Preventive Maintenance Inspection
Comprehensive overhead door PM checklist per manufacturer and IDA guidelines
Warnings
This procedure should only be performed by qualified door service technicians familiar with overhead door systems and applicable safety standards.
Disconnect power to the operator before inspecting any moving parts.
Never attempt to adjust spring tension during a standard PM without proper training and winding bars.
Test safety devices after every maintenance visit to confirm proper operation.
Required PPE
- Safety glasses
- Leather gloves
- Steel-toed boots
Tools Required
- Socket set and wrenches
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Lubricant (non-silicone for hinges/hardware, white lithium grease for chains)
- Tape measure
- Level
- Stepladder
- Inspection form
- Multimeter (for operator-equipped doors)
Procedure — 11 Steps
Disconnect operator power
Disconnect the electric operator from power (pull the release cord or disconnect at the outlet/breaker). This prevents accidental activation during inspection.
⚠ Lock out/tag out if working in a commercial environment per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147.
Inspect hardware and fasteners
Check all hinges, roller brackets, end brackets, and bearing plates for loose bolts. Tighten as needed. Look for cracked hinges or brackets — replace any that show fatigue or damage.
Inspect rollers
Check each roller for wear, chipping, or flat spots. Nylon rollers should be replaced if cracked. Steel rollers should spin freely without grinding. Replace any roller that does not turn smoothly.
Inspect cables and cable drums
Examine lift cables for fraying, rust, or kinks. Check that cables are properly seated in the cable drum grooves. Verify cables are taut when the door is closed — slack cables indicate a spring tension issue.
⚠ Never attempt to handle cables that are under tension from a wound spring.
Inspect springs
Check torsion springs for rust, gaps between coils, or visible cracks. For extension spring systems, verify safety cables are installed through the springs. Note the spring's approximate cycle count based on usage and assess remaining life.
Inspect tracks and weatherseal
Verify tracks are plumb and level. Check for bends, dents, or debris in the track. Ensure the track spacing is correct (use a level against the track). Inspect bottom weatherseal and side/top perimeter seals — replace if brittle or torn.
Lubricate moving parts
Apply a light machine oil or white lithium grease to all hinges, roller stems, and bearing plates. Lubricate the torsion spring coils with a light oil to prevent rust. Oil the chain or belt drive on the operator if applicable. Do NOT lubricate nylon rollers or tracks.
Test manual balance
With the operator disconnected, lift the door to waist height and release. A properly balanced door should stay in place, rising or falling no more than a few inches. If the door moves significantly, the springs need adjustment.
Reconnect operator and test
Restore power to the operator. Run the door through a full open and close cycle. Listen for unusual noises. Verify the door opens and closes fully without stalling.
Test safety reversal system
Place a 1.5-inch tall object (such as a 2x4 laid flat) on the floor in the door path. Close the door — it must reverse on contact with the object. Test photo eye sensors by breaking the beam during a close cycle — the door must reverse immediately.
⚠ A door that fails the safety reversal test must not be left in service. Repair before leaving the site.
Document findings and recommendations
Record all inspection results, measurements, and any deficiencies. Note parts replaced and recommend any follow-up repairs. Provide the report to the building owner or property manager.
Training Videos
Disclaimer: These videos are produced by third-party YouTube channels and are not affiliated with Doorbot. Video content may not align exactly with the procedures above, may depict techniques that differ from DASMA or manufacturer recommendations, and may show tasks that are dangerous if performed without proper training and equipment. Always follow the written procedure, your company's safety policies, and applicable industry standards. Use these videos as supplementary reference only.
References & Standards
- IDA / Longen Foundation — Maintenance and Safety Resources for the Door Industry
- DASMA — Automatic Garage Door Opener Safety & Maintenance Guide
- Manufacturer-specific service manual