Top 5 Garage Door Winterization Tips
If you live in a climate that experiences harsh winters, you probably take several precautions every year to ensure that your home is ready to face the elements. However, if garage door winterization isn’t included on your seasonal maintenance list, your home could be at risk of serious damage.
Not sure how to properly prep your garage and its surrounding areas for the coming winter? Here are the top 5 tips for garage winterization:
- Insulate your water heater and pipes
If you store your water heater in the garage, you can effortlessly reduce your hot water bills during the winter by using an insulating blanket.
Insulating blankets are inexpensive and specially designed to keep older water heater models safe from freezing. If your water heater has an R-value of below 24, using an insulating blanket could cut your heat losses by up to 45% this winter. While you’re at it, cover exposed pipes with plastic wrap, foam, or even old towels secured with duct tape to prevent freezing.
- Have your garage door repaired
If your garage door has even the tiniest crack or opening along its façade, you will know as soon as the winter rains and snows arrive. If you haven’t received a garage door repair or tune-up in a while, now is the time.
A high-quality garage door specialist will be able to thoroughly inspect your door for any weaknesses, fix any existing damage, and apply lubrication to moving parts if needed.
- Insulate the walls of your garage
Making sure the walls of your garage are properly insulated can do more than just save you money in heating costs, it can keep your garage at a comfortable temperature year-round. This is especially helpful if you use the space as an office or workshop or use it to store heat-sensitive items.
Garage wall insulation is relatively easy to do yourself with materials from any hardware store. In addition to the walls, a new garage door will provide optimal insulation to prevent excessive energy loss.
- Clean out your garage
Sweeping away any dirt and debris built up in your garage could prevent rodents from nesting in an attempt to escape the cold. Prepping for winter is also a great opportunity to organize your warm-weather gear and get your winter gear ready and accessible for easy use.
- Apply caulk around your garage door
Many people apply caulk to the perimeter of their windows in order to protect them from cold weather damage. Doing the same to your garage door can have a similar effect, protecting your home and precious belongings from harsh weather.
Contact D Bar Garage Doors today to schedule your pre-winter garage door tune-up.
