• Which Type of Storm Door is Right For Your Home?

    storm doors Pittsburgh

    Modern storm doors are more advanced and visually appealing than the screen doors of generations past. Made from a durable aluminum frame and glass panels, often with retractable or interchangeable screens. Start by choosing the type of door you want, then decide what level of ventilation you will require. Here are your top choices when shopping for storm doors in Pittsburgh.

    Full View Storm Doors

    Just as the name sounds these doors have a thick aluminum frame and a full view, top to bottom glass panel. This is the door to select if you still want to enjoy the beauty of your front door when your storm door is closed. These are a high-security door that comes in a variety of frame colors, glass designs, and handle options. For increased ventilation choose your full view door with retractable screens that improve airflow when needed. This is a durable door that can hold up to Pennsylvania winters.

    Mid View Storm Doors

    Mid view doors are the best option for families with a lot of foot traffic. They have two glass panels instead of one, and the aluminum frame is wider on the tops and sides, with a thick aluminum panel on the bottom. A more durable option than a full view door, perfect in homes where the door is constantly being opened and closed, or for those who have pets who like to push up against your door to get a better look outside. With two glass panels, you can opt for glass in both panels, a screen in one or both, or retractable ventilation.

    High View Storm Doors

    For maximum durability a high view storm door is your top pick, making this option ideal for your back and side doors. The top third of the door has one or two glass panels and exterior viewing and ventilation, but the bottom portion is aluminum. Choose from glass and screens and feel free to add a pet door in the bottom section.

     This is just a basic description of your storm door options but each is available with a variety of features and in a variety of designs. Still not sure what type of storm doors in Pittsburgh you need? Reach out to the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today to discuss your options!

  • How To Measure For A Commercial Garage Door

    Pittsburgh commercial garage doors

    Most homes have a standard-size one or two-car garage door. But your warehouse, factory,  loading dock, or garage is likely to need a custom-sized door. Here is how to measure to install or replace your Pittsburgh commercial garage doors.

    Measurement 1: Width And Height

    Grab a ladder and an extra-long tape measure. Measure the width and height of the door opening, down to the exact feet and inches.

    Measurement 2: Sideroom

    Now it’s time to calculate the sideroom measurements. You will need at least 3.75 inches for standard vertical tracts, and 5.5 inches for specialty spring systems. If you have multiple garage doors side to side, you need at least 10 inches between each door 

    Measurement 3: Headroom

    Next up, you need to measure the headroom between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling. Standard spring systems need at least 10 feet and specialty spring systems will need at least 5.5 inches.

    Measurement 4: Backroom

    Last but not least, you need to measure the distance between the garage door opening and the back of the garage wall. You will need at least the door height plus 18 inches if you want an automatic garage door. 

    Additional Tips For Measuring Commercial Garage Doors

    In addition to the measurements above, be mindful of anything that might hinder your new garage door. In some cases, you may need to have a bit of work done before you can install the new garage door you’d like. Things to consider include:

    •     Electrical outlets
    •     Lighting
    •     Damaged jambs
    •     Uneven flooring
    •     Pipes
    •     Ductwork
    •     And more!

    Not to worry if you aren’t confident in measuring your Pittsburgh commercial garage doors yourself. The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is happy to come out and do the measurements for you!

     

  • 4 Tips For A Quieter Garage Door

    garage doors Pittsburgh, PA

    As much as you love having a garage, you may not love the disruptive sound of your door opening and closing. Even with a quiet garage door design, overtime your door may get louder. Here are a few tips for quieter garage doors Pittsburgh, PA.

    Lubricate

    Most homeowners forget to lubricate the moving metal parts on their garage door, which should be done every 6 months. Check the manufacturer’s guide for directions on where to lubricate. A standard lubricant spray found in any home store, such as WD-40, will get the job done.

    Tighten And Replace Parts

    Everything from rollers to hinges and the bottom rubber seal needs to be periodically replaced, while nuts, screws, hinges, and the opener chain need to be tightened. Not to worry as this isn’t something you have to go alone. Simply reach out to the garage door experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for your routine garage door maintenance and repairs.

    Add Soundproofing

    There is often a room or two in the home where the opening and closing of the garage door is more disruptive. This is often a bedroom or room above or adjacent to your garage. Adding a bit of soundproofing to the garage can work wonders in minimizing noise and vibrations. Consider vibration isolators for the motor and wall and ceiling acoustic sheets or blankets for the garage walls or ceilings.

    Upgrade Your Garage Door

    Last but not least, it may simply be time to upgrade your garage door to a quieter model. Newer models may also have higher security features as well as improved energy efficiency.

     If the sound of opening and closing your garage door is too much to bear, reach out to Thomas V. Giel today and we will come out and take a look.