How To Oil Garage Door

How to Oil a Garage Door

If you're starting to notice some squeaky or stiff spots when operating your garage door, it's likely a sign that the door is in need of some lubrication. Oiling the garage door is a crucial maintenance task that should be performed on a regular basis to ensure the door functions smoothly and safely.

Oiling a garage door is a quick and easy task that can be completed using a few basic tools and materials. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to oil a garage door:

Materials You'll Need:

Garage door lubricant (available at most hardware stores)
Clean cloths
Screwdriver (optional)

Safety First

Before you begin, turn off the automatic garage door opener to ensure the door doesn't move while you're working on it. Engage the manual release lever to disconnect the door from the opener, allowing you to operate it manually.

Identify Moving Parts

With the door fully raised, take a close look at the moving parts of the door. Typically, there are multiple moving parts that need to be lubricated, including:

Hinges
Rollers
Springs (if applicable)

Apply Garage Door Lubricant

Using a clean cloth, apply a small amount of garage door lubricant to each moving part. Be sure to focus on the contact points where the parts move, such as the pins on the hinges or the shafts on the rollers.

Lubricate Hinges

Every garage door has several hinges that allow it to move up and down smoothly. Start at the top hinge and apply lubricant to the pin, then work your way down, lubricating each hinge. If the hinges have screws, you can remove them and apply lubricant to the threads before replacing them.

Rollers

The rollers are responsible for carrying the door up and down the tracks, and they require regular lubrication to eliminate squeaky noises and prevent premature wear. Lubricate the shafts of each roller, as well as the bearings if accessible.

Springs

If your garage door uses extension or torsion springs, they should also be lubricated to maintain their flexibility and prevent premature failure. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the coils of the springs, avoiding over-lubrication.

Test the Garage Door

Once you've lubricated all the moving parts, reconnect the door to the opener and test it by operating the door through a full cycle. Listen for any unusual noises or stiffness, and if you notice any issues, re-check the lubrication and make any necessary adjustments.

Regular Maintenance

To keep your garage door operating smoothly and prevent premature wear, it's recommended to lubricate the door at least once a year, or more frequently if you live in a humid or dusty environment. Regular lubrication is an essential part of garage door maintenance and will extend the life of the door and its components.