When temperatures drop, your garage door may start sticking, making it difficult to open and close. Cold weather affects various components of your garage door system, leading to issues such as frozen tracks, misaligned rollers, and more. Identifying these problems early can help you fix them before they worsen.
Why Your Garage Door Sticks in Cold Weather
Homeowners battle this garage door problem frequently. Here’s a closer look at the most common causes:
- Frozen tracks: Moisture inside the garage door tracks can freeze, preventing smooth movement. Ice buildup can restrict motion or even cause the door to become completely stuck.
- Lubrication failure: Low temperatures can cause lubricants to thicken or freeze, increasing friction and making it harder for garage door components to move smoothly.
- Misaligned rollers: Cold temperatures can slightly shift metal tracks and rollers, leading to misalignment. When rollers don’t move properly along the tracks, your garage door may get stuck or operate unevenly.
- Contracted metal parts: Metal contracts in cold weather, causing springs, cables, and other mechanical parts to tighten. This contraction can result in movement issues or even component failure.
- Warped door panels: Wooden garage doors are particularly vulnerable to warping in cold, dry air. Warped panels can prevent the door from sealing properly or moving smoothly along the tracks.
- Seized springs: Garage door springs endure constant tension, and extreme cold can make them brittle or cause them to seize up, leading to operational difficulties.
How To Fix a Sticking Garage Door in Cold Weather
If your garage door sticks during cold weather, try these effective solutions:
- Clear ice and snow: Check the tracks for ice buildup and remove it using a de-icer or warm water. Keep the area around the door free of snow to prevent excess moisture from affecting components.
- Apply proper lubricant: Use a silicone-based lubricant designed for cold temperatures. Avoid grease or standard lubricants, as they can thicken in the cold.
- Inspect and align rollers: Check the rollers and tracks for misalignment. If the rollers stick, clean and lubricate them for smoother operation.
- Check for warping or contraction issues: If you have a wooden garage door, inspect it for warping. Use weather stripping to reduce the effects of cold air and moisture on the door’s panels.
- Test springs and metal components: If you experience resistance when opening the door, check the springs for stiffness or brittleness. Schedule a professional inspection if you suspect the springs are failing.
Gator Garage Doors Is Here To Help
If your garage door sticks during cold weather, it can be frustrating. Addressing the issues noted above can restore smooth operation.
At Gator Garage Doors, we understand the unique challenges cold weather brings. If your garage door is sticking, call us at (512) 981-7998. Our team proudly serves homeowners in Austin, Texas, with expert repairs and maintenance to keep your garage door working year-round.