A few minutes of routine care keeps your Lakewood garage door running smoothly for years. Learn the simple, safe habits that prevent costly repairs and spot warning signs before they become emergencies.
Monthly visual checks: what to look for on your Lakewood garage door
Stand back and inspect your garage door from the driveway once a month. Look for cracks or splits in the panels, especially after Lakewood’s humid summers or icy winters. Check the weatherstripping along the bottom edge for gaps or wear—this keeps cold drafts and pests out. Peek at the hinges and rollers for rust or loose bolts; tighten any that wiggle. If you see frayed cables or a door that sags unevenly, these are early signs of bigger trouble brewing. A quick visual sweep takes two minutes and can save you hundreds in emergency repairs. Learn more about our full list of services.
Lubricate moving parts twice a year to prevent Lakewood garage door squeaks
Twice a year—once before summer and once before winter—lubricate the rollers, hinges, and springs with a silicone-based garage door lubricant (never WD-40). Apply a small amount to each moving joint while the door is closed. Open and close the door a few times to spread the lubricant evenly. This keeps metal parts from grinding together and wearing out prematurely. If your door opener chain or screw drive is noisy, a drop of lubricant on the chain or screw can quiet it down. Avoid over-lubricating; excess grease attracts dust and grime. See request a free estimate / contact us.
Balance test: is your Lakewood garage door too heavy for the opener?
Once a year, test your garage door’s balance. Start with the door closed, then disconnect the opener by pulling the release cord. Manually lift the door halfway—it should stay in place. If it slides down, the springs are weak or unbalanced and your opener is working too hard. This strains the motor and can lead to early failure. If the door feels uneven or jerky, call a pro to adjust the springs. Never attempt spring adjustments yourself—springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. Explore about our team and credentials.
Warning signs your Lakewood garage door needs professional attention
Stop DIY work and call a pro immediately if you notice loud grinding or scraping noises, especially if they get worse over time. A door that jerks or moves unevenly may have a broken spring or misaligned track. If the door reverses suddenly when closing or doesn’t close fully, the safety sensors may be dirty or misaligned. Visible gaps in the weatherstripping or daylight showing around the door frame mean poor insulation and potential drafts. Also, if the door opener cycles on and off frequently without reason, it could be overheating or failing. Ignoring these signs can lead to a sudden breakdown or safety hazard.
What Lakewood homeowners should NEVER do themselves
Never attempt to adjust or replace torsion or extension springs—these are under dangerous tension and can snap, causing severe injury. Avoid tampering with the garage door cables; they’re critical to the door’s safe operation. Don’t try to realign bent tracks or repair a door that’s come off its tracks—this requires specialized tools and training. Never remove or bypass safety sensors; they prevent the door from closing on people or pets. Also, don’t ignore strange smells like burning rubber or see smoke near the opener—this could indicate an electrical issue. When in doubt, call a licensed pro.
When to Call Lexington Garage Door's Repairs LLC
If your Lakewood garage door shows any of the warning signs above, or if you’re unsure about maintenance, it’s time to call a professional. Lexington Garage Door's Repairs LLC offers fast, licensed service across Lakewood and nearby towns like Brick Township and Toms River. We handle everything from spring replacements to sensor repairs and opener tune-ups. Our team uses proper tools and follows safety codes to ensure your door is repaired correctly the first time. Don’t wait for a breakdown—schedule a free estimate today and keep your garage door running smoothly for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Lakewood garage door make a loud grinding noise every time it opens?
A loud grinding noise usually means the rollers or hinges need lubrication. If it persists after applying silicone lubricant, the rollers may be worn or the tracks misaligned. These issues can damage the door or opener over time. If the noise continues after DIY fixes, call Lexington Garage Door's Repairs LLC for a professional inspection.
How often should I check the weatherstripping on my Lakewood garage door?
Inspect the weatherstripping every 3–4 months, especially before Lakewood’s harsh winters. Look for cracks, gaps, or peeling rubber. Replace it if it’s no longer sealing tightly—this keeps cold air, pests, and moisture out. A worn strip can raise energy bills and damage the door frame.
What’s the safest way to clean my Lakewood garage door panels without damaging the finish?
Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washers, which can strip paint or warp panels. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots. For stubborn stains, test a small area first. Regular cleaning prevents dirt buildup and keeps your door looking new.