How the Climate in Texas Affects Garage Door Maintenance Needs

Prolonged sun exposure can also fade or peel the finish on steel or wood doors. For wood doors, the risk of warping or cracking increases due to uneven heating and moisture loss. Rubber weatherstripping and seals can become brittle and crack, leading to poor insulation and higher energy bills. Regular maintenance tasks like cleaning panels, inspecting the sealant, and applying UV-resistant paint or finish can help protect your garage door from heat damage.

The right garage door lubricant, such as white lithium grease or spray lubricant designed for high temperatures, can help maintain quiet operation and prevent your door’s moving parts from seizing during heat waves. Proper lubrication is one of the simplest yet most effective preventative maintenance tips.

High Humidity and Moisture Exposure

Texas is no stranger to high humidity levels, especially in spring and summer. Moisture is the enemy of metal, and it can lead to corrosion and rust on garage door parts like rollers, springs, cables, and brackets. Steel components are particularly vulnerable if they aren’t properly coated or maintained. Rust spots often form on garage door tracks and hinges, leading to squeaky or uneven movement.

Wood doors are also affected, as they can absorb moisture and swell. This makes them difficult to open or close and can even cause structural damage over time. Moisture buildup around the base of the door can also lead to mold and mildew, affecting both your door and the surrounding frame. Water damage and swelling can compromise the safety and smooth operation of the door.

To prevent this, inspect for water damage regularly and clean garage door tracks and weather stripping. Use a dehumidifier if necessary and apply sealant on wood doors to prevent moisture absorption. Performing regular maintenance multiple times a year ensures your garage door continues to perform at its best despite the damp weather.

Storms, Hail, and Wind Damage

Storms in Texas often bring high winds, heavy rain, and hail, all of which can significantly impact your garage door’s integrity. Strong winds put uneven pressure on the panels, potentially throwing the door off track or damaging the hinges and arm bar. Hail can dent metal doors and crack windows, reducing curb appeal and compromising security.

Flying debris during thunderstorms can damage garage door panels, weather stripping, or the opener’s external parts. Moreover, electrical storms and lightning strikes can cause power surges that damage the garage door opener’s circuit board, auto-reverse feature, or safety sensors.

Ensure all bolts, nuts, and fasteners are secure, and consider upgrading to wind-resistant garage doors with reinforced steel panels. Installing a battery backup for your opener and surge protectors can help maintain door operation and safety features during outages. Routine service by a garage door technician helps spot issues before a major storm hits.

Winter Freezes and Ice Storms

Although winters in Sherman are usually mild, occasional ice storms and cold snaps can still impact your garage door system. Freezing temperatures cause metal parts to contract, which can knock the system out of balance or make the opener work harder. Tracks may freeze over, especially if there’s poor drainage or if the garage isn’t insulated.

Ice can form around the base of the garage door, freezing it shut or damaging the bottom seal. Frozen or brittle weather stripping can lead to gaps that let in cold air, raising your heating bills and exposing your family to the cold. Cold weather also thickens lubricants, reducing their effectiveness and slowing down the garage door operation.

To prepare for winter, inspect your door multiple times during the season, clean out debris from tracks, and use the right lubricant rated for cold temperatures. Keep a release handle accessible in case of an opener failure, and check that your auto-reverse feature works in cold conditions.

How Texas Weather Affects Garage Door Components

Garage Door Panels

The garage door panels are the face of your garage and take the brunt of all weather exposure. Steel doors, while durable, are susceptible to heat and moisture if their protective coating wears off. Rust spots can form, especially at seams and corners. Wood doors can warp, swell, or rot if not sealed properly.

Composite and vinyl panels are less prone to water damage but can become brittle under prolonged sun exposure. Fading and surface cracking are common, reducing the aesthetic appeal and possibly affecting structural performance.

Inspect panels for dents, cracks, and water stains regularly. Wipe down panels with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. If you notice mold or mildew, clean with a mild detergent. Applying a fresh coat of paint or weatherproof finish yearly can extend your door’s lifespan.

Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs, especially torsion springs, are under immense tension and can be heavily affected by seasonal weather changes. Heat and humidity can cause springs to expand and contract, weakening their tension over time. Cold weather makes them more brittle, increasing the risk of sudden breakage.

A broken spring can make the door inoperable and pose a serious safety risk. Attempting to replace garage door springs yourself is dangerous; always leave this job to a professional. Signs of spring failure include jerky movement, loud bangs, and difficulty lifting the door manually.

Regular maintenance includes checking for corrosion, lubricating springs with a spray lubricant, and replacing springs every 5 to 7 years, depending on usage and climate. Inspect them at least twice a year.

Garage Door Tracks and Rollers

Garage door tracks must be clean, straight, and well-lubricated for smooth operation. Dust, dirt, and moisture can clog tracks, making rollers skip or grind. Rust can also form in neglected tracks, reducing the door’s efficiency.

Garage door rollers should spin freely and be free of cracks. Over time, rollers can wear down, especially in high-humidity environments. Noisy operation is a common sign that the rollers or bearings need lubrication or replacement.

Use a vacuum and a cloth to clean tracks and remove debris. Lubricate rollers and tracks using white lithium grease or a designated garage door lubricant. Replace worn-out rollers every 3 to 5 years for optimal performance.

Garage Door Opener and Electrical Components

The garage door opener is the brain of your garage system. Power surges, extreme temperatures, and moisture can damage internal circuit boards and sensors. Automatic openers may become sluggish or fail in freezing or sweltering conditions.

Dust buildup or rust on photo-eye sensors can prevent the auto-reverse feature from working, which is essential for safety. Batteries in remotes and keypads can also die faster in heat or cold.

Inspect the garage door opener system regularly. Test the auto-reverse feature, inspect wiring for corrosion, and replace remote batteries. Consider upgrading to modern systems like the Stealth Drive Connect for Wi-Fi access, quiet operation, and energy-efficient performance.

Seasonal Garage Door Maintenance Tips