Commercial garage doors are an essential part of many businesses. Whether you run a warehouse, manufacturing facility, or automotive shop, a properly functioning garage door ensures your operations run smoothly. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your commercial garage doors in top shape and preventing unexpected breakdowns that could lead to costly downtime. In this blog post, we’ll share practical maintenance tips to help extend the life of your commercial garage doors.
1. Regular Lubrication of Moving Parts
One of the most important aspects of maintaining your commercial garage door is to regularly lubricate all moving parts. Hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks are subject to a lot of friction during operation, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Proper lubrication helps these components move smoothly, reducing stress on the opener and motor.
Be sure to use a silicone-based or lithium grease specifically designed for garage doors. Apply it to the rollers, tracks, hinges, and springs at least once or twice a year to keep everything working efficiently and quietly.
2. Inspect and Tighten Hardware
Due to the constant opening and closing of commercial garage doors, the nuts, bolts, and screws that hold the system together can become loose over time. If left unchecked, loose hardware can lead to misalignment, noisy operation, or even damage to the door.
Take time to inspect all the bolts and screws, particularly on the tracks and brackets. Tighten any that appear loose. If you notice any rust or corrosion, consider replacing the affected parts to maintain the door’s structural integrity.
3. Check the Balance and Alignment
A balanced garage door ensures that the door opens and closes smoothly and evenly. If the balance is off, it could place excess stress on the opener, leading to early wear and tear. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it moves up or down, you may need to adjust the tension in the springs.
Additionally, check the alignment of the tracks and rollers. Misaligned tracks can cause the door to get stuck or operate unevenly. If the tracks are bent or damaged, contact a professional to realign them.
4. Test the Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority, especially in commercial settings where the garage door is used frequently. Most modern commercial garage doors come with safety features like auto-reverse mechanisms and motion sensors. These features prevent accidents by stopping the door from closing if something is in its path.
To test the auto-reverse feature, place an object like a block of wood in the door’s path and close the door. It should immediately reverse upon making contact with the object. Ensure the sensors are properly aligned and clean to function correctly. If the door doesn’t reverse, call a professional to inspect and repair the system.
5. Clean the Tracks and Exterior
Keeping the tracks clean is essential for smooth door operation. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in the tracks, leading to poor performance or causing the door to derail. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum to remove any buildup from the tracks regularly.
Don’t forget to clean the door’s exterior as well. Over time, dirt and grime can cause rust, especially on steel doors. Clean the door with a mild detergent and water every few months, and inspect it for any signs of rust or corrosion.
Conclusion for Commercial Garage Doors
Routine maintenance is the key to extending the life of your commercial garage doors and avoiding costly repairs or replacements. By regularly lubricating moving parts, tightening hardware, checking balance and alignment, testing safety features, and cleaning the door, you’ll keep your doors functioning smoothly for years to come. At Open Sesame Garage Doors Summerlin, we offer professional maintenance services to help you ensure your commercial garage doors are always in top condition.
FAQs for Commercial Garage Doors
How often should I lubricate my commercial garage door? It’s recommended to lubricate moving parts like the rollers, springs, and hinges once or twice a year.
Why is it important to check the balance of my garage door? An unbalanced garage door can cause extra strain on the opener, leading to early wear and tear and potential damage.
How do I test the safety features of my commercial garage door? Test the auto-reverse feature by placing an object in the door’s path. The door should reverse upon contact with the object.
What should I use to clean the tracks on my commercial garage door? Use a damp cloth or vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the tracks regularly to ensure smooth operation.
What can I do to prevent rust on my garage door? Clean the exterior of your door regularly with mild detergent and inspect it for any signs of rust or corrosion.