Facing garage door trouble this winter? Learn lessons from 2024’s harsh weather and how Magnum Garage Door Service, Inc. in Houston, TX can help you with reliable garage door repair.
Houston Winters: The Unexpected Toll on Garage Doors
Houston may not be known for extreme winters, but 2024 brought weather patterns no one saw coming. With temperatures dipping as low as 19°F—the coldest in over a decade—and freezing rain coating the city, garage doors across the area faced unprecedented stress and malfunctions. The combination of freezing temperatures, unexpected rainstorms, and icy winds left many homeowners scrambling with malfunctioning garage doors. Whether it was frozen tracks, broken springs, or jammed openers, the aftermath was a wake-up call to the importance of winter garage door maintenance.
If you found yourself wrestling with a stuck door or wondering why your opener refused to cooperate, you’re not alone. Today, we’ll share real-life examples of how the 2024 winter affected garage doors across Houston—and what you can do to prepare for the seasons ahead.
Frozen Tracks & Broken Springs: Real Stories from 2024
Imagine this: You’re running late for work on a frigid Monday morning. The bitter cold nips at your skin as you step into the garage, and you hear the strained groan of the garage door trying—and failing—to lift against the frozen tracks. You hit the garage door opener, but instead of smoothly rising, the door jerks, creaks, and stops halfway—completely stuck.
This exact situation happened to one of our clients in Memorial Park. The culprit? A combination of moisture and below-freezing temperatures caused the garage door tracks to freeze, putting additional strain on the springs. In extreme cold, garage door springs are more susceptible to snapping due to metal contraction.
What We Did:
At Magnum Garage Door Service, Inc., we arrived promptly for an emergency garage door repair. We defrosted the tracks, replaced the broken springs, and ensured proper lubrication to prevent future freezing. Our client’s garage door was back to full operation in no time.
Garage Door Opener Failures During Power Surges
Another homeowner in the Heights faced a different challenge. With winter storms rolling through Houston, sudden power surges wreaked havoc on their garage door opener. The electrical components shorted, leaving the door stuck shut.
Garage Door Opener Repair to the Rescue
We replaced the damaged circuit board in the garage door opener and installed a surge protector to safeguard against future storms. It’s small steps like these that make a huge difference in keeping your garage door running smoothly.
Pro Tip: Installing a battery backup system for your garage door opener can ensure functionality even during outages.
Why Winter Weather Wreaks Havoc on Garage Doors
Winter weather can impact your garage door in several ways:
- Metal Contraction: Cold weather causes metal parts (like springs and tracks) to contract, increasing the likelihood of cracks or breaks.
- Frozen Moisture: Moisture buildup can freeze inside the tracks or components, blocking smooth operation.
- Opener Strain: Low temperatures and power fluctuations add stress to electric garage door openers.
Whether you need a residential garage door repair or a commercial garage door repair, timely maintenance is essential. It helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, especially during extreme weather conditions.
How to Winter-Proof Your Garage Door for 2025
While 2024 taught us some hard lessons, the good news is that preparing for the future is simple. Here’s how to winter-proof your garage door:
- Schedule Seasonal Maintenance: Regular checks for springs, tracks, and openers prevent surprise breakdowns.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a high-quality lubricant to keep components moving smoothly in cold weather.
- Install Weather Stripping: Proper insulation blocks out cold air and moisture.
- Consider Garage Door Replacement: If your door is aging, now is the time to upgrade with a more insulated, durable model.
At Magnum Garage Door Service, Inc., we offer expert garage door installation and garage door replacement services tailored to Houston homeowners and businesses. With over 15 years of experience and a reputation for exceptional customer satisfaction, we ensure every repair and installation is done right the first time.
FAQs: Winter Garage Door Repair
Why does my garage door get stuck in winter?
Cold temperatures cause the metal to contract, increasing strain on springs and tracks. Moisture can also freeze and block the door’s movement.
What should I do if my garage door opener stops working?
Check the power supply and reset the opener. If the issue persists, call a professional for garage door opener repair.
Can I prevent my garage door from freezing shut?
Yes! Keeping tracks clean, using lubrication, and installing weather stripping can help prevent freezing.
Looking Ahead: A Smarter 2025 for Garage Door Owners
As we step into 2025, smarter and more durable garage doors are on the horizon. Insulated models, modern openers with smart technology, and battery backup systems are becoming the new standard. By staying proactive with regular maintenance and upgrades, you can ensure your garage door stays strong no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Don’t Wait for the Next Cold Snap
Winter weather may be unpredictable, but your garage door doesn’t have to be. Whether you need emergency garage door repair, garage door spring repair, or a brand-new installation, Magnum Garage Door Service, Inc. has your back.
Serving all of Houston, TX—from bustling Downtown and the iconic Galleria area to the historic neighborhoods of the Heights and the serene trails of Hermann Park—we pride ourselves on reliable, same-day service for residential and commercial garage door repair.
Don’t let another cold morning leave you stranded. Call Magnum Garage Door Service, Inc. today and let us keep your garage door in peak condition all year long!
Need Help Right Away?
Contact us today for expert garage door repair in Houston, TX. We’re ready to tackle any winter challenges your garage door might face. Schedule your appointment today and experience hassle-free service!