• A Comprehensive Guide to Garage Door Replacement: What You Need to Know

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    When it’s time to replace your home’s old or worn garage door, it may be confusing where to start. Garage door replacements should be something you only have to think about doing every decade or so, as long as it is done correctly the first time. When considering new garage doors, let the professionals help you make the right decision and follow up with an expert installation. 

    The most direct and easiest way to get your garage door replaced is to contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors. We will come to you, find out what works best for your home and budget, and give you all the information needed to move forward with confidence.

    Here’s What to Expect with Garage Door Replacement from Thomas V. Giel Doors

    Key factors to consider about your new garage doors include:

    Insulation Needs

    These vary by location. As a component of your home insulation R-value rating, it’s imperative to choose a door that’s insulative enough to minimize heat and cool air loss. 

    Materials

    Select from a range of materials based on the style you like, but consider the following tips:

    • Steel garage doors can dent but are highly durable and protective. 
    • Fiberglass garage doors tend to be less expensive and durable, but they may increase heating and cooling costs without insulation.
    • Wood garage doors offer a rustic and traditional feel but are not as durable and may need to be refinished over time.
    • Aluminum frame garage doors offer a more modern aesthetic, but glass panels can be problematic because of the risk of breakage.
    • Composite wood doors are higher in cost but can be some of the best in durability.

    When it comes to garage door replacement, select doors that contribute to your overall goals, including your home’s aesthetic, budget, and any specific rules you must follow based on your homeowner’s association. 

    We Help You Get New Garage Doors in No Time

    Our team will help you with the complete process, which includes offering a variety of styles, budget options, materials, and functional aspects. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors now to get a better idea of what it will take to replace your door and boost the value of your home by doing so.

  • How to Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems Before Calling a Repairman

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    Garage doors are easily one of those things that don’t often require a second thought as they do their job day after day… until one day you try to open them, and they aren’t working properly, throwing a wrench in your entire schedule. Numerous common garage door problems can cause your garage door to not operate correctly, and some of these issues can be remedied quickly and easily on your own, negating the extra wait time for a technician to get to your property.  Let’s look at some issues we can remotely assist you through if you are feeling particularly DIY; of course, you can always call Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for fast and reliable service if you want the job done without a second thought on your part.

    Garage Door Repair You Can Attempt on Your Own

    Did you know that the average garage door opens and closes around 1500 times each year? With that many instances of operation, it’s easy to see how minor issues can occur every so often. When you notice minor issues that are hindering your garage door from smooth operation, consider these solutions to the top common problems:

    The Garage Door Has Trouble Opening and Closing

    If the door gets stuck halfway up or down while opening or closing, you may be able to adjust the balance to get it back on track. After turning off the power supply, lift the door to test its balance. If it remains in place, it’s balanced, but if it moves, continue making adjustments. If you still can’t get it balanced, call one of our garage door balancing specialists. 

    The Garage Door Will Not Open at All

    Most of today’s garage doors have sensors on them meant to minimize the risk of the door opening or closing on a person. The signals may not be working properly if something is blocking them from connecting with each other along the base of the door. Remove any items and wipe any dust and dirt off the lens to test if this allows the garage door to work again.

    Troublesome Garage Door Opener

    In some situations, garage door problems stem from the opener and not the door itself. If it is not working at all, start by replacing the batteries in the device. If replacing the batteries does not remedy the issue, you may need to replace the motor (and that’s a job for a Thomas V Giel Garage Door professional).

    Let Our Team Handle All of Your Garage Door Repair Needs

    At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we take pride in offering our clients fast and reliable garage door repair solutions. When you contact us with any garage door problems, we will start by offering some troubleshooting tips and follow up by scheduling a time to visit for repairs if needed. 

  • Understanding Garage Door Spring Repair: When to Call the Professionals

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    Garage door springs are critical for moving most traditional garage doors open and down, expanding and contracting each time the garage door is opened or closed. They can work seamlessly for years, but after enough use, they may snap or stop working properly, requiring maintenance. It’s important to not attempt garage door spring repair yourself, as it can be highly dangerous–we strongly urge you to call our team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors if you suspect anything is wrong with your garage door.

    Call a Garage Door Specialist If You Have Any Signs of Spring-Related Problems

    Hiring a professional for garage door spring repair is critical in minimizing your risk of suffering a serious injury. If you notice any of the following signs of a spring problem, contact us for immediate help:

    • The springs are struggling to open or close the garage door. 
    • A loud, squealing noise comes from the door whenever you open or close it.
    • The garage door starts to open or close, then stops. 
    • The garage door itself seems crooked or no longer balanced.
    • The door closes very quickly and unexpectedly.

    With a few garage door maintenance tips from our technician, you may be able to avoid problems in the future. However, any damage to the springs means it is time to contact a garage door professional for full garage door spring repair. 

    Take a Look at Your Garage Door Springs

    Another way to tell it is time to turn to a professional for garage door spring repair is by looking at the springs themselves. You may notice they no longer look new. The following are signs that you need to have the springs inspected and, often, replaced:

    • The springs seem corroded and discolored.
    • There is a noticeable broken torsion or extension spring.
    • The springs are misshapen and do not look like neat coils.
    • The springs are out of balance (which is what causes crooked garage doors)

    At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we can help you with all of your garage door maintenance needs; this includes full garage door spring repair and maintenance to minimize the risk of further spring damage down the road.