Winter is coming—is your garage ready?

In no time, winter will be at your door and now is when you need to make sure that your garage is ready.

The last thing you want is to be rummaging for a shovel when there’s a foot of snow and you’re late for work. Organize and store things so you’re not stuck in this position.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can help. This blog will help you organize your garage with ease.

First things first; have the right storage!

Some people don’t think it matters, but the right storage can make all the difference. A lot of people use their garages for storage during the warmer months but might want to keep a car there during the winter.

It's time to organize. It's important to make sure things are organized and accessible so that you can just get them when you need them.

Make sure that you consider charity donations and recycling before you throw anything away when you’re cleaning your garage.

What items are needed the most to face winter?

1. Do you own a snowblower?

Change the oil every season to ensure longevity and proper operation. Also, consider taking it for a tune-up from the dealership.

2. How are the shovels?

The last thing you want is to start shoveling snow and have the shovel break in your hands. Check them out before it snows to make sure the handles and shovels themselves are in good condition. Choose aluminum to avoid rotting or breaking wood.

3. Are your melters ready?

• Rock salt should be bought before you need it, and you should keep a full bag on hand.
• Think about getting some sand or gravel to help with adding traction to reduce the risk of falls on the ice.

4. Do you have a generator?

Some areas are prone to power outages during winter months, making this an essential item to have on hand.

• Does the generator work properly?
• Do you have adequate fuel on hand for an emergency?
• REMINDER: NEVER operate the generator in an enclosed space, such as the garage. This emits carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas, that can get into your home and harm your family. In North America, hundreds of people die from this each year and it’s usually preventable.

5. Is your car ready to face winter?

• Stock up on windshield washer fluid. Make sure that you keep some in the car as well as the garage.
• Keep snow brushes and scrapers in your car, if they're not there already. Buy them now because they'll be out of stock once the first snow hits.
• It gets cold in the winter. If you have vehicles outside, keep jumper cables on hand. You may need them to help start a car and won’t want to have to go digging for them.

6. Don’t forget the kids’stuff and winter toys!

• Get the sleds, toboggans, and winter toys and put them front and center so they’re easy for the kids to grab and go play.
• If you have skis, hockey gear, or other winter equipment, you need to organize it and keep it accessible. These are 5 great tips for storing winter equipment from Nuvo Garage

What about that garage door? Is it working as it should?

You have to prep your garage door for winter, too!

Winter is completely unpredictable.

One day, it snows. The next day, it starts to melt. Then, it‘s suddenly 5ºF (-15ºC) and your door is stuck in ice. The weatherstripping has become one with the ground.

Has your door recently had a good tune-up ?

You don’t want to wait until something goes wrong to call for help.

Garaga dealers can provide you with peace of mind, offering a 26 point inspection along with an adjustment and lubrication for optimal operation of your garage door system.

Time for a tune-up or considering a new door?

Contact us now at 709-368-7222.

Recent winters have helped us become experts on garage door care during the cold months. We can handle simple repairs, total replacements, winterization, and more.

Ask us for a quotation by email.

Maybe you’re thinking of a new garage door? The Design Centre will help you create a custom garage door and try it out on your home to see what the design will look like. If you need inspiration, check out our garage door gallery.