What to Use to Lube Garage Door Tracks

White Lithium Grease

• The website, “The Family Handyman,” endorses white lithium grease spray to lubricate garage door tracks. Bob Vila’s website forum also recommends using a lithium grease spray, and states that it only needs to be applied on a yearly basis. White lithium grease is available at hardware and auto parts stores.

Motor Oil

• “Ask the Builder” suggests using a lightweight 5W oil to lubricate garage door tracks. In addition, you should lubricate the rest of the moving parts, which include the hinge pins, rollers and bearings. The website advises against using thick, heavy oil or substituting conventional grease. The use of a low-temperature oil is recommended for use in cold climates.

WD-40

• Using WD-40 is sometimes recommended for lubricating garage door tracks. However, “Handyman USA” warns against using WD-40 because it is too light. Since the moving parts of the garage door experience intense pressure, only lubricants designed for high-pressure environments should be used.

Other Maintenance

• The garage door tracks and other parts should be cleaned before you apply oil. Wipe, sweep or vacuum any visible dirt or debris. Also, inspect the hardware and tighten loose bolts, screws, etc. Check cables to be sure that they are not unraveling, and examine the tracks to verify they are in alignment. On at least a quarterly basis, clean the garage doors with a gentle detergent to prevent the formation of harmful chemicals on the door tracks and other moving parts.