Care & maintenance of gates – how to keep your gate in good shape for 20 years
Easy to explain, professionally implemented: With proper care and maintenance, garage, yard, and industrial doors will last for decades. This guide shows you step by step what to look out for, which spare parts should be checked regularly, and how you can save a lot of money with a few simple adjustments.
1) Why maintenance and care are crucial
A door moves a lot of weight – day after day, year after year. To ensure it continues to function reliably even after 20 years, it requires regular maintenance. Every door consists of many moving parts: springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and sensors. Detecting small problems early prevents expensive repairs.
- Safety: A well-maintained gate protects against accidents.
- Durability: Less wear, longer lifespan.
- Energy efficiency: Seals keep heat in and cold out.
2) Standards & testing obligations – explained clearly
Don’t worry, we make it easy:
- EN 13241: Standard for the safety of gates – applies throughout Europe.
- EN 12453: Safety in operation – e.g. closing edge safety devices.
- DGUV: Mandatory for companies in Germany – annual gate inspection.
Note: Privately, you should inspect your gate 1-2 times a year; in a business, an annual professional inspection is required.
3) Cleaning & care in everyday life
Cleanliness is half the battle. Here's how easy it is to maintain your gate:
- Rails: Remove dust and cobwebs with a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth.
- Panels: Clean with a mild cleaner, no aggressive agents.
- Seals: Keep supple with silicone spray.
- Screws & nuts: Visually check that everything is tight.
4) Check spare parts regularly
You should keep an eye on the following components:
- Torsion & tension springs: check for cracks or breaks.
- Wire ropes: Check for fraying.
- Casters: listen for loud noises, check for smooth running.
- Hinges & roller holders: Visually inspect for cracks.
- Consoles: check for tightness and corrosion.
5) Check security systems
At least once a month you should test:
- Light barriers: Hold your hand briefly through the beam – the gate must stop.
- Closing edge safety device: Check the bottom strip to see if it reacts.
- Slack rope switch: Simulate function by slightly loosening the rope.
- Wicket door contacts: The door may only move when the door is closed.
6) Sealants & touch-up pens – save energy & prevent rust
Not only technology counts – also appearance and tightness:
- Gap seals: prevent drafts and water.
- Door seals: secure side doors against energy loss.
- Touch-up pens: repair small scratches immediately before rust develops.
7) Checklists for private & industrial use
private household
- Monthly: Visual inspection, test light barrier.
- Every six months: Lubricate hinges, maintain seals.
- Annually: Check springs and cables, check door travel.
industry
- Monthly: Functional check of all security systems.
- Every six months: Check spare parts, replace worn parts.
- Annually: Document DGUV inspection by specialist company.
8) DIY or specialist company?
You can do a lot of things yourself: cleaning, lubricating, testing the light barrier. But when it comes to springs, wire ropes, and industrial doors , there's a risk to life! These jobs belong in the hands of professionals.
9) Troubleshooting – quick solutions
| problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Gate does not close | Light barrier covered | Clean and align the sensor |
| Gate goes wrong | Rope unevenly tensioned | Check ropes, call a professional if necessary |
| Creaking noises | Roll dry | Lubricate or replace rollers |
10) Future: Smart maintenance with sensors & IoT
The next generation of garage doors is smart: Sensors measure cable tension, spring force, and motor load. The door automatically reports problems before they occur via IoT (Internet of Things). This is already a reality for industrial garages, and will soon be a reality for private garages as well.
11) Directly to the relevant categories at Tormeister24
- Torsion & tension springs
- Wire ropes
- rollers
- Hinges & roller holders
- Light barriers
- Optosensors
- Touch-up pens
- Gap seals
