If the garage door is not properly maintained, it can start to squeak and close with noise. In addition, this squeak is a sign that the garage door is not greased enough, and if nothing is done, then the problems can only get worse. Use the tips below to properly lubricate your garage doors, get rid of squeaks and extend their life.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Clean up the tracks
Step 1. Close the garage door
Close the door using the control panel or manually. This will give you access to the paths and other moving elements of the door.
Step 2. Disconnect the door from the power supply
Make sure the power is disconnected before lubricating the door. After closing the door, disconnect it from the power source.
If the plug to the garage door control is in a hard-to-reach place or the wires are connected directly without an adapter, then turn off the power to the electrical panel
Step 3. Clean the tracks with a damp cloth
The tracks are the guides along which the garage doors open and close on rollers. They do not need to be lubricated; it is sufficient to clean them thoroughly for the doors to function properly. Wipe down the inside of both lanes and remove any accumulated debris and dirt.
- Make sure to completely clear the tracks from dirt - if debris remains in them, the rollers can get stuck in it.
- Use a car brake cleaner to remove stubborn dirt.
Step 4. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the tracks from dirt and dust
To get rid of dirt and debris in hard-to-reach places, use a vacuum cleaner with an extended hose. This is a great way to reach places that you yourself cannot reach.
Part 2 of 2: Lubricate Moving Parts
Step 1. Buy a lithium-based grease or regular garage door grease
Popular conventional degreasing agents such as WD-40 are not quite suitable for garage doors. Instead, buy lithium grease from a hardware store or online. Special lubricants are also sold that are designed for garage doors. Do not use oil.
- Garage door grease is usually supplied in an aerosol or spray can.
- The oil will not only drip, but it will also collect dirt and dust unlike conventional grease or garage door grease. Check the instructions on the label before use to ensure the lubricant is suitable for the doors.
Step 2. Open the door and spray grease on each of the hinges
Lift the garage door slowly by hand, spraying the hinges where the paths turn. This will allow the lubricant to penetrate the moving parts and the garage doors will open and close more smoothly. Use one or two spray strokes on each loop. The hinges must be completely covered with lubricant.
Step 3. Lubricate the rollers
Rollers are circular moveable elements on the garage door that are attached to each of the hinges. Inside these rollers are small ball bearings that need to be lubricated in order for the door to open and close smoothly. Use a fine nozzle spray to apply lubricant to the inside of the rollers. Wipe off excess grease to prevent unbalancing the door.
- All open ball bearings must be thoroughly lubricated.
- Do not spray grease on nylon rollers.
Step 4. Spray the outer springs and support plates
The springs are located at the top of the garage door and must be fully lubricated as well. Support plates are circular moving parts on both sides of the springs. Spray the springs on the outside and near the center of the base plates, then open and close the garage door to distribute the grease evenly.
- You will most likely need a stepladder to get to the springs and base plates.
- Springs need to be lubricated if they make noise.
- If you find that the springs are damaged or bent, replace them before proceeding.
Step 5. Spray the lock and bracket with spray
Lubricating the lock will make it easier to lock your garage doors and will also help prevent future rust. Point the can at the keyhole and spray once to lubricate it. After lubricating the lock, spray a can on the large bracket at the top of the door, finishing lubricating the garage doors.
Step 6. Lubricate the top of the rail
The track is located on the garage ceiling. The chain runs along the top guide and needs to be lubricated. Spray the top of the rail with spray, then spread the grease evenly with a rag.
- The chains do not need to be lubricated regularly because they are already coated with natural protective agents.
- It does not make sense to lubricate the bottom of the rail.
- Refer to your user manual for how to lubricate and maintain your garage door opener.