.
• Check the balance of the door by disconnecting the opener and lifting manually.

Summer

• Touch up paint or sealant to protect against sun and heat.
• Test the opener safety features (auto-reverse and sensors).
• Add insulation if your garage gets extremely hot.

Fall

• Replace cracked or brittle weatherstripping before rainy season.
• Clear debris from around the door and tracks.
• Schedule a professional tune-up if needed.

Winter

• Lubricate with a silicone-based spray to keep parts moving.
• Inspect for ice or moisture buildup around seals.
• Keep the garage well-ventilated to reduce condensation.

Final Thoughts

California’s diverse weather patterns-from scorching desert heat to coastal salt air and mountain snow-can all take a toll on your garage door. By understanding how different conditions affect your system, you can take proactive steps to protect it.

Regular seasonal maintenance not only extends the life of your garage door but also keeps your home secure, energy-efficient, and looking great.

Your garage door is more than just an entryway—it’s a shield against the elements. Treat it with care, and it will serve you well through every season California has to offer.