There is something about a wooden garage door that adds a warm, classic touch to your home’s overall aesthetics. Wood is one of the most sturdy materials that also offer some thermal properties.
While steel garage doors are prone to dents and corrosion, wood doors are prone to warping and cracking. There are certain steps you can take to preserve its appearance and extend its lifespan. Here are some simple maintenance tasks that will bring long-term benefits.
1. Reapply a weather-resistant stain
Depending on the condition of your wooden garage door, reapply a weather-resistant stain every few years to protect it from the harsh Alberta elements. A weather-resistant stain will preserve it longer through snow, ice, wind, hail, and extreme hot and cold fluctuations. Be sure to consult with the manufacturer or a garage door specialist to make sure you’re using a safe stain.
2. Remove built-up dust and dirt
Be sure to clean the door as soon as you notice any dirt accumulating, at least once a year. Dust build-up typically happens in the little corners of the door that can be hard to clean. Avoid using a power washer and abrasive scrubbers. Instead, take a soft sponge or cloth and wipe the door thoroughly.
3. Keep metal elements lubricated
This maintenance tip applies to all types of garage doors as it helps keep components running smoothly and quietly. If you notice your garage door ‘sticking’ or any squeaking noises, the metal elements may need to be lubricated. Letting the door operate without the proper lubrication leads to more wear and tear and shortens its lifespan.
4. Schedule regular servicing
Last but not certainly not least, it’s important to schedule regular garage door maintenance at least once a year. A garage door technician will:
- Tighten any loose nuts and bolts
- Replace worn or damaged metal components
- Lubricate the tracks, metal springs, plates, hinges, rollers, and ball bearings
- Check the condition of your rollers to make sure they are aligned
- Check the balance of the door
- Test the door opener and diagnose any issues
- Check the overall condition of the door and repair or replace worn parts
To sum it up, wooden garage doors are quite sturdy and will last for years if properly maintained. As long as you keep the door clean, re-apply weather-resistant stain, keep the metal elements lubricated, and keep up with a routine maintenance schedule, your wooden garage door will continue to function as it should.
Contact Overhead Doors for all of your residential and commercial garage door needs. We provide both on-call and regularly-scheduled maintenance to keep your garage doors operating efficiently year-round. With office locations in Lethbridge, Calgary & Cranbrook you can count on us to be here when you need us!
