Garage doors get a rough ride in the winter, just like the homes they are attached to — especially in Toronto. Subzero temperatures, mounds of snow, and ice encasement have a way of turning an otherwise manageable garage door problem into a dire emergency. When your garage door breaks in the winter, it’s not just an inconvenience; it could be a safety and security hazard.
Here’s what to do if your garage door stops working during the cold-weather months—and how Toronto Garage Door Guys can help.
Why Garage Doors Fail More Often in Winter
Garage door systems are subject to additional stress in winter weather. Common cold-weather causes include:
Frozen or brittle springs: Cold temperatures make metal shrink, the hardness of steel makes it brittle, and snow makes it worse.
Frozen lubricant: Grease that has become too thick can cause rollers and tracks to bind.
Ice: Sensors may become obstructed, or the door may freeze to the ground.
Frail cables: The cold causes older cables to become brittle.
Motor strain: Openers put in extra effort during the winter, especially when components aren’t properly maintained.
If and when these problems occur abruptly, you may need emergency garage door repair.
What to Do Immediately When Your Garage Door Breaks
1. Stop Using the Door
When the door sticks, appears crooked, or emits loud grinding sounds, cease using it at once. Operating a garage door despite it being ruined could:
- Cause further damage
- Break the opener
- Lead to injury
2. Check for Obvious Ice or Snow
Before jumping to conclusions, check the bottom seal and tracks:
- Clear away snow and ice
- Check to see if the door is not frozen to the ground
- If necessary, you can gently melt the ice with warm water, not boiling.
- If the door is still stuck, don’t try to force it.
3. Disconnect the Opener (If Safe)
If the door is closed and undamaged, you can try pulling the emergency release cord to see if it opens manually.
Do not do this if the door is partially open or obviously damaged, because it could close on you.
4. Secure Your Garage
Your home is vulnerable to the following if your garage door breaks down:
- Theft
- Cold air and frozen pipes
- Pest intrusion
If the door won’t close, block access if you can and summon emergency services immediately.
When to Call for Emergency Garage Door Repair
You will have to talk to an expert right away if:
- A spring or cable has snapped
- The door goes off the rails/ the door hangs crookedly
- The opener is working, but the door won’t open
- You hear bangs, creaking, and grinding sounds
- Garage door will not close in the cold!
These are not fixes you can do yourself, especially in winter.
Need Emergency Garage Door Repair in Toronto?
If your garage door breaks this winter, don’t hesitate — and don’t put yourself at risk of injury by trying to repair it on your own.
Contact Toronto Garage Door Guys for emergency garage door repair.
We’ll have your door working safely, swiftly, and strongly—despite the cold.
