Love living in Tampa, but hate what the humidity does to your garage door? You’re not alone! But don’t worry; keeping your garage door happy and healthy in Florida’s climate is easier than you think. We’ve got some pro tips from Bayside Garage Doors to help you.

Lubricate Regularly 

Humidity can turn your garage door’s metal parts into a rusty mess. The solution? Regular lubrication! Think of it as giving your door a spa day. Use a good silicone-based lubricant on all the moving parts (hinges, rollers, tracks, and the whole shebang). It’s like sunscreen for your door – it protects against the elements and keeps everything running smoothly.

Pro tip: Skip the WD-40. It might seem like a good idea but can dry things out over time.

Check Your Seals 

Those rubber seals around your garage door aren’t just for show. They’re like bouncers at a club, keeping out unwanted moisture and pests. But over time, they can get worn out or damaged. So give them a once-over regularly.

Have you noticed any cracks or gaps? It’s time for a replacement! It’s a small fix that can save you big headaches down the road (think mold, mildew, and critters setting up camp in your garage).

Keep Your Door Clean 

Humidity loves to party on your garage door, especially if it’s made of wood. That’s why regular cleaning is key. A mild detergent and water will do the trick.

If your door is wood, give it a fresh coat of paint or sealant every few years. It’s like putting on a raincoat—it keeps the moisture out and keeps your door looking fresh. Metal doors? A good wash and a coat of protective wax will keep the rust monster at bay.

Tighten Up Those Bolts

Ever noticed your garage door making weird noises or acting wonky? It might be a loose screw (or bolt or nut). The changing weather in Florida can cause the hardware on your door to loosen over time.

So grab your toolbox and do a quick inspection. A few twists of the wrench can save you a lot of hassle later.

Pro tip: If you’re not handy, call a pro. A little maintenance goes a long way!

Check the Balance

An unbalanced garage door is like a wobbly table – annoying and can lead to bigger problems. If your door is out of balance, it puts extra stress on the opener and other parts, making them wear out faster.

To check the balance, disconnect the opener and try to lift the door halfway up. Does it stay put? Great! It’s balanced. Does it drift up or down? Uh oh, it’s time to call in the experts.

Give Your Tracks the Once Over

The metal tracks your garage door slides on can also get cranky in the humidity overtime. Rust, warping, and debris can accumulate and result in damage and disrupt proper door function. Solve them with a good look-over every now and then.

Wipe them down with a damp cloth and ensure they’re still aligned. Think of it like train tracks – if they’re out of whack, the whole thing can go off the rails (literally!).

Safety First: Test Your Safety Features

Your garage door probably has some cool safety features, like auto-reverse. This is a lifesaver if something (or someone!) gets in the way of the door. But these features must be tested regularly to ensure they’re working properly.

The test is simple: put something in the way of the door (like a roll of paper towels). Does it reverse? Awesome! If not, call a pro to check it out. Safety is no joke!

When in Doubt, Call the Pros

While some garage door maintenance is easy to DIY, other things are best left to the experts. If you’re not sure how to do something, or if you notice a problem you can’t fix, don’t hesitate to call a reputable garage door company. They’ll have the know-how and tools to get your door back in tip-top shape.

Remember, a little maintenance now can save you a lot of trouble later on. So give your garage door some love, and it’ll return the favor by keeping your stuff safe and sound!

By following these expert tips, you’ll avoid expensive repairs and ensure your safety and peace of mind. Don’t wait for your garage door to break down—prepare it to stand strong against life’s trials and tribulations, big or small.

Feel free to contact Bayside Garage Doors at (813) 670-2087 for any of your door repair needs. Our team of experts is always available to offer professional service in the Tampa area!

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