Guide to Garage Door Lubrication

A Guide to Garage Door Lubrication

Garage doors are easy to take for granted until they start squeaking, grinding or getting stuck. The good news is that a little upkeep can go a long way. One of the best ways to keep things working the way they should is regular lubrication. It’s quick, it’s simple and it can help prevent bigger problems down the line.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to lubricate a garage door, which parts need it, how often to do it and when it might be time to bring in a pro. And if you ever want to talk it through in person, our showroom is always open.

Why Garage Door Lubrication Maintenance Matters

Garage doors are built to last, but they have many moving parts. Over time, things like hinges, rollers and springs start to wear down. Lubrication helps reduce that friction, so your door operates more quietly and doesn’t strain your opener. It also helps prevent rust and keeps everything running efficiently.

Regular lubrication can:

• Cut down on noise, like loud squeaks and thumps.
• Keep your opener from working harder than it needs to.
• Help parts last longer.
• Give you an early opportunity to catch wear or damage.

How to Lubricate Garage Door Springs and Other Parts

It’s best to leave garage door lubrication to professionals who have the products, tools and experience to do it right. The steps include:

1. Picking the right lubricant: A silicone-based or lithium-based spray, like a white lithium grease, is best. WD-40 is more of a moisture inhibitor and a degreaser, so it goes against the point of lubrication. 
2. Starting with a clean door: It’s important to wipe down rollers, hinges and tracks with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. 
3. Applying the lubricant: The next step is spraying key components, like the rail, hinge pivot points, springs, bearing plates, rollers, pins, pulley disc and mid-hinges — but not the track, since lubrication there could cause slippage. 
4. Opening and closing the door: Opening and closing the door a few times spreads the lubricant around evenly.
5. Wiping up the excess: The final step is to wipe off the excess from most parts with a paper towel or rag. It’s best not to wipe the rail and the springs, where the lubricant needs time to penetrate effectively. 

How Often to Lubricate Garage Door Parts

We get this question a lot. For most people, twice a year is perfect — once in the spring and once before winter. If your garage door gets a lot of use or if you live in a damp or salty climate, you might want to do it every two to three months instead.

When to Call in a Professional

If you’ve kept up with lubrication but your garage door still isn’t moving as it should — or it’s making unusual noises — it’s time to get it looked at by a professional. Sometimes the problem isn’t friction. It could be worn-out springs, a misaligned track or an issue with the opener.

Olympic Garage Door offers full-service repair and maintenance for residential and commercial garage doors. We never sub out our work. Everything’s done by our own trained, licensed and insured technicians who know our products inside and out. 

What Sets Olympic Garage Door Apart?

We do things a little differently at Olympic Garage Door. Our goal isn’t to just fix your garage door. We want you to feel confident about how it works, how it looks and who’s working on it.

Other factors that set us apart include:

• Real people offering real support: Our professional showroom is open and fully staffed, so you can come in, ask questions and see your options up close.
• The brands we stand behind: We carry Clopay^® and LiftMaster products that are dependable and long-lasting. 
• Site visits beforehand: Before we start a project, we’ll visit your home or business to get a clear understanding of the space and what you need.
• Everything under one roof: We handle garage door and opener sales, installation, service, repairs and parts all in one place.

Come Visit or Reach Out

Let us know how we can help! You can visit the showroom, give us a call or schedule an appointment at your home or business.

From garage door lubrication maintenance to full replacements and opener upgrades, Olympic Garage Door offers honest advice, expert work and high-quality products. Let us know how we can help!

The Importance of Professional Installation for Commercial Garage Doors

If you run a business anywhere on the Olympic Peninsula, you know that smooth operations and reliability go hand in hand. One element that’s often underestimated is your commercial garage door. It’s more than a way in and out. It’s part of your security, efficiency and first impression. When installed properly, it works seamlessly in the background. When it’s not, it becomes a constant headache.

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Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for Garage Doors 

When you live in a place like Port Angeles or anywhere on the Olympic Peninsula, weather isn’t just background noise — it plays a major role in how well your home runs. Rain, wind and salt air can take a toll on your garage doors if they are improperly maintained. 

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The Benefits of High-Speed Garage Doors for Commercial Use

When it comes to running a business, every second counts. This is especially true for industries that rely on loading docks, service bays or controlled environments. High-speed commercial garage doors are designed to move quickly and reliably, so your operations never skip a beat. These aren’t just doors — they’re performance tools that help you work smarter, safer and more efficiently.

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When to Buy a New Garage Door

Why buy a new garage door? Even if your garage door doesn’t have any major issues, underlying issues may make a new door a necessity. Replace your garage door when you encounter significant issues that a professional cannot fix or repair, including the following: 

1. Significant Wear and Tear

Over time, garage doors can become worn down from wear and tear. Something as simple as frequency of use can affect your door — for example, if you use your garage door four times a day, it will likely last longer than those who use it eight or more times a day. 

Weather factors can also influence the wear of your garage door, with significant rain and snow potentially leading to rusting and warping of the door. Mechanical failures become more common as doors age, with springs and lift cables needing more frequent replacement or maintenance over time. Even a slight track misalignment can progress to the point of serious damage to your garage door. With evidence of this kind of wear and tear, you need to replace your garage door.

2. Failure to Open or Close

Coming home after a long day and not being able to get inside due to a faulty garage door can be frustrating. If your door isn’t opening or closing properly, there are a few culprits for the cause:

• Faulty opener: An old or faulty garage door opener can lead to safety and security risks. Faulty openers can lead the auto-reverse feature to malfunction, putting anyone who walks under your closing door in danger. Thieves can also override old or outdated opener systems, giving them easy access to your home. 
• Broken remote: Your remote could be out of batteries or become disconnected from the motor unit. More seriously, the motor unit may be burned out, calling for a complete replacement.
• Misaligned sensor: An obstructed sensor can impact the opening and closing of your door. Anything from dust and debris to more serious mechanical failure could be the cause. 

You can solve some issues like dirt and debris yourself. Call a professional if you think your door needs any more serious repairs. 

3. Damage to the Door

While small dents and scratches may not be very noticeable from the street, even minor dents can impact a door’s functionality. Having a dent in your door can prevent its smooth and unobstructed movement along the tracks, resulting in issues from misalignment to total door failure. In some cases, you might fix it by replacing one of the panels, but it’s usually better to replace the whole door. 

If you notice any serious dents or the door encounters significant trauma from weather, sports balls or vehicles, call a professional to assess the damage and limit opening or closing the door until it is replaced or deemed safe for use. 

4. Poor Energy Performance

Since a garage door can significantly impact a household’s energy output, having a poorly insulated garage can result in higher overall costs for utility bills and issues such as mold and water damage. Some insulation issues are fixable with repairs or additions, but old garage doors may not support these techniques.

If you discover your garage is at fault for your home’s poor energy performance, a new garage door can be an investment in future savings down the road and a greener choice for the environment.

Browse Our Showroom to Find Your New Garage Door

Olympic Garage Door services Port Angeles, Sequim, Port Townsend, and other areas throughout the Olympic Peninsula. We offer an extensive showroom staffed with professionals and a vast selection of new residential garage doors. A qualified technician will perform a site visit to your home to assess your property’s unique needs, answer your questions and oversee proper installation. At Olympic Garage Door, we also offer continued maintenance services to keep your new garage door functioning well over time.

Browse our selection of garage doors online or visit our showroom to speak with a knowledgeable team member. To learn more about our products and installation, call us at 360-452-3859 or fill out a contact form for a detailed estimate.

Request Estimate

Benefits of a New Garage Door

The life span of a garage door with proper maintenance can be up to 30 years. However, many factors can decrease that life span, such as a lack of maintenance, repair issues, or environmental factors like humidity and severe weather. In the Olympic Peninsula, rain and wet weather conditions can lead to multiple issues for garage doors. Having proper insulation and ventilation for your garage door can save you money in utility costs and increase the value of your home. 

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Security Benefits of Commercial Garage Doors

Owning commercial property has its benefits. As with any investment, it’s important to secure it in the best way to protect it from external dangers. This includes the prospect of intruders, adverse weather conditions and more. Securing your assets is worth your while. 

A commercial garage door must be strong and durable enough to withstand these potential risks to your property and the contents within. Here’s more on the security benefits of commercial garage doors, the types of doors available, safety tips and why you should leave all your commercial garage door worries to Olympic Garage Door. 

Types of Commercial Garage Doors

Garage doors are available in a variety of materials and insulation, all designed to provide the utmost support and strength. Here are a few types available for commercial use, along with their applications:

• Roll-up sheet doors: These doors are made of steel sheets that roll up and down as required. They are commonly used for small to medium-sized warehouses and self-storage amenities. 
• Service doors: A type of steel door used as an entry door in commercial and industrial settings. It is made of 18-24 gauge galvanized steel and is often reinforced to meet wind and impact requirements. 
• Counter shutters: These are usually seen in cafeterias and concession areas and are preferred for their versatility and sturdy construction. They are easy to operate and not as heavy as complete doors since they are considered windows or shutters and cover a smaller section. 
• Energy saving series: As the name suggests, these polystyrene insulated steel doors are often used for shipping docks and general warehouses where energy efficiency plays a big role in managing operational costs.
• Security grilles: Airports and shopping malls commonly use these steel or aluminum rolling grilles. They offer full transparency while securing the inside of a shop or site. The open grilles are designed to enhance air circulation in spaces requiring ventilation while ensuring limited access. 
• Industrial series: Another popular option for warehouses and shipping docks, the industrial series is made of thick-roll ribbed steel with polystyrene insulation and is highly resistant to rust and other damage. 
• Energy series with Intellicore: Commercial structures like firehouses and warehouses that need effective internal temperature control and energy efficiency will benefit from these high-insulated steel doors.
• Architectural series: This door style is commonly observed at service stations, restaurants and car dealerships where a certain degree of transparency is required. It has a contemporary design compared to other industrial-like applications and is also highly insulated and extremely durable due to its see-through construction. 

Security Benefits of Commercial Garage Doors

When it comes to keeping your residential or commercial property secure, you are likely to implement all the necessary measures to ensure it is fully protected. Numerous ways to improve your business’s physical security will benefit your business:

• Enhanced security: The main and most important benefit is the improved level of security that a garage door offers. Together with an efficient alarm system, security cameras and security guards, you should have peace of mind knowing that your investment is well protected. Modern technology lets you remotely access and control your garage door using your mobile device, adding an extra layer of security and convenience. 
• Asset protection: Most commercial garage doors come standard with a variation of insulation R-values, which helps regulate the temperature within the building. This is beneficial if you own a warehouse that stores perishable and non-perishable goods or other temperature-sensitive products. Garage doors offer further protection by preventing air from escaping through seals, keeping it trapped inside. Having this garage door feature available adds value by keeping your goods protected.
• Weather resistance: Garage doors are made to withstand high winds and other elements that pose a threat to your valuables inside. Some designs have a wind load resistance that ensures they can endure hurricane winds while sustaining minimal damage. Their durable materials like steel, metal and aluminum protect your business from wind and any external impact like vehicles or equipment that might knock it accidentally. It also resists fire and rust, which ensures their longevity. 
• Increased safety: Modern garage doors are equipped with openers and sensors that will help keep employees safer during operation. Features like auto-reverse ensure the door won’t close on anyone. Motion sensors detect movement that will alert you of any unusual activity inside, especially after business hours. You will rest assured knowing that your business is safe with the added protection the garage doors offer. 
• Added space: Roll-up construction saves you space that would otherwise be wasted with swing doors. They are generally also high enough for forklifts and other machinery to move through easily, another benefit these garage doors offer overall. 

Safety Tips for Commercial Garage Doors

Safety and security are things you should never compromise on. Here are a few tips that will help promote your commercial garage door’s safety functionality. 

Limit Visibility

Outsiders rarely covet what they can’t see. Unless you need a specific door style like security grilles for air circulation, you may benefit more from solid steel doors to avoid prying eyes. It’s a good idea to secure valuable content behind sturdy garage doors. However, this principle may not always apply practically, especially if you own a car dealership or restaurant that has a degree of transparency. Fortunately, architectural doors are designed with this aspect in mind, and extra security measures are usually in place to offer maximum protection against the possibility of intruders.

Integrate Security Systems 

Ideally, you would have a smart security system to keep your business safe. Incorporating your garage door opener with this system will optimize and enhance your security. Install security cameras above your garage door to give you a full view of your premises. Motion sensors will detect activity, while floodlights above your garage door to alert you of movement. Ensure you are aware of everyone who has access to your commercial property at all times and revoke access where necessary to maintain control. 

Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door

Your garage door endures immense wear and tear, especially if it’s older or used often. Since it serves you and your business, you should keep it in optimal condition to continue performing its function efficiently. Inspect all moving parts regularly and replace any that are worn or damaged. If your garage door has sustained severe wind or storm damage and panels need to be replaced, contact a reputable garage door supplier to assist. 

Let Olympic Garage Door Take Care of Your Garage Door Needs

No matter what type of commercial property you own, Olympic Garage Door has a suitable garage door for you. We use high-quality brands like Clopay and Liftmaster and have a staffed showroom that features samples of our select doors from our top-end ranges. No warehouse, shipping dock or industrial unit is too big for us to fit our doors. 

We are ready to get started on your commercial garage door installation or repair. Visit our showroom or request a service online, and we’ll call you back to discuss your requirements. 

Minimizing Garage Pests

As a homeowner, you know how important it is to keep your property safe and clean, and the garage is no exception. Unfortunately, garages are often a hotbed for pests, including rodents, insects and other critters that can damage your belongings and even pose health risks to you and your family.

These pests be a nuisance to deal with and cause significant damage to your garage and its contents. From chewing through electrical wiring to contaminating food, the problems caused by garage pests can quickly add up.

That’s why it’s important to take steps to minimize the presence of pests in your garage. Following simple tips and tricks on removing pests from your home can create a cleaner, safer environment for your family and protect your property from damage.

What Attracts Pests to a Garage?

By understanding what attracts pests to your garage, you can take steps to prevent infestations and keep your garage pest-free.

• Food: One of the main things that attract pests to garages is the presence of food. Rodents are especially attracted to food sources and will seek out any available food in your garage. Store food, such as pet food or bulk food items, in sealed containers to prevent rodent infestations and promptly clean up any spills or crumbs.
• Clutter: Pests love clutter, as it provides hiding places and nesting sites. Clutter also makes it difficult to spot signs of a pest infestation. To prevent pests from being attracted to your garage, keep it clean and organized and eliminate clutter.
• Moisture: Moisture is another factor that can attract pests to garages. Leaks, standing water and high humidity levels can create a breeding ground for insects and other pests. To prevent moisture-related pest problems, repair any leaks promptly and ensure your garage is well-ventilated.
• Cracks and gaps: Pests can enter your garage through even the smallest cracks and gaps in the walls or foundation. Seal up any openings, including gaps around windows and doors, to keep pests out.

Common Garage Pests

Garages are great places to store belongings, park your car and even work on projects. Unfortunately, garages are also a haven for pests. Here are some of the common ones you might spot in your garage:

1. Rodents

Mice, rats and other rodents are some of the most common pests found in garages. They can cause damage to stored items, chew through wiring and insulation and even pose a fire hazard. To prevent rodent infestations, seal any cracks or openings in your garage walls or foundation, store food in sealed containers and remove any clutter that could serve as a hiding place.

2. Insects

Cockroaches, spiders and other insects are also common garage pests. They can contaminate food, cause allergies, and in some cases, even cause damage to the structure of your garage.

Tips on cleaning bugs out of the garage include keeping your garage clean and dry, eliminating any standing water and sealing any cracks or openings where insects could enter.

3. Termites

Termites are a particular concern for homeowners with wooden garages. These pests can cause significant structural damage, compromising the integrity of your garage. To prevent termite infestations, ensure your garage is properly ventilated, repair any leaks and store firewood away from the garage.

4. Bats

While bats may seem relatively harmless, they can cause damage to your garage and pose a health risk to you and your family. They can leave droppings, which can carry disease, and their urine can damage garage surfaces. To prevent bat infestations, seal any openings in your garage, such as cracks or gaps in the roof or walls.

How to Tell if You Have Garage Pests

Explore some of the telltale signs of an infestation in your garage:

1. Droppings: One of the most obvious signs of a pest infestation in your garage is the presence of droppings. Rodent droppings are typically small and pellet-shaped, while bat droppings may look like small black beads. Insect droppings may also be present but may be harder to identify.
2. Gnaw marks: Another sign of a pest infestation is gnaw marks on your garage’s stored items or structural elements. Rodents are known for chewing through wires, insulation and other materials. At the same time, termites can cause significant structural damage to wooden garages.
3. Strange noises: If you hear strange noises coming from your garage, such as scratching, scurrying or chirping, you may have a pest infestation. Rodents and bats are often active at night, while insects buzz or click.
4. Nests: If you find nests or burrows in your garage, this is a clear sign of a pest infestation. Rodents may build nests from paper or fabric scraps, while birds and bats may create nests from twigs and other materials.
5. Unpleasant odors: Pests can leave behind unpleasant odors. If you notice any unusual smells coming from your garage, it’s worth investigating further.

Tips to Minimize Garage Pests

Here are some tips on keeping bugs out of the garage to help you maintain a clean and safe space:

1. Proper Food Storage

One of the main reasons pests are attracted to garages is the presence of food. Store food properly to minimize attracting unwanted guests. Ensure any food you store in your garage is stored in sealed containers. This will prevent pests like rodents and insects from accessing the food.

2. Keep the Garage Clean and Organized

Pests love clutter, as it provides hiding places and nesting sites. Keep your garage clean and well-organized, and get rid of any unnecessary items. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris and crumbs that can attract pests. Disposing of trash and recycling properly is also important, as these items can attract pests.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Pests can enter your garage through even the smallest cracks and gaps in the walls or foundation. Weather stripping and maintaining the garage will prevent pests from being able to enter the garage through these openings.

4. Reduce Moisture

Moisture can attract pests, creating a breeding ground for insects and other pests. Repair any leaks promptly and ensure your garage is well-ventilated. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to reduce humidity levels. This will help make your garage less attractive to pests.

6. Use Pest Control Products

There are a variety of pest control products available for keeping pests and bugs out of your garage. These include traps, baits and sprays. Use these products as directed and keep them out of reach of children and pets. If you need help deciding which products to use, consider consulting with a pest control professional.

7. Keep the Garage Door Closed

One of the easiest ways to prevent pests from entering your garage is to close the garage door as much as possible. This can also help to keep out other pests, such as wild animals and insects. Ensure your garage door is in good working condition, and consider installing a garage door threshold to prevent critters from snaking under the door.

Olympic Garage Door Can Help

By implementing the tips we’ve discussed, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a pest infestation in your garage. Additionally, it’s important to ensure your garage door is serviced by a professional and properly sealed.

A malfunctioning garage door or damaged weather stripping can invite pests to enter your garage. The professionals at Olympic Garage Door can service your garage door and fix any weather stripping issues to prevent pests from sneaking in.

Schedule garage door service with our team today!

Benefits of Having a Roll-Up Garage Door

Garage doors protect your home or commercial building from break-ins, harsh weather and energy loss, all while opening and closing every day to give you garage access. Investing in a durable, well-made garage door allows your business to run smoothly and efficiently.

Contact Us for Roll-up Garage Doors

If you have a commercial business or want an extra-secure home garage, check out some of the benefits and features of roll-up doors below.

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Renovations to Increase Home Value

Renovating your home is one of the best ways to increase your property value. There are many different changes you can make to your home, such as finding ways to increase curb appeal, functionality, and more. From completely updating your kitchen, adding a deck, or replacing your garage door, the possibilities can range from simple to complex. However, some renovations are bound to increase the value of your home more than others. Use this guide to learn more about the best home renovations that add value and how they can be beneficial investments in your home. 

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