Garage door safety month is an important time of year. Highlighting ways to ensure the largest moving appliance in your home is working properly. Throughout the month of May, IDA shares awareness on how to check your garage door and opening system – Look, Listen, Learn and Remember.
Here’s an easy way to remember what to look for when doing a quick check of your system:
LOOK: Inspect your garage door visually. Start from the top down, checking all the panels are intact (not split or cracked), the hinges are not bent, and all lags and bolts are in place. Next, look and make sure there is no excess rust and there are no gaps between the door panels.
Note: If you see any issues with the system door springs, DO NOT attempt to repair these on your own. Call a trained professional using IDA’s Find a Qualified Professional Page.
LISTEN: As you open your garage door, listen for any unusual sounds. Squeaking or squealing sounds may indicate a part of your garage needs lubrication, while a grinding noise can indicate worn rollers or hinges. Similarly, rattling can indicate loose nuts or bolts while popping could suggest broken springs.
If you hear any of these sounds, it is probably a good idea to call a professional to have your system inspected.
LEARN: Learn the safety practices that come with using your garage system. This includes avoiding any hands or fingers near the panels, ensuring your automatic sensors are unobstructed and working properly, and never leaving your garage door remote in clear view. Having your “clicker” visible in your car can be an invitation for someone to gain access to your garage and/or home.
Remember: Keep these tips in mind. Know that if you see something out of place or hear something that doesn’t sound right, it’s time to call a trained professional.
Garage doors often go overlooked in yearly maintenance, but by following these four steps, your garage door system will last longer, be less likely to need costly repairs and will help ensure the safety of your family and your home. For more information on Look, Listen, Learn, and Remember, visit our consumer resource page and for additional maintenance tips, check out our maintenance and care page.