How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Commercial Garage Door System

Managing an efficient commercial garage door is crucial for the efficient daily business operations and the safety of employees. However, some commercial garage door systems tend to wear out faster than others, putting the company in an expensive cycle of repairs and replacements. To help you get the most out of your commercial garage door, we’ve compiled some practical, expert tips below for your guidance. These simple yet effective maintenance tips can go a long way in protecting your property and staff for a seamless coexistence.

Invest in Quality Doors and Parts

When considering commercial garage doors and parts for your company garages, going for high-quality upfront might seem like an expensive move. However, settling for high-quality garage door solutions upfront can save you a lot of money in the long run, especially if they’re high-grade commercial garage doors from ODC. 

Opting for cheaper parts, which are often made using low-quality materials, can usher you into a series of unending repairs and replacements. This may end up being more expensive in the long run and interfere with your normal business operations.

Monthly Inspections

With consistent monthly inspections, you can easily catch potential garage door problems early before they escalate to expensive, risky damage. You can start by visually inspecting dented areas, scratches, and cracks on the door and its parts. If the door panels are made of metal, ensure you also check for rust, which can easily compromise the door’s integrity.

A monthly inspection will also help catch misalignment issues. You can check whether the door opens and closes uniformly, especially if it was just recently installed. The inspection team should ensure the seals and weather stripping around the door are in perfect shape, as worn-out seals could cause drafts and energy loss. Crucial components like cables and springs should equally be in perfect shape, void of rust or signs of wear and tear. 

Lubricate Moving Parts

Commercial garage doors are opened and closed more often than their residential counterparts. This frequent strain and stress on the moving parts can cause accelerated wear and tear that ultimately leads to a breakdown or an employee injury. The most common moving parts you might want to attend to quickly include hinges, rollers, and tracks. Clean off any dirt and debris buildup before applying lubricant for effective performance and to minimize waste.

Continually check for signs of dryness and strain on these moving parts to apply lubricants on time before they start making the frictional noise. Waiting to apply lubricants after the moving parts start making sounds can be a late move, as these sounds always indicate advanced stages of wear and tear.

Train Your Employees

For the important reason of their safety, employees deserve a thorough training on how best to operate the garage door. They should learn how to check vital signs of danger, like when the door starts making strange noises, or what to do if it opens and gets stuck midway. 

You should also train them on efficient ways of handling the door to avoid damaging its parts earlier than they should last. Remind them to avoid applying excessive force when operating the door and bumping or hitting it with equipment, as these can cause harm to the door and its users.

Your commercial garage doors are part of your business’s security system that deserves utmost care to avoid loopholes for security breaches. By applying these tips, you can leverage your door’s performance and ensure optimal security and safety for everyone.