How to Maintain Your Garage Door During Florida’s Rainy Season

Florida’s rainy season can be tough on garage doors, with heavy rain, high humidity, and strong winds all taking a toll on their functionality and appearance. In Punta Gorda, where Tradewind Doors operates, the summer months are especially prone to frequent downpours and thunderstorms. Proper garage door maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs and ensure your door operates smoothly during the wet season. Here are some practical tips to keep your garage door in top shape during Florida’s rainy season.

1. Inspect Your Weather Stripping Regularly

The weather stripping along the bottom of your garage door plays a crucial role in keeping water, dirt, and debris out of your garage. Florida’s rain and humidity can cause this material to deteriorate over time, leading to leaks and potential water damage. Inspect your weather stripping regularly for any signs of cracks, peeling, or gaps.

Tip: Replace weather stripping that shows signs of wear or damage to ensure a tight seal that protects your garage from rainwater and moisture intrusion.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts

Rainy season moisture and humidity can cause metal parts to rust or corrode, which impacts the smooth operation of your garage door. Lubricating the moving parts—such as hinges, springs, and rollers—will help prevent rust and ensure the door operates without friction.

Tip: Use a silicone-based lubricant or garage door-specific spray to keep parts well-lubricated. Avoid using grease, as it can attract dirt and cause parts to gum up.

3. Check and Clean the Tracks

Garage door tracks can accumulate dirt, debris, and rust, especially during Florida’s rainy season. This buildup can interfere with the door’s movement and lead to operational issues. Make it a habit to check and clean the tracks to ensure smooth operation.

Tip: Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from the tracks. For rust spots, you can gently scrub with a wire brush, followed by applying a light coat of lubricant.

4. Inspect for Rust or Corrosion

Florida’s high humidity levels can accelerate rust formation on metal garage doors and hardware. Regularly inspect your garage door and its components for any signs of rust or corrosion, particularly after extended rainy periods.

Tip: If you spot rust, gently remove it with a wire brush and apply a rust-resistant primer or paint. If corrosion is widespread, consider contacting a professional for garage door repair in Punta Gorda to assess and fix the issue.

5. Test Your Garage Door's Balance

Heavy rainfall and strong winds can sometimes cause your garage door to become unbalanced. An unbalanced door puts unnecessary strain on the opener and other components, leading to potential breakdowns.

Tip: To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the garage door halfway. If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, it’s unbalanced, and you should schedule a garage door repair in Punta Gorda to have a professional adjust it.

6. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Water can seep into your garage through even the smallest cracks and gaps. Inspect the area around your garage door for any gaps, particularly around the frame and edges.

Tip: Seal any gaps with caulk or weather-resistant sealants to prevent water damage inside your garage. This also helps keep out pests that tend to seek shelter during the rainy season.

7. Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

Your garage door’s auto-reverse feature is essential for safety, especially during stormy conditions when debris or water could obstruct the door’s path. Make sure this feature is functioning correctly by testing it regularly.

Tip: Place a small object like a block of wood under the door, then attempt to close it. If the door doesn’t reverse automatically upon contact, it’s time for a garage door repair to ensure this critical safety feature is working properly.

8. Prepare for Stormy Weather

Florida’s rainy season often brings powerful storms, so it’s important to ensure your garage door can withstand high winds. Consider installing hurricane-rated garage doors if you don’t already have one. These doors are built to handle strong gusts and provide added protection to your home.

Tip: If you already have a hurricane-rated garage door, double-check that all bolts, hinges, and brackets are securely fastened. Consider a professional inspection if you're unsure about your door’s ability to withstand upcoming storms.

9. Schedule a Professional Inspection

While DIY maintenance is essential, a professional inspection can catch issues that may go unnoticed. Scheduling an annual inspection before Florida’s rainy season kicks into high gear can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

Tip: Contact Tradewind Doors for a professional garage door repair in Punta Gorda. Our expert technicians can ensure your door is well-maintained and prepared for Florida’s unpredictable rainy season.

At Tradewind Doors, we understand the challenges that Florida’s rainy season can bring. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping your garage door in optimal condition year-round. Whether you need a tune-up, new weather stripping, or a full garage door replacement, we’re here to help. Contact us today at 941-257-8400 for expert garage door repair in Punta Gorda and protect your home from the elements.