Maintaining self-storage doors is crucial to ensure their proper operation for your tenants. Regular checks on the mechanics of the door not only extend its life but also ensure a safe and smooth operation.

Common problems include doors not opening and closing correctly, falling out of tension, unraveling, or not sitting on the roll-up coil properly. These issues can be identified if the door does not open and close smoothly. This article is to help you navigate some of the difficulties that come with caring for your self-storage doors.

Understanding Your Self-Storage Unit Doors

There are three common types of self-storage doors: the standard 26-gauge roll-up coiling doors with spring tension, insulated roll-up doors, and wind-rated doors. SteelBlue roll-up doors stand out with their standard aluminum bottom bar and stainless steel latches, which eliminate rusting.

The doors are encased in a hood assembly that holds the axle and protects the doors from touching anything. This protection shields the door during shipping and on the job site from dents and scratches, and the hood facilitates easy installation.

Key components include:

• Hood housing - Protects door and contains counterbalance springs
• Counterbalance springs - Provides tension to lift the door
• Bottom bar - Reinforces door's bottom edge
• Guides - Side columns that direct door travel
• Locking mechanism - secures door closed

Essential Preventative Maintenance

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your door and ensure smooth operation for tenants. A maintenance plan is important to check on the condition of door guides, spring tension, door stops, and eliminate potential problems. Critical tasks include:

• Monthly inspections - Check all components for signs of wear or damage.
• Cleaning guide tracks - Remove dirt buildup to prevent jamming.
• Lubricating springs - Apply white lithium grease to maintain tension.
• Testing locks - Ensure proper engagement and smooth operation.
• Checking curtain alignment - Adjust to prevent rubbing or scraping.
• Seal maintenance - Replace worn sweep seals to prevent air/water infiltration.

When to Consider Replacement of Self-Storage Unit Doors

Warning signs include:

• Difficulty opening/closing - Indicates spring tension problems
• Lock malfunctions - Can cause doors to disengage from tracks
• Loose or damaged guides - Can allow curtain misalignment
• Faded/peeling paint - Reduces curb appeal and accelerates corrosion
• Dents or holes - Compromise door strength and insulation
• Rusting components - Bottom bar and lock corrosion shortens lifespan
  

The replacement process includes taking still photos and a video before, during, and after the door is removed.

An onsite security guard is required to oversee the process of removing the lock and moving tenant belongings if needed. Once the door is replaced, a new lock will need to be put on, and the old doors are then placed in a dumpster.

When to Replace Doors

Replace doors that cannot be repaired cost effectively. Other reasons include:

• Multiple failed components
• Significant dents, holes or rust damage
• Extreme fading or finish deterioration
• Constant lock malfunctions
• Difficulty staying aligned on tracks
• No longer weatherproof

The Final Roll

Proper maintenance keeps your doors functioning smoothly for tenants while extending operational life. Prioritize inspections, cleaning, lubrication and tensioning. Repair issues promptly to prevent further damage. Ultimately, replacement provides the best solution for doors with extensive wear. Choose durable, rust-resistant SteelBlue doors to minimize lifetime maintenance needs.

For doors that ensure smooth operation, longevity, and easy maintenance, reach out to SteelBlue for your self-storage unit door needs.