Fall is the ideal time for homeowners in the Twin Cities—Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding cities—to tackle important garage door tasks before the freezing temperatures arrive.
DIY Garage Door Inspection Checklist
- Visual Panel Check: Visually inspect all garage door panels for signs of sagging, rust, or damage. Open the door halfway and check for alignment issues, noisy operation, or sticking points; write down any concerns for follow-up.
- Sensor and Track Cleaning: Remove dust, leaves, and cobwebs from the overhead tracks and around the photo-eye sensors. Clean sensors with a soft, dry cloth to ensure the door closes reliably even on snowy nights.
- Battery Refresh: Replace batteries in openers, remote controls, and keypads before winter because cold weather shortens battery lifespan.
Cold Weather Garage Door Insulation Tips
- Check Current Insulation: Inspect your garage door for existing insulation. Look for gaps, worn areas, or lack of insulating material. An attached garage without proper insulation can cause significant heat loss from the home, raising heating bills and making the area uncomfortable during cold months.
- Upgrade to Insulated Garage Doors: Consider installing a new insulated garage door. Premium insulated doors are available in steel, wood, and aluminum and help maintain indoor temperature, reduce energy costs, and even provide a sound barrier for homes near busy streets.
- Professional Services: Hiring a professional for insulation checks and upgrades ensures the job is done efficiently. Modern insulated doors feature a higher R-value, offering both better energy efficiency and security while resisting dents and weather damage.
- Seal Edges and Weatherstrip: Inspect and upgrade weatherstripping along the door’s bottom and sides; replace any cracked or worn pieces to prevent drafts and protect from moisture intrusion and ice buildup.
Essential Winter Prep Maintenance
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply white lithium grease or silicone spray to springs, rollers, and hinges before temperatures drop. This guards against winter corrosion and ensures smooth operation on icy mornings.
- Clear Snow and Ice: Regularly remove snow and ice buildup from the door’s perimeter and tracks. This prevents sensor errors and physical damage, keeping your garage safe for vehicles and family.
- Pipe Protection: Since many garages have exposed water pipes, add insulation around pipes to prevent freezing and expensive repairs.
Pro Tips for Minnesota Winters
If the garage door still struggles, seems drafty, or remains noisy after DIY service, reach out to Topline Garage Door Co. for a professional inspection or heater-friendly upgrades like fully insulated garage doors and smart openers—especially important for energy savings in Minnesota neighborhoods.
A little proactive effort in early fall can make a big difference for garage comfort, safety, and savings during Minnesota’s toughest months.