Cold-Weather Garage Door Care for Rochester Winters

Published October 22, 2026

Rochester's 1991–2020 normal seasonal snowfall is about 102 inches, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. That's hard on garage doors.

Before the first storm

• Check the bottom seal and side weatherstripping. If it's cracked or you can see daylight under the closed door, replace it (Building America Solution Center).
• Seal between an attached garage and the house, and make sure the connecting door is weatherstripped and self-closing (BASC).
• Test the safety reverse with a 2x4 (CPSC).

During winter

• Clear snow and ice from the door's bottom edge before opening. A door frozen to the floor makes the opener strain.
• If the door won't lift, stop. Don't keep pressing the button. A heavy door can mean a broken spring, and springs should only be handled by a technician (DASMA).

Winter gear

Product categories only. We have not tested specific products and these are not links to buy.

• Bottom seals & weatherstripping
• Garage door lubricant & maintenance kits

Door stuck in the cold? Call (585) 565-6320.

Last updated October 25, 2026