Winter is in full swing, and the cold has settled in so deeply that it’s starting to take a toll on everything—even your garage door. At Affordable Garage Door, we’ve been helping homeowners battle winter’s harsh effects on their garage doors for over 30 years. A garage door that’s not working properly in the dead of winter isn’t just inconvenient—it can expose your home to potential risks. In this blog, we’ll explore the five most common winter garage door issues you should be on the lookout for to keep your garage door in good condition.

Common Winter Garage Door Issues

Winter weather can push your garage door to its limits. Here are five key problems homeowners often encounter when the temperature drops:

1. Frozen Garage Door Mechanisms

Cold temperatures can cause various metal components in your garage door—like springs, screws, and tracks—to contract. This contraction increases friction, potentially causing parts to freeze or even warp. Lubricant in the tracks may also thicken or freeze, turning your smooth-functioning garage door into a stuck nightmare.  

2. Damaged or Hardened Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping provides a seal around your garage door to keep out cold air and moisture. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause weatherstripping to become stiff, crack, or break apart. Damaged weatherstripping leaves your garage vulnerable to drafts, moisture, and even freezing at the base.  

3. Broken or Worn-Out Springs

Cold weather can weaken garage door springs, especially if they’ve endured years of wear and tear. These springs play a key role in counterbalancing the weight of your garage door. When they fail, raising or lowering the door becomes difficult—and potentially dangerous.  

4. Garage Door Frozen to the Ground

Snow and ice can build up at the base of your garage door and freeze it to the ground. You might notice your door struggling to open—or worse, not budging at all. Forced attempts to lift it could damage the door and the opener system.  

5. Condensation on Safety Sensors

Temperature fluctuations during winter can cause condensation to form on your garage door’s safety sensors, which are crucial for ensuring safe operation. This moisture may block the infrared beams, falsely signaling an obstruction and preventing the door from closing properly.  

The Impact of Ignoring These Issues

While these problems might seem minor at first, ignoring winter garage door maintenance can lead to more expensive repairs—or even replacement—later on. Here’s what’s at stake if you don’t address these issues promptly:  

• Higher Energy Bills  

Damaged weatherstripping and drafty garages can drive up your heating costs as cold air seeps into your home.  

• Security Risks  

A malfunctioning garage door leaves your home more vulnerable to potential break-ins.  

• Costly Repairs  

What starts as a frozen track or broken spring can cause damage to the garage door motor or panels, resulting in more extensive repairs.  

• Safety Hazards  

Faulty or heavy doors can become difficult to operate, posing risks for you and your family.  

How a Professional Can Help

Winter garage door problems can feel like a hassle, but they don’t have to be. With the right care and maintenance, your garage door can stay in top shape throughout the cold months. Here are a few key services to consider:  

• Regular Maintenance: Keep your garage door running smoothly with tune-ups that include lubricating moving parts and checking spring tension.  
• Weatherstripping Replacement: High-quality weatherstripping helps seal and insulate your garage, keeping the cold out.  
• Spring Repairs: Broken or weakened springs can be safely repaired by trained technicians to ensure reliable operation.  
• Track and Motor Adjustments: Misalignment or motor issues can be fixed to restore your garage door’s performance.  

Professionals help keep your garage door functional and efficient all winter long.

Keep Your Garage Door Running Smoothly This Winter

Winter garage door problems can derail your day, but they don’t have to. By staying ahead of common issues and investing in professional maintenance, you can enjoy a fully functional garage door no matter how cold it gets.  

Don’t wait until your garage door freezes shut—schedule your winter maintenance service today with Affordable Garage Door. Contact us today to keep your garage safe, secure, and running like a dream this winter.