On an annual basis, you should clean, lubricate, and inspect your garage door and all of its components. This routine garage door maintenance helps to keep your door functional and in decent condition. According to Forbes, in the U.S., the average garage door opens and closes over 1,500 times a year. As such, your garage door may need more than just simple maintenance. Here are three of the signs that your garage door may need more than just routine cleaning and maintenance.

1. You Hear Unusual Noises When Your Door Opens or Closes

As your garage door opens or closes, you should hear a soft humming sound. It won't be silent, but it should be background noise that you don't really notice. If you are in need of garage door maintenance or repairs, your garage door may let you hear it. You could hear grinding, squealing, screeching, or creaking noises as the door lowers or lifts. This may indicate the parts need to be cleaned and lubricated, or it may even be a sign of a failing motor.

2. Garage Door Components Are Rusty

As you clean your garage door, track, and rollers, you should always look for signs of rust. If you notice any of it present, you need to have a professional give those parts a good cleaning to remove it. You should also call in a professional to coat those metal parts so rust doesn't form again in the future.

3. Your Door Is Slow to Open or Close

When you push your remote or keypad, you expect your garage door opener to raise or lower the door. As you have done this hundreds of times, you have a general idea of how long this will take. If you notice your door is lagging and is going much slower than normal, it's time to have the door professionally maintained or repaired.

Knowing what the signs are that you need garage door maintenance helps to reduce the frequency in which you need repairs and works to extend the lifespan of the garage door and its parts. If you notice one or more of these signs, you should hire a garage door professional to inspect your system and determine what type of maintenance or repairs the door or its components may need. When you need assistance, turn to West Coast Garage Door. Call us today to schedule an appointment.