Winter in Ottawa brings freezing temperatures, ice, and heavy snow. These conditions can put a lot of stress on your garage door, especially if it’s not ready for the season. A door that freezes shut or strains against packed snow can cause serious wear on the opener, springs, and cables. Preparing ahead of time can prevent costly damage and help your garage door work smoothly all winter.

Inspect and Clean All Moving Parts

A good first step before winter arrives is to check that every moving part of your garage door works freely. Cold weather makes metal contract, which can tighten the door’s movement and add strain to the system. We start by opening and closing the door several times, listening for scraping, squeaking, or clicking noises. Any sound of resistance usually means a part needs attention.

Wipe away dirt, dust, or grease buildup around the tracks, hinges, and rollers. Then, use a silicone-based lubricant made for cold weather. Avoid heavy grease, since it can harden when temperatures drop and cause parts to stick. Pay extra attention to the rollers and hinges since these are the most exposed components. A smooth, clean track helps the door run evenly, even when ice and snow pile up outside.

Check the Weather Seals and Bottom Rubber Strip

One of the most common winter garage door problems comes from worn-out weather seals. The rubber seal at the bottom of the door prevents snow, water, and cold air from seeping into the garage. When it gets brittle, cracks appear, allowing moisture to freeze the door to the ground overnight.

Inspect the entire bottom seal by pressing it with your fingers. If it feels stiff or cracked, replace it before temperatures fall. The same goes for the side and top weatherstripping that seals the door frame. A soft, flexible seal will prevent drafts and ice buildup. Replacing the seal also keeps your garage warmer, reducing strain on your heating system.

If your door struggles to seal properly, the issue may come from an uneven floor or an unbalanced spring system. In that case, it’s worth getting a professional garage door repair in Ottawa to inspect the alignment before winter sets in. A properly balanced door sits evenly against the ground, which is essential for preventing freeze-ups.

Lubricate the Springs, Rollers, and Cables

Cold weather thickens lubricants and adds stress to metal parts. Springs and cables in particular face the risk of snapping if they become stiff from frost. Apply a thin coat of silicone spray to the springs and bearings to protect them from moisture and rust. Use a dry cloth to wipe off any excess, so dust and dirt don’t stick.

Do not use oil-based lubricants, as these tend to gum up in the cold. Always focus on the points where metal rubs against metal: rollers, hinges, and spring coils. Also, check that the cables show no fraying or rust. If the cables look worn or frayed, replacing them before winter can prevent serious damage. You can learn more about this process in our guide on garage door cable repair.

Clear Snow and Ice Regularly Around the Door

When snow piles up in front of the door, it creates pressure that makes it harder for the opener to lift the door. This strain can cause the opener’s motor to burn out or the springs to break. As part of your winter routine, keep the area directly in front of the door clear of snow.

Avoid using salt or harsh de-icers near the garage entrance. These materials can corrode the metal parts of your door over time. Instead, use a plastic shovel to gently remove snow and ice from the bottom seal and the tracks. You can also spread a small amount of sand to add traction without damaging the door.

If the door freezes shut, never force it open. Forcing a frozen door can strip the opener’s gears or snap a cable. Instead, use warm water to gently melt the ice, then dry the area completely to prevent refreezing.

Test the Door Balance and Opener Force

When temperatures drop, the balance of your garage door can shift slightly because of metal contraction. An unbalanced door puts more pressure on one side of the spring system, increasing the chance of failure. To test it, disconnect the opener by pulling the release cord, then lift the door halfway by hand. If it stays in place, the balance is good. If it falls or rises on its own, one of the springs may need adjustment.

The auto-reverse feature on your opener also needs checking before winter. Place a piece of wood or a solid object in the door’s path and close it. The door should reverse immediately when it touches the object. If not, you may need to adjust the opener’s sensitivity settings or schedule maintenance.

If your opener struggles during the test, it may be time to consider professional garage door opener installation to replace an older or weaker model. Newer openers handle temperature fluctuations better and include built-in safety sensors that protect against freeze-related strain.

Keep Moisture Out of the Tracks

Garage door tracks often collect condensation in winter. When that moisture freezes, it forms ice ridges that prevent the rollers from moving smoothly. One way to reduce this is by wiping down the tracks regularly with a dry cloth and keeping them free of grease. The rollers should glide smoothly, not slide through thick lubricant.

If your garage is poorly insulated, consider adding insulation panels or applying weatherstripping along the edges of the tracks. Insulating the garage helps stabilize the temperature and reduces moisture buildup. If you notice rust forming inside the tracks, treat it with a rust remover before it spreads.

Watch for Signs of Strain or Fatigue

A garage door that sticks, squeals, or moves unevenly in winter is sending a warning sign. Ignoring small symptoms can lead to major repairs later. Pay attention to how the door feels when opening or closing. Does it shudder? Does it slow down halfway? These changes often mean the springs are weakening or the cables are tightening unevenly due to cold.

If you notice any of these signs, avoid running the door repeatedly. Doing so can make the issue worse. It’s safer to stop using the opener until a technician can inspect it. Sometimes, a simple garage door spring repair can restore proper balance and prevent a full replacement later.

Keep the Inside Warm and Ventilated

It might sound odd, but a little airflow helps prevent freeze-ups. Garages that trap moisture often develop condensation, which freezes overnight on the door’s metal components. A small, insulated vent allows moisture to escape while maintaining a stable temperature.

If your garage connects to the house, insulating the walls and ceiling helps keep both spaces warmer. You can also add a rubber floor mat near the door to catch melted snow and protect the seal. Keeping the inside temperature above freezing protects the motor and electronic parts of the opener from frost damage.

Regularly Check the Remote and Backup Power

Cold weather affects batteries quickly. Check the batteries in your garage door remote and replace them at the start of the season. Keep a spare set handy, especially during long cold spells.

It’s also smart to test your manual release system. Power outages are common during Ottawa winters, and knowing how to open the door by hand can save you from being locked out. Practice pulling the red release cord and lifting the door manually so you know what to do if the opener fails.

When to Call a Professional

Some winter issues, like a broken spring or a stuck cable, are not safe to handle on your own. If your door becomes hard to move or feels uneven, stop operating it until a professional can assess it. Springs and cables carry high tension, and trying to fix them yourself can cause serious injury.

If your garage door keeps freezing or refuses to seal properly, reach out to a qualified technician for inspection and tune-up. Proper service before or during winter can save you from emergency repairs later. You can always contact us to schedule a maintenance visit or get advice on keeping your system reliable through the season.

FAQ

Why does my garage door freeze to the ground?

When water or melted snow collects at the base of the door, it refreezes overnight and bonds to the rubber seal. Keeping the bottom edge clean and dry prevents this. You can also sprinkle a little salt-free de-icer before a freeze to stop sticking.

How often should I lubricate the garage door parts in winter?

Once every two months is enough for most homes, but if you hear squeaking or grinding, apply a light coat sooner. Always clean old residue before reapplying lubricant.

Is it safe to use a heater in the garage during winter?

Yes, as long as the heater is placed away from flammable materials and the garage has some ventilation. Portable electric heaters work well to prevent frost on the opener and springs.

Can snow buildup damage the garage door motor?

Yes. When the door must push against snow or ice, it forces the motor to work harder. Over time, this can wear down the gears. Always clear the path before operating the door.

What is the best time to prepare the garage door for winter?

Early fall is ideal. Temperatures are still mild enough to apply lubricants and replace seals easily. Preparing before the first freeze helps prevent most cold-weather problems.