Winter weather presents unique challenges for homeowners, and a common source of unexpected frustration for those in colder climates is a frozen garage door. When ice and snow accumulate on the door, it can cause it to stick and make it impossible to open, creating a major inconvenience.
In this blog post, the garage door experts at Overhead Door Company of Concord explain how to safely and effectively escape this chilly predicament.
Steps to Safely Open a Frozen Garage Door
If you find yourself faced with a frozen garage door, don’t worry. There are several steps you can take to open the door on your own safely:
Chip Away Ice from the Bottom Edge
Begin by carefully chipping away at any ice that has solidified along the bottom edge of your garage door using a plastic ice scraper or similar tool to avoid damaging the door or rubber seal. Metal tools can often lead to scratching or tearing, so stick with plastic alternatives for the safest results.
Apply Hot Water to Loosen Ice
Pour hot (not boiling) water along the base of the garage door to loosen and melt the ice. Boiling water can cause damage to your garage door, so opt for warm water instead. Once the ice melts, dry the area thoroughly with a towel to prevent the warm water from re-freezing and creating additional issues.
Use a Heat Source Carefully
If the ice is particularly difficult to remove, consider using a heat source to thaw it. Space heaters and hairdryers are effective tools when applied from a safe distance, providing enough warmth to loosen the ice without damaging your door. Keep the heat moving evenly across the surface to avoid warping the door’s materials.
Release the Emergency Cord
In some cases, the ice may cause the automatic opener to strain. When this happens, pull the red emergency release cord to disconnect the door from the opener. This will allow you to manually lift the door once the ice is melted. Use caution and only resort to this method if the ice buildup has been reduced and the door feels movable.
Tips to Prevent Your Garage Door from Freezing
The best way to keep your garage door from freezing is to follow the preventative measures below:
Don’t Let Snow & Ice Accumulate
Keep snow and ice from accumulating on your door by regularly clearing it away from the base of your garage. Shoveling and using ice melt can help keep the area clear, reducing the likelihood of freezing.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Use a cold-weather lubricant to keep hinges, tracks and seals moving smoothly. This can prevent moisture from freezing in critical areas and keep your door operating reliably in frigid temperatures.
Open the Door Regularly During Cold Weather
Even if you don’t need to use your garage, open and close the door at least once a day during periods of extreme cold. This can help break up ice or frost that might otherwise freeze the door shut.
Install Weatherstripping or Insulation
Adding weatherstripping to the base of your garage door or insulating the entire door can help block out cold air and minimize ice formation. This upgrade also improves energy efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment.
Need Help? Contact Us for Professional Garage Door Repairs
If your garage door is still frozen despite following the prevention methods and DIY troubleshooting tips above, don’t hesitate to contact Overhead Door Company of Concord for professional assistance. Our team offers expert garage door repairs to get your door back in working order quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s a frozen door or a mechanical issue, we’re here to deliver the fast, effective service you deserve.
Book garage door repair in Concord by contacting our team online to schedule your appointment today!
