Toronto experiences a variety of different weather patterns throughout the year, ranging from freezing conditions in winter to hot and humid temperatures during the summer, which can take its toll on your garage door. Understanding how the weather affects doors can help homeowners avoid emergencies and know when to call professional services, such as Portes Garage Doors.
Winter Weather and Garage Door Problems
Toronto winters are unforgiving with heavy snow, sub-zero temperatures and ice. Several problems can occur with garage doors in colder climates:
- Tracking and rolling through frozen areas, the tracks can accumulate insurmountable snow or ice buildup. You may also have a frozen roller responsible for the door getting stuck.
- Stiff Springs and Cables: Metal parts can contract when it’s cold, making springs, cables, and hinges stiff or brittle.
- Condensation and Moisture Damage: Snow melt can infiltrate mechanical components, causing rust or electrical problems with automatic openers.
Tip: Before winter arrives, clear snow and ice from around the garage door area and lubricate moving parts.
Spring Thaw and Heavy Rain
With spring comes snow melt and heavy rain, both of which can cause:
- Water Damage: The garage itself can become wet from rain or collapsing gutters, which can cause the door panels to wash out if they are old or damaged.
- Tracks out of alignment: Ground movement during freeze-thaw cycles can cause tracks to shift, which will be a stressor on an operation.
- High Humidity: High humidity can cause wood garage doors to warp, swell or stick within frames.
Tip: Inspect weather stripping and seals annually, and, for added reassurance, consider having a professional inspect them every spring.
Summer Heat and Humidity
Toronto summers can bring some heat and humidity, which will affect your garage door in unique ways:
- Metal Components May Expand: Excessive heat may cause metal elements to swell, potentially knocking the door out of alignment or causing the opener to malfunction.
- Wood Door Warping: Wood doors are susceptible to fluctuations in humidity and can become stuck or rub against the frame.
- More Openers Causing More Wear: In hotter weather, the motor in an automatic garage door can be overworked.
Tip: Plan maintenance in early summer to inspect the opener, rollers and door alignment.
Fall and Leaf Buildup
In the fall in Toronto, there is falling debris and leaves that can cause problems with your garage door:
- Obstructed Tracks and Drains: Trackways or drains can become clogged with leaves and other plant matter, resulting in jammed doors and improper drainage.
- Issues Less Visible: Dying leaves and debris can obscure early problem signs from view, sometimes leading to a full-blown emergency.
Tip: Keep garage space and check tracks and rollers frequently.
When to Call Portes Garage Doors
If such issues are not addressed promptly, they can escalate into a serious emergency. Here, we will list some things that, if you see them, you should contact Portes Garage Doors.
- A broken garage door that won’t open or close
- Broken springs or cables
- Strange noises during operation
- Apparent signs of ice, water, and heat damage
Our emergency repair services in Toronto ensure that your garage door operates safely throughout the year.
Conclusion
The volatile weather in Toronto has a significant influence on garage doors, which can become emergencies. By performing regular maintenance, practicing preventive care, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can save time, money, and stress. Portes Garage Doors are here to answer the call—whether it’s a winter door that won’t open, or a warped summer panel.