How to Prepare Your Garage Door for the Winter
Surviving the Winter Chill: A Comprehensive Guide to Maintaining Your Garage Door
Winters can get bitterly cold in Southeastern Wisconsin. The frosty air will nip at your skin as you step outside, and the world seems to shimmer under a blanket of snow. For many of us, it's a scene straight out of a winter wonderland. But for your garage door, this can be a time of great struggle.
Imagine this: You're all set to head out for work on a frigid winter morning, and as you press that garage door opener, nothing happens. It's stuck. The cold has taken its toll. Now, you're not just battling the freezing temperatures but also a malfunctioning garage door.
Winter in Wisconsin can be brutal, and your garage door bears the brunt of it. However, with a little bit of care and preparation, you can ensure that it continues to function smoothly, protecting your car and belongings from the icy grip of winter. In this guide, we'll not only share essential tips but also back them up with some data, so you know just how important it is to winterize your garage door.
1. The Cold Hard Facts: Why Winter Maintenance Matters
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of garage door maintenance, let's look at some cold, hard facts:
According to time and date, the average low temperature in Southeastern Wisconsin during winter is around 23°F. That's well below freezing, and your garage door feels it too.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that Wisconsin experiences an average of 42 inches of snowfall annually. Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your garage door's mechanisms.
A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that winter weather contributes to an increase in accidents, with icy roads being a significant factor. A well-functioning garage door ensures your car is protected from these conditions.
2. Winterization Essentials: Protecting Your Garage Door
Now that we understand the significance of winter maintenance, let's get into the essentials:
Cleaning and Lubricating:
Stats show that dust, dirt, and grime can build up on your garage door and tracks. This buildup can lead to issues and prevent smooth operation. A quick wipe down with a general household cleaning product can help prevent rust and clogged hinges or rollers. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend your garage door's lifespan.
Interested in seeing how? Check out this video.
Weather Stripping Check:
The U.S. Department of Energy emphasizes the importance of weather stripping in conserving energy during winter. A cracked or damaged weather stripping can allow cold air and snow to seep into your garage, impacting not just your car but also the energy efficiency of your home.
Battery Maintenance:
Did you know that cold temperatures can cause batteries to drain faster? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), cold weather reduces battery capacity. Regularly checking the batteries for your remote control garage door openers can save you from being stuck outside in the cold.
3. The Role of Professional Inspection
An average garage door moves up and down multiple times a day. It's a workhorse, and like any machine, it needs professional attention. Regular professional inspections and maintenance can help identify potential issues and ensure the smooth operation of your garage door over time. This proactive approach can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
Conclusion:
As winter settles in southeastern Wisconsin, your garage door faces its own battle. But armed with knowledge and the statistics we've shared, you can prepare it to withstand the cold, snow, and ice. Keep in mind that maintaining your garage door isn't just about convenience; it's about protecting your investment, ensuring your safety, and saving on energy costs.
So, take these steps seriously, and you'll ensure that your garage door is a reliable guardian, standing strong against the harsh Wisconsin winters, and never leaving you stuck out in the cold.
