Rising global temperatures are leading to more extreme winter weather, even in southern states that typically don’t face subzero temperatures. That means sudden freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow bursts, and record-low temperatures are becoming the new normal.
For auto dealerships, it means service bays and showrooms need doors that perform reliably, no matter the weather.
With their high speeds and tight seals, high-performance doors are built to handle these extremes. Now is the perfect time to make sure your dealership’s doors are ready for whatever this winter brings.
Tips to Prepare Your Overhead Doors for Winter
1. Make sure you have the right doors
Replacing conventional doors with high-performance doors can add significantly to your auto dealership in terms of productivity and reliability. The Rytec Spiral® door series includes many models, including those certified to withstand winds up to 175 miles per hour. A powerful variable-speed drive system, combined with a precisely counterbalanced door panel, results in some models having an opening speed in excess of 100 inches per second. Insulated high-performance door models can help maintain consistent temperatures and support energy efficiency.
2. Check all doors in every area of your dealership
Inspect every door – inside and out – to ensure they’re working properly and maintaining a professional appearance. This includes:
- Showrooms
- Service areas, including reception, interior shop access points and exterior service shop doors
- New vehicle delivery areas
- Parts delivery doors or dock doors
- Car washes
- Photo booths
- Parking areas
3. Look for Damage to the Door Panels
Damage to doors can come from unintentional vehicle impacts. Check for any punctures or other damage to the door’s surface, which could reduce its ability to maintain a comfortable environment inside. Even the smallest cracks can be an issue when it comes to indoor heat retention.
4. Check Vision Slats and Windows
Rigid rolling doors can be outfitted with vision slats or windows to give a clear view into other areas. Ensure these clear panels aren’t cracked or broken, and check that all seals around the windows are intact.
5. Check Door Motors
The motor is the heart of your door, delivering the speed and power to open at speeds up to 100 inches per second.
- Run each door through several open and closed cycles.
- Listen for unusual noises such as grinding, whining or excessive motor noise.
- Make sure the doors are opening and closing at optimal speeds.
- Make sure the motor gearbox has proper oil levels. The level can be checked at the plug located on the lower section of the gearbox.
6. Examine Metal Components
Door mounting hardware keeps your doors securely attached to the building, helping close up any gaps and keep cold air out.
- Ensure all nuts, bolts, set screws and anchors are tight.
- Pay special attention to motor mounting hardware, through-wall bolts and bearing blocks.
- Inspect for any rust, corrosion or other signs of wear on metal components.
7. Ensure Seals are Tight
High-performance doors are designed with integral weather seals that create a critical barrier to cold air entering your auto dealership. Over time, temperature fluctuations can cause seals to stiffen, crack and warp, which can lead to air ingress and increased heating costs.
- Check for cracks and fraying or loose connections, and replace them if you see any issues.
- Look for gaps along the sides, top, and bottom of your door.
- Inspect the bottom bar seal to ensure it fits snugly against the floor, and you can’t feel any air coming in.
- Inspect the side column seals for any damaged or missing pieces.
8. Lubricate Moving Parts
Properly lubricated components will last longer, especially during the cold winter months. Freeze-thaw cycles can cause metal parts to expand and contract, which can lead to warping, friction between moving pieces and jamming. To prevent this, be sure to lubricate any moving parts of your door, such as springs, rollers and hinges. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess grease attracts dust and debris, which can lead to slow-moving doors or jamming.
9. Examine Advanced Electronics
Unlike conventional doors, high-performance doors offer a range of high-tech options to ensure they operate smoothly and safely. Winter can affect these electronic components, so make sure all tech systems are performing properly.
- Reversing edge. This critical safety feature changes the door’s direction when it encounters an obstacle. While the door is running through a down cycle, tap the bottom of the reversing edge to ensure it immediately reverses and returns to the fully open position.
- Safety features. Features like SmartSurround® and Pathwatch® safety light systems help to prevent doors from closing when an obstruction is detected, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall safety. Inspect these systems to ensure your doors are operating as safely as possible.
- Remote Monitoring. The Rytec Connect® remote door monitoring and management system and Advanced System 4® Controller lets you remotely manage all connected high-performance doors throughout your facility. Make sure these are in good working order to ensure smooth, continuous operation without downtime.
Protect Your Investment this Winter
Preparing your high-performance doors for the season helps extend their lifespan, improve your dealership’s efficiency, and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns during extreme weather. If your dealership or service center still uses older sectional doors, it’s time for an upgrade. Contact us today to discuss how Rytec’s high-performance doors can help keep your facility running throughout the winter months – and all year long. If your doors need servicing, contact your local dealer or a Rytec Regional Sales Manager to be connected with one.
