Routine Garage Door Maintenance and Repair

Although many homeowners don't spend much time thinking about their garage doors when something goes wrong, and it doesn't work properly, you realize that similar to other aspects of your home; the garage door needs regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Assuming there is no obvious physical damage to the door, the motor is the part people think to check if the door isn't working properly. However, there are also springs, cables, chains, and rails which can wear out over time or become out of alignment.

Springs: How They Work

Springs work instead of counterweights to help balance out the weight of the door so a lighter motor can lift it. If the springs come out of adjustment, they won't provide the proper tension to lift the door, and on occasion, they can break. They don't typically require much maintenance, but they do need to be oiled periodically, which is best left to a professional, so they don't get over oiled or too greasy.

Cables: Performance and Function

One problem misaligned springs can cause for a cable or chain to snap. If the door is inspected and properly maintained, the cables will generally last a lifetime. Although, sometimes they can get a nick or damage which the owner is unaware of which can then cause them to break at some point in the future. Fortunately, the system was designed knowing they may need to be replaced, so the replacement process is a fairly straightforward job to conduct. Again, it’s important to remember this should be conducted by a garage door specialist to assure the right gauge is used, and tensions are properly adjusted to increase your garage doors daily function.

Rails: Alignment and Continued Usage

Rails, like the other components of the garage door system, are designed to be tough and sturdy when subjected to the ordinary use expected of a garage door. However, they can also come out of alignment as everything has a breaking point. Whether heavy winds constantly rattle the door over the years, a car taps the door, or even children playing in the driveway and bumping against it, can over time lead the rails to come out of proper alignment. When such a thing happens, they need to be readjusted to allow them to properly guide the door up their tracks as it was designed and intended to work.

If you are looking for any garage door repairs, look no farther than Door Power. We have the expertise and tools you need to get the job done. Give us a call for a free estimate at 952-467-3199.

This post first appeared on https://www.doorpower.com

Each time that you come and go from your home, you press your garage door button to move your door. Homeowners rely on their garage door opener to function each and every time they need access. However, issues can arise with this area of your home. In order to experience a quiet and smooth transition from open to closed, your garage door chain should be lubricated regularly. This is something that a garage door professional can take care of for you as part of a routine maintenance appointment. You can also take care of this maintenance yourself. Let’s talk more about the lubrication of your garage door chain and how often this process should be done.

The Benefits of Regular Garage Door Chain Lubrication

In order to fully understand why it’s important to regularly lubricate your garage door chain, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of this process.

Smooth Transition From Open to Closed

A garage door chain that is in need of lubrication can be very loud. It can also experience some resistance, making the transition from open to closed rattle. Instead of tolerating your garage door shaking and rattling while it’s in the process of moving, you can lubricate the chain to maintain a smooth movement.

Preventing a Malfunction of Your Garage Door Chain

Have you ever pressed the button for your garage door to open or close, and nothing happened? There are a few reasons why this can occur, including a broken or jammed chain. When the chain mechanism is very dry and in need of lubrication, it’s more likely to snap. You’ll need to call in a professional to replace the chain, which is far more time-consuming and expensive than a quick lubrication.

Garage Door Chain Lubrication Frequency

You should routinely lubricate your garage door chain at least twice per year. Depending on how often you open and close your garage door, the frequency may increase. The area where you live can also impact this maintenance schedule. For example, living near the beach or in another harsh environment can put a lot of wear and tear on the chain. This is because of exposure to different kinds of materials like sand, high levels of humidity, etc. Some homeowners will lubricate their garage door chain every couple of months. Ideally, you want to keep up with this maintenance rather than just waiting for your garage door to sound noisy or rattle.

Try to avoid using a product that is overly greasy or oily when lubricating your garage door chain. This type of product will end up attracting a lot of dust and particulates to the chain. If those particles accumulate in all of the cracks and crevices of the chain, it can become more prone to breaking. If you apply too much product, you can wipe the excess away. Avoid spraying lubricant on other areas of your garage door, such as the rollers or the garage door opener.

If you live somewhere that experiences very cold temperatures during certain points of the year, you should choose an all-weather lubricant. Otherwise, certain products will become very thick and gel-like when temperatures outside fall below freezing. Also, avoid anything that can be corrosive to metal.

Steps for Lubricating Your Garage Door Chain

You can ask a garage door professional to lubricate your chain as part of an upcoming maintenance or repair appointment, but this is also something you can easily do on your own. Let’s take a look at the steps you should follow to lubricate your garage door chain.

Make sure that your garage door is completely closed. Unplug the garage door opener from its power outlet. When lubricating the chain, you want to avoid having the door move.

Use an old rag to remove any dirt, residue, or grease from the garage door chain. You can also use a vacuum to remove any debris that has accumulated.

Apply a product designed specifically for lubricating a garage door chain. These products are generally silicone-based for longevity and durability. You can also use WD-40 in a pinch. Spray the top, bottom, and sides of your chain. Spray lightly, as you don’t want the product to drip off the chain and all over your garage floor.

Plug your garage door opener back into the power outlet. Open and close your garage door a few times to evenly distribute the lubricant. You may need to repeat the process if you notice the chain is shaky or loud.

Other Related Maintenance

In addition to lubricating your garage door chain, there are some other related maintenance tasks to consider completing at the same time.

Inspect the Rollers

A thorough inspection of your garage door rollers will determine if there’s a repair or replacement that needs to be made. You want to make sure that the roller doesn’t shift or wiggle at all when you touch it. You can lubricate your rollers with lithium- or silicone-based grease for optimal protection.

Inspect the Hinges

Check your garage door hinges to make sure the attached hardware is secure. You also want to inspect for rust or signs of wear and tear. Hinges can be quickly replaced, if need be, which helps secure your garage door and protect its longevity. Hinges can also be lubricated if they are squeaking when in motion.

Tighten Your Garage Door Chain

Your garage door chain can have a little bit of a sag to it, but it shouldn’t come anywhere near your garage door. You also want to prevent the chain from being tightened too much, which increases the chance of the chain snapping.
If you need to tighten the chain, loosen the nut that is closest to the garage door. The chain should drop slightly. Loosening the inner nut at this point will allow you to tighten the chain using the outer nut. Make sure both are secure when you are finished.

Listen for Odd Noises

Aside from visually inspecting your garage door chain and lubricating it, there are some other issues to listen for. The sound of your garage door chain hitting your garage door indicates that the chain needs to be tightened. A vibrating sound may mean that the bolts holding the chain in place are loose or damaged. Many people mistake roller issues for a damaged chain, so look closely at both of these areas if there are odd noises when your door is in motion.

There may be a problem with your garage door that requires the attention of a garage door professional even though you have routinely lubricated your garage door chain. Reach out to Garage Door Doctor if you live in Bloomington or the surrounding areas to schedule an appointment for garage door maintenance or repair. In addition to emergency repairs and services, Garage Door Doctor will address residential and commercial garage door maintenance, spring repair, and total garage door replacement.

The post How Often Should You Lubricate a Garage Door Chain? appeared first on Garage Door Doctor.

This post first appeared on https://www.garagedoordoctorllc.com

Your garage door says a lot about your home and creates a lasting impression on guests and passers-by. The type, color and design of your garage door reveal your style preferences and provide a sneak peek into your home. When choosing a garage door, think about how you want people to perceive your home from your driveway or a nearby street. 

A customized or traditional wooden garage door can help you achieve a beautiful and sophisticated design that makes your home more inviting to guests. There are various wooden garage door types, styles, colors and accessories that can make your door unique and memorable. 

You can choose between a wide range of natural hardwood or wood composite garage doors to match your budget and personal preference. Wooden garage doors are easy to customize, so you can make your home stand out from all the rest. 

What Are Wooden Garage Doors?

Wooden garage doors are timeless and enhance the curbside appeal of homes. Many people choose wooden garage doors because they are easily customizable and come in various wood types. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between natural wood doors and wood composite doors. There are also multiple styles of garage doors that can enhance your home. 

Types of Wooden Garage Doors 

When choosing a wooden garage door, consider your budget, home layout and design. Here are some common types of wooden garages:

• Solid panel garage door: Many people choose the solid panel garage door as it is economical and offers a simple design. A solid wood panel garage door is flat and consists of a single slab of wood that provides a polished and elegant finish.
• Raised panel garage door: Unlike the simple solid panel design, raised panels offer more detail. A thick raised wood panel garage door has customized elements that provide a unique and modern finish. 
• Carriage house-style garage door: A carriage house-style garage door is known for its rustic feel and has doors that swing open and closed like stable doors. Carriage house wood doors are versatile and a classic addition to any modern or rustic-style home. Many people install windows in their carriage house garage doors, which add more charm to the contemporary design of the carriage-style garage door. 

Are Wooden Garage Doors Made of Solid Wood? 

Wooden garage doors are usually made from layers of hardwood or wood composite rather than solid wood.

Manufacturers use hardwood sheets like cedar, redwood and plywood to make wooden garage doors. Sheets of hardwood are popular in wooden garage doors as they help reinforce the door and can be resistant to moisture and rotting.

Manufacturers make composite wooden garage doors from a non-wood core and attach recycled materials like plastic and softwood to the exterior of the non-wood body. A popular type of wood composite is faux wood. A faux wood garage door is perfect if you want a garage door that resembles a hardwood garage door but is cheaper and requires less maintenance.

Best Types of Wood for Garage Doors

The following types of wood are popular choices for wooden garage doors. 

Cedar

Many people choose cedar for garage doors because of the quality and durability of cedarwood. Cedarwood is a porous softwood that causes less strain on your garage door opener. Although cedar is a softwood, it is solid and resistant to insect and moisture damage, making it a perfect choice for homeowners. Cedarwood has various beautiful designs and does not crack or wrap in hot weather. You can paint your cedar garage door or leave it in its beautiful natural state. 

Mahogany

For those who aim for overall quality in garage doors, mahogany garage doors set the bar extremely high. Mahogany is a robust hardwood that is naturally moisture-resistant, making it a popular choice for wooden garage doors. Mahogany garage doors offer unique color tones, rigidness and custom designs to coordinate with the layout of homes. 

Redwood

Redwood garage doors are known for their superior quality and sophistication. Spending a little extra on a redwood garage door gives homeowners a durable softwood garage door that can withstand most weather conditions. Redwood garage doors offer a variety of designs, natural, rich color tones and various customization options. 

Reclaimed Wood

Making your home more eco-friendly is easy with a reclaimed wood garage door. Reclaimed wood is solid hardwood made from repurposed lumber from previous wood structures. Reclaimed wood garages are solid and can withstand hot weather and heating systems because of the reclaimed wood’s preexposure to various weather conditions. 

Plywood

You can make your garage door economical and appealing with plywood. Plywood combines soft and hardwood materials manufacturers use to create affordable wooden garage door panels. Manufacturers offer the option of adding a hardwood coat to plywood garage doors to make them more attractive. 

Pros and Cons of Wooden Garage Doors

Wooden garage doors have many excellent features that make them the perfect choice for homeowners. Weighing the pros and cons of wooden garage doors can help you decide if a wooden garage door is right for your home. 

Pros of Wooden Garage Doors

Pros of wooden garage doors include: 

• Increased curb appeal: The rich colors, classic designs and beautiful textures of wooden garages stand out on any street or driveway. 
• Diverse customization: Wooden garages are easily customizable, so you can choose the color, size, wood panels and windows to match your home design and personal preferences.
• Eco-friendly material: Wood is a sustainable building material, making it a great choice if you are concerned about protecting the environment. 
• Strong and durable garage doors: Many wood materials are naturally strong and durable, so your garage door will likely withstand most weather conditions and last a long time. 
•  Insulation: Wood is a natural insulator, which will help keep your home warm on cool days. Plus, you can save money on energy bills as you may not need extra heating.
• Affordable options: Many wooden garage doors can be affordable if you use wood composite materials. 
• Increased home value: A wooden garage’s beautiful design and style can make your home more appealing to buyers.

Cons of Wooden Garage Doors

Cons of wooden garage doors include:

• Maintenance needs: Regular maintenance is the best option to keep your wooden garage door in shape for an extended time. Regular maintenance tasks like checking for cracks and chips and applying waterproof paint to your wooden garage door can prevent it from rotting or cracking but may be a time-consuming task. 
• Price: Customizing your wooden garage door can make it a more costly investment than standard wooden garage doors. 
• Life span: While regular maintenance can help your garage door last longer, wooden garages may still have a shorter life span than other garages. 
• Weight: Wood materials are solid and may be heavy, adding more weight to your garage door opener. 

Cost of Wooden Garage Doors

Different types of wooden garages vary in cost. How much you pay for your wooden garage door depends on factors like the type of wood, labor, size of your garage door and customizations. 

Hardwood garage doors like redwood, oak and mahogany are heavier woods that can cost you more to install. Plus, you have to consider the size of your garage — garage doors for a two- to three-car garage can cost more to manufacture and install. 

Custom wooden garage doors and panels may cost more to manufacture. Other customizations like painting, staining or adding windows to your wooden garage door can also increase the cost of your garage door. Consider the price of garage door handles and the type that will match and be sturdy enough for your garage door. 

You also must consider the type of garage door opener you’ll need for your wooden garage door. Particular hardwood garage doors may require door openers that are strong enough to hold the weight of a heavy wooden garage door.

Lastly, you need to consider the costs of a professional garage door company to help you install and customize your wooden garage door. Professionals can install your door and make sure everything works properly. 

How Long Do Wooden Garage Doors Last?

The longevity of wooden garage doors can depend on the maintenance, weather conditions, the quality of your wood material and the overall age of your wooden garage door. 

The type of wood you use for your wooden garage door can also help determine the life span of your garage door. Thick hardwood garage doors may last longer than thinner softwood garage doors. 

Regular and preventive maintenance can extend the life span of your wooden garage door and the time before a garage door replacement becomes necessary. Many quality wood types are insect-resistant and able to withstand hot and wet weather conditions. You might not have to consider replacing your wooden garage door for a long time if your garage door is well-maintained. 

Best Windows for Wooden Garage Doors

Installing garage door windows can provide natural light and warmth to your garage and complete the classic, elegant or rustic look of your wooden garage door. 

You need to consider your type of wooden garage when installing windows. Windows can add extra weight to a heavy wooden garage door, so consider a lighter option like faux glass. You can choose between customizations like clear, frosted or obscure fake or real glass windows to help you achieve the desired look and feel or enhance the privacy and safety of your garage. 

You can pick the shape, size and window type that best suits your carriage house or single and raised panel garage doors. Many professional garage door companies can customize your wood door to fit various window shapes and sizes. 

Best Openers for Wooden Garage Doors

Many wooden garage doors require garage openers with adequate functionality to support the weight of the hardwood doors. Choose a garage door opener that can lift and lower heavy wooden garage doors safely. There are a variety of heavy-lifting garage openers — such as the LiftMaster® Elite Series® — that are strong and durable to support the weight of your standard or custom wooden garage door. You can also choose between different types of garage door openers to match the design and style of your wooden garage door. 

Wooden Garage Door Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance lets you keep your wooden garage door in great shape for longer. Here are some simple wooden garage door maintenance tips: 

• Clean your wooden garage doors: Wiping down and washing your wooden garage door with water and mild soap is a simple way to get rid of dirt and dust and prevent stains. 
• Inspect your wooden garage for rot: Wooden garage doors may be prone to fungus and rot from wet weather and excessive moisture in the air. Rot is not always visible, so regularly inspect for signs of rot, like worn stains or soft areas in your wooden garage door. Look out for water that soaks into stained wood door areas or test the firmness of weak wood areas with a screwdriver to help identify rot. 
• Inspect your wooden garage for pests: Many wooden garage doors are resistant to insects, but it is still essential to watch for insects like termites, snails or beetles to ensure they are not creeping into any cracks on your garage door. 
• Seal cracks and chips: Seal any cracks or chips by sanding down your wood doors and applying a mold repellent before painting or staining your doors. 
• Pant and stain your wooden garage door: Regularly painting and staining your door with protective waterproof paint or stain can help protect the surface of your wood door from rot, warping and scratches. 

What Are the Most Popular Accessories for Wooden Garage Doors?

Customizing your wooden garage door goes beyond door panel styles and windows. Here are some popular accessories to help help you enhance the aesthetics of your wooden garage door:

• Decorative wooden garage door handles: You can customize your wooden garage door with various door handles and knob designs of different colors and styles to accentuate your wooden garage door design. 
• Decorative wooden garage hinges: Installing custom hinges and latches to your carriage house-style garage can help complete your classic or rustic garage door design. 
• Decorative wooden garage hardware kits: You can purchase unique hardware garage door kits that include nails, door handles and hinges to help enhance your wooden garage door’s unique look and feel. 
• Customized windows grille patterns: Choose between various window shapes and grille patterns to improve the space and design of your wooden garage doors. 

Install Your Wooden Garage Door With Help From AAA Garage Door

Wooden garage doors are a timeless addition to any home and help you enhance the aesthetics of your home. 

AAA Garage Door provides all the garage door repair and replacement services you need and can help you install and maintain your wooden garage door. We have been in the garage door business for decades and are committed to providing efficient and quality services to homes and businesses in Nebraska. We offer a broad range of Clopay® wooden garage products and have a team of trained professionals who can help install your wooden garage door and opener. 

Request an estimate for your wooden garage door today. 

The post Everything You Need to Know About Wooden Garage Doors appeared first on AAA Garage Door, Inc. | Husker Door.

When it comes to things that are valuable, we tend to handle them with extra care. We put expensive jewelry in a safe at home. We also make sure to get our car’s oil changed to ensure it works as it should. In most cases, the extra steps we take help us keep our valuables longer.

The same premise holds true for garage doors. These doors are a considerable investment. The value of garage doors increases once it’s working to protect your family. As such, you should do everything possible to ensure that your new garage door lasts for years.

Make Timely Repairs

Owning a home requires you to maintain every aspect of your home. Sometimes it can seem as if you have too many repairs, so you may feel the need to procrastinate when it comes to something like getting your garage door fixed. Unfortunately, even though it may seem as if you are saving money doing this, you are making matters worse.

When you are in need of a garage repair, ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. In fact, in most situations it makes it worse, requiring you to spend more money once you get it fixed. Delaying repairs can also reduce the useful life of your garage door by damaging other components. If you notice a repair, get it fixed immediately to ensure that your garage door works for years.

Get a Custom Garage Door

Manufacturers of garage doors are like most businesses they look ways to produce their product at the lowest costs. As such, many manufacturers rely on garage door springs that are only useful for about 10,000 uses; your springs may stop working due to opening and closing your door often, about 10,000 times. With frequent use, your garage door could stop functioning long before it approaches its useful life.

By getting a custom-made garage door, you can avoid the tendency for garage door springs to stop working. A custom made garage door is put together using excellent craftsmanship and high-quality parts. Both of these factors ensure that your garage door will last longer than its expected useful life.

At Door Power, we understand that you invest a lot in your garage door. As such, we want to make sure that you have it for years. If you need a garage door repair, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation.

This post first appeared on https://www.doorpower.com

Most automatic garage door openers are chain driven. The chain is connected to two sprockets that work to drive the carriage or trolley so the door opens and closes. One sprocket is located at the motor and the other is at the end of the rail just next to the garage door itself. Garage door chains require a bit of slack in order for the motor to smoothly open and close the door. The issue is that the constant vibration that occurs whenever the motor runs can start to loosen the chain to where it starts to drag on the rail or disconnect entirely.

If the chain ever does come off, the opener won’t work and you’ll need to manually open and close the door. This is one reason why it’s always a good idea to have your garage door professionally maintained every year as the technician will always check and tighten the chain. Fixing a chain that has come loose may seem like a simple job; however, attempting to fix it yourself can be dangerous. One wrong move, and you can cause injury or even death. If the chain on your garage door comes off, a call to a repair technician is warranted. Of course, there is nothing wrong with being curious about how the technician will repair your garage door. Below are the steps the technician will take to reattach your garage door chain.

Disconnecting the Door From the Opener

The first thing the technician will do is disconnect the door from the opener. There will be a cord with a red handle hanging from the carriage, which is the part that moves the door along the trolley or rail.

If the chain comes off when the door is fully open, the technician will not worry much as the door will normally stay up even after he or she disconnects the carriage from the trolley. However, there is always a chance that the door can come slamming down upon disconnecting the chain. Technicians are aware of these risks, and they have the training and the tools to mitigate them.
After disconnecting the carriage, the technician will then need to close the door by hand so he or she can access the chain. To do this, the technician will pull down on the rope that is connected to the door.

Unplugging the Motor

Once the door is disconnected and closed, the technician will climb on a ladder to unplug the motor from the outlet. This is essential as the technician will not want the motor to suddenly come on while working as it can lead to injury or even death.

Putting the Chain Back on and Then Adjust for Tightness

Depending on how loose the chain is, the technician may simply be able to slip it straight back onto the sprockets. They will make sure that the chain is fully on the sprocket at the motor. Depending on the specific model, the technician may need to use a screwdriver to pry off the cover to access the sprocket.

The technician will then need to take a ladder and climb up to the end of the trolley next to the door. He or she will see a second sprocket at the end of the trolley. If the technician can’t get the chain to easily slide back on the sprocket, he or she will first need to loosen it to secure and retighten it.

The technician will see a bolt that goes through the carriage and attaches to the chain with two nuts threaded on one side of it. The nut that is closest to the opener is the locking nut, and the nut closest to the door is the tension or adjustment nut.

The technician will first need to slightly loosen the locking nut with pliers or a wrench and then loosen the adjustment nut until the chain sags enough that he or she can enable it to slip back onto the sprocket. Once the chain is back in place, the technician will then start to turn the adjustment nut in the opposite direction to tighten the chain. The technician has the experience to know that tightening the chain too much can cause it to break or the opener to not work correctly. He or she will test if the chain is too tight or too loose by pushing down on it with one finger. The chain should only give by about an inch. Any more give and the chain is still too loose, and any less give means it is too tight.

Once the chain is properly tightened, the technician will retighten the locking nut to ensure it stays in place. The technician knows that forgetting this step will cause the chain to quickly come loose and eventually fall off again.

Plugging the Motor in and Testing That Your Door Works Correctly

The last steps are to plug the opener motor back in and then test that everything works as it should. After plugging the opener in, the technician will reconnect the carriage to the trolley. This is done by pulling the red emergency cord back in the direction of the opener until the carriage clicks back in place. When the carriage re-engages, the technician will usually notice that the chain suddenly has a bit more slack. This is normal and the chain will tighten back up as soon as he or she opens the door.

Once everything is reconnected, the technician will test your garage door to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly. If the technician notices the chain slightly dragging on the rail when the door opens and closes, he or she will disconnect the carriage again and tighten the chain a bit more.

If the door opens and closes as it should and the chain doesn’t drag, then the technician’s job is done. If the motor doesn’t work for any reason or the chain immediately falls off again, then the technician will inspect the opener further to determine what is causing this problem.

Depending on the specific cause, you may need to have the chain replaced, or you will potentially need to replace the opener. If the chain constantly falls off, it usually means that the teeth on the sprockets have worn down to the point where they can’t properly grip the chain. As such, you may need to have the sprocket, motor or both replaced.

If you need to have your garage door chain put back on or you need your garage door or opener serviced in any way, the expert team at Garage Door Doctor is always here to help. We specialize in all types of garage door repairs, and we can also help if you need a new door or opener installed. We service both residential and commercial clients, so give us a call today if you need any garage door service in the Indianapolis or Bloomington areas.

The post What To Do When the Chain on a Garage Door Opener Comes Off appeared first on Garage Door Doctor.

This post first appeared on https://www.garagedoordoctorllc.com

A functional garage door is an important aspect of your home. You rely on it to ensure you are safe when you use it. More importantly, you assume that it will continue to remain up as you drive underneath it when you enter your garage with your car. With that in mind, it’s important to know when you should replace your garage door springs to prevent harm to you and your family members.

Replace Your Springs After 10 Years

The age of your springs is an easy way to determine when to replace your garage door springs. Typically, garage door springs last between 7 to 9 years. With some springs only lasting for seven years, you should monitor your springs-regardless if they are torsion or tension springs-well before year seven. A simple test like lifting your garage door and observing how it responds to you can help you determine if your garage door springs are wearing down. Your door shouldn’t bounce continually once it’s in the up position. If you notice a constant movement, then you can infer that your springs may not be working as they should.

Heavy Use May Dictate that You Replace Your Springs

Beyond age, if you use your garage door heavily, then you should consider replacing your garage door springs before they’ve aged a lot. Much like other consumer goods, your garage door and its springs have a useful life; it’s not manufactured to last forever. When it comes to observing your springs based on your usage, you should have an expert examine your garage door springs. Their knowledge and experience help them easily identify problematic garage door springs.

An Unbalanced Door Signals Bad Springs

Your garage door is manufactured to meet the ground evenly. There should be no gaps between your garage door and the cement of your driveway. If you notice gaps or you’ve noticed that your door seems unbalanced, then you may have a problem with one of your garage door springs. Since damage to garage door springs can happen at any time, you should respond promptly when you have an unbalanced garage door for the safety of your family.

A Crooked Garage Door Signals Damage

Finally, another problem that you can visibly observe is a crooked garage door. If you notice your garage door is crooked, you should stop using it immediately. Continual use may affect other aspects of your garage door and make repairs more costly.

At Door Power, there is no garage door problem too small to fix. We specialize in many types of garage door repairs for homeowners who reside in and around Chanhassen, MN. Give us a call today so that we can help you restore your garage door.

This post first appeared on https://www.doorpower.com

If your like thousands of other homeowners, you probably keep your home’s heaviest valuables in the garage. While thieves may have trouble stealing your car, your bench press or your tool stand, they can still cause financial damage if they’re let in.

Your garage door might seem like it’s a high-strength, durable sheet of metal—but it’ll make your valuables vulnerable if you don’t take a few security precautions. All too often, the garage is forgotten. Don’t leave your lawnmower, power tools or vehicle exposed. Take charge with the following garage security tips.

Security Tip One: Cover the Windows

Regardless of how strong your windows are, they’re still windows. Reduce the theft incentive, and install blinds or curtains. Or, apply an opaque film over the glass. You can still let light in while keeping prying eyes out.

Security Tip Two: Install a Garage Security Lock

Next, you should double down on your garage door’s security. It should be as secure as your other doors. If you want to halt potential intruders, you’ll need to make sure your garage door can be securely locked. Install a deadbolt, or multiple locks, and top it off with either a padlock or programmable lock.

Security Tip Three: Install a Garage Timer

Sometimes, life gets in the way. If you’re constantly running in and out, you might be forgetting to put the door down. If your garage is open, it’s inviting prowling thieves. Install a garage timer. A garage timer signals your garage door opener to close once a set amount of time has passed. You can pre-program this time, making sure your garage is never left open for too long.

Security Tip Four: Set Up Motion Detection Lights

You may have motion detection lights installed in your backyard, already. If you’re aiming for a cable replacement, spring replacement or track replacement job, consider using the time to install motion detection lights around the garage, too. Among the many safety features you can install, motion detection lights are among the best.

Security Tip Five: Consistent Repair

Talk to your provider, and get your garage door opener, cables and springs checked out. You’d be surprised how often garage doors are damaged from high winds, cold weather and small dents. By having your garage door professionally examined—and examined frequently—you can make sure it’s always in tip-top shape, security-wise.

Browse home security systems, too. While not centric to your garage area, home security systems can boost your home’s overall defense. Take the time, and make sure your household’s safety features are top notch.

This post first appeared on https://www.doorpower.com

 

Fun fact, if you have a steel garage door (which you probably do) the door is magnetic! In this modern day and age, you no longer have to drill holes into your door to mount decorative hardware. You can take advantage of your door’s innate magnetism and add some decorations as easily as putting a magnet on your fridge.

We have a variety of different decorative hardware for steel garage doors. Whether you’re looking for some old-fashioned straps, a more modern handle set, or some carriage-style hinges, we have something to suite everyone’s tastes.

Be sure to check out what we offer. If you decide to change your style, it’s as easy to swap out as it is to install. Keep it stylish! 

This post first appeared on https://www.abedoors.com

For homeowners, one of the most important homeownership concerns you must manage is the security and safety of your home. When it comes to keeping your house safe from outsiders, garage doors are essential in securing your residence’s perimeter, so servicing them is not something to be taken lightly.

Unfortunately, there has been an influx of fraudulent garage door companies offering unacceptable services or scamming unsuspecting customers out of their hard-earned money. That leaves many homeowners needing help finding legitimate professionals to complete repairs or installations. Below is a guide to help identify fraudulent garage door companies so that you can rest assured that your home will be kept safe by professional, reputable, and reliable technicians.

1. Check Reviews and References

Reviews and references are a great way to find out how a garage door company operates. Ask for references from the company and check online reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List. This should give you an idea of their level of service, track record, and professionalism. Trustworthy companies usually have positive reviews and long-term customers willing to vouch for them and their services.

2. Get the Details

Before signing contracts or paying, ensure you understand the services provided. Ask for an itemized list of services and cost breakdowns to avoid hidden charges or surprise costs down the line. A reliable garage door company should also provide you with warranties on their work and materials so that any issues down the road can be fixed without additional cost. Legitimate companies will also clearly explain their policies on service calls, additional fees, and other potential scenarios related to servicing your garage door.

When getting the details, make sure to also ask about the company’s payment methods. Fraudulent companies often require customers to pay in cash or make payments through untraceable mediums such as wire transfers. Legitimate companies will typically accept credit cards, checks, and other common payment methods.

3. Check for Licensing and Insurance

Garage door companies should be licensed, insured, and registered to operate legally. Check your state’s laws to ensure that the company follows the correct licensing and insurance procedures. A reputable garage door company will provide you with proof of their credentials. If they do not, it’s best to avoid them since they may not operate with integrity or could even be involved in criminal activity.

These licenses and insurance policies will help protect you in case of accidents or injuries while servicing your garage door. Having a licensed and insured company on the job also ensures that they follow industry standards and regulations, which can guarantee the quality of their services.

4. Beware of Door-to-Door Services

No legitimate garage door company will offer door-to-door services. If a technician knocks on your doorstep offering to do repairs or installations, it’s best to decline their services, as this is often a sign that they are not credible or reliable. Legitimate companies will have a physical office and address so that you can check their records and verify the details of their operations before signing any contracts.

Additionally, always ask for credentials and proof of identity. If a company or technician is unwilling to provide these documents, they are likely not who they say they are.

5. Unusually Low Discounts

When a deal is too good to be true, it usually is. Unusually low discounts or promotional offers may indicate fraudulent activity, as these companies will often charge hidden fees and additional costs after completing the job.

Before signing any contracts, shop around and compare rates with other reputable garage door companies. This will give you an understanding of what a fair price should be for servicing and repairs so that you know when a deal is too good to be true. Even if the initial cost appears to be very low, remember that not all costs are upfront. Always read and understand the fine print before making a payment.

6. Your Gut Instincts

Most importantly, remember to trust your gut. If the company makes you uncomfortable, it’s best to look for another, more reputable option. Your safety and security should always come first. If you have doubts or suspicions about a garage door company, it’s best to avoid taking any risks and opt for someone else who can ensure the job is done right.

7. Below-Standard Material Quality

Garage doors are supposed to last for years, so you should always opt for quality materials when installing or repairing them. Low-grade and faulty materials can quickly lead to problems such as broken springs and hardware damage, leading to additional costs in the long run.

Fraudulent companies often use poor-quality parts that will only last for a while. Therefore, choosing a reputable company with good reviews can ensure that your garage door will be serviced with top-notch materials and equipment designed to last.

8. Avoid Companies That Charge for Quotes

Legitimate companies will never charge you to provide an estimate or quote. If a company is asking for payment to give you a price, then it’s best to steer clear and look for another option.

Always ask for quotes and estimates before engaging with any garage door company. This will help you understand the project’s cost and compare prices between different providers. Reputable companies will offer free quotes and estimates, so ensure you know all the costs before signing any contracts.

9. Rude or Unprofessional Employees

The type of customer service you receive is a major indicator of whether or not the company is reputable. Legitimate companies will go out of their way to ensure that you are satisfied with their services, while fraudulent businesses may be unresponsive and unwilling to answer your questions.

If the employees seem rude or unprofessional when dealing with your inquiries, it’s best to look for another option as this can often indicate that their practices are not up to par.

10. No Online Presence

If a garage door company is legitimate, it should have some online presence. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they need to have a website (although this is usually a good sign), but it does mean that you should be able to search for them on Google and see if there are any reviews or testimonials about their services.

Suppose the company has yet to find an online presence that can often indicate fraudulent activity. Always take time to read up on any garage door companies before signing contracts with them. If you are looking for a professional garage door company in the Indianapolis, IN, area, check out Garage Door Doctor for all your garage door needs.

Contact Us

Identifying fraudulent garage door companies can be tricky, but it’s important to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable business before entrusting them with your home. By researching and comparing different companies and using your gut instincts, you can successfully identify any potential red flags and choose a reliable option for all your garage door needs.

At Garage Door Doctor, we are a fully accredited garage door company providing a wide range of commercial and residential garage door services. You can rely on us for garage door replacement, maintenance, and repair at competitive prices. We are fully committed to giving you exceptional service and unrivaled materials. Take advantage of our free consultation by calling us today.

The post 10 Ways to Identify Fraudulent Garage Door Companies appeared first on Garage Door Doctor.

This post first appeared on https://www.garagedoordoctorllc.com

People never think about their garage doors until it stops working, then they realize just how important the door is and how much they use it. You’ll understand when you have to run through the rain from the car to the front door and then come through the house and unlock lift the garage door by hand in order to park inside. Or just as bad, much like 50 years ago, you have to raise the door to back your car out of the garage and then get out of the car to close and lock the door before you leave the house.

Reasons for Failures

There are several things which can go wrong and cause a garage door failure. Of course, there are the obvious problems which happen when a car accidentally hits the door, but other problems just arise over time as pieces of the system wear out or require maintenance. The simplest problem has to do with the laser safety feature at the bottom of the door. If the pointer gets bumped out of alignment or blocked by a pile of leaves it prevents the door from closing. The second most common problem is when the motor for the opener burns out. Far more rarely but on occasion the spring or even the cable can break and needs replacement.

Can You Fix It Yourself?

Generally speaking, a garage door specialist is needed for repairs. Even if you have a good aptitude for these things and can in fact replace the opener, are you sure you know which one to buy for the replacement? You need one which matches the weight of the door which can vary if you have a heavy wooden door with glass windows or a lightweight aluminum door. The same can be said of the spring and chain which have to be the right size and tensioned properly, so their replacement is best left to a professional who has the experience and the tools to the job efficiently.

Calling a Professional

When you do need to call a professional, it’s not very different than hiring a contractor. You want a bid from an established expert who is well known in the community for their professionalism and ability to conduct the work on time and get it done right the first time rather than hiring someone who tries to figure it out as the work on the project.

This post first appeared on https://www.doorpower.com