Maintaining commercial garage doors is crucial for ensuring their long-lasting performance and functionality. A well-maintained garage door not only enhances the overall security of the commercial building but also adds to its aesthetic value.
Regular maintenance of garage doors also reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are some tips to help businesses keep their garage doors in optimal condition:
Regular Inspection
Regular inspection of commercial garage doors is necessary to detect early signs of wear and tear. Inspection should be carried out at least once every quarter to ensure that all parts of the door are working properly and efficiently. The inspection should cover all the door’s moving parts, such as hinges, tracks, rollers, springs, and cables.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth operation of commercial garage doors. Regularly lubricate the moving parts, such as hinges, rollers, tracks, and springs, to minimize friction and prevent excessive wear. Use a silicone-based lubricant or a lubricant specifically designed for garage doors. Apply the lubricant sparingly and wipe off any excess to avoid accumulation of debris.
Regular Cleaning
Dirt and debris can build up on the garage door over time, affecting its appearance and performance. Regular garage door cleaning is essential to keep it in pristine condition. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean the door gently. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the door’s paint or finish.
Door Balancing
Proper balancing of commercial garage doors is necessary to prevent damage and reduce the risk of accidents. A balanced door opens and closes smoothly without any glitches. If the door is not balanced, it can cause excessive wear and tear on its parts, leading to costly repairs.
Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance is essential to ensure the door works properly and efficiently. Hiring a qualified technician to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the door at least once a year is recommended. A professional technician can detect any underlying issues and provide necessary repairs or replacements.
Test and Maintain Safety Features
Commercial garage doors have various safety features, including photo-eye sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms. Regularly test these safety features to ensure they are functioning correctly. Place an object in the door’s path and verify that it stops or reverses when it detects an obstruction. Clean the photo-eye sensors and ensure they are properly aligned for uninterrupted operation. If any safety features are not working as intended, contact a professional technician for repairs or adjustments.
Tension and Balance Checks
Maintaining your commercial garage doors’ proper tension and balance is crucial for their smooth operation and longevity. Test the tension of the door’s springs regularly. Springs that are too loose or too tight can lead to uneven door movement and strain on other components. Check the door’s balance by disconnecting the automatic opener and manually lifting the door halfway. It may require professional adjustment to achieve proper balance if it doesn’t stay in place.
Weatherstripping Replacement
Weatherstripping is vital in sealing commercial garage doors and preventing air and water infiltration. Inspect the weatherstripping regularly for signs of wear, cracking, or gaps. Replace damaged weatherstripping promptly to maintain energy efficiency and protect your facility from the elements. Choose weatherstripping materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and compatible with your door type.
Employee Education and Best Practices
Educating your employees about the proper operation and maintenance of commercial garage doors is crucial for longevity. Provide training on operating the doors safely, emphasizing the importance of avoiding excessive force or placing obstructions in the door’s path. Encourage employees to report any issues promptly and provide clear guidelines for routine maintenance tasks they can perform, such as visual inspections and cleaning.
In conclusion, proper maintenance of commercial garage doors is critical to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regular inspection, lubrication, cleaning, door balancing, and professional maintenance are some basic maintenance practices businesses can adopt to maintain their garage doors. By implementing these practices, businesses can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, ensuring that their commercial garage doors are in good condition, safe, and secure for employees and customers.
