How to Lubricate Your Garage Door

With the right care, your garage door is much more likely to stand the test of time. A well-lubricated door opens and closes smoothly and has a longer life span. To keep your garage door at its best and limit the noises it makes during operation, you’ll want to lubricate it about every six months.

What Is the Best Lubricant for Garage Doors?

The best lubricant for garage doors is a specially formulated spray containing silicone or white lithium grease. These sprays typically come with a long straw attachment that makes them easy to apply in tight spaces. You can also wipe white lithium grease onto metallic surfaces by hand. Avoid using substances like WD-40, engine oil or mechanic’s grease, as they tend to attract dirt and dust buildup. 

How to Use Garage Door Lubricants

Lubricating your garage door is a relatively quick process. Follow these six simple steps:

1. Shut your garage door and power off the opener. 
2. Clean the inside and outside of the tracks with a damp cloth. If you find excess grime that won’t come off easily, try automotive brake cleaner to break it down for removal. Avoid using lubrication on the tracks, as it will impede the function of the rollers. 
3. Open the door and spray or wipe the hinges with grease. You can then move on and lubricate the rollers — be sure to grease the small ball bearing inside each roller. Remember to remove any extra lubricant to ensure your door stays balanced. 
4. Using a step ladder, lubricate the bearings and springs. The bearings are located along the top of a garage door, and the bearing plates are on each side of the springs. After thoroughly lubricating these parts, open and close the door to ensure the grease gets evenly distributed. 
5. Spray grease on the top rail and arm bar. Distribute the lubricant evenly along the top rail with a cloth. You do not need to grease the chain, as it has its own lubricant. 
6. Lastly, apply lubricant to the lock on the garage door to safeguard it against rust, then open and close your door to confirm that it is working smoothly. 

Trust the Pros to Service Your Garage Doors

Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your garage door at its best. If you’d rather leave this task to the professionals, the team at Oregon City Garage Door is here for you. We’ve been installing and servicing garage doors since 1992, so we know the best lubricants and the right techniques to keep your installation at its best.

Along with maintenance and repair services, we offer emergency appointments to address garage door problems quickly. Contact us for more information or use our booking tool to schedule a service online at your convenience.