Our Handyman Explains How Often You Should Lubricate Your Garage Door Springs
Your garage doors might occupy your mind as much as a forgotten piece of fruitcake from the holidays: until something goes awry. More specifically, if your garage door springs start squeaking, rusting, or generally showing signs of wear, you might find yourself dealing with an added expense if the problem isn't taken care of quickly. Knowing how often to lubricate these springs varies depending on who you ask or what you search on the internet, which is why our expert gave House Digest some exclusive tips to ensure our readers don't have to worry about loud, slow, or broken springs because they forgot to lubricate them often enough. Brett Labeka, virtual handyperson expert at Frontdoor, explained that your garage door springs should be checked and greased at least every six months.
Labeka noted, "It's advisable to lubricate your garage door springs every six months, unless you notice the door is noisy or isn't rolling smoothly. In these cases, additional lubrication may be necessary." Labeska also explained that you don't always need to hire a professional for this task. "Lubricating your garage door springs is generally a do-it-yourself task," he said. "However, if there's a structural issue with the spring or door, it's best to consult a professional." Before reaching for just any product or your trusty can of WD-40 to grease your garage door, consider the types of products our expert suggested instead.
Opt for thicker solutions with easy applicators
To grease your garage door springs, Brett Labeka recommended purchasing brands with a thicker solution that sticks to the metal for optimum protection and motion. He exclusively told House Digest, "I recommend using white lithium grease or silicone spray. These products provide a thicker layer of grease that adheres well to the springs, ensuring effective lubrication."
By applying products like the Blaster white lithium grease spray (available at Home Depot) or Blaster garage door silicone spray (also at Home Depot), both $6.98, Labeka explained you can "reduce friction and prevent rust on the bare metal. Without [lubrication], springs can wear down more quickly, lose tension, and ultimately have a reduced lifespan due to inadequate maintenance." Repairing your noisy garage door will also keep neighbors happy, which is a bonus!
Your garage door springs sit directly above and on the center underside of your door. To access them, you can use a ladder or step stool, and then apply the lubricant. For the best results, Labeka encouraged readers to use aerosol sprays because they "are particularly effective for reaching the small moving parts of the door mechanism." To ensure you get all around the springs, you can also use a putty knife like this one from Home Depot for only $3.98. Spray the lubricant on, then use the knife to spread it all around the springs, making sure to cover the portions that face the door when you're greasing it.
Don't forget these important components, either
"After applying lubricant, open and close the door several times to ensure the grease is evenly distributed," Brett Labeka recommended in his exclusive interview with House Digest. This will help the door as a whole function efficiently and keep issues like rust or general wear and tear from diminishing the life of your garage door. Labeka also said to always "ensure the keyhole and the large armbar at the top of the door are lubricated as well." The keyhole or lock can be affected by rust and the elements, which is why it is important to grease it, so it doesn't stick should you need to use it.
By consistently lubricating each of these components once every six months, your garage door should remain in good condition for up to 30 years, hopefully with minimal need for replacements. You can easily find all the products you need to keep it maintained at your local hardware store for less than $20, which is a good deal cheaper than the cost to repair any garage door or its parts. So, be sure to add lubricating your springs to the "to-do" list lest it become the fruitcake of your home maintenance.