As Vancouver’s skies darken and rainclouds roll in, homeowners know it’s time to prepare for the long wet season. But one thing that often gets overlooked? Your garage door. A malfunctioning door can leave your home exposed to damp air, cold drafts, and even water damage. In a city where rain is more than just a season—it’s a way of life—ensuring your garage door is in top shape is essential.
1. Unusual Noises When Opening or Closing
If your garage door creaks, grinds, or screeches every time you use it, it’s not just annoying—it’s a red flag. In Vancouver’s moist climate, metal components can rust or swell, causing friction and wear.
- Common causes: worn rollers, misaligned tracks, lack of lubrication.
- Why it matters: Ignoring sounds can lead to a complete breakdown.
Pro tip: A professional tune-up can identify and correct issues before they become costly repairs.
2. Slow or Uneven Door Movement
If your door moves sluggishly or appears lopsided, it’s a sign of underlying problems. It might be an issue with the garage door springs or cables — both critical parts that wear down over time.
But wait — there’s more you should know…
Inconsistent movement can lead to a jammed door, leaving your garage (and car) trapped at the worst possible moment.
Causes Include:
- Worn torsion or extension springs.
- Misaligned tracks due to moisture or shifting foundations.
- Faulty motor or opener.
3. Water Leaks or Visible Gaps
Living in Vancouver’s coastal climate, you can’t afford to ignore gaps, cracks, or seal failures. These openings let in cold air, pests, and most importantly—water.
Look for:
- Wet garage floors after light rain.
- Daylight visible around the edges.
- Swelling or mold on the lower panels.
Fixing weather stripping, sealing gaps, or upgrading to an insulated garage door can keep your space dry and energy-efficient.
4. Frequent Reversals or Sensor Issues
Safety sensors are meant to protect your family, but if they’re malfunctioning, they can become a major headache. A door that won’t close properly or keeps reversing might have dirty, misaligned, or damaged photo eyes.
In rainy weather, this issue becomes worse. Moisture and fog can cloud the sensor’s visibility.
Solution: Clean the lenses, realign the sensors, or call a technician to troubleshoot.
5. Rust or Corrosion on Hardware
Vancouver’s salty air and high humidity can cause hinges, springs, and brackets to rust quickly. Rust compromises strength, increases noise, and can cause total mechanical failure if left untreated.
Watch for:
- Orange-brown staining around bolts or hinges.
- Flaky metal dust or grime.
- Stiff movement when operating the door manually.
A professional inspection can determine if you need rust treatment or part replacement.
Why It Matters in Vancouver
From Crescent Beach to Kitsilano, the weather doesn’t spare garage doors. Rain, humidity, and temperature swings affect how materials behave and degrade.
According to Home Depot, regular maintenance and seasonal inspections can extend the lifespan of your garage door by years.
Need help before the rainy season hits?
At Garage Door VanCity, we specialize in garage door repair and maintenance in Vancouver and nearby areas. From broken springs to emergency door failures, we handle it all with expertise and care.
Call Us Now: 604-328-5365
Let’s make sure your home stays secure, dry, and functional.
FAQs
Q1: Why does my garage door swell or stick in winter?
A: The high moisture levels in Vancouver cause wood or metal to expand. This can lead to sticking, especially if the door isn’t weather-sealed.
Q2: How often should I have my garage door serviced in Vancouver?
A: Ideally once before fall/winter and once in spring. Regular servicing helps protect against moisture damage and keeps parts running smoothly.
Q3: Can rain affect the garage door sensors?
A: Yes, fog and water droplets can block the infrared beam, causing frequent reversals or malfunctions.
Q4: Is rust on the springs dangerous?
A: Yes. Rust weakens the metal, making springs more prone to sudden breakage, which can be hazardous.