We think of winter as the hard season for garage doors, but extended 95°F+ stretches do their own damage. Here's what heat does to your door — and how to fight back.
What Heat Damages
- Lubricant. High heat thins and evaporates lubricant, leaving metal-on-metal wear. Re-lubricate mid-summer, not just spring and fall.
- Weather seals. UV and heat dry out rubber seals until they crack. Inspect the bottom seal each summer; silicone protectant extends its life.
- Opener electronics. Garage ceilings can exceed 120°F. Openers with logic boards near their thermal limit act erratically — random reversals, unresponsive remotes.
- Photo-eye sensors. Intense low-angle summer sun can blind the receiving sensor in the late afternoon, making the door refuse to close.
- Paint and finish. South- and west-facing steel doors fade and chalk. A coat of quality exterior paint protects the steel beneath.
Summer Care Checklist
- Lubricate all moving parts with silicone-based spray
- Wipe and shade the safety sensors
- Treat the rubber seals with protectant
- Keep the garage ventilated to protect the opener
Need help? Straight Up Garage Doors offers maintenance visits throughout the St. Louis metro. Call (314) 788-1106.