Garage Door Safety Month

Prioritizing Home Safety: Garage Door Safety Month

Every May, Garage Door Safety Month reminds homeowners to focus on the safety of one of the most commonly used parts of their homes—the garage door. Often overlooked, garage doors play a vital role in daily life, from protecting vehicles and belongings to ensuring the safety of loved ones. During this month-long initiative we  aim to educate families in the Tulsa area about the risks associated with garage doors and provide actionable steps to keep them operating safely.

Garage doors may seem like simple mechanisms, but they can pose significant dangers if not properly maintained. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 20,000 people are injured each year due to garage door-related incidents. These accidents often involve falling doors, malfunctioning sensors, or improper operation, affecting both children and pets. By taking a few precautionary measures, you can significantly reduce these risks and ensure your garage door remains a safe and reliable part of your home.

Why Garage Door Safety Matters

Garage doors are often equipped with advanced safety features like photoelectric sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms designed to prevent accidents. However, if these systems are misaligned, damaged, or neglected, they may fail to function as intended. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to ensuring these safety features work correctly and to avoiding preventable injuries.

Essential Tips for a Safer Garage Door

Here are some practical steps to ensure your garage door operates safely and efficiently:

1. Check the Auto-Reverse Mechanism

Most modern garage doors come with an auto-reverse feature that makes the door reverse direction if it detects an obstruction. To test this, place a small object, like a 2×4 wood block, in the door’s path and close it. The door should reverse upon contact. If it doesn’t, the mechanism may need professional adjustment or repair to prevent potential accidents, especially for households with children or pets.

2. Examine the Sensors

Photoelectric sensors, typically located near the floor on both sides of the garage door, are designed to detect objects in the door’s path and stop it from closing. Ensure these sensors are clean, aligned, and free from obstructions. Misaligned or dirty sensors can fail to detect obstacles, increasing the risk of injury. Regular checks can help maintain their functionality.

3. Ensure Proper Door Balance

A well-balanced garage door should open and close smoothly without excessive effort. To test the balance, disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle (often a red cord) and manually lift the door. If it feels too heavy or doesn’t stay in place, the door may be imbalanced, putting strain on the opener and increasing the risk of mechanical failure. In such cases, professional adjustment is recommended.

4. Inspect and Maintain the Springs

The springs in your garage door system are under constant tension and play a critical role in lifting and lowering the door. Over time, they can wear out or break, leading to unexpected door malfunctions. If you notice any signs of damage, such as gaps in the springs, contact a professional for repairs. Attempting to fix springs yourself can be dangerous due to the high tension involved.

5. Keep Tracks and Rollers Clean

The tracks and rollers of your garage door should be free from dirt, debris, and grime, which can cause the door to malfunction or become noisy. Regularly clean the tracks and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the moving parts to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. A little maintenance here can go a long way in preventing costly repairs.

6. Educate Your Household

Teaching your family, especially children, about garage door safety is essential. Show them how the door works, explain the dangers of playing near it, and ensure they know how to use the emergency release in case of a power outage. Awareness can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.

7. Schedule Routine Professional Inspections

To maintain the longevity and safety of your garage door, schedule regular inspections with a certified technician. Professionals can identify potential issues, perform necessary repairs, and ensure the entire system operates as intended. Annual maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and improve safety.

8. Upgrade to Smart Technology

Consider installing a smart garage door opener that allows you to monitor and control your door remotely via a smartphone app. This technology can enhance security by alerting you if the door is left open and provide peace of mind when you’re away from home.

9. Hire Professionals for Repairs

For complex issues like broken springs or damaged sensors, always rely on certified technicians. Professionals have the expertise to handle intricate repairs safely and can offer guidance on maintaining your system. Attempting DIY repairs on complicated components can lead to further damage or injury.

Final Thoughts: Make Safety a Priority

Garage Door Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at your garage door and ensure it’s functioning safely. By following these tips—testing safety features, performing regular maintenance, educating your family, and seeking professional help when needed—you can minimize risks and keep your home secure.

A small investment of time and care can prevent accidents and ensure your garage door remains a reliable part of your home for years to come. Let’s make safety a priority this month and beyond!  If you need help with inspecting our repairing your garage door, please call us, Superior Overhead Doors at 918-258-3667 to schedule an appointment.  We serve Tulsa and the surrounding areas in Northeast Oklahoma.