Buffalo winters demand more from your garage door than almost any other season. Cold air, blowing snow, and constant freeze-thaw cycles can quietly wear down critical components. The good news? A little winter-specific maintenance can go a long way toward preventing breakdowns.
Here’s how homeowners can keep their garage doors working smoothly all winter long.
Cold Weather Changes How Your Garage Door Behaves
Metal contracts in cold temperatures. Lubricants thicken. Moisture freezes. Together, these factors make your garage door system less forgiving in winter than in warmer months.
That’s why doors that worked fine in October sometimes struggle in January—especially after repeated snowstorms.
Keep Moving Parts Properly Lubricated
One of the simplest yet most overlooked winter maintenance steps is lubrication. Hinges, rollers, and springs all need cold-weather-appropriate lubricant to function correctly.
Avoid heavy grease, which can stiffen in freezing conditions. A silicone-based or garage-door-specific lubricant works best for Buffalo winters.
Inspect and Replace the Bottom Seal
The bottom seal does more than keep drafts out—it helps prevent ice from forming along the door’s base. When seals crack or harden in the cold, snowmelt can refreeze beneath the door and trap it shut.
If you notice light coming in under the door or water pooling along the threshold, it may be time for a replacement.
Clear Snow and Ice From the Tracks
Snow buildup inside the tracks can cause rollers to bind or jump out of alignment. After a storm, take a few minutes to clear packed snow and ice from both sides of the door.
Never chip ice aggressively with tools—this can bend tracks or damage rollers.
Test Safety Sensors Regularly
Winter grime, slush, and road salt can coat safety sensors near the floor. If the sensors are dirty or misaligned, your door may refuse to close.
Wipe them down periodically and make sure both sensors are facing each other properly.
Don’t Ignore Slower Operation
A door that opens more slowly in winter isn’t always “normal.” Sluggish movement can indicate worn springs, thickened lubrication, or an opener under strain.
Addressing these issues early can prevent emergency breakdowns during the coldest part of the season.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance Before Problems Start
The best time to service your garage door isn’t when it fails—it’s before winter stress takes its toll. Professional maintenance helps catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.
At 716 Garage Door Repair, we offer winter-ready inspections designed for Buffalo’s climate. Our team understands how local weather affects garage door systems, and we tailor maintenance accordingly.
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