Winter Garage Door Safety: Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Garage doors provide a number of benefits, from securing your storage space to an increased home value. But as temperatures drop and winter sets in, we also need to be aware of the potential hazards of the cold weather.

From accidents and injuries caused by malfunctioning garage doors to keeping your car safe in the snow – here are some garage door maintenance tips for preventing common cold-weather dangers associated with your garage door.

1. A Frozen Garage Door

One of the most common winter hazards for garage doors is ice and snow buildup, which can cause your door to freeze shut. Ice and snow paired with frigid temperatures make it difficult to open and put strain on your opener and motor, potentially leading to costly repairs.

To prevent this from happening, make sure to clear any snow or ice from your garage door before trying to open it. You can also use a de-icing product or a hairdryer to melt any ice buildup around the edges of the door.

2. Malfunctioning Sensors

Garage door sensors are essential for preventing accidents and injuries by detecting obstacles in the door’s path and stopping it from closing. However, these sensors can malfunction during winter due to extreme temperatures or snow drifts, leading to a potentially dangerous situation.

To prevent sensor malfunction, regularly check and clean your sensors and ensure they are correctly aligned. You can also add a protective cover or shield around the sensors to protect them from snow and ice. Giel Garage Doors can provide you with a number of options for sensor maintenance.

3. Power Outages

Winter storms can often lead to power outages, which can prevent you from opening or closing your garage door. This can be inconvenient and pose a safety risk if you need to get in or out of your garage quickly.

To prevent being stuck with a malfunctioning garage door during a power outage, make sure to invest in a secondary power source for your opener, such as a battery backup or generator.

4. Broken Springs

Cold weather can cause the metal to become brittle and more prone to breaking, including the springs on your garage door. Broken springs can cause the door to slam shut suddenly, potentially causing injuries or damage.

To prevent bodily harm or property damage, regularly inspect and maintain your garage door springs, and consider replacing them with high-quality, weather-resistant springs designed for cold climates.

Choose Giel Garage Doors for Safe and Reliable Garage Door Services

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we understand the importance of personal safety and garage door maintenance, especially during winter.

That’s why we offer a range of services, including tune-ups and weather seal replacements, to ensure your garage door is functioning correctly and safely.

Don’t let the cold weather bring potential hazards to your home. Contact us today for all your garage door needs.