Why a spring tune-up matters
In Modesto, Stockton, and Tracy, garages endure dust, moisture, and temperature swings. A spring tune-up helps prevent early wear, reduces noise, and extends the life of your opener, rollers, and springs—before the Central Valley heat sets in.
1) Start with a Visual Inspection
Begin by closing the door and taking a slow look at all visible components. You’re checking for rust, frayed cables, cracked seals, and any loose hardware.
- Check rollers and hinges for signs of wear.
- Ensure brackets and bolts are tight and rust-free.
- Look at the door panels for warping or paint damage.
Pro Tip
If the door looks uneven or slanted, the springs may be losing tension. Don’t attempt to adjust them yourself—call a licensed technician.
2) Clean Tracks, Surfaces & Surroundings
Spring cleaning isn’t just for the house—your garage door tracks and frame need it too. Dust and pollen from Central Valley winds can cause friction and imbalance.
- Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust from tracks and corners.
- Wipe panels with mild detergent and a damp cloth.
- Check for spider webs or insect nests around sensors.
- Finish with a quick sweep of the garage floor to reduce future buildup.
3) Lubricate Moving Parts
A light layer of garage-door-specific lubricant reduces squeaks and extends the life of your components.
- Apply lubricant to rollers, hinges, and springs.
- Wipe away excess residue to avoid collecting dust.
- Never grease tracks—just keep them clean and dry.
Use the Right Product
Choose a lithium- or silicone-based lubricant like our exclusive Garage Door Lubricant—engineered for California climates.
4) Test Sensors & Safety Features
Safety sensors can get misaligned or dusty during the winter. Take a minute to verify that your auto-reverse system works properly.
- Wipe photo-eyes with a dry cloth.
- Check alignment—LEDs should be solid, not blinking.
- Place a 2x4 under the closing door; it should reverse immediately when it touches it.
5) Refresh Weather Seals
After winter rain, seals often dry out or crack. Replace worn strips to keep dust and heat out before summer begins.
- Replace bottom rubber seals if light passes through under the door.
- Inspect side and top weatherstripping for stiffness.
- Repaint or reseal wooden doors to prevent warping.
6) Test the Opener & Remote Controls
Spring is also a great time to check opener response and backup batteries. If you’ve been parking outside due to malfunctions, this is your fix-it season.
- Replace remote batteries if response feels delayed.
- Test the manual release cord to ensure smooth operation.
- Listen for grinding or jerky motion—may indicate chain tension issues.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
While most steps are DIY-friendly, a yearly professional check ensures spring tension, opener calibration, and alignment are perfect. It’s peace of mind before summer’s daily use peaks.
Book your Regular Maintenance Service in Modesto, Tracy, and Stockton for a full 25-point inspection—trusted locally for over 25 years.
