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Celebrate Garage Door Safety Month With These Tips

June has been designated as Garage Door Safety Month by the International Door Association (IDA) and the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA), and it is the best time to ensure that your garage door works safely. Here are the tips and tricks for garage door safety this month to ensure your garage door works securely and you and your employees are safe.

Tips for Garage Door Safety This Month

Because garage doors are often the largest moving objects in homes and businesses, there are thousands of garage door-related injuries reported each year. With this in mind, it is crucial to know the best practices to stay safe around garage doors.

1. Avoid placing fingers between door sections

One of the most common garage door-related injuries that occur is pinching caused by the door’s sections. The report says this incident happens over 7,000 times every year.

Watch your fingers when around garage doors. Avoid putting them between the door sections or you may consider installing pinch-resistant garage door panels.  Teach small children not to play around the garage door.

2. Use tamper-resistant door brackets

The bottom brackets of the garage door are connected to the door’s spring, which is under a lot of tension. A tamper-resistant bracket helps reduce the risk of injury from the door itself as it can prevent loosening of brackets by untrained professionals.

When adjusting any garage door parts, it is always best to leave it to a trained garage door professional.

3. Consult the manual

Every type and model of a garage door and opener have their specific safety instructions. So, make sure to always check the owner’s manual. It is also best to learn the door’s emergency release feature.

4. Visually inspect your garage door

Commercial garage doors are composed of different parts; the garage door’s springs, cables, rollers, and pulleys. These parts of the door wear out and break, which can often lead to serious injuries. So it is important to visually inspect your door to check signs of wear, at least once a month.

Springs can squeak and create some noise. This is because of normal wear and tear. In this case, the door springs need some lubrication. But if the problem persists, call for professional help.

Check the brackets, rollers, and pulleys. When any of these are loosened or removed, they can create potential safety problems. Do not attempt to repair or adjust the damage on your own. These parts are under a lot of tension and should be handled by a garage door repair technician.

5. Test the door automatic reverse

Your garage door system has an auto-reverse that allows the door to reverse automatically once it comes in contact with any obstructions. Thus, preventing any serious injuries.

Test your door’s reverse mechanism at least once a month by placing a one-inch board on the floor or on the door’s path. The door should reverse once it hits the board on its way downward. If not, call a garage door professional for repairs.

6. Avoid DIY garage door repairs and installation

Installation, repairs, and replacement of the garage door should be done by a certified garage door professional and not by an untrained individual. DIYing may just put you at risk and lead to costly repairs.

Remember to always be careful around a garage door and make sure to follow these garage door safety tips.

For commercial garage door repair, maintenance, and installation services, contact Inland Overhead Door Company.

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Top 5 Garage Door Opener Problems 

Top 5 Garage Door Opener Problems

A garage door opener is a motorized device that controls the opening and closing of a garage door. You can mostly find it on the wall or ceiling above the garage door. Though garage door openers, with good maintenance, can last up to 15 years, they can be prone to different issues. The garage door opener problems can cause disruptions to the daily operations of your business. 

Some garage door opener problems are usually easy to understand and the solutions are pretty easy. However, if the problem seems complicated, you may contact a professional garage door repair company like Inland Overhead Door

 

Common Garage Door Opener Problems

Below are the most common problems you may encounter with your garage door opener and solutions that can help you fix the problem. 

Problem #1: Garage door remote control or wall switch does not operate the opener

If the door does not operate when using the remote control or pressing the wall switch, the reason could be the power source has been disrupted. In most cases, power disruption to the garage door opener might be because the opener itself has been unplugged or the fuse, breaker, or GFCI outlet that provides power supply to the opener circuit has burned out or tripped. 

Check the outlet and make sure that the cord is plugged in. Or, check to see if the outlet is working by plugging another electronic device into it. If the breaker or the GCFI outlet trips, it is a sign that there is a problem with the system and you need an electrician to check and repair it. For a burned-out outlet, it needs replacement. 

Furthermore, if the door opener’s motor has burned out or isn’t working at all, hire a garage door opener professional.

Problem #2: Garage door not closing all the way

If the garage door opens, but does not close all the way or immediately pops open again, it could be because of these reasons; the limit setting isn’t set properly and the photo-eye is blocked or needs adjustment. 

The limit setting needs adjustment

A garage door limit setting is another safety mechanism (aside from the safety sensor) that keeps people from being hit. If the setting is off, the door will close completely. But, if the setting is not right, the door won’t close properly and will automatically reverse to prevent damage. Adjust your garage door opener limit setting to stop your door from reversing.

The photo-eye is blocked or needs alignment

Modern garage doors have a photo eye located at the bottom of the door on each side. These eyes detect if a person or item is blocking the door all the way down. If the line of view is clear, the door will close smoothly and completely. But, if anything is blocking the line or if the eyes are misaligned, the door will not descend properly. As a result, the door will stop and reverse automatically. Make sure that the sight path is clear and the garage door sensors are aligned properly. 

Problem #3: Garage door Won’t Open With remote control or Keypad

If a wireless remote control or mounted keypad does not operate the garage door, the problems are pretty simple to solve. It is possible that the remote batteries are depleted or the signal between the transmitter and the opener is disconnected. 

If the door functions well with a wall-mounted switch, try to replace the batteries to the remote control. Furthermore, if the door does not operate even after placing new batteries in the remote, the signal might be disconnected. Move closer to the door and make sure that the antennae are hanging down from the motor. 

If none of them works, try reprogramming the remote control or keypad. Sometimes, the signal in the remote or keypad can lose and may need to be reassociated. 

Problem #4: Garage Door Won’t Open Completely

If the garage door opens and stops close to fully open, the issue is most likely the up-limit switch may need to be relocated closer to the motor unit. This switch is usually a simple touch-lever positioned near the motor unit at the end of the track. If the switch is too far away, the motor will stop the door from fully opening.

In some cases, this issue is not related to the garage door opener. For instance, broken or balky rollers can prevent the door from opening fully. Check and replace damaged rollers and lubricate rollers that are rusty.

Problem#5: The garage door opens, however, the motor won’t stop

This garage door opener problem usually occurs when you first install the opener. If your garage door opens, but the motor does not stop, you may need to move the up-limit switch farther from the motor unit. 

 

How To Manually Open A Garage Door

  1. Get a ladder and place it beneath the garage door’s operating chain.
  2. Find the red cord that is hooked to the lever and pull the cord until the lever is locked in the down position. The cord should release the door and allow you to move it. 
  3. Step down the ladder, then lift the door with your two hands. If the door won’t move, go back up and pull the cord harder.
  4. Once the door is off the ground, do not let it go. Prop the door with something to prevent it from sliding down. 

If the door is too heavy to lift, don’t hurt yourself. Call for help or contact garage door professionals to assist and help you with your garage door problems.

Inland Overhead Door is here to help

Overhead Door Company provides quality commercial and industrial garage door services in the Inland empire. We have a dedicated team of garage door experts ready to professionally fix any of your garage door problems.

Let our team take care of your garage door problems. Rest assured that we will provide you a lasting solution that will keep your garage door running for years. To know more about our garage door services, contact us today

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Common Signs of A Broken Garage Door Spring

Common Signs of A Broken Garage Door Spring

Garage door springs are an important part of your overhead door. They hold everything together and keep the tension for the proper movement (opening and closing) of your garage door. If your garage door does not open smoothly, or jerks when opening, then it might be because of a broken garage door spring.

Garage door issues can cause great inconvenience to the daily operations of your business. At times, because of the weight of the garage door, these problems can pose danger to you and your employees. It is especially true if the problem is related to the overall operation of the garage door.

Knowing the signs of a broken spring can reduce potential damage or danger. In this article, you will have a closer at the most common signs of broken garage door springs. 

Signs of Broken Garage Door Springs

Here are the signs that your springs may be broken.

 1. Your Garage Door Opens Partially or Too Slowly

Garage door springs make all the hard work in the opening of your garage door. If your garage door has an automatic opener, and the springs are broken, your door will not open fully or even refuse to open. The force of the opener will keep the mechanism from opening the door higher than about 6 inches. This system will help prevent damage to the garage door opener or cause the door to fall unexpectedly. However, this will prevent your door from opening even if you pull the emergency release.

2. There is a Gap in the Garage Door Spring

There are one or two tightly wound springs in a torsion spring system. When any of the springs break, they leave a visible gap that is at times 2 inches wide. This occurs because the springs will stretch more during their operation, which causes them to separate more when they break.   

3. A loud bang comes from the garage

Garage door springs can break at any time and even if the door is not operating. When it happens, you may hear a loud noise or banging sound from the garage. This happens because garage door springs release a lot of energy and that energy is converted into sounds.

4. The door creates noise during operation

The regular use of the door can put more strain on the broken garage door, causing it to make unusual noises during closing and lifting the door. Garage door openers may groan, pop or even squeal.

5. The door closes too quickly

If one of the springs is no longer working, the door significantly closes faster than usual. This is because the entire weight of the door is being controlled by only one spring. 

6. The door is crooked or bent

There are two types of springs. One of them is the extension springs. When any of the extension springs are broken, the other side of the door, normally the top door section, is pulled faster than the other. Because of this the door might open crookedly or might get stuck in the tracks. 

 

What Causes Broken Garage Door Springs 

1. Wear and tear

The most common reason garage door springs fail is due to simple wear and tear. Garage door springs are manufactured and rated for about 10, 000 cycles (one cycle equivalent to opening and closing of the door). If you use your garage door as your main door or it is excessively used, it is best to get extended lifespan torsion springs. They are rated for 20,000 or more cycles.

2. Improper Maintenance

Garage door springs will eventually break, but good and proper maintenance can help prolong the life of your springs as well as warn you in case they are about to break. Aside from regularly lubricating the springs, check the door balance at least once every season. It is especially important in winter when most springs break out. 

3. Rust or corrosion

Rust that develops on the spring can shorten the spring’s lifespan. When the door moves back and forth, the rust can add more friction to the coils, which can also damage the coils. 

Professional Garage Door Repair and Spring Repair or Replacement Services

If you suspect that your garage door spring in your business is broken, never attempt to operate the door or repair the damage on your own. Instead, contact garage door professionals for repair or replacement services.

For professional commercial garage door services, installation and repair, trust Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire.

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Commercial Garage Door Maintenance Tips Business Owners Should Know

Commercial Garage Door Maintenance Tips Business Owners Should Know

Commercial garage doors play an important role in keeping a safe working environment, as well as ensuring the safety of the materials you store in your warehouse or workplace. Though garage doors are prone to get damaged or malfunction due to improper usage or lack of maintenance, there are several steps you can do to take care of your garage door. A well-maintained garage door can help ensure seamless performance as well as prevent costly repairs. Learn here the commercial door maintenance tips that can keep you from spending money on expensive repairs.

Commercial Garage Door Maintenance Tips

Aside from yearly maintenance visits, managers or even employees can perform visual inspections and basic tests to identify any potential problems with the commercial garage door.

1. Visually Inspect Your Garage Door

Check the door springs, rollers, pulleys, and any other hardware for any signs of damage. Look for frayed cables, bent hinges, loose screws or bolts, worn rollers, rust, and corrosion. If you suspect any problems, contact professionals at Inland Overhead Door immediately.

2. Lubricate The Moving Parts

Keeping the rollers, hinges and all other moving parts well-lubricated can extend the life span of your garage door. Apply a good amount of lubricant like white lithium grease and make sure to wipe off any excess grease. If any of the hinges or rollers are stuck, you can use a penetrating solution to free them. Spray the solution to those parts, clean them off and apply the lubricant. Furthermore, it is also a good idea to lubricate the spring system. Spray the grease on the garage opener’s chain or screw. If the torsion spring becomes rusty, wipe it off with oil.

3. Clear the Rollers Tracks

Accumulated debris can make it difficult for the rollers to slide smoothly every time your door operates. In other instances, larger debris can cause your rollers to pop off the track. So make sure to inspect and clean your rollers to ensure that they will work efficiently. Use a level to make sure the tracks are properly vertical along the vertical sections.

4. Tighten The Hardware

Over time, the hardware on your commercial door loosen up because of their consistent movement. When loose, your door jostles or even falls off its tracks completely. To prevent a more serious problem, tighten all the hardware. Use a socket wrench and a screwdriver to tighten any loose bolts. If you notice any damage to the hardware, call for professional help.

5. Test the Balance

Testing the balance of your door is very crucial to ensure the safety of your door and its opener. An unbalanced garage door will have to work harder and can shorten its lifespan. To test the door, pull the release handle on the automatic opener, then use the manual mode function. Lift the door until it is about halfway. If the door is in proper balance, it should remain in place without your help. If it is the other way around, carefully set it back down and contact professionals. When it comes to spring repairs, it is best to trust professionals.

6. Inspect the Auto-Reverse Feature

Modern commercial garage doors are now equipped with an auto-reverse feature. This safety feature is designed to stop and reverse the direction of the door every time it detects an object in its path or has hit an object while the door is closing. This system is triggered by a pair of photocells located on each side of the door or by a pressure sensor.

Test the photoelectric system by starting to close the door, then passing your leg in the direction of the door. If the door goes up again, then this system is in good condition. Furthermore, to test if the sensor is working properly, place a 2×4 board flat on the ground in the direction of the door. When the door closes and touches the board, it should reverse direction and go up again. If you notice any problems with your auto-reverse feature, schedule the repair with a professional.

Commercial Garage Door Preventative Maintenance Services

Keep your business running efficiently with Inland Overhead Door Company quality preventative maintenance. Our preventative maintenance service ensures that your door will function properly all year long. We have skilled technicians both minor and major repairs on doors, openers, and other hardware malfunctions. Contact us today to schedule inspections.

Sectional Garage Door and Roll-Up Garage Door: 8 Things To Consider

Sectional or roll-up garage door

Are you looking for a commercial garage door for your newly constructed building? Or, do you need one to remodel your existing property? Whether it is for a new building or renovation, it is greatly important to choose the right garage door that meets the needs of your building or your establishment.  

 

The first thing you have to do when buying a new garage door is choosing between a sectional door and roll-up door. No one is better than the other. Each of them has its benefits that can showcase when installing in proper applications.

 

In this article, we will help you decide what type of a garage door to choose by giving you information on how each differs from one another using different categories;

 

 

1. Performance

 

A garage door serves as the biggest opening of your building. Thus, it needs to be able to surpass its daily wear and tear. So, one of the most important things you have to consider when deciding a garage door is how heavy the traffic will come through.  

 

Roll-up doors are not designed to use for heavy traffic. But, this type of garage door can function for high cycle applications. Some roll-up doors can even function up until 1 million cycles. On the other hand, sectional garage doors do not come with high cycle function, but some manufacturers give an option of using special springs that allow sectional garage doors to perform up to 100,000 cycles.

 

It might sound nice to hear that your garage door can perform high cycles, but if it is not necessary, remember, having more is not always a better idea.

 

 

2. Materials

 

The materials used in a garage door vary depending on the manufacturer. 

In general, sectional garage doors are mostly available in steel, though there are also doors that available in aluminum. Roll-up doors can be available in different materials; aluminum, stainless steel, and steel.

 

 

3. Designs and Finishes

 

Sectional garage doors can come in many designs and can have pre-finished painted, powder-coated or anodized aluminum. On the other hand, roll-up doors are only available with one visual design, horizontal lines. But, they can take many kinds of finishes like aluminum clear, powder-coated steel and many more.

 

 

4. Door Mounting

 

Mounting a garage door varies depending on the location of the space. While a sectional garage door can be installed in many ways (standard lift, full vertical lift, high lift or low headroom)that can fit your specific needs, a rolling garage door can only be mounted facing the wall.

 

Mounting a sectional garage door depends mainly on the door’s style. If a vertical lift is used to mount a sectional door, it will require a lot of headroom. But, if the door is installed low headroom, it may require most backroom. On the other hand, mounting a roll-up garage face-wall needs headroom right over the doorway because it scrolls up to the shaft. Furthermore, a roll-up garage requires professional lifting equipment to complete its installation.  

 

 

5. Sizes

 

Both garage doors can be fitted in any customized door opening. However, if you prefer a garage door with larger openings, roll-up doors can easily be customized. While roll-up doors can be customized with the accurate dimension required, sectional doors only follow fixed increments. The size of the increments for the sectional door is 2’’ for its width and 3’’ for its height.

 

Furthermore, the slats differ for each garage door. A roll-up door can have up to 2 5/8” high slats and a sectional door can have various sections (18”, 21” or 24” high).

 

 

6. Maintenance

 

While installation can be done once, maintenance is an event that needs to be done regularly, both for a sectional door and a roll-up door. Since roll-up doors have lesser movable parts, they require minimal maintenance. The same goes for modern sectional doors.

 

 

7. R-Value

 

R-value for a garage door means the door’s level of resistance against the flow of heat or insulation. In this category, sectional doors are more attractive than a roll-up door. Sectional doors can have up to 22.2 R-value while a roll-up door can only have up to 8 R-value.

 

 

8. Security

 

In terms of security, basic designs and parts do not guarantee a maximum level of security. A sectional door is known to be sturdy because of its design, providing it with a high level of protection. But if not installed properly and uses a basic locking system, it can a become weak spot and a good target for intruders.

 

Let Us Help You!

As you can see, both sectional doors and roll-up doors have their benefits. Knowing and understand the needs of your opening and establishment are necessary for choosing a garage door. But, in case you want to know more information about these two types of garage door, you can contact Inland Overheard Door Company. Fortunately, we offer both sectional and roll-up doors and we are here to help you decide the best garage door for your building.