In Michigan, weather can be unpredictable, swinging from heavy snow and rain to sweltering summer heat. These changing conditions can put specific stresses on your garage door. As an essential part of your home, your garage door needs to remain functional and secure, especially as it faces the elements year-round.
- Moisture: The Hidden Enemy of Wooden Garage Doors
- Heat and Sunlight: Garage Door Sensors and Electronics at Risk
- Cold Weather: Winter’s Toll on Garage Doors
- Natural Disasters: Wind Damage and Tornado Preparedness
- Proactive Measures for Year-Round Garage Door Care
- Protect Your Home with Reliable Garage Doors from Shepherd Shoreline
Let’s explore how moisture, heat, cold, and even natural disasters can affect your Muskegon garage door—and what you can do to protect it.
Moisture: The Hidden Enemy of Wooden Garage Doors
Michigan averages about 30-38 inches of rainfall each year, meaning your garage door is often exposed to moisture—and if you have a wooden garage door, it can be a real problem. When wood absorbs water, it swells, which can cause your garage door to stick or even jam, making it harder to open and close.
To protect your wooden garage door, apply a water-resistant coating. These coatings act as a barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. Alternatively, if you’re looking to install a new garage door, consider a different material, such as metal or vinyl, less susceptible to moisture-related problems.
Don’t forget the importance of having a weatherstripping seal around your garage door. A quality, weather-resistant seal keeps out not only water but also drafts and dirt, ensuring your garage stays dry and functional, rain or shine. Regularly check the seal for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it as needed to keep moisture at bay.
Heat and Sunlight: Garage Door Sensors and Electronics at Risk
Many garage doors use photo eyes, small sensors that detect anything blocking the door’s path to prevent accidents. However, direct exposure to sunlight can trick these sensors, making them think there’s an obstacle when there isn’t, leaving your garage door stuck open. A quick fix is to shade the sensors with a small piece of paper or adjust their alignment slightly to keep them out of direct sunlight.
High temperatures can also affect the batteries and electronics in your garage door opener. Extreme heat can weaken battery life and sometimes cause electronic components to malfunction. Make sure your garage is well-ventilated to reduce heat build-up. Regularly check and maintain electronic components, especially during the summer, to keep your garage door functioning at its best.
Cold Weather: Winter’s Toll on Garage Doors
Winter can be especially hard on garage doors in Michigan, as cold temperatures put extra strain on various components. When the temperature drops, the metal components, such as the garage door springs, contract, which increases tension and makes them more prone to breakage. A broken spring can leave your garage door inoperable and require immediate repairs.
To protect your garage door and anything stored inside your garage from freezing temperatures, consider adding insulation. An insulated garage door helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, making your garage more comfortable and energy-efficient. For reliable installation, it’s best to seek assistance from an experienced Muskegon garage door installation professional.
Natural Disasters: Wind Damage and Tornado Preparedness
In Michigan, strong winds and the occasional tornado can pose serious risks to your garage door. Heavy winds can turn branches and debris into projectiles, damaging garage doors or breaking through them. If you live in an area prone to high winds or tornadoes, reinforcing your garage door is an essential step in preparedness.
Wind-load-rated garage doors are designed to withstand high wind speeds, which can offer added protection in severe weather. Look for garage doors specifically tested for high wind resistance, as these models provide extra strength to handle intense weather conditions.
While a reinforced garage door can help protect your property, it’s important to note that garages aren’t the safest place to take shelter during a tornado. Instead, follow local tornado safety guidelines, which usually recommend seeking shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of your home.
Proactive Measures for Year-Round Garage Door Care
Garage door care doesn’t have to be a chore. A few simple steps throughout the year can save you time, money, and hassle down the road. Here’s what you can do:
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- Lubricate Metal Components
In the winter, cold temperatures can make metal parts stiff or brittle. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to hinges, rollers, cables, and springs helps keep everything running smoothly.
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- Inspect Your Sensors
Make it a habit to inspect your garage door sensors, especially after windstorms or extreme heatwaves. Ensure the sensors are clean, properly aligned, and free from obstructions to prevent operational issues.
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- Check Weather Seals
Always check the weather seal around your garage door for any signs of wear, cracks, or gaps. Replacing worn weatherstripping is a simple D.I.Y. garage door repair that can protect your garage from moisture damage.
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- Schedule Professional Maintenance
Consider scheduling professional maintenance at least once a year, especially if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself. A garage door technician can spot potential issues and make necessary adjustments.
Thinking long-term? Invest in a durable, weather-resistant garage door that can handle the varying weather conditions in Michigan. A quality garage door can give you peace of mind, knowing your door is ready for anything.
Protect Your Home with Reliable Garage Doors from Shepherd Shoreline
Shepherd Shoreline offers a selection of high-quality garage doors from trusted manufacturers, including C.H.I. Overhead Doors, Mid-America Door, and Amarr. These brands are known for their durability and innovative features, helping you maintain a safe and functional garage through every season.
Our seasoned Muskegon garage door install professionals are here to help you choose the perfect door for your home and ensure it’s installed correctly for optimal performance and longevity. Don’t wait until your garage door gives you trouble. Contact us today at (231) 780-2847 or here for a consultation.