How Weather Affects Your Garage Door (And What to Do About It)

New Mexico’s climate can be extreme. From hot weather in the summer to cold weather at night, plus dust storms, rain, and even the occasional snow, the elements constantly test your garage door system.

While we adapt with jackets, AC, or heat, your garage door has no such luxury. Over time, this constant exposure affects your garage door, causing noisy operation, safety hazards, and unexpected breakdowns that may require garage door repair.

As local experts, we at Unlimited Garage Door Services see how weather affects doors every season. Understanding how weather affects your garage door is the first step in protecting it.

Common Ways Weather Affects Garage Doors

New Mexico’s unique climate puts extra strain on your garage door springs, rollers, tracks, and metal parts. Here’s how different conditions impact performance:

Expansion and Contraction from Fluctuating Temperatures

Your garage door system includes steel tracks, torsion springs, and other moving parts. Temperature changes make metal parts expand in the heat and contract in cold temperatures.

Because of these fluctuating temperatures, misalignment and added strain are common. You might notice grinding noises, a door that won’t close properly, or difficulty getting the garage door opener to move the door smoothly.

Moisture and Humidity Damage

Though New Mexico is dry, monsoon rains bring sudden humidity and moisture that affect your garage door.

• Wooden garage doors may swell, warp, or rot.
• Metal parts can rust if scratches expose the steel.
• Weather stripping around the door deteriorates, letting in warm air, dust, or water.

This can lead to drafts, higher energy costs, and more frequent garage door repair.

Dust and Sand Build-Up

Dust storms are common, and the fine particles can wreak havoc on garage door sensors, tracks, and other machine parts.

• Dust clogs rollers and photo eye sensors, making the door and garage less secure.
• Debris grinds away at lubricants, keeping the moving parts from staying properly lubricated.

If your photo eyes are blocked, the door may refuse to close properly, creating a safety hazard for homeowners.

Cold Weather Stiffening

During the winter months, cold temperatures make lubricants thicken. Without the right lubricant, your garage door opener struggles to lift the door.

• Garage door springs may become brittle and break.
• The opener’s motor and remote control may strain to move the door.
• In extreme cold, ice buildup around the ground or weather seal can make the door stick.

UV and Heat Damage From the Sun’s Rays

In summer, hot weather and direct sun’s rays cause wood doors to crack and notice cracks in painted finishes. Vinyl and plastic components in panels or windows can warp or lead to brittleness.

Even an insulated garage door can suffer surface damage without proper care. The sun also dries out weather stripping, making it less effective in keeping out rain, dust, and pests.

Preventative Steps to Protect Your Garage Door

The good news is that with regular maintenance, many homeowners can prevent serious weather-related issues. Follow this seasonal checklist to protect your garage:

• Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant every six months to springs, rollers, hinges, and tracks. It’s the best lubricant for ensuring smooth operation during both winter weather and hot weather.
• Inspect and Replace Weather Stripping: Replace cracked or worn seals before winter begins to keep out cold air and reduce energy costs.
• Clean Garage Door Tracks and Sensors: Wipe dust and dirt from tracks and garage door sensors with a soft cloth. This helps the garage door opener operate safely.
• Test Door Balance: If the door fails to stay halfway open when tested manually, the garage door springs may need adjustment by a professional technician.
• Wash and Wax the Door: Cleaning removes corrosive dirt while wax protects against fading from the sun’s rays.

If you’d rather leave it to the pros, Unlimited Garage Door Services offers expert annual maintenance for garage doors across New Mexico.

When to Call Unlimited Garage Door Services in New Mexico

Some problems can’t wait. Call us for professional garage door repair if:

• The door sticks halfway or won’t open.
• You hear loud squeaks, grinding, or banging.
• Garage door springs snap or other moving parts appear damaged.
• Garage door sensors or photo eyes fail repeatedly.
• You notice cracks in panels, rust, or the door looks warped.

Attempting to fix springs or cables yourself is potentially hazardous. Trust our experienced team of professionals! We’ve served New Mexico homeowners for over 14 years with reliable service, safe practices, and guaranteed results.

Call Unlimited Garage Door Services at (505) 447-9441 or schedule service online.

Keep Your Garage Door Weather-Ready All Year

Now you know how weather affects your garage door, from cold weather stiffening to hot weather UV damage, plus dust, humidity, and fluctuating temperatures.

With regular maintenance and timely professional technician inspections, you’ll avoid breakdowns, extend your door’s life, and improve efficiency.

For weather-proof garage door repair and maintenance in New Mexico, trust Unlimited Garage Door Services to protect your garage year-round.