Winter in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) brings more than just snow and ice; it also presents unique challenges for homeowners, especially with their garage doors. There is nothing more frustrating than being ready for your morning commute only to find your garage door refuses to budge.
Extreme cold can cause metal components to contract, lubricants to thicken, and weatherstripping to freeze directly to the driveway. If you are dealing with a stuck door this season, here is how to troubleshoot the issue and determine whether it’s a simple fix or time to call a professional.
How the Cold Causes Your Garage Door to Stick
Before jumping into solutions, it helps to understand why GTA winters are so punishing for garage door systems:
- Sealed Shut: Water pooling under the rubber bottom seal can freeze overnight, effectively “gluing” your door to the ground.
- Thickened Lubricant: Standard lubricants can thicken in cold weather, making tracks and rollers harder to move and placing extra strain on the opener.
- Metal Contraction: Springs, cables, and tracks contract in freezing temperatures, potentially causing misalignment and excessive tension.
What to Do First If Your Garage Door Won’t Open
If your garage door is stuck, try these steps before calling for service:
- 1. Check the Seal: Use a rubber mallet or shovel handle to gently tap the bottom of the door to break any ice holding it shut. Avoid forcing the opener, as this can damage the motor or gears.
- 2. Inspect the Sensors: Snow or ice buildup can block safety sensors. Wipe them clean with a dry cloth.
- 3. Use the Manual Release: Pull the red emergency release cord and attempt to lift the door manually. If it opens easily, the opener may be the issue. If it remains stuck, there may be a mechanical problem such as a broken spring or track issue.
- 4. Warm the Area: If the bottom seal is frozen to the concrete, carefully use a hair dryer or heat gun on a low setting to melt the ice along the threshold.
When to Call a Professional Repair Service
While minor freezing can sometimes be handled safely, certain problems require professional attention:
- Broken Spring: Cold weather increases the risk of spring failure. If you hear a loud “bang” or see a visible gap in the spring coil, do not attempt to operate the door.
- Door Off-Track: A leaning door can be extremely dangerous. Attempting to move it may cause it to fall and result in injury or property damage.
- Opener Straining: If the motor runs but the door does not move, the gears may be stripped or the motor unit may need replacement.
Professional Help from Portes Garage Doors
When GTA winters take a toll on your garage door, you need a team that understands local weather conditions and delivers dependable service. Portes Garage Doors specializes in installation, repairs, and emergency garage door services across Toronto and surrounding areas.
Whether you are dealing with a frozen track, broken spring, or snapped cable, our certified technicians are available 24/7 to keep your home secure and your day on track. We proudly offer same-day service and stand behind our work with a customer satisfaction guarantee.
Don’t let the cold leave you stranded. Contact Portes Garage Doors today for expert assistance or a free estimate, and keep your home safe and functional all winter long.