One of the first things a visitor or passersby notices about your home is your garage door — the color, the style, the size, whether it is open or closed, or whether it overwhelms your house instead of accentuating the existing architecture. At Smart Doors, we are the number one garage door company serving the GTA and surrounding communities like North York, Markham, and Vaughan, and we can help you choose the best garage door for your home, needs, and budget.

Depending on the quality of the model and other factors, many overhead garage doors can last for decades, but only if you follow common-sense advice and perform regular maintenance.

Here are the top 10 questions many customers ask about overhead garage doors:

Selecting the right overhead garage door is crucial for your home’s functionality and curb appeal. To assist you in making an informed decision, here are the top 10 questions to consider:

1. What maintenance is needed?

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance. It’s advisable to wash your garage door several times a year using water, mild soap, and a soft-bristle brush. Metal doors can be painted every three to five years, while wood doors may need repainting every one to two years.

2. Should I Lubricate the Moving Parts?

Yes, annual lubrication of moving parts is essential. Using a lightweight oil, such as WD-40, on components like chains and tension springs can prevent wear and tear.

3. Why Is My Garage Door Opener Noisy?

Garage doors may become unbalanced or have one or more damaged or broken springs. Do not try and repair or replace high-tension springs on your own. Call Smart Doors today for more information.

4. What Should I Do If the Opener Isn’t Responding?

If both the wall panel and remote fail to operate the opener, the issue could be electrical or related to dead batteries. Additionally, ensure that the sensors on either side of the door are aligned and unobstructed.

5. Why Does the Wall Panel Work but Not the Remote?

If the wall panel operates the door but the remote doesn’t check for a flashing light on the panel. A flashing light may indicate that the remote has been locked out and needs resetting.

6. How Can I Reduce Opener Vibration Noise?

Overhead garage door openers are prone to heavy vibrations, in which case it may be necessary to install a vibration isolator kit to resolve the problem.

7. Why Won’t My Garage Door Close?

If the door opens but doesn’t close, misaligned or blocked sensors are often the culprits. Ensure that nothing obstructs the sensors and that they are properly aligned.

8. What Causes the Door to Reverse After Starting to Close?

A door that begins to close and then reverses is likely experiencing sensor issues. Misalignment or obstructions can trigger the reverse safety mechanism.

9. How Can I Prevent Drafts in My Garage?

This could mean the weather stripping around the door has come to lose, or there are gaps in the jam or frame around the door opening.

10. Where Can I Find Repair Information If I’ve Lost My Owner’s Manual?

If you’ve misplaced your owner’s manual, it’s best to contact a professional garage door company for guidance and assistance.

By addressing these common questions, you can ensure your overhead garage door remains functional, safe, and efficient. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to extending the lifespan of your garage door system.