Does Snow Affect Your Garage Door?

Garages are the ultimate convenience during the winter months. Not only is your car parked in a cozy garage, you avoid having to scrape ice off your car in freezing weather. And isn’t it nice to get inside your car in the morning without braving the elements?

But winters can be tough on your garage. Cold weather brings sleet, ice, and snow. The question is, does snow have an effect on your garage door?

How Does Snow Affect Your Garage Door?

Cold weather can wreak havoc on your garage door. 

Here are some ways that the cold and snow affect your garage door. 

Frozen Door

Water pooling near the foot of your garage can freeze, sealing your garage door shut and barring your access to the garage. 

If this happens, do not try to pull or push the doorframe too hard, as you may damage the garage door’s hardware. Try to thaw the ice underneath using hot water, a space heater, or even your hair dryer. Make sure to clear snow, water, and ice daily from the foot of your garage door to prevent this problem from recurring.  

Broken Springs

Broken springs or compromised spring strength can also prevent your garage door from opening. The snow and the cold weather that follows can cause the springs to become brittle, especially if you the garage door has springs made of carbon. Testing and inspecting your garage door springs before the cold winter months hit your area is highly recommended. Installing safety cables can also help protect the garage door from broken springs. 

Piling Snow

Another important issue that can arise for your garage doors is due to snow piling against it. It is common for snow to be piled against the door while shoveling it in the winter months. This can not only lead to the blocking of your door but can bring about frozen debris and leaves that can cause additional damage to your garage door. 

How to Protect Your Garage Door from the Negative Effects of Snow

Snow does affect your garage door, so here are some tips for protecting your garage door from the winter elements.

• Clear the entire garage track of debris to ensure smooth operating. 
• Make sure to confirm that your garage door works manually. You don’t want to get stuck relying on the automatic opener alone. 
• Always clear any snow that accumulates when your garage door is open. The door might fail to close entirely if snow obstructs the way. 
• Consider a weather-resistant garage entrance that can withstand the possible effects of snow on the garage door.  
• Applying ice melter on the driveway can also help prevent a build-up of ice near the door. 

Find the Best Garage Door Repair Services at Door Doctor

Winter months can be tough on your garage door and result in costly repairs. 

Wondering about the effects of snow on your garage door? Scrambling because your garage door needs emergency repairs due to freezing weather? Contact Door Doctor! 

We offer emergency repair services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our experts provide professional installation and repair services to ensure that your garage doors operate smoothly.