As temperatures rise across Scotland during the summer months, homeowners and property managers may notice some surprising behaviour from their garage doors. From sudden creaks and stiffness to full-on jamming, these issues are often the result of one key factor: heat.
At Fix My Garage Door Scotland, we’ve seen firsthand how summer heat affects garage doors throughout Edinburgh, Dundee, Falkirk, and beyond. This guide explains how you can prevent expansion, warping, and other heat-related issues before they become costly repairs.
During hot spells, materials like wood, aluminium, and even steel expand. For garage doors, this thermal expansion can:
Distort the shape of panels
Cause hinges and tracks to misalign
Interfere with the motor and opening mechanism
Lead to squeaky or jammed doors
Wooden garage doors are particularly prone to swelling in the heat, while metal doors may warp or flex depending on sun exposure. In places like Perth and Stirling, where summer temperatures are becoming increasingly variable, these issues are on the rise.
If you're in the market for a new door, invest in heat-resistant materials. Composite and insulated steel doors hold up well against high temperatures. Wooden doors, while attractive, require consistent treatment to prevent warping.
Already dealing with damage? Our expert garage door repair team can help restore proper function and structure.
Insulation isn’t just for winter. Proper garage insulation regulates internal temperature, helping prevent:
Warping of door panels
Overheating of electric openers
Moisture buildup that can cause rust or rot
Consider adding ceiling vents or small windows to encourage air circulation.
Prevention is always better than a full repair. In areas like Livingston and Lothian, our team encourages seasonal inspections. Key summer maintenance tasks include:
Lubricating moving parts to prevent stiffness
Checking for loose or damaged hinges and rollers
Inspecting the track alignment
Want a full checklist? Check out our Garage Door Maintenance Tips for practical guidance on keeping your door running smoothly year-round.
A small crack or sticking mechanism in May can turn into full failure by August. Don't let minor faults become major issues.
If your door isn’t opening smoothly or you've noticed strange noises, you might be on the verge of a breakdown. See our expert guide, Ultimate Garage Door Troubleshooting Guide 2025, for insights into identifying and fixing common issues.
Wood expands with humidity and heat. If your garage door is timber, keep an eye out for:
Doors catching on the frame
Gaps between panels
Surface cracks or peeling paint
Need help determining if repair or replacement is the right call? Read our Garage Door Repair Strike Guide to learn when action is necessary.
Not all garage door problems are the same. A home in St Andrews may experience vastly different heat exposure compared to one in Falkirk. That’s why local garage door repair expertise is invaluable. We're proud to serve every postcode from Dundee to Lothian with tailored, climate-aware solutions.
Need local advice right now? Search for trusted local garage door repair services near you.
When it comes to repairs, the decision between local or national providers can affect speed, quality, and personalisation. Our breakdown of Local vs National Garage Door Repair will help you decide which fits your home and situation better.
Your garage door may not be top of mind when thinking about summer preparation—but it should be. Whether you’re a homeowner in Edinburgh, run a business in Fife, or manage a rental in Stirling, taking steps now will prevent expensive damage later.
Our reputation for dependable, honest service across Scotland has made Fix My Garage Door Scotland the go-to name in the industry. With regional knowledge and a commitment to quality, we’re ready to help you protect your garage doors through every season.
Explore more helpful blogs and guides on our website, or contact us for a free consultation today.