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Check Out the 10 Parts of a Garage Door

garage door

Garage doors are a necessary part of your property. Aside from the convenience they can give, they are an important part of your property’s security. They make your property and possessions safe and protected.

In addition, part of having a good relationship with your garage door is knowing and understanding its parts. This will give you more years of faithful and quality service from your door.

Learn the parts of a garage door so you can easily point out the issue and extend its life. Please read the article below and be familiar with the parts of the whole system.

Why You Need to Know the Garage Door Parts

  • You will be able to better spot worn-out and defective hardware.
  • To understand when you will need door repairs, maintenance, or replacement.
  • You will be able to communicate more completely and effectively with garage door specialists or professionals.

Parts of a Garage Door System: Get to Know Them

A garage door is made up of several different components that are interconnected to perform essential functions. In addition, these components or parts help your door to work well.

Familiarize yourself with the parts of a garage door by reading below. Once you know the different parts and functions, you can understand the whole system.

1. Automatic Door Opener

The operator on your opener is a box that is mounted to your garage ceiling. It has pulleys that lift and lower your garage door. This requires electricity and has a logic board to operate. In addition, the opener is any remote or button that gives a signal to open the door of your garage.

2. Door Tracks & Rollers

The garage door rollers and tracks set the path and keep the door from crashing or lurching in another direction. The rollers are small wheels set up along the two sides of the door. As the door opens and closes, the tracks help the rollers to keep the movement of the door straight and down.

Moreover, they are essential parts and serve as a safety feature. If the garage door comes off the track, it will not be able to open.

3. Garage Door Torsion Springs

The springs that are usually placed at the top of the opening make it moves easily. They keep the garage door balanced and help the rollers glide easily on the tracks.

4. Cables

The cables assist your door in moving up and down without difficulty since these cables are located on both sides of the door. They will also help in the safe operation of the springs and prevent possible injury once they break.

5. Drums

The drums are pulley wheels that are fastened to the tube shaft ends. They will rotate once energy is released from the springs. And because the top cable is connected to the drum, it will make the cable roll up and eventually lift the door.

6. Tube Shaft

Another important component is a bar inside the door frame which runs above the door and holds the springs in position. This part helps the springs to function well and prevents your door from being damaged during operation.

7. Photo Eye Sensors

Since garage doors are heavy and quite large, they can cause accidents if not monitored properly. That’s one main reason why these types of doors come with safety sensors that are located at the bottom of the opening, one on each side. When something or someone is blocking one of the sensors, it will halt the door from opening or closing.

8. Hinges and Brackets

To keep the mechanism of the door connected, hinges and brackets play a part. Hinges are usually placed in the middle of the door itself. Since the door has different panels, hinges will help the door to fold when it opens. Furthermore, brackets which are metal parts keep the rollers and cables attached to the sides of your garage door.

9. Emergency Cord

The emergency cord is another safety part of your door. It is usually a rope that hangs from the door operator or trolley with a red tag or handles at the base. This feature disconnects the carriage from the trolley so the door will just slide along the railing. Moreover, this will also allow you to easily lift the door manually and walk up to it without worries.

10. Door Seals

Garage doors come with weather seals that are found along the sides of the opening and the bottom as well. These seals link small gaps between the walls and the door and serve as insulators of your garage from the outside.

Professional Garage Door Installation and Maintenance

Whether you need a new garage door or just replacement parts, Inland Overhead Door Company got you covered. We also offer garage door repair and maintenance services to make sure that your doors function well.

You can contact us around the clock and our team will be happy to assist you.

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9 Tips On How To Adjust A Garage Door

garage door tracks

A garage door is quite essential and so convenient, be it automatic or manual. However, if you cannot maintain your door and its components, issues might arise. If ever this happens, maybe you just need to adjust the garage door to properly function. Though some are pretty easy to solve, others may need the help of an expert.

Knowing how to adjust a garage door is crucial especially when some issues strike. Trying to solve it yourself first will spare you from spending bucks on repairs! So please read the full article below should your garage door stop functioning.

How To Adjust A Garage Door

  • Prepare your safety paraphernalia such as safety glasses, thick gloves, and a hard hat. Other tools that you may need are a C-clamp, adjustable wrench, ladder, rag, moistened cloth or old toothbrush, and a sweeping brush.

1) Check and assess your door’s situation.

  • You need to know first what’s causing the problem. This will help you identify the appropriate solution for your garage door.
  • Issues might be the tracks, springs, or cables.
  • You may begin examining the garage door tracks first. Problems arise if they aren’t aligned correctly or if they are dusty or dirty. Then move to the next step, otherwise move to the 3rd step.

2) It’s time to fix if there are any damaged tracks.

  • For dirty tracks, sweep then clean with a moistened cloth. You may also use an old toothbrush to scrub the grime from the tracks.
  • Wipe the track with a dry rag if it is not that dirty.
  • After cleaning, try to open and close your door to see if it will operate smoothly.
  • For warped tracks, replacement is necessary.

3) Check what type of spring your door has.

  • Check the springs if the tracks seem fine. The two types are torsion and extension (side-mounted) springs.
  • For bigger doors (with a width of more than 10 feet), torsion springs are widely used. The springs are located over the door and along the shaft and parallel together with the upper door rim.
  • For safety reasons, it’s best to call a garage door specialist especially if you have torsion springs. It can be very risky if you get it wrong.
  • The extension springs are positioned above the track on each side of the garage door to run parallel to the track. Moreover, they are attached to a pulley and are held in place by a cable.

4) Identify the adjustment you need to make to the spring tension.

  • The kind of adjustment you’ll make to your springs will depend on your door’s action.
  • If the garage door isn’t closing all the way or if it’s opening too fast, try decreasing the spring tension.
  • The door is not closing evenly, try adjusting the spring tension on the side wherein you can see a gap.
  • If the door is not easy to open or if it closes too fast, increases the tension.

5.)  Prepare your workstation.

  • Open the door of your garage as far as it will go before it’s halted by the stop bolt or stop tab.
  • For automatic doors, you need to disconnect them first from the opener.
  • Shut off the power to your door. Then pull the cord positioned on the backdown and backward to maintain the spring locked open. This will remove tension on your springs and will allow you to open your garage door all the way.
  • Don your safety gear such as safety glasses, hard hat, and gloves.
  • Put the C-clamp under the roller located at the bottom of the door.
  • You can also use locking pliers and put one under each of the rollers at the bottom.
  • Make sure that your door is held securely in place while working.

6.) Adjust the tension on your garage door springs.

  • Once secured, remove the spring hook that is attached to the track hanger. Make sure that there is no tension in the springs before doing anything.
  • Prepare the ladder and loosen the screws or the nut using an adjustable wrench.
  • This will now allow you to move the spring hook to a different position of the hole on the track hanger.
  • The movement of the hook changes the tension in your door’s springs. If you move the spring to a lower hole, it will decrease the tension. Moving it to a higher hole increases the tension.
  • As mentioned in step 4, if the door closes too fast or is not easy to open, move the hook up one hole. If the door is not easy to shut or closes too quickly, try moving the hook down one hole. Then change the nut and use the wrench to tighten it.

If it’s closing evenly, you can make changes to the door springs on both sides. If only one side of the door has a gap, only adjust that spring.

  • For your safety, be steady and slow in handling the hook and avoid moving it more than one hole at a time.

7.) Check the adjustments you made to your garage door.

  • You can now detach the clamp from the roller. Then lower the door.
  • If the adjustment hasn’t fixed the issue, repeat steps 5 & 6. Make sure you re-clamp the door before moving the hook again. Remember: move it up or down one hole at a time only.

8.) Adjust your door’s spring tension.

  • If lowering or raising the spring hook doesn’t get the appropriate tension, make better adjustments. You can calibrate the cable that is located inside the springs.
  • In adjusting the cable, adjust the knot or clamp attaching the cable to the track or hook. If you want to augment the tension, make the cable shorter. Making it long will reduce the tension.
  • Take off the clamp. Try to test the door again and continue fine-tuning the cable inside the spring.

9.) Once it’s set, you may use your door again.

  • Remove the clamp or locking pliers than pull the emergency cord. This will release the spring and reattach the door to the opener.
  • For an automatic garage door opener, try switching the power back on. The spring tension usually affects the motor. If it’s too tight, more power is needed to shut the door. Furthermore, looser springs mean less power is needed to raise the garage door.

Time to Fix Your Garage Door. Our Team is Willing to Help!

Having regular maintenance will prevent you from having expensive repairs. After doing your part and your garage door is still facing some issues, safer to call in a garage door professional.

Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire has a team of experienced technicians who can assess well, make adjustments, and do major garage door repairs. Please contact us today.

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6 Reasons Why You Need Garage Door Specialists

6 Reasons Why You Need Garage Door Specialists

Residential and commercial garage doors are not for aesthetic purposes only but for security purposes, too. And since most Americans have cars, they use garage doors as their home entry point. Aside from natural wear and tear, opening and closing your garage door frequently may lead to malfunctioning and involve necessary repairs. There’s a tendency for a homeowner to make the garage door a DIY repair project. However, it is still the best option to leave any garage door issues to garage door specialists. They are more familiar with the mechanisms and ins and outs of garage doors. Thus, they can make proper repairs and maintain a well-functioning garage door.

The Need for Garage Door Specialists

If you are wondering why you need to hire garage door specialists in handling garage door repairs, check the following reasons below.

Expertise and Experience

A garage door has several components and mechanisms that only an expert can handle and fully understand. All components of your garage door function consistently and uniformly with each other. Altering just one element can damage or weaken another part without knowing. This may potentially cause harm and danger in the long run.

A garage door professional has both the expertise and years of experience in handling dangerous parts or components of your garage door.

Right Tools

Garage door specialists not only have the skills to repair garage door openers or any garage door issues. But they also have the right tools and equipment for any repairs. Hiring them may prevent expensive and huge repairs in the future. Moreover, this can also prevent you or your loved one from getting injured!

Safety Risks

Since a garage door is large and has a significant weight, neglecting a malfunctioning one can cause several injuries and DIY fixes increase the risk of injuries. Examples are pinched fingers or fingers getting caught in hinges while doing DIY repairs, cuts, and bruises, or even unexpected falls.

Engage a professional in handling your garage door issues to ensure the protection and safety of everyone.

Save Money

You may think at first that the DIY approach to repairing is cheaper. But in reality, it will just make your garage door problem worse and more expensive in the long run.

Furthermore, if your garage door is well-maintained by a professional, it won’t need frequent fixes. This will prevent you from unnecessary expenses and help you save in the long term.

Convenient and Save Time

Garage door specialists are experts in handling repairs for any garage door issues. With their years of experience, they are skilled and qualified to explain issues, assess, and solve your garage door problems quickly. Allow them to do the job and you’ll have more time to do other necessary things.

Insurance and Warranty

Processing insurance can be exhausting and insurance companies only require professionals to handle garage door repairs and maintenance. The same goes with manufacturer warranties, a qualified professional should do the repairs. There would be no additional cost to the homeowner if ever an issue reoccurs.

Moreover, hiring garage door specialists will help you provide the necessary documentation needed for home insurance.

Contact Garage Door Specialists

Leave your garage door worries to our highly skilled and compassionate garage door specialists at Inland Overhead Door Company. We provide garage door installation and repair services and emergency garage door services around the clock!  Give us a call and we get your back! Let our experts help you.

 

 

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What is the Lifespan of My Garage Door Opener? –  An FAQ

What is the Lifespan of My Garage Door Opener - An FAQ

“How long do garage door openers last?” – This is a frequently asked question by home and business owners. Like other mechanical items, makers do not design garage door openers to last forever. Generally, the lifespan of a garage door opener is 10 to 15 years, depending on the usage and regularity of maintenance.

The most reasonable thing you can do to lengthen the lifespan of your garage door opener is sustaining professional maintenance, such as:

  • Visual inspection of the springs, rollers, track, pulleys, and cables
  • Lubrication of moving parts to ensure your garage door opener works properly
  • Making sure that the garage door is adequately balanced
  • Performing a reversal test
  • Garage interior maintenance – must be cool, dry, and free of objects that may impair the door opener

Reasons to Consider When Deciding to Replace Your Garage Door Opener

1. Age of your garage door opener

Age is the main factor that owners change their door opener systems, even though they are still operating fine. Indeed, taking note of when the opener system was installed is a must. The actual age of the door opener is an excellent basis for deciding whether you need to replace it.

Many owners prefer newer models with improved safety, security, and convenience features. Consult a certified overhead door specialist if you are uncertain of your door opener’s age or wear.

2. Safety reversing feature

Modern types of garage door openers have a safety reversing feature. This mechanism has two sensors on both sides of the overhead door, about six inches above the ground. When any objects obstruct the sensors while the garage door is closing, the door instantly halts and reverses direction.

If your door opener system does not have a safety reversing mechanism, it is best to replace it as a precautionary measure.

3. You want a more peaceful and quiet door opener operation

The first style of garage door opener usually opens and closes with a chain drive. Every time it moves up and down, it creates unwanted noises. Consider replacing it with a belt-drive or screw-drive opener.

Although the latest version of the chain drive unit is quieter than the old model, screw drives are much softer, and belt drives are the most noiseless.

4. More improved security feature

Burglars know that older garage door openers are more unprotected because their remote controls perform with a specified code. These people are clever enough to use a particular gadget to break the code, letting them open the garage door.

The latest models of door openers consist of a ‘rolling code’ mechanism that alters the code every time the owner uses the unit. It means robbers cannot get and copy the code to break into your garage.

5. Door openers with battery backup system

It is very inconvenient to see your overhead door suddenly stops working due to a power outage because your door opener does not have a battery backup.

New versions of door openers already have battery backup features that will start operating automatically when your area unexpectedly loses electricity.

6. Homelink feature

If your car has the Homelink feature and a newer garage door opener, you can link the two together. From there, you can program and manipulate your garage door using the car’s controls without needing a remote control device.

7. Door openers with wireless or smart-home characteristics

The newer door openers provide WiFi and mobile-phone connectivity through a designated app that lets you monitor and control your garage door’s movement from a distant place. This feature also notifies you when your overhead door is open, no matter where you are.

Signs of a Faulty Garage Door Opener

Owners should pay attention to the following signs of a faulty door opener:

  • You notice a lagging or disengaged opener.
  • When your garage door operates, you can hear strange noises from the door opener.
  • The unit shows an unstable opening or a change in movements.
  • Your door opener strongly vibrates.

Consult with Inland Overhead Door Company for Door Services

Even if you are proactive in doing door opener routine maintenance, there will still be a time that you need to replace it. If your existing overhead door opener system needs a tune-up or total upgrade, do not hesitate to consult a certified garage door company.

Our garage door specialists are consistently reachable to assist you in identifying the appropriate choice that works with your door unit. You can count on us 24/7. Contact us today!

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Check Out Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close All The Way

Check Out Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close All The Way (1)

Having a smooth functioning garage is so important especially if you opt for safety not only for your property but for your staff, too. Unfortunately, garage doors are not exempted from experiencing issues. And these issues can be an inconvenience to you and others! Understanding the cause is one best ways to solve garage door issues. So please read this full article to find out several reasons why a garage door won’t close all the way. In addition, learn some tips on how to fix them.

Causes and Tips

A garage door consists of different components that can help to have a quiet and smooth door operation. However as mentioned earlier, garage doors are not equally created and are subject to having problems, too. It might be due to a blocked part, out of alignment, or other issues, that prevent the door from closing and being stuck.

Check the following reasons why a garage door won’t close all the way together with their simple fixes:

Check the Outlet/Power Source

The opener sometimes does not operate because of a disrupted power source. Check the outlet for issues such as blowing of fuse or tripping of the circuit breaker. Aside from these sources, also check the GFCI or ground-fault circuit interrupter to ensure a functioning outlet.

Your garage door has a cord or a disconnect switch so you can operate the door manually. If it won’t shut, check if the release cord or switch has not been disconnected accidentally.

Check the Sensors

A safety sensor called photo eye in your garage door detects that something is blocking your door (e.g. person or object) and preventing it from lowering all the way. Moreover, even dirt and dust can sometimes cause a clog to your sensor and can lead to malfunction.

Check if the photo eye needs to be readjusted and try cleaning the eyes with a tissue or a soft cloth. Ensure that nothing is stopping or blocking your garage door from opening and closing.

 Check the Track

If your garage door is crookedly hanging, making unnecessary movements together with an irritating grinding noise, it might have come off its track. Stop using it and let an expert handle the problem.

Moreover, do not forcefully pull if your garage door appears jammed. This could make the vertical tracks bent and the rollers pop out. Leave the fix to the professionals.

Check the Springs

Torsion springs are responsible for lifting your garage door up and down easily. In the long run, the springs will start to weaken and becomes gradually heavy for them. A broken spring can be dangerous and make your door fall without notice. Avoid opening or repairing them yourself and instead, consult a specialist.

Check the Sensitivity and the Limit Setting

The sensitivity of an older door or a newly installed one can either be set too high or too low, leading to malfunction. Check the manual for the manufacturer’s instructions to reset or adjust the sensitivity.

The limit settings determine how far your door will be moved to shut off properly and in the long run, it may also need a tune-up. You may also adjust the knobs if needed until the desired performance has been reached.

Check the Cables

The lift cables counterbalance the door’s weight and hold the tension spring. Like any other part of the garage door, lift cables may also lead to excessive wear, rust, fraying, and corrosion over time which can make your door operate unsmoothly. For this issue, call a specialist as soon as possible and avoid using the door.

Check the Remote

Another safety feature is using a remote for your garage door. If the remote is not working properly, you may need to fix or troubleshoot it.  Travel limits the function of the remote so if you are out of range, you may not be able to use it. Moreover, if the signal is blocked, or the antenna is damaged, the remote may not work properly.

For this problem, ensure that the antenna is visible and apparent and you may need to change the remote’s battery. And as a last resort, you can try to reprogram the remote.

Get Help! Inland Overhead Door Company

It is sometimes easy to repair a garage door that won’t close all the way. However, other issues may need a team of garage door experts like Inland Overhead Door Company. We will help you throughout and get your garage door working again.

We will be willing to serve you 24/7. For garage door repair and services, Contact us today!

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Get Useful Tips on How to Fix a Squeaky Garage Door

Lubricating garage door rollers

Are you annoyed and tired of hearing your noisy garage door or that squeaking garage door of your neighbor? That is a sign that the garage door is calling your attention for its maintenance. Opening and closing your garage door may cause stress and friction on parts such as the bearings, supporting garage door tracks, and other mechanical parts. In this article, we will outline the cause and tips on how to fix a squeaky garage door. A handy guide that will help you make your garage door operates smoothly and quietly.

What’s Causing a Squeaky Garage Door?

Knowing the root of the problem is the first step to helping you determine the right solution for your squeaky garage door. Find out the following probable causes:

  1. You might have an old garage door opener that’s more than 25 years. Garage doors and their parts wear down with age and create grating sounds that are unpleasant to hear.
  2. Worn rollers and hinges can be the culprit. They often cause squeaky sounds and the rollers tend to shake when opening and closing the garage door. Moreover, the rollers produce sound too when they have bent accidentally.
  3. If nuts and bolts of your garage door become loose, they produce rattling and vibrating sounds.
  4. A garage door that uses steel wire and chains often produces annoying loud noises. This is due to loose chains which cause the rollers to rub or hit against the tracks.

How To Fix a Squeaky Garage Door

It’s necessary to at least learn some basic knowledge of fixing issues with your garage door while other issues may require a professional. Please continue to read the following tips on how to fix a squeaky garage door.

Clean Dirt, Debris, and Dust

Wipe down all the pieces and parts of the garage door such as springs, track, hinges, and wheels. They can collect dust, debris, and dust that cause your door to wear down slowly and produce a squeaky sound.

Tighten Loose Parts

Garage door parts like nuts and bolts can get loose in the long run and detached from other parts. Tighten up those nuts and bolts and check if that’s causing a squeaky garage door.

Replace If Needed

Some garage door parts such as hinges, nylon rollers, and torsion springs are often easy to break first. If you aren’t sure or understand how the parts work, it is best to call a garage door expert. Replacing parts as necessary will prevent injury and further damage.

Use Garage Door Lubricant

The simplest maintenance tip to help you from having a squeaky door is lubrication. You can use white lithium grease or silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the track, springs, wheels, or roller shafts, joints, and other moveable parts.

Use the appropriate lubricant for your garage door and its parts. You may use lithium or silicone spray to provide a thicker coating for the moving parts.

Check the Garage Door Opener

In some cases, your garage door is squeaky because there are loose parts on the garage door opener. Inspecting your door and its parts is key to preventing some issues.

Contact a Garage Door Specialist

If your door still squeaks after doing everything you can, don’t hesitate to call a specialist. Don’t wait for more serious garage door issues. Contact Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire, our technicians are ready to handle your repair needs and concerns. We provide garage door services 24 hours a week, 7 days a week.

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Garage Door Rollers: Common Issues That You Need to Know

Garage Door Rollers Common Issues That You Need to Know

Rollers for garage doors are a key component of your garage door system and are very important in making our lives easier. The rod-and-wheel systems are connected to a set of tracks, allowing you to open and close the door smoothly even with one hand. However, they also have a life expectancy since they move up and down the track system a thousand times. As a result, the garage door rollers can also lead to various issues like wearing out and will need replacing at some point.

Knowing what’s causing the problem first can help you determine the best solution for your problematic rollers! Moreover, you can also ask garage door experts for help.

Common Issues of Your Garage Door Rollers

Keep in mind that when your garage door roller, tracks, and other parts are in top condition, it will extend the life of your door and cut down on costly repairs down the road.

Problems with garage door rollers can stem from other garage door part issues or from the rollers themselves. Check out the following common issues with your garage door rollers:

Poor Lubrication

If your garage door rollers and tracks don’t have enough lubricant, it will lead to other problems such as shaky door movement, a loud noise produced from the operation of the door, and roller bearing issues.

These issues can be solved by either lubricating the rollers with silicone spray (or household oil as an alternative) or replacing the rollers if necessary.

Track Issues

  • If the garage door tracks are not well-anchored against the wall of your home, the rollers will usually go off track. Be sure to tighten the brackets to anchor the tracks well.
  • Tracks that have dents can easily be repaired to continue the smooth operation of your garage door. However, heavy damages to the tracks may require replacement.
  • Misaligned tracks happen when a car or a huge object bumps into the garage door. This can cause a gap between the rails and the rollers. Moreover, the misaligned tracks can also produce rubbing noises which can be annoying.
  • An excessive build-up of grease in the tracks will attract dirt and cause rust, thus preventing the rollers from moving properly. This will cause the garage door rollers to slide and not roll. It’s better to clean the tracks of all excessive grease.

Worn Out

If your old garage door has steel rollers, they can wear out. The ball bearings stretch and the roller leans until the roller breaks off.

Types of Garage Door Rollers

The small wheels that ride along the track of your garage door are garage door rollers. There are usually 10-12 rollers for a 7-8 foot high garage door to operate. These rollers allow the door to roll up and down and have a standard fair of roller sizes. You can see and buy them at your local stores. Check out the following types of rollers:

Steel

This type of roller can be lubricated and is built with 10+ ball bearings. The steel rollers can last around 7,000 cycles, or for over five years. However, this type can be noisy especially if it is not equipped with a nylon tire.

Nylon

This quiet nylon garage door roller has a sealed 13 ball-bearing design that is responsible for a smooth door operation which can reduce stress on the automatic opener. The overall performance will be better with nylon rollers and can last a lifetime.

Plastic

This type may come standard with any new-build garage door as a budget-friendly cost option. However, they have no ball bearings and can last only for 2-3 years. Thus, replacement is necessary.

Why should you avoid DIY Garage Door Roller Repair?

If you have a broken garage door roller, you might first think of repairing it because it may seem like a simple repair. The job actually has several steps to take and complete A novice can experience complications along the process and some are pretty dangerous.

Annual maintenance for your garage door helps make sure that all parts and pieces are functioning properly and are in good condition. Several issues can arise such as worn-out gears and belts on the garage door opener or a door going off track. It’s still best to consult garage door experts.

Garage Door Issues: Seek Experts

Our highly skilled professionals at Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire can find the best solution for your garage door problems. No worries, you can count on us to do repairs, service, and maintenance for all types of garage doors and garage door openers! Please contact us today.

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Learn Ways to Create Smart Technology for Your Garage

The future of technology for your garage has been invented and is already changing. This has become essential in today’s properties. In a survey conducted in the United States in 2017, 74% of American respondents stated that they are satisfied with their smart garage door.

Do you still have an old and outdated garage door? Over Head Door Company of the Inland Empire can help you level up your garage door! Creating a smart technology for your garage may be the last bucket list, but this can really boost the convenience and security of your home.

Make Your Garage Smarter

There are things you can do to enhance and use the latest technology for your garage.

1. You can learn more about installing internet-connected devices in your garage.

  • There are advantages to installing these smart devices in and around your garage and all are designed for accessibility and convenience.
  • With a smart garage hub, you can monitor and control not only your home lighting but also your garage door from anywhere. Moreover, it will allow you to get real-time notifications and set schedules with the myQ smart garage App.
  • You don’t need to worry about leaving your garage door open again.
  • Another great smart add- ons for your garage is Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You can both link them to your smart garage door openers.

2. You can install motion-sensor lights and security systems in your garage.

  • You can now connect your home’s security systems to motion sensors wherein recording is done only when there is an activity.
  • In addition, if cameras are installed and are triggered, the systems will alert you immediately and check what’s happening. They can also allow you to archive more footage for future use.
  • Lights can also be automatically turned on and off as you are around your garage.
  • Smart lock for your garage also provides keyless convenience and remote access. These are all important in making a smart garage.

3. You can have your parking assistant.

There are gadgets you can use nowadays that have sensors. They can detect objects nearby and can guide you safely when parking. And even if you have more than one vehicle, this laser motion-sensor parking system can prevent and save you from bumping another vehicle or other stuff.

4. Installing a flood sensor in your garage is useful.

Having a flood sensor can keep track of moisture levels and detect whether you have pipe or sewer backup issues.

Smart Garage Door Openers

Another technology for your garage is upgrading your garage door opener. A garage door opener allows you to open your garage door with just the touch of a button. You can control them using your gadgets with specialized apps and monitor everything inside your garage including your door’s status from anywhere.

Tailwind iQ3 is a smart tech garage door controller where you can close or open the door automatically as if like a remote control. Moreover, you can also get alerts whenever your door opens or closes to monitor the safety of your vehicle and garage.

Having a smart WiFi garage door remote is very important in making your garage door safer. The high-tech system can allow you to connect and integrate with your other smart home devices. You can take advantage of your smart opener’s safety features today and choose some security add-ons for your garage.

Seek Trusted Professionals

Creating smart technology for your garage is now possible. Not only will it give you peace of mind knowing that it will make your property safer but will also boost its resale value. So upgrade your property now and experience the power of the latest advancements in your garage.

Overhead Door of the Inland Empire is committed to providing excellent work and first-rate services just for you! We have a team of skilled professionals ready to assist you in upgrading or replacing your commercial overhead door and with any garage door-related problems. We also provide 24-hour emergency services. Please don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule your garage door repair today.

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Learn These 4 Steps to Get Rid of Garage Door Rust

Learn These 4 Steps To Get Rid Of Garage Door Rust

A garage door is like a double door that fits within a wall structure or frame and is more durable than sheet metal doors. It protects and secures your home, increases home value, and creates the first impression of your home. It is, however, not exempted from having rust that could lead to wearing out and worst—replacement. 

Rust can spread not only to the garage door opener but the door itself, too. If you begin to see signs of rust, treat the issue right away to prevent it from spreading and being serious. Garage door rust isn’t only unpleasant but can lead to damage if not properly cleaned and taken care of.

Garage Door Rust: Causes and Effects

Rust is nature’s way of reacting to the environment and a form of corrosion. Moreover, rust can appear in anything that is made of iron, steel, or metal, especially if exposed to elements for longer periods and if not coated with rust-inhibitors.

Find out what could cause a metal garage door to start creating rust and its negative effect, too. 

  • Environmental issues can contribute to garage door rust. If you live in the mountains, near industrial areas, or in humid climates, you’ll likely have a tough time dealing with rust.
  • If you live in coastal areas or in the snow belt, saltwater damage can cause rapid rusting of your doors.
  • Another fast rust contributor is when your garage door is exposed to acid or other industrial chemicals.
  • If your garage door lacks regular cleaning, dirt, dust, and grime will begin to accumulate due to impurities. Cleaning at least once a month can help alleviate rust issues. 
  • Pollens can also be mistaken for rust but they can also accelerate rusting. Don’t panic, just give a good wash to your garage door twice a month.
  • The wrong type of paint can cause rust development. A high gloss paint that is easy to clean is necessary. Using a primer first will protect your door’s bottom layer and paint that has a solid protective layer can help prevent rust. Ensure that paint is evenly spread in all areas and parts of the door.
  • Poor quality doors that are often inexpensive are more prone to rusting than good quality doors.

Rust can make the surfaces or components of your door become weaker. It can also cause holes in sheet metal, and interfere with electrical components. Therefore, rust will have an effect on the safety, durability, and effectiveness of your garage door and its components.

Getting Rid of Garage Door Rust

Clean first to stop the oxidation process from going any further. Rust can easily spread so here are a few simple steps to ward off the rust on your garage door.

  1. Eliminate rust by cleaning. Begin with closing your door first and preparing a bucket with warm water and nonabrasive soap. Using a large sponge, scrub the door from top to bottom. Get rid of any accumulated dirt, dust, pollen, or other debris onto your garage door. Then rinse all the soap and towel dry the door before going to the next process of removing garage door rust.
  2. Wipe all the rust-affected parts with a rag or cloth soaked in white vinegar and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. The vinegar reacts with rust, initiating it to disperse. You can use a steel wool pad for scrubbing off the rust on your door. For stains that are tough, you can use other cleaning agents like baking soda or bleach.
  3. Use sandpaper to sand the affected areas and fix the holes usually seen in the lower corners of garage doors or between panels. You can patch up smaller holes by using auto body filler to fill in the gaps. But if the holes are extensive, it’s best to ask for help from garage door specialists.
  4. The final step is to protect against future garage door rust. Make sure to use rust-resistant primer and paint to prevent further damage and preserve your door.

Seek Help From Professionals

Taking care of garage door rust right away will not only boost the curb appeal of your property but can save you from the hassles of replacement. Our professionals can assist you with any kinds of environmental issues affecting your garage doors, particularly those showing signs of rust.

Contact Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire, for any commercial garage door services.

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Check Our Simple Tips on How to Clean Garage Doors

Check Our Simple Tips on How to Clean Garage Doors

Most homeowners often give less attention when it comes to cleaning garage doors. The garage door is one important feature of your property and adds value to your building. However, it can face various outdoor elements combating harsh climate including dirt, winds, and debris. Knowing how to clean your garage door will prevent serious issues from happening and can protect your investment as well. With proper care and maintenance and the help of professionals, garage doors can last for more than 15 years.

If you want to boost the longevity of your garage door, try the following tips on how to clean garage doors.

Why Clean Your Garage Door?

Generally, property owners should at least wash their garage door twice a year, in spring and in the fall. In certain circumstances, doors located on buildings where the environment is harsh (e.g. a snowy place or a coastal area), may require cleaning quarterly. This is to prevent excessive exposure to salt which can quickly erode the finish of a garage door.

Check the following benefits of cleaning your garage door.

  1. Cleaning your garage door regularly can prevent rust from forming and extend the life of the door.
  2. It can improve curb appeal. Cleaning can remove dirt and grime that may affect your property’s exterior.
  3. Since the garage door is exposed to different elements such as rain, snow, wind, sun, and dirt, it can make the finish on your door eroded, damaged, or dull. Cleaning can prolong the door’s finish and maintain the integrity of its surface.
  4. When your garage door is clean, it will allow you to inspect and check the inside and out of the door. You’ll be able to see easily if there are minor issues and prevent them from becoming serious.
  5. Cleaning the garage door regularly can help you maintain its warranty.

Garage Door Material and Warranty

Before you begin, know what type of material your garage door has. Is it made of steel, fiberglass, vinyl, wood composite, or wood garage door? Check out the sticker on the garage door which is located on the top panel. You will see the model number and you may type it and search in Google to know the material of your door.

In addition, knowing the warranty info of the garage door is also necessary. Cleaning and maintaining garage doors regularly is a requirement for some warranties. You may void your warranty if the requirements are not being met. For instance, the warranty on your door may require garage door maintenance at least every three months, or twice a year.

Time to Wash Your Garage Door

It’s now time to start the process of washing your garage door. Doing it is quite easy and simple. Moreover, the items you need are just around the area. Take note of the following tips on how to clean garage doors.

#1: You need to get rid of excess dirt and grime on the garage door’s exterior. Before using soap and water, rinse it down first using a garden hose with a sprayer attachment.

#2: You may apply a mild detergent like your car wash soap or dishwasher soap. Use a detergent with a low phosphate (less than 0.5%). Just mix 1 cup of the detergent into a 2-gallon bucket of water.

Then gently wash down your door with a non-abrasive sponge or car washing mitt. This is to prevent damage to your garage door’s finish.

#3: To check that all parts are functioning well and to ensure the quality cleaning of your garage door from top to bottom, use a step ladder.

Consider the following in cleaning your garage door:

  • You can scrub a bit hard or even use your hands to get rid of tough dirt or spots on your door.
  • You can use the bleach-water mixture for tough stains after wiping off all the cleaning solutions.
  • Make sure that you also scrub the weather stripping and trim around the door to prolong its life.
  • Wash not only the exterior parts but the interior parts as well, especially the bottom parts.

#4: You can wax your garage door by applying car wax on your car, particularly steel doors. This is also an important part of the cleaning process. A layer of wax will protect your garage door from the daily wear and tear experiences and repel dirt and grime as well.

Additional Tips in Cleaning

  • Avoid using a pressure washer in cleaning your garage door to prevent damage to the integrity of your door.
  • Avoid mixing your cleaning solution with a bleach-water mixture. If you need to use a bleach solution, wipe off the cleaning solution first.
  • Avoid using abrasive sponges or cloths and even solvents on your garage door. This can cause scratches or damage your door’s surface and corrode the finish. Better to use soft cloths and sponges.
  • Include the other parts of your garage door in cleaning. Don’t overlook the weatherstripping and wipe down photo eye sensors of the garage door opener and garage door tracks as well.

Need Help With Garage Door Maintenance?

How to clean garage doors is a regular and necessary part of property maintenance. You won’t only have a smoother operation of opening and closing your doors, but will increase the lifespan of your garage door.

However, there is no perfect garage door. You may come across some issues or potential problems while cleaning, but worry not! Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire offers repairs and servicing and has highly-skilled professionals who can help you deal with any garage door issues.

For more inquiries, contact our friendly team today! Ready to serve you for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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