The garage area is generally overlooked when winterizing a home, particularly because it is often just a storage space. Contrary to popular belief, the garage should get some attention during the fall before winter comes.
Garage Door Maintenance: The garage door gets a lot of usage throughout the year so keeping it in good shape is important. Start by cleaning the door with a mild soap and some water. Focus on the bottom areas where dirt and grime can build up. Don’t forget to check the weather seal on the bottom edge of the garage door. Clean the weather seal with a detergent and add a non-petroleum lubricant if it is cracking or looks dry.
Organize & Clear Out Space: Autumn is the best time to organize the shelving and storage spaces in your garage. Start by going through items and bins and getting rid of items that are damaged or broken or no longer used. Organize tools by securing items like rakes and gardening tools to the walls. This will open up floor space to store your car when it snows. Remove the water from garden hoses and store them on shelving units. Keep an eye out for garage items that may be temperature sensitive, like paints and car cleaners, and bring those items inside for the duration of the cold weather.
Seal The Floor: If the garage floor is looking less than stellar by the end of the summer, chances are it needs to be sealed and painted before the winter months arrive. Cracks and chips should be addressed as soon as possible. Have a professional like CertaPro Painters of Greenwich, CT come out and decide the best sealant for the type of floor in the garage. Sealing your garage floor will prevent water damage during the winter months. As an added bonus, garage floor sealers now come with anti-slip additives to keep the floor looking its best and you safe as you walk across it with wet shoes!
Keeping your garage in tip-top shape throughout the year means taking the time to address maintenance needs. Autumn is the best time to take care of your garage space, as cooler weather moves in. By having the floor properly sealed, taking time to organize your storage, and tackling the task of cleaning your garage door will ensure your garage remains intact and usable any time of the year.