Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on your garage door system if it’s not properly maintained. To avoid breakdowns, drafts, and costly repairs, here’s a winter prep checklist every homeowner should follow:
1. Inspect and Replace Bottom Rubber and Weatherstripping
Cold air and snow can seep in through worn seals.
- Check the rubber gasket at the bottom of the garage door.
- Replace if it’s cracked or brittle.
- Inspect side and top seals (weather stripping) for gaps.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Winter temperatures cause metal components to contract and stiffen.
- Use a garage door–safe lubricant (not grease) on rollers, hinges, and springs. Lithium or silicone-based lubricants are available at your hardware store.
- Wipe off excess to prevent buildup.
3. Test the Door Balance
An unbalanced door works harder and is more likely to fail in cold weather.
- Disconnect the opener and lift the door manually halfway.
- If it doesn’t stay in place, call for a professional adjustment.
4. Protect Your Opener
Electronics can be sensitive to freezing temps.
- Check remote transmitter batteries and replace if weak.
- Test backup power features on your opener if you have them.
5. Clear Snow and Ice Regularly
Ice buildup along the bottom seal can cause the door to stick and strain the opener.
- Shovel and salt the garage threshold after snowfalls.
- Never force the door open if it’s frozen shut.
6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Before the harshest cold sets in, a professional garage door inspection can catch problems early. Superior Overhead Door technicians can:
- Tighten loose hardware
- Check spring tension and door balance
- Test safety features
- Ensure smooth operation in cold conditions
Why This Matters in Northern Illinois
With long stretches of subzero temperatures, snowstorms, and ice, garage doors in McHenry, Crystal Lake, Cary, Woodstock, Huntley, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, and surrounding suburbs face more stress than in milder climates. Preparing now saves time, money, and stress later.
Want peace of mind this winter? Call Superior Overhead Door at 815-788-1100 for a seasonal tune-up—trusted by Northern Illinois homeowners for timely, reliable service year-round.