Garage door safety is not a “once and done” home improvement project. It is something that should be done monthly or at least quarterly. Keeping your garage safe means keeping your garage door in good working order and making sure that it is well maintained. Your garage door is the entryway for your car, children, visitors, and others. You use the garage entry to bring in groceries, supplies, pets, and other things. It is one of the most used doors of your home and it sees a lot of traffic most every day.

It’s important to take care of the garage door and establish a routine maintenance check. Making sure your garage door is functional and in good working order should be part of normal home maintenance. It’s much easier and more economical to maintain a garage door than it is to replace it.

Follow these tips to help you inspect and take action for any potential unsafe conditions in your garage or around your garage door:
1. Conduct a reversal test periodically. You can do this by placing a block of wood on the floor underneath the door. As you close the door, it should reverse and start moving upward as it nears the block of wood or by the time it touches the wood. If it does not reverse, check it out and make necessary repairs. This can save children and pets from serious injury.

2. Home improvement starts with safety. Inspect your garage door to make sure that door springs, cables, rollers, and other door parts are in good condition. Garage doors and parts become worn over time and can cause injury. Early detection can avoid problems and prevent injuries.

3. Springs are one of the most important parts of your garage door, and they can also be the most dangerous. They are under extremely high tension. If you suspect problems with your springs, contact a professional to adjust them.

4. Make sure your garage door is properly lubricated so it functions well. Only the moving parts need periodic lubrication. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re not sure what needs a lubricant and what is best to use. This will keep your door functional longer.

In addition to normal home improvement and maintenance of your garage door, practice safety and teach children the same. Never allow anyone to run, walk, or play underneath the garage door opening. Children should not be allowed to play with remote controls or garage door push buttons on the wall. This is dangerous and can cause injuries to themselves and others.

Taking proper maintenance precautions on your garage door can prevent potential injuries or even tragedies. Keep your garage door in good working condition and it will serve you well for years to come.