Summer is here, and while the sun is shining and business may be booming, it’s important not to overlook the maintenance of your commercial or industrial garage doors. High temperatures, humidity, and frequent usage during the warmer months can take a toll on your doors, potentially leading to operational issues or expensive repairs.
To keep your garage doors in top shape and ensure smooth operations, here are some essential summer maintenance tips tailored for commercial and industrial settings.
Inspect for Wear and Tear
The first step in summer maintenance is to inspect your garage doors thoroughly.
- Check for Damage – Look for visible signs of wear, such as dents, rust, or cracks in the door panels as these can compromise the door’s structural integrity.
- Examine Hardware – Inspect hinges, rollers, and tracks for any signs of damage or looseness. Worn or broken hardware can hinder smooth door operation.
- Look at the Weatherstripping – Summer heat can dry out and crack weatherstripping, reducing its effectiveness in keeping out dirt, pests, and moisture.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Hot weather can cause metal components to expand, increasing friction and wear. Regular lubrication is crucial for keeping your garage door parts moving smoothly.
- Apply a high-quality, non-greasy lubricant to the tracks, hinges, rollers, and springs. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess grease can attract dirt and debris.
- Aim to lubricate your garage doors at least once a month during the summer for optimal performance.
Test Door Balance and Alignment
Garage doors that are out of balance or alignment can put unnecessary strain on the opener and other components.
- Balance Check – Disconnect the door from the opener and manually lift it halfway. A balanced door should stay in place. If it doesn’t, the springs may need adjustment.
- Alignment Check – Ensure the tracks are straight and securely fastened to the walls. Misaligned tracks can cause the door to jam or operate unevenly.
Inspect and Maintain the Door Opener
Your garage door opener is the powerhouse of your door system. Summer heat can strain its motor, so give it the attention it deserves.
- Test the Sensors – Ensure the safety sensors are clean and aligned properly to avoid operational or safety issues.
- Check the Settings – If your opener has a thermal overload feature, verify that it’s functioning correctly to prevent overheating during frequent use.
- Listen for Odd Noises – Grinding or squealing noises from the opener may indicate worn gears or a lack of lubrication.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance services ensure that your garage doors are operating at peak performance. Trained technicians can identify potential issues before they escalate into significant problems, such as misalignments or worn-out components. Regular inspections can prevent unexpected breakdowns, which could halt business activities and lead to revenue loss.
Additionally, having a professional handle maintenance means that the job will be done safely. Garage doors are heavy and complex systems and improper handling can result in injury or damage. By investing in expert care, you protect not only your equipment but also your employees.
Choosing professional maintenance for commercial garage doors is an investment in reliability and safety. It enhances operational efficiency while minimising downtime, making it an intelligent choice for any business owner looking to maintain their edge in today’s competitive market. Don’t wait for a problem to arise – schedule regular maintenance today to keep your operations running smoothly.
Need professional maintenance or repairs for commercial garage doors? Melbourne businesses rely on Cowan Doors. Contact us today and let our technicians help keep your doors in peak condition all summer long.