How to: Keep your garage in optimal condition

What’s the most overlooked space in the home? For many of us, the answer is the garage. A highly practical and functional space, we often forget that like any area of the home, the garage needs a little care and attention to remain in peak condition.

Keeping on top of general maintenance will not only keep your garage in safe, working order, it could also save you big dollars in the long term, too.

Chamberlain’s checklist will support your garage to be the most effective, safe and economical all year round.

Seal doors and windows

Over the last few weeks, you might have noticed the garage feeling colder, or damper than usual, which could be a sign that it’s time to check door and window seals.

Look at your garage door’s seals, paying close attention to any signs of wear and tear which may require professional mending. Weather-stripping the doors and windows to seal the space will protect the garage from cold air infiltration while helping to keep the warmth inside.

Similarly, sealing and weather-proofing your garage will prevent other external elements from gusting into the area, like rainwater, leaves, dirt and pollutants. If your garage is connected to your home, it may also help reduce your overall heating costs.

Replace any weather-stripping that has cracked or dried, confirming it forms a tight seal when the doors are closed. If you’re in the market, Bunnings has a great range of weather-stripping options available.

Clean grimy gutters 

Seasonal changes and volatile weather conditions like storms result in fallen leaves and debris landing in the gutters around the home and garage. If left unchecked, this can create blockages and lead to water damage both inside and out.

While regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the longevity of gutters, at some point they may require some repairs or replacement. During the cleaning process, check for cracks, splits and rust while also keeping a close eye out for water destruction and mould.

Be sure to work safely around any powerlines. Ausgrid provides some helpful guidance and tips for managing outdoor electrical safety to keep in mind as you clean the drains.

Protect the pipes

Caring for water pipes is a year-round necessity for all homes. Water pipes are often impacted by the winter weather, and this can affect their functionality for the remainder of the year.

Insulating pipes is a simple, but effective method to keep pipes protected from the cold and prevent against bursting. Bunnings have a great range of pipe insulation options available to suit your property’s needs.

Likewise, ensure you know where all your stop taps are located and that they are in good working order, including isolation valves on mixers and inlet valves on hot water cylinders. This knowledge will allow you to take control quickly in the event of a damaged pipe or plumbing emergency.

Keep your garage door and opener in fine form

Most of us use our garage door multiple times a day, so it’s important to know that your door is in safe, working order.

Changing seasons and temperatures can impact your automatic garage door’s performance, so it pays to inspect for any performance issues on a regular basis.

Remove any debris, dust or dirt that may have built up over time which may impair the functionality of your garage door and opener.

Additionally, elements of the garage door including tracks, hinges, rollers and springs should be lubricated with multipurpose household oil, and any excess oil should be wiped away to avoid slippery surfaces. You can check out our blog on tips for maintaining your garage door and opener.

Be prepared for blackouts

Australian weather can be volatile and unpredictable at times. Both summer and winter storms can lead to power outages, so it’s important to be prepared.

Understanding how to operate the manual release cord on your garage door will allow you and your family to safely leave your home in the event of a power outage.

The manual release cord is located near the motor on the side of the garage door in most automated garage door models. For sectional and tilt doors, the manual release cord can be found in the middle of the garage ceiling. For more information, take a look at Chamberlain’s step-by-step guide on operating the manual release cord.

In addition to this, it is a smart idea to keep backup power sources conveniently stored in the garage, in case of storms and power outages. Stock up on batteries of all sizes, and confirm that any rechargeable sets are fully powered and ready for use.

Maintaining the garage is a fantastic weekend project that will ensure your garage remains safe and functional, no matter the season! Regular maintenance can also help you to save money in the long term too.

For more information about Chamberlain’s range of garage door openers and accessories, visit our website or call 1800 665 438.