How quickly can you fix my damaged panels?

In most cases, we can repair or replace damaged panels within 24-48 hours. For common panel sizes and styles, we often have materials in stock and can complete same-day repairs. Custom or specialty panels may require 3-5 business days for ordering.

What causes damaged panels in garage doors?

Panel damage typically results from vehicle impacts, severe weather, normal wear and aging, improper spring tension, and sun/moisture deterioration. Regular maintenance can identify early signs before complete failure occurs.

Do you offer financing for new custom door installations?

Yes! We offer 0% interest for 12 months on approved credit, low monthly payments up to 60 months, and no down payment for qualified buyers. We also accept all major credit cards, checks, and cash.

What is included in your 5-year warranty?

Our comprehensive warranty covers all parts and labor on work we perform—springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and opener components. If anything fails due to defects in materials or workmanship, we repair or replace it at no cost.

How often should I have my garage door serviced?

We recommend professional maintenance once per year. If your door is used heavily (multiple times daily), consider semi-annual service. Annual maintenance includes lubrication, spring adjustment, safety testing, hardware tightening, and weather seal inspection.

Do you service all garage door brands?

Yes, our technicians are trained with all major brands including LiftMaster, Chamberlain, Genie, Craftsman, Wayne Dalton, Clopay, Amarr, and many others. We carry common parts for most brands in our service vehicles.

What's the difference between torsion and extension springs?

Torsion springs mount above the door and use torque—they're more durable, smoother, and safer. Extension springs run along the tracks and are less expensive but have shorter lifespans. We generally recommend torsion springs for superior performance.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A standard single door takes 3-5 hours; a double door takes 5-7 hours. This includes removal, installation, opener setup, remote programming, and safety testing. Complex installations may take longer.

Preparing Your Garage Door for Cold Weather: Essential Tips

January 10, 2026 7 min read

As temperatures drop along the Oregon coast, your garage door faces unique challenges. Cold weather, moisture, and temperature fluctuations can affect everything from the door's mechanical components to its sealing capabilities. Proper preparation before winter arrives can prevent costly repairs and ensure your garage door operates reliably all season long.

Why Cold Weather Affects Garage Doors

Understanding how cold weather impacts your garage door helps you take appropriate preventive measures. Metal components contract in cold temperatures, which can affect spring tension and track alignment. Lubricants thicken and become less effective, causing increased friction and wear. Weatherstripping becomes stiff and may crack, allowing cold air and moisture to enter your garage.

Essential Pre-Winter Maintenance Steps

Lubricate All Moving Parts

Cold weather makes proper lubrication more critical than ever. Use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for garage doors.avoid WD-40 and similar products that can attract dust and grime.

Focus on these key areas: - Hinges - Apply lubricant to each hinge pivot point - Rollers - Lubricate the roller bearings (skip this for sealed nylon rollers) - Springs - Coat torsion springs lightly to prevent rust and maintain flexibility - Tracks - Wipe tracks clean and apply a light coat of lubricant - Lock mechanism - Spray lock cylinders with graphite lubricant

Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping

The weatherstripping along the bottom of your door and around the frame creates a barrier against cold air, moisture, and pests. Inspect all weatherstripping for:

- Cracks or brittleness, Gaps when the door is closed, Areas that have pulled away from the door, Compression damage that prevents proper sealing

Bottom seals are particularly important and often need replacement every few years. A properly sealed door can significantly reduce energy costs during winter months.

Check and Adjust Spring Tension

Temperature changes affect spring tension. A door that was perfectly balanced in summer may feel heavy or rise unevenly in winter. Test your door's balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway. It should stay in place without drifting up or down. If it doesn't, the springs need adjustment.a job best left to professionals due to the high tension involved.

Test Safety Features

Cold weather can affect sensor alignment and safety reverse mechanisms. Test these features regularly:

1. Place a 2x4 flat on the ground where the door closes 2. Close the door using the opener 3. The door should reverse when it contacts the board 4. Also test the photo-eye sensors by breaking the beam while the door closes

Inspect the Door Panels

Examine your door panels for: - Cracks that could worsen with temperature fluctuations, Rust spots on metal doors, Water damage on wooden doors, Gaps between panels

Address any damage before winter weather makes repairs more difficult.

Special Considerations for Coastal Oregon

Our coastal climate presents unique challenges beyond just cold temperatures. High humidity, salt air, and frequent rain require additional attention:

- Rust prevention - Apply rust-inhibiting spray to metal components - Wood protection - Ensure wooden doors have adequate sealant - Drainage - Clear debris from the garage floor drain and threshold area - Hardware inspection - Check for corrosion on springs, cables, and brackets

When the Door Freezes Shut

If your door freezes to the ground, never force it open.this can damage the opener, door, and weatherstripping. Instead:

1. Apply heat using a hair dryer or heat gun along the bottom seal 2. Use a plastic scraper to gently break the ice bond 3. Once free, dry the area and apply silicone lubricant to prevent refreezing

Professional Winter Preparation

While many maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, an annual professional inspection ensures nothing is overlooked. At Garage Door Reedsport, our winter preparation service includes comprehensive lubrication, safety testing, hardware inspection, and spring adjustment.all backed by our 5-year warranty.

Don't wait until your door fails on the coldest day of the year. Schedule your winter preparation service today and enjoy worry-free operation all season long.

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