While the weather is still tolerable, fall is a great time to look at tidying up your garage and making sure it is ready for the snow and ice that are soon to be here. There are really only a few items to check to be sure you are in good shape for the next few months.
The first place to check is the garage door itself and its opening device.
• Batteries will lose power over time, and colder temperatures can impair function as well. Just for the drill, change out the batteries in your remote opener. You might as well check the batteries in your vehicle fob at the same time.
• Stand inside a dark garage during the day and see how much light seeps in from the sides and bottom of the door. This is the same area that will allow cold wind and moisture to migrate and make the door difficult or impossible to open. Make sure the weather seals and stripping are in good shape. If not, replace your garage door as soon as possible.
• Look at the drive and track of your garage door. These are places that can become blocked with accumulated dirt or debris. Check the belt to make sure it is intact with no frays or damage. If you use the area for storage, check to be sure that nothing will accidentally move and block the operation of the door.
• Lubricate the wheels and track to eliminate friction. Check the owner’s manual about where and how and what products to use, or you can just put in a service call to a reputable garage door company.
Once you are sure the door is in good working order, you can take a look around the rest of the space. If you use shelving to keep things organized, check the boxes you have stored. Is there something that you no longer need or use and can donate to someone in need? Is there something that can be put back into service?
After things have been adjusted and your car is sitting in the driveway, put on a face mask and give things a good sweep. You can also use your leaf blower to get rid of any accumulated leaves, grass, or other items. Hook up your garden hose and give the floor a good hard blast. If you have a lot of energy, take a mop and give the floor a scrub.
Inspect the Walls
This is also a good time to inspect the walls for any holes that would be a welcome sight for creepy, crawly things to find a winter home.
As you start to return all your items to their assigned spots, you can safely store your mower toward the back and your snow blower or shovel toward the front. This will make things so much more convenient. It wouldn’t hurt to give that blower a trial run just to make sure it still starts. Keep items away from access to light bulbs or other essential items.
Check your supplies of windshield washer solution, snow melt, or whatever you might need. Buy it now while supplies are plentiful.
If the labels on your boxes and bins are faded, head to your computer and run some new ones.
We hope this post has provided you with some useful information about the garage fall cleaning checklist. If you’re experiencing any problems with your garage door, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
SOS Garage Door Repairs is here to assist you with our garage door repair services and how we can help you resolve any issues you may be facing.
