Can I lubricate my garage door myself?

Yes. Lubrication is one of the simplest and most useful maintenance jobs a homeowner can do, as long as the door is closed and undamaged and the opener is disconnected from power, including any backup battery as the manual directs. The limits are about which parts you touch, not about skill.

Before you start

• Close the door fully and confirm it is not crooked, off track or showing a broken spring or cable. If it is, skip lubrication and have it repaired.
• Unplug the opener and disconnect backup power as directed.
• Get the lubricant your door manual names and a clean cloth.
• Keep hands clear of hinges, section joints and other pinch points.

What you can lubricate

Follow the manual for the exact points. These usually include hinge pivots, serviceable roller bearings or stems, and the opener rail or screw where the opener manual calls for it. Some door manuals also list the springs; if yours does, apply the product with the door closed and do not touch or adjust the spring hardware. Wipe away excess afterward. Leave the tracks, nylon wheel surfaces, sealed bearings, drive belts and weather seals dry unless the manufacturer says otherwise.

What to leave to a technician

Do not tighten, loosen or adjust springs, cable drums, bottom brackets or track supports, and do not try to correct balance. Those parts hold the door's weight under high tension. If the door still squeaks, grinds or moves unevenly after lubrication, the cause is usually worn rollers or loose hardware, which a repair or tune-up visit can find. Every tune-up we do includes lubrication, so you can also leave it for a yearly visit.

Read more

• Step-by-step lubrication guide
• Lubricant guide by part
• Garage door tune-up

Related questions

• Should I lubricate the garage door tracks?
• Does lubrication actually reduce garage door noise?
• How often should I lubricate my garage door?
• What if my garage door is still noisy after lubrication?
• What lubricant should I use on my garage door?

Have a different question? Call (916) 838-8182 or browse all garage door questions.