Commercial Door Maintenance: Avoid Downtime During Cooler Months

As temperatures drop, commercial door maintenance becomes critical to keeping your business running smoothly and avoiding costly downtime. Proactive care not only extends the life of your doors but also helps prevent unexpected issues that can disrupt your operations—especially when you need reliability the most. Below, Ace Overhead Doors shares expert tips to help you prepare your commercial doors for the cooler months, including when to call for garage door emergency repairs.

Cold weather can cause metal components to contract, lubricants to thicken, and moisture to freeze, all of which can lead to operational failures or safety hazards. Preventative maintenance ensures your doors remain functional, energy-efficient, and secure throughout the season.

1. Inspect for Gaps, Leaks, and Weatherstripping

• Check for air or water leaks around the sides, top, and bottom of your doors. Even small gaps can let in cold air, increasing heating costs and risking moisture damage.
• Examine weatherstripping for cracks or wear. Replace damaged strips to maintain insulation and prevent drafts.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts

• Cold weather can cause metal to stiffen, making doors harder to operate and increasing the risk of breakage.
• Use a cold-weather-approved lubricant on hinges, rollers, and tracks to keep everything moving smoothly.

3. Clear Tracks and Thresholds

• Remove debris, ice, and snow from tracks and entryways to prevent blockages and ensure smooth operation.
• Even small obstructions, like wood chips or ice, can stop a door from closing fully, leading to energy loss and security risks.

4. Test Door Functionality and Safety Features

• Run doors through a full open/close cycle to catch any operational issues before they become emergencies.
• Test safety sensors and emergency breakaway features to ensure they work properly in case of a malfunction or power outage.

5. Schedule Professional Inspections

• Regular inspections by a qualified technician can identify worn parts, misalignments, or electrical issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.
• Professionals can also ensure compliance with safety standards and recommend repairs before problems escalate into emergencies.

Despite the best maintenance, emergencies can still happen. If you notice any of the following, contact Ace Overhead Doors for garage door emergency repairs:

• Door won’t open or close, or is stuck partway
• Loud grinding, squeaking, or unusual noises
• Broken springs, cables, or rollers
• Visible gaps or misalignment that compromise security or insulation

Prompt emergency repairs minimize downtime and protect your business from further damage or safety risks.

• Train staff on manual door operation in case of power failure.
• Document maintenance activities to track service history and plan future upkeep.
• Organize storage near doors to keep pathways clear and maintain efficient heat flow.

Stay ahead of winter’s challenges with proactive commercial door maintenance. For expert service or immediate garage door emergency repairs, trust Ace Overhead Doors to keep your business secure and operational all season long.