Garage Door Tune-Up: comparing quotes

Once a year suits most attached garages here, ideally in the fall before cold weather thickens lubricant and stiffens seals. Door and opener makers suggest lubrication every three to six months and a homeowner balance check and reversal test every month, so an annual professional visit sits on top of that light routine. A lightly used door in a detached garage may go longer; a heavily used one, or one exposed to salt spray, benefits from a spring check too.

Torsion or extension springs

Torsion springs above the header and extension springs beside the tracks are inspected differently, and extension systems have pulleys and safety cables that add items to the checklist.

Written record and follow-up

A basic handover note is part of every visit. A detailed condition report with photographs for a landlord, a strata or a home sale is available as an added item.

Height and access

A tall door with the opener and springs high on the header, or a garage packed with storage along the tracks, adds ladder work and time compared with a clear standard-height bay.