Winter can be a tough season for your garage. Cold temperatures, snow and ice can all take a toll on your garage and the items stored inside. However, with a little bit of preparation, you can protect your garage and make it more functional during the winter months. Here are some tips to help you get your garage ready for winter:
Insulate your garage door. An insulated garage door will help to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. This can help to reduce your energy bills and make your garage more comfortable to work in. If your garage door is not already insulated, you can purchase an insulation kit. Be warned though, add on kits may require spring adjustment which should be left to professionals. Replacement garage doors have options for insulation already built in.
Check your weatherstripping. Weatherstripping is the material that seals the gap between your garage door and the floor. Over time, weatherstripping can wear out and become less effective. If your weatherstripping is in poor condition, cold air can enter your garage and make it more difficult to heat. Check your weatherstripping regularly and replace it if necessary.
Keep your garage door closed. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is important to keep your garage door closed during the winter to keep the cold air out. If you have an attached garage, leaving the door open can also allow cold air to enter your home, which can increase your energy bills.
Install a garage door opener with a battery backup. A garage door opener with a battery backup will allow you to open and close your garage door even if the power goes out. This can be especially useful during winter storms when power outages are common.
Service your garage door opener. It is a good idea to have your garage door opener serviced before the winter months to ensure that it is in good working condition. This can help to prevent problems during the winter when you may need to use your garage door more frequently.
Clear snow and ice from the driveway. It is important to keep your driveway clear of snow and ice to make it easier to enter and exit your garage. If you have a long driveway, consider purchasing a snow blower or hiring a professional to clear it for you. Keep a shovel and ice melt in your garage. If you do get some snow or ice on your driveway, it is a good idea to keep a shovel and some ice melt in your garage so you can clear it quickly and safely.
Insulate your pipes. If you have water pipes in your garage, it is important to insulate them to prevent them from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage to your garage and home. You can purchase pipe insulation at your local hardware store and install it yourself, or hire a professional to do it for you.
Keep your garage organized. Cold temperatures and snow can make it more difficult to find the items you need in your garage. Take some time to organize your garage before winter arrives to make it easier to find what you need. Consider installing shelves or storage cabinets to keep your items off the floor and out of the way.
And as always, if you need help with your garage door, give us a call! We’re happy to help. 740-414-4500