Hurricane Proof Your Garage Door – To Keep Your Home and Family Safe

Hurricane proof garage door

In many homes, garage doors have been considered as a shield in protecting your belongings and your home from the harmful elements and intruders. With that said, keeping a sturdy garage door is necessary. 

However, if you live in an area prone to hurricane or high-wind, a standard garage door might not be able to protect you, your family and your home. So, when choosing a garage door, you must consider the potential threats of hurricane storm damage to your home. 

Reinforcing your garage door does more than just protecting the garage alone. It also helps in protecting your entire home from storm and high winds. 

How Can Hurricane Impact Your Garage Door

Your garage door is the most susceptible opening of your home to damage by high winds unless you have installed a tested-hurricane proof garage door. 

Garage doors, due to their sizes, are highly vulnerable to damages from high winds. According to FEMA, during a hurricane, a loss of a garage door can become a breach point that sends winds to the entire home and could cause blown out of the house’s roof and supporting walls due to the uncontrolled build-up of internal pressure. 

Moreover, high-winds can lift even heavy objects such as furniture and trees, crashing them into the sides or corners of your home and causing your doors to buckle. These objects might not damage the structure of your home, but the water that can intrude during the hurricane can cause severe water damage to your home. 

Consider the tips below to prevent structural and content damage.

Garage Door Should Meet The Wind-Load Requirements For Your Geographic Region.

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew left Florida with tremendous catastrophic damage to many homes. The total number of fatalities was 65 and the damage cost a total of 27.3 billion (1992 USD). That was a huge amount of money.

 Due to its aftermath, the state Building Commission has provided stricter building codes that are used to require all garage doors to be reinforced so it can withstand the higher wind load requirements. Every region is different. Your local building code department can provide you the most current code information and your garage door technician will go on-site to perform an inspection to check your existing garage door.

You can determine your wind-code requirement through; 

  • Your area’s minimum wind speed. Your garage door must meet or exceed the minimum wind speed to make sure it is safe.
  • Exposure to different obstructions.
  • Your home’s structural type. (Is it a one-story home or two?)

Reinforce Your Garage Door

Reinforced garage doors can withstand severe pressure and high-winds of a hurricane. Luckily, there are two ways in reinforcing your garage door — add on and storm-ready.

Add-on reinforcement allows you to install posts at the back of the door (floor and ceiling) that helps in securing your garage door in case the storm hits your home. You can easily remove the posts after the storm passed. 

The latter one, storm-ready reinforced garage doors require no set-up because reinforcement is already built on the structure of the door. This type of garage door is helpful for the homeowner who owns rental properties or vacation homes. The door assures the owner that it is safe and free from any harmful elements. 

Choose A Door That Has Heavy-Duty Materials 

There are plenty of garage doors that are built with heavy-duty materials. They perform better especially in areas that are prone to hurricanes. They can provide supreme strength that can surpass high-winds during a hurricane, keeping the in shape and place. 

Secure Your Windows

Your windows can be another source of a breach in your garage. Removing the windows or replacing them with a hurricane-proof quality can prevent you from having a disastrous hurricane scenario.

If you choose to keep your current windows, replace the panes with hurricane-proof glass and install exterior shutters. You can use shutters to keep the windows closed and locked and prevent debris to crash from there. If you are using windows made of glass, use the quality, wind-resistant glass.

Install Drainage Near your Garage

Together with windstorm is an extreme amount of water. Water, when intrudes into your garage, can cause severe damage not only to its contents but also to the entire structure of your home. Water damage repairs can be costly and can cause inconvenience.

You should install a trench drain in front of your garage and on either one side (to direct water away from home) to prevent floodwater from getting into your garage. Installing flood vents can also be a good solution from preventing water to sit in your garage. Flood vents allow water to drain out before it rises and causes damage.

Hurricanes are no easy thing. They can create catastrophic damage if your home is not properly protected. Reinforcing your garage door to be hurricane-proof can protect your home and your family from any danger high-winds can bring.

Be hurricane ready. Don’t wait for a hurricane warning to be issued before you take into consideration of reinforcing your garage door. To get more information on a variety of hurricane-rated garage doors or impact-resistant windows, or you need help in reinforcing your current garage door; call your local garage door manufacturer today.

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3 Factors To Consider When Buying A Garage Door Opener

garage door opener

Choosing a garage door opener is not as simple as you might think it is. There are plenty of garage doors in the market and you might be overwhelmed with different choices.

However, choosing the perfect garage door should match your priorities and budget. Let us walk you through the factors that you have to consider when choosing a garage door opener.

But before anything else, let’s learn first about its purpose.

What Is A Garage Door Opener?

It is a motorized device used to control the opening and closing of your garage door. Some garage door openers are mounted on the garage wall. Due to the advancement in technology, they can be carried by the owner and can be used to open or close the door from a short distance.

Your garage door opener has a great impact on the safety and efficiency of the operation of your garage door.

There 3 important factors that you have to consider when buying a new garage door opener. These are;

  • Proper Weight Capacity
  • Garage Door Openers Drive Style
  • Primary features

What Weight Capacity Do You Need?

When deciding what weight capacity you need, you should consider the size of your garage door and how often it is used. Basically, single wide aluminum garage doors can work well with a ½ horsepower.  But if your garage door is considered a heavier-oversized garage door, then you need a ¾ horsepower. 

You might not need to use a one horsepower model if you can open your garage door by hand. But doing this can prevent you from straining the operation of your garage door and may allow your garage door to operate for a longer time.

What Garage Door Drive Style is Suitable for My Needs?

There are three types of a garage door opener drive style and each one of them has special attributes.

Chain Drive

This is the most common drive style in the industry. It is affordable, durable and has a cheaper installation fee. Chain drives are perfect for standard aluminum garage doors and they can also work well with heavy and older garage doors.

Though chain drives are a simple and cost-effective type, they are noisy. You might not want this type of opener if you have your room next to or on top of your garage.

Chain driven garage door opener might require a periodic maintenance.

Belt-drive

Because it is built with a reinforced belt that is used for lifting, belt-drive openers are quieter than a chain drive. They are ideal when there is a room attached to your garage.

This kind of openers is a little bit pricey because of its free-disturbance feature. They might require periodic maintenance.

Screw Drive 

If you are someone who is looking for a garage door opener that is powerful, reliable, durable and fast, a screw-driven garage door opener is perfect for you. This type of opener can operate faster and smoother than a chain-driven and belt-driven openers.  It is the best option for a heavier and wider garage door.

Screw-driven garage door openers are less likely to break, thus it requires maintenance and periodical lubrication on screw heads. 

Important Features That You Have to Consider

Each type of garage door opener has special features that include safety and security. Below are the primary features you have to consider when choosing a garage door opener.

  • Safety – This is the most important feature you have to consider. According to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a total of 13, 325 people had injuries caused by garage doors in 2017. That simply elaborates on the importance of choosing a trusted manufacturer.
  • Automatic Reversing System – It is in the standard system that all garage doors should reverse automatically when it encounters something. Photoelectric sensors are placed at the base of your garage door and will not allow your garage door to close when it is interrupted.
  • Rolling Code Security Technology – This feature allows you to have a more secure garage door opener. Every time you use your remote, you can randomly choose a new code. 
  • Manual Release – This is another feature to consider. Manual release feature allows you to open the door manually and can be very helpful when you have a power loss.
  • Battery Backups – battery backups is another wonderful feature that can also help you access your garage when there is a power outage. If a power outage is a usual problem in your area, then you might consider having another battery backup.  
  • Security Lights – Security light can light up the entire garage door, making it comfortable for you to move around your garage.

 

After reading this article, you now have probably come up with the garage door opener that you need. But if you still need more tips and guidelines on choosing the perfect garage door openers, you may contact us today. We will help you choose the garage door openers that suits you best.  

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How To Eliminate Noise From Your Garage Door

eliminate noise from garage door

As a homeowner, you can experience a lot of problems with your garage door. But the most annoying one is when it creates a loud noise every time it needs to be operated. When it is too loud, you might even hear some complaints from your neighbor.

Fortunately, there are some handy tips that you can do to fix this problem. This article will tell you the reasons why your garage door is making such an irritating sound and how to solve the problems. 

Ways to Eliminate Noise from Garage Door

 

Tighten Up All Loose Parts

Your garage door performs most of the time, every day, in your home. Because of that, screws, nuts, and bolts become loosen.  When one of these parts is not properly tightened, your garage door rattles and vibrates more than its usual performance.  As a result, it creates an unusual sound.

Solution: Go over the entire garage system for screws, nuts, and bolt that need to be tightened. Use a wrench or socket set to solve this problem. Once you have this, you should not be hearing any unusual sounds. But, if the sound has not been eliminated, then you go over and check other causes.

Apply Lubricant in All Moving Parts

Another reason why your garage door is creating an unusual sound is because of dry or worn out parts. If the noise you are hearing is like a squeaking, it is most likely the moving parts need lubricant.

Solution: Apply a lubricant. Applying a lubricant like WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray can help in getting rid of that squeaking sound. Yet, lubrication is not a one-time job. It needs to be done often or every six months to avoid the same problem. Or, when necessary replace the parts of your garage door. 

If spraying lubricant did not solve the problem, then you must go with the next solution.

Replace Any Worn Parts

Your garage door has rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. They all play an important role in the function of your garage door. If any of them are not in good shape, they could create a disturbing sound and can cause safety risks. 

Solution: Before jumping into a conclusion of replacing all parts, it is best to check where the noise is coming from. 

Open and shut your garage door to identify the location of this annoying sound. Once you have discovered which part is making the noise, remove and replace it. 

If you think you are not skilled in doing the replacement, call professionals to do it. 

Check or Replace Your Garage Door Opener

Most of the time, the noise that is coming out from your garage door during its operation is connected from your door opener. Over time, your garage door opener gets old and weakens. That could be the reason your garage door is making that loud noise.

Solution: Replace your garage door opener. 

However, before coming into a solution of replacing the opener, you can do some things.

  • If you are using a chain-driven unit, you might just need to apply a lubricant on the chain. 
  • If the noise coming from the opener due to worn out inner-workings, check your manual and do some adjustments. Contact professionals if you need help.

If any of these two did not eliminate the noise, then it might be time to replace your opener.

Use Some Rubber As Buffers To Your Garage Door

Any sort of metal can create a loud noise while rubber can absorb all the vibrations and keep everything quiet. Using rubber to your garage door can be used as a buffer. 

  • Before placing a rubber, make sure to unplug the motor of the garage door opener.
  • Put a ladder under the door and let it rest gently.
  • Remove the bolts and the motor from its mounting tracks. Place the motor above the woodblocks. 
  • Remove the door-track bracket from the wall.
  • Drill that rubber pad at the back of the mounting bracket and attach it to the wall again.
  • Using rubber pads, hand the motor from the mounting straps.
  • Take out the ladder and the wood blocking.
  • Test the garage door and opener to make sure that they work properly.

If Nothing Works, Get a New Garage Door

This can be your last resort. If you have done everything, and none of them eliminated the noise, then it is time to take a drastic decision. Noise can be a signal that you have to replace it with a new one.

The next time you get a new garage door, consider the ones that are made of steel. They are more durable and can endure any type of weather. Moreover, getting a quality garage door opener and installing the garage door properly go hand in hand in having a quiet and reliable garage door. 

Most importantly, a garage door can last longer if proper maintenance is kept and timely. 

Contact Inland Overhead Door Company

If an annoying sound is still a problem, and you need professionals to deal with it, contact us. We are a team of expert professionals and can get the job done properly. We also have a variety of quality garage doors. Get a free quote today!

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Energy-Efficient Garage Doors

energy-efficient garage goor

When you think of energy-efficient improvement in your house, you may first think of kitchen appliances or insulated windows. The last thing you would probably think is your garage door. 

Most homeowners do not give much thought on making their garage door energy efficient because they think that a garage is an extension of their home. But your garage is also a part of your home that affects your energy consumption. It also gives an impact on the environment. Making your garage door as energy efficient as it can be is as important as the other parts of your house. 

Why Use Energy-Efficient Garage Door

A garage is often the most uninsulated room in an entire home. That means it is less energy efficient. But, the air temperature in your garage spread to the connecting rooms, next to it or above it. Thus, it will need your heating or cooling system to work harder. 

In summer, a garage that is not insulated can get hot that can damage electrical components, such as stored electrical items, garage door and also your car. If it is not too hot, intense heat can damage a car battery.


Extreme heat can also shorten the lifespan of your garage door. Thus, repair or replacement might happen often.

In winter, your garage can be a little warmer than the outside air. A below-freezing temperature can put the garage door spring and lubrication at risk. Moreover, build up ice can affect the performance of your garage door, making it complicated for you to commute.

There are really great reasons for using an energy-efficient garage door. Those include;

  1. It’s a place for convenience

An eco-friendly garage door can help in controlling the inside temperature during summer and winter. Having this type of door allows you to create an extension of your home. If space allows you to switch it to an office, a gym or any type of room, you can do it conveniently. 

  1. It can decrease your energy usage

Heating your home during winter is extremely costly. And, your garage can have a significant factor that contributes to your bill.

When your garage is uninsulated during winter, cold air can easily get through the entryways, vents, and walls. Due to this, your heating system needs to work harder to provide enough heat for your home’s comfortable temperature. As a result, you need to pay a high energy bill.

According to Energy Star, good and proper insulation of your home, including your garage can lower your annual energy bill up to 15%. 

  1. It warms your car’s temperature

You don’t want to get into a freezing cold car and drive it. An energy-efficient garage door can keep your car warm, making it comfortable to drive.

Cold temperature can lead oil to thicken. As a result, it will be harder for the engine to turn over and could cause difficulty in the moving parts. Moreover, cold temperature can lower its efficiency. In most cases, it will have difficulty to get started. 

  1. It provides comfort to the connecting rooms

If you have a living room or any type of room above your garage, an insulated garage door can help in making it a cozy-comfortable place to stay. 

  1. Repair or maintenance is inexpensive

Energy-Efficient garage doors are made of solid materials which means they can last longer than ordinary garage doors. With this, those who own an energy-efficient garage door can save a lot of money. 

How to Measure Your Garage Door’s Energy Efficiency

Some factors determine a garage door’s efficiency. It could be based on the materials used and the number of layers in the garage door. But the two main factors that accurately determine its efficiency is its R-value and U value.

R-value shows how effective the insulation material is at preventing heat loss. While U-value describes the entire door’s efficiency in preventing heat loss. Both values tell how efficient your garage door’s insulation.

The higher the R-value, the better it is in resisting conductive heat. While with U-value, the lower the U-value is, the better it is in resisting conductive heat.

Insulation Choices for Garage Doors

Aside from its ability to prevent cool and warm air to retreat from the garage, insulating your garage door has other advantages; it strengthens the door, it can become sturdier in facing accidental damage and helps in cutting down noise pollution from the street.

There are three different options you can choose from when opting for an energy-efficient garage door;

  1. Single-layer doors are the most barely insulated doors. They are most suitable for garages that are not attached to your house.
  2. Double –layer doors– these doors use polystyrene insulation
  3. Triple-layer doors – These doors include polyurethane insulation. They can give the best level of energy efficiency. 

Contact Us For Energy-Efficient Garage Doors

Inland Overhead offers a wide variety of energy-efficient garage doors, from colors, styles, and materials. You may contact us so we can discuss with you your preference and we can appropriately give you the best options you can have. Call us today.

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How To Keep Your Garage Safe For Your Child

clean and safe garage

As a parent or a guardian, one thing that you highly focus on is keeping your children safe and away from any danger. Yet, even your home is not free from any danger, especially with little ones that are naturally curious. 

One of the areas that are prone to danger is your garage. Your garage is an important area in your house where important things are stored, for instance vehicles, appliances, motorcycles, flammable items, sports equipment, and lawn tools. These items are harmful to your children. To add up, your garage door can create danger that can harm your children.

Now, what you need to do to keep this place free from danger; to keep your little ones protected?

 

Start by Asking these Questions

Before doing anything consider some questions that can help you assess what you need to do to keep your garage a safe place for your children.

  • Do these tools and chemicals posses danger to my children? How can I keep them away from these curious little ones?
  • How often should I maintain my garage door?
  • How accessible is my garage for my children? Do I have to use a padlock to prevent them from easily getting into the area?
  • How can I make sure that my vehicles stored in my garage will not injure my children?

Now that you have already evaluated those dangers that are present in your garage, it is time to take actions in protecting your children.

 

Put Harmful Chemicals and Tools Away From Your Kids

Some of the tools that are stored in your garage are the ones that are used for your lawn and gardening, for example lawnmowers, shovels, rakes, pitchforks, and other garden tools. These tools are sharp and intriguing to young minds. Thus, it is necessary that you keep them away from your children or out of their sight. Moreover, you may want to consider installing a cabinet or a rack where you can place these tools. Also, make sure that any heavy or sharp tools are placed in a proper manner to avoid them from falling to children. 

 

We can’t avoid having some chemicals or other liquid items in our home. They are usually used for cleaning and for other important purposes. Yet, these chemicals are very harmful to children. Make sure to properly seal the containers or storage and put them in places that are beyond the reach of your children. You may also consider having another cabinet for these liquids and lock the cabinet up.

 

Some items that you think may not cause harm to your children are your garbage can, pet food, and big containers. They seem harmless but the truth is they can also cause danger to your children. Store them in proper places, not accessible to young ones.

Remember that all things that are new to these young minds are interesting for them. Proper storing of any of them can prevent your children in acquiring injuries.

 

Limit Their Access To Your Garage

Young ones will always find a way to explore all areas of your home and that includes your garage. Securing your garage will limit their access to the area. Consider some of these things in securing your garage.

  • Put a lock on the interior door that connects to your garage. You can use a knob lock with a doorknob cover and make sure to lock it all the time.
  • If you don’t have an interior door that connects to your garage door, you may consider installing a Dutch door. A Dutch door is a type of door that has two sections. That allows you to open that top part of it and keeping the bottom part closed. This door is an ideal in keeping your children to sneak out while you are doing some activities in your garage. This type of door also allows some air to circulate in the area.
  • Make sure that your garage door is completely closed. At times, we are in a hurry and not mindful if the door is completely closed or not. Modern garage doors have sensors that auto-reverse when something is blocking its way. When this happens, the tendency is your children can get access to your garage. You can avoid this to happen by placing things even small ones away from your garage door.                                                                 

Keep Your Garage Door Child-Safe

Like other operated machines, your garage door can experience daily wear and tear. This could lead to broken or damaged parts and could eventually cause danger. Keeping your garage door well operated can prevent it from harming anyone.

  • Ideally, give your garage door a quick look once a month. Inspect the small parts, hardware, and sensors. make sure that they are in proper positions and not loosened or detached. 
  • Keep the remote out of reach and place the buttons on a higher position.
  • Test the sensors. Your garage door has a reverse mechanism that keeps it from crashing anything or anyone. This is a standard feature that promotes child-safety.
  • Repair or replace if needed. If you think that your garage door needs repair or replacement then do so. This prevents harm not only to your children but also to your entire family.

 

Be Mindful Of The Danger Your Vehicle Can Make

Your vehicle is one of the most dangerous items you store in your garage. During the time it is in its full stop or in time it is called into action. Childproof your vehicle with these tips;

  • Never allow your children to get access to your car. Keep the doors closed and the keys are not present inside your car. If you leave your keys inside the car, the tendency is they will use all their knowledge to turn it on. And, it is not possible that this action could hurt your child. 
  • Make sure that your child is not standing behind your car. Check anything first before backing out from your garage. Use your rear-view mirror to make sure that you are not going to hurt anyone. Make sure that your child is in a safe area before doing the action.
  • If you have a motorcycle, position it safely. Make sure that a parking brake is turned on and a stand is fixed and working properly.

Your garage and garage door are important parts of your home. Though they are prone to causing danger to children, doing any precautions can give you peace of mind. Make sure that everything is placed in a safe area and everyone understands or aware of the danger.

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My Garage Door Opens Partially Then Stops

We came across with one of the forum talking about their door not opening all the way. It is indeed one of the biggest concerns of any garage door owners. As an owner, it is in your most annoying moment, when you wake up in the morning, running late, and then you just discovered that your door is not opening properly.

Before calling professionals, follow some of the tips below. You might be able to save plenty of cash if you can determine and solve the problem on your own.

 

Something Is Blocking The Way

Modern designed garage doors have a reversing mechanism that prevents the door from crashing into something on its way. It can be a small toy or a garbage can that triggers the function of the mechanism. If you think that there is nothing that is blocking the way, check the lenses and give it a little cleaning.

It is a good idea to clean it once in a while to avoid any dust, spider web or dirt that accumulates the lenses. Use a damp cloth and carefully wipe the lenses off.

Broken Or Defective Springs

You can determine that it is your spring that is causing your door to stop opening all the way by disconnecting the cord from the opener and manually lifting it. If it is heavy to lift, then it is probably the cause of the problem in the opening mechanism. In this case, we recommend that you call a professional to address the issue. Garage door springs are very dangerous and could cause serious damage or even death.

Adjusting The Simple Travel Limit And The Force Limit

Check if something is binding the door when opening and closing it manually. If there is none, then it might need a simple travel limit or force limit adjustment. This is the most common problem that your door won’t open all the way. To give you information about these, the travel limit controls how far your garage door opens and closes during its operation, while force limit controls how much pull is needed to get the door completely open.  

You may check the owner’s manual on how to do the adjustment. What is certain with any kind of model or brand is, you have to turn the screws on the side or push the colored buttons.

Always test it after making the adjustment to make sure that the safety reverse mechanism is functioning properly. This can prevent you from any danger and from damaging the door itself.

A Faulty Logic Control Board

If your garage door opens and suddenly stops, it might be because of your logic board. The logic board receives and responds signals to any remote. You might need to consider replacing it if your door is not working properly, or you may purchase a new opener. Doing this can save you some amount of cash.

Additionally, a simple rebooting can help you save the problem. At times, your machine just needs a refresh for it to work excellently.

 

Why Does My Garage Door Won’t Open All The Way In Cold Weather?

Aside from the fact that having a problem opening your garage door is really annoying, the cold weather aggravates the situation. It would be more challenging to drive a car that has a cold steering wheel and sitting uncomfortably in a cold seat.

Cold weather can affect the performance of your garage door.

Trying these garage door fixes might help you solve your problem.

Poor or Lack of Lubrication

During cold weather, it is possible that grease becomes compact and hardened, making it difficult for the garage door to operate smoothly. Check the grease on the tracks and joints. Wipe out the old grease with a grease solvent and put a new lubricant. Make sure that it has enough amount of grease, add if necessary.

In cold weather, your door will open smoothly if it has a high amount of grease.  Proper maintenance is essential for the door to function properly.

 

Metal Pieces Contracts and Shrink

Another reason that your garage door won’t open all the way in cold weather is probably that the metal has contracted. In cold temperature, the space between molecules reduces making the metal shrinks. If this is the reason your garage door is not functioning properly, the lubricant must be applied. Lubricating the springs, hinges and other metal parts can help your door to move easily.

Broken Springs

Springs are important parts of a garage door. If any of them are broken, the immediate result is your door won’t function properly, or won’t open all the way.

The garage springs are normally fragile and rigid. And, at times, a lower temperature can impact your springs causing it to be broken. If this happens, we suggest that you seek professional help. This is a job that a newbie can’t handle.

Preventive maintenance doesn’t only save you from experiencing difficulty and inconveniences; it also saves you from spending a lot of money for repair. Make sure to give your door time for inspection.

But if problems arise and you think you need professionals to handle the situation, contact Inland Overhead Company.

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What is the Life Expectancy of My garage door?

As someone who invests money into something expensive, the first question he/she would normally ask is, how long will it last? However, this question is quite difficult to answer as there are many factors that contribute to its length.

The most important role of a garage door in your home is to keep you, your family and your belongings safe from any danger. One of the most common crimes nowadays is burglary. If your garage door is broken, it can provide access to these people.  Then, any damage or loss of personal belongings might occur. Don’t wait for that time to come. Moreover, your garage door is the one that gives you access to evacuate your home. You don’t want to wake up one day and just get stuck in your garage because the garage door won’t open. With this, knowing and understanding how and when the capacity of your garage door to perform is really important.

 

An average life expectancy of a garage door

It’s typically difficult to determine the life expectancy of a garage door. But, normally manufactures would say that it will last for 30 years. You would probably be happy to get this kind of information because it means you don’t have to spend a lot of money for the next 30 years. However, this longevity would only be achieved if proper maintenance is done.

 

What factors contribute to the Life Of your Garage Doors?

As mentioned above, there are factors that contribute to the longevity of your garage doors.

#1: Weather conditions – Especially during winter, this season brings havoc to your garage door. In most cases, unwanted or unexpected breakages and warping metal parts can happen. Extreme cold temperature can freeze the components at the bottom of the garage door causing it to have difficulty opening the door.

#2: The product quality – This factor applies to all kinds of machines or equipment. The better the quality is, the longer your machine stays. Normally, an aluminum or steel garage door can perform for 20 years. However, a wooden door can last a little bit shorter than the later, but if well-taken care it can last for 20 years as well.

#3: Maintenance – Giving your garage door some time for cleaning and maintenance has a big impact on extending the life cycle of your garage doors. A well-maintained garage door can last longer than the life expectancy stated above and can prevent you from spending costly repairs. Check the parts, especially the spring torsion rings, to prevent you from any accidents.

 

How Can I extend the Life Expectancy of my Garage Door

 

  •    Lubricate the Critical Parts

Lubricating critical parts is a very important maintenance procedure in keeping the parts of your garage door in good condition. Lubrication prevents friction from metal-by-metal contact. Lubricate your garage door spring and other parts of your garage door once a month. You can use a silicone based-gel and wipe it generously.  

  •    Test Safety Reversal System  

The reversal safety system functions to reverse automatically when your garage door comes in contact with a certain hindrance. Malfunctioned or absence of this system might cause some serious injuries. Test this system by putting a one-inch board on the floor, facing on the center part of the garage door.

 

  • Inspect the Garage door hardware

 

Checking the springs, cables, rollers, and other door hardware is really vital. Look for signs of wear and tear and any potential problems. Repair only those that are minor but leave the complicated tasks to the professionals. Remember that your garage door is considered as the heaviest item in your house, and when mishandled it could lead to accidents.

  • Inspect and Test Monthly

Your garage door is also the same as the other equipment you have in your home. A monthly inspection and testing can prevent you and your family from serious injuries.

 

Garage Door Torsion Springs

Your garage door torsion spring is a crucial component to your door’s opening system. This spring allows your door to be lifted easily. Thus, this component plays an important role in determining the life expectancy of your garage door. According to some manufacturers, a standard garage door spring has a life expectancy of up to of 20,000 cycles. A cycle shows opening and closing the door one time. If you use your garage door more than three or four times a day, your torsion springs will experience more wears than a door that is used once a day only. To keep your door extends its life expectancy cut back your garage door usage. You may need to park outside when it is necessary.

 

Quality and Trusted Garage Door Company

Are you experiencing any problems with your garage door? Does it need to be replaced or repaired? We can help you. We offer a wide variety of services for garage door repairs and maintenance. We also have a variety of garage door designs. Call us today.

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Top 3 Most Serious Garage Door Problems

Your garage door does not only exist to give additional beauty to your home. It also functions to protect you and your property from any danger. Yet, in any machine, problems can possibly happen. There are problems that can be fixed easily and won’t cause much harm to you or anyone. Your garage door might last for a long time; however, the parts of your garage door, those that help it to function well and smoothly are susceptible to damage. Let’s take it to a more serious discussion, making you more knowledgeable of which of these problems have to be addressed promptly and carefully.

 

Malfunctioned Photo Eye Sensors

The garage door photo eye is a very important device of the opener system. It is a safety device that prevents the garage door from landing into something or someone and could cause serious injury or death.

The photo eyes have two devices; each one has their own role. One eye creates a laser beam and the other one receives the light beam. The two devices work together to detect if there is something in the garage doors’ path when closes.

Garage door photo eyes fail to functions at times due to dirt that blocks the light beam, and when the eyes are not aligned perfectly, it leads them to be unmatched on both sides.

Resolve this problem by cleaning the photo eyes lens with a damp cloth and quickly drying them to avoid dirt or other residues to stick on them.

If cleaning the photo eyes did not fix the problem, check the alignment of the two eyes. The two eyes should be facing perfectly in the same direction and at the same angle. If they are not perfectly aligned, adjust the alignment by loosening the nut on the receiving sensor and moving it around until the LED light stays on steadily. When done, tighten the nut and check whether the eyes function properly or not.

Misaligned or Warped Garage Door Tracks

This is another most alarming garage door problem and it has to be addressed promptly.

The metal track your door runs on must be appropriately aligned for your door to move with ease. Misaligned or warped tracks could lead to more serious situations such as difficulty in operating the door, high repair cost and putting you, your family and your property in an unsecured situation.

Garage door tracks become misaligned due to the gradual wear and tear and some acute accidents like when a vehicle or a large item bumped into your garage door. You would know that your garage door has a problem when;

  •    A visible gap is present between the rollers and rail or bends in the rails themselves.
  •    A rubbing noise as the garage door reaches a certain point on the tracks is also an indication that tracks need to be realigned.

To realign the track start by loosening the screws that hold the track in place, then use a rubber mallet to place it back to its suitable position. You can use a level measure to check that the alignment if it is perfectly done. Then, re-tighten the screws, making sure that they are secured and won’t create any issues when in use.

If the remedy you have done did not solve the problem, it is highly advised that you seek a professional to handle the situation. They are equipped with appropriate machines and techniques to realign the tracks.

 

Broken Garage Door Torsion Spring

Your garage door torsion spring is a crucial component to your door’s opening system. This spring allows your door to be lifted easily. Once a torsion spring is broken, the garage door opener might have difficulty lifting the weight of the door or even worse, impossible to be lifted.

Since it is considered as the small part of your garage door, it is most likely taken for granted. However, this small spring does not last forever and requires replacement. If not, you might wake up in the morning, get into your car, open the garage door and…. BOOM, the door won’t open because the spring is broken.

Your garage door spring breaks due to the wear and tear of the garage door cycle, rust that was built up due to chemical stored in the garage and the outside moisture, and poor maintenance system. Don’t wait for the garage door springs to cause inconvenience or danger. Go through some inspection to see whether it is working properly or needs replacement.

  •    Check if the cables are broken, disconnected or loose.
  •    Look for a gap of a few inches in the middle of your torsion spring.
  •    The top of the garage door is warped.
  •    The garage door moves fast when shutting.
  •    The garage door moves indirectly and shaky.

 

Should I replace my garage door spring by myself? This is a common question for those who like the idea of saving money. But, we strongly advise that you seek a professional in repairing your garage door spring. This kind of job is difficult and dangerous. It has a high level of risk and can potentially injure those who are working on it or working with you. Moreover, doing this job requires proper tools and knowledge to make sure that it is properly fixed and to avoid any further harm.

 

We are here to serve you!

There might be problems that can be fixed on your own, but there are countless reasons why it is best to leave your garage door repair to the professionals. Let Inland Overhead Door professionals handle your problem. We are equipped with proper tools and knowledge to provide you excellent repair services, making sure that our work would guarantee convenience and safety. Contact us today.  

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Types of Garage Doors and their Features

Garage doors are considered to be one of the biggest investments of property owners today. Since garage door companies can provide a list of different types of garage doors, from styles, designs, colors, and other features including security and safety, customers have a wide variety of choices to choose from.  As an owner, it is best to understand how these types differ from each other or how these garage doors are made of and function. In that case, you’ll be able to know which type of a garage door is perfect for your property.

Before making a decision it is better to consider some factors that can help you in choosing the type of door.

  • Choose a material that works for your climate
  • Wood garage doors are gorgeous but are an investment
  • Metal garage doors can be strong or lightweight in construction
  • Consider fiberglass doors for extreme temperature changes
  • Choose a style that matches the architecture of your home
  • Ensure your garage door has the safety requirements you need
  • Teach your family how to be safe around the garage door
  • Before selecting a garage – understand the maintenance required for upkeep
  • Adding unexpected curb appeal with your garage door façade
  • Choose a garage door that works well with your family lifestyle

 

Types of Garage Doors

Choosing the perfect garage door might be difficult as companies offer variety of styles. And, as an owner your garage door gives a big impact to the total beauty of your property. Here, we have compiled the six most common types of garage doors.

  • Sectional Garage Door

This is the most popular overhead doors as it does not require a lot of space during its movement, low maintenance and can be altered with the height, shapes, and designs. This type of door can be made of a variety of materials such as vinyl, aluminum, glass, and steel. So, owners can opt for the materials they want to use for their garage door. One of its advantages also is they are more resistant to wind damage. So this type of door is appropriate in areas that are prone to storm or typhoon with strong wind. It is one of the highly secured types of doors because of its closed structure and lack of penetration points.  

  •  Roll-Up Garage Doors

This type of overhead door is commonly used for commercial properties and warehouse. Yet, homeowners opt for this kind of overhead door for some reasons.

This is considered to be one of the most reliable overhead doors in protecting your property. Due to its solid built material, it is very unlikable to break in. Aside from that, this also helps in saving energy. Most of these doors come in excellent insulation system that helps in keeping heat or cold from getting inside the area. Roll-up doors can withstand any daily wear and tear and are also resistant to rust, yet due to its heavy-duty nature, it requires a lot of maintenance.

  • Wall-Mounted Garage Doors

When choosing for a garage door, go with the one that does not require a lot of space. Wall-mounted garage doors move side to the side making it possible to stack boxes or install ceiling-mounted shelving. Since all of the equipment is attached to the walls, installation is easy and fast. One of its advantages as well is, it requires less maintenance as its springs and other attachments rarely loosen.

  • Side-Hinged Garage doors

Side-hinged garage doors allow owners to access their property easily and quickly. This type of garage door can be resembled to a barn door, as it is also normally made from wood. It is considered to be a classic-traditional type of a garage door. This door offers convenience to its owner as it does not require lifting. It operates with just a simple handle or lock.

  • Canopy Garage Doors

This type of garage door uses a pivoting hinge mechanism that allows the door to slant into the garage. Canopy garage doors sit parallel to the garage ceiling and do not consume the whole width of the door. They are easy and quick to install, yet expensive when converted to a remote control door.

  • Retractable Garage Doors

Retractable garage doors operate similarly with canopy garage doors. However, this door requires approximately 1-meter clearance in front of the garage as it opens. They are quite easy to install and can be automated with any types of electric openers.

 

If you are planning to replace your garage door into a new one and need further information on which type of garage door suits you well, our staff will assist you with your preference. We also offer a variety of services to commercial establishments. Contact Inland Overhead Door company today.

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