• What You Need to Know About Overhead Doors

    overhead door of pittsburgh

    Those looking to purchase an overhead door of Pittsburgh have several options, often more than they realize. Whether you decide to purchase an overhead coiling door or an overhead sectional door, there are a few differences that you’ll want to consider between the two. Not only do you need to decide on what type of door will best fit your needs, but you’ll also need to take into consideration durability, maintenance, security, installation, and overall lifetime costs.

    Roll-Up Vs. Sectional Doors

    An overhead roll-up garage door is sometimes referred to as a rolling steel door or a coiling door. This type of door is fabricated using individual metal slat sections that are interlocked. When the door opens, the door coils up on itself above the door, wrapping around a drum. This allows the door to be stored in a compact area, minimizing the need for excesses space to store the door. This specific type of door is installed by mounting the guides and assembly to the wall on either side of the door.

    Sectional doors are similar to roll-up doors, but they utilize larger metal sections, and can open in a variety of different configurations. These configurations include retracting up, or up and over, the floor of the garage, beyond the opening of the overhead door. If there is not enough clearance for the door to open straight up, the door tracks will curve, allowing for the door to retract horizontally over the garage space. This can result in issues if there are fire sprinklers in the ceiling of the garage, HVAC, or lighting that is already installed or will be installed.

    Durability and Maintenance

    The quality of the material that is used to construct the door will have a significant impact on the overall durability and lifespan of the door. Heavy-duty materials that are typically used in overhead coiling doors are designed to last for a prolonged period of time and can withstand heavy usage. On the other hand, sectional garage doors are better equipped for low volume usage.

    Coiling doors eliminate the need for springs, which means they require little maintenance. In fact, some models of coiling doors are built to withstand upwards of one-million open and closed cycles without any maintenance required, compared to sectional doors that rely on numerous parts to operate smoothly. When more parts are used, there is an increased need for maintenance and repairs. Because there are more parts that require replacement more often, this increases the overall maintenance costs over the lifespan of the door.

    Safety and Security

    Regardless of the type of garage door, each comes with its own safety and security features. Due to its design and features, the coiling door has an advantage over sectional doors. This advantage comes from the small, multiple interlocking sections, their enclosed parts, springs and counterbalance shaft. Sectional doors rely on exposed springs and cables which leave them more susceptible to damage. Any failure that occurs with the springs or cables results in the door instantly becoming unbalanced. If cables were to break, the door would free fall to the ground, causing damage or harm to anything beneath it.

    If you’re looking for installation specialists to install your overhead door of Pittsburgh, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is an authorized commercial and residential garage door dealer. With a wide selection of both roll-up and sectional over head doors available, you can get the door that will best fit your needs at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors.

  • What’s the Difference Between Torsion and Extension Springs?

    garage door installation pittsburgh pa

    A garage door is made up of many parts that all work together so the garage door can work properly. Torsion and extension springs are responsible for managing your garage door’s counterbalance system. It is the counterbalance system that uses force to offset the weight of the door, enabling it to safely and reliably open and close. There are several types of springs that can be used, but torsion and extension springs are the most common. Because both torsion and extension springs perform the same function, you might be wondering what the difference is. Garage door installation Pittsburgh PA guarantees that springs be professionally installed to help keep the door in working order for years to come.

    Torsion Springs

    The most common type of spring found in modern garage doors is the torsion spring. Torsion springs are available in several sizes and lengths. They are calculated based on the weight of your garage door and the height and track radius. Torsion springs are installed on the top of the garage door. When the door is operated, the spring slides into a channel where lifting cables are attached, allowing the springs to wind and unwind in a controlled motion. Some of the benefits of torsion springs include:

    • Sturdy and Long Lasting: Although torsion springs are more expensive upfront, they are more durable and can last upwards of 15,000 to 20,000 cycles.
    • Less Wear: When a garage door is opening or closing, the torsion springs provide steadier movement that keeps the door balanced, creating less strain on other parts. Torsion springs make it so your garage door doesn’t have to work as hard to open and close.
    • Safer: If your torsion springs break, they will make a loud sound but remain encased in the shaft. But if extension springs break off, the result can include property damage or injury.

    Extension Springs

    Extension springs are an older technology, but they are still common because they are more affordable and ideal for smaller garages. Instead of being installed overhead, extension springs are installed on the side of the door and extend when the door is operated.

    Although extension springs are a popular option, many professionals don’t tend to recommend them because they only last upwards of 10,000 cycles. Not only do they not last as long as torsion springs, but they also require more maintenance, operate with jerking motions that cause more wear and tear, and can be a safety hazard if they break.

    Whether you’re looking for torsion or extension springs, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can provide you with reliable and reputable garage door Pittsburgh PA installation and services. If you need expert garage door advice, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can help you discover which garage door springs, openers, etc. are right for you.

     

  • How to Find a Reputable Garage Door Dealer

    pittsburgh garage

    Replacing a Pittsburgh garage door is not something you have to do often. So you likely don’t have someone in mind when the situation arises. For many, the first step to hiring a garage door technician is getting recommendations for garage door dealers from friends and family members. Another great resource is to search for reviews online and learn more about prospective dealers. Ultimately, you will need to contact the company directly. When talking to a dealer, you can learn more about their skill level and trustworthiness when you ask the right questions. Here are a few things you should ask to ensure you find a reputable garage door dealer.

    Learn About the Company

    Researching the company should give you a good indication of their experience and qualifications. It is a good idea to learn about their history. How long have they been in business? If they are a new business, what experience and knowledge do the owners have? Are they a legal business? Do they have all the necessary licenses and permits required to perform work in your area? What kind of insurance do they have? It is going to be imperative that they be fully insured. Do they have a showroom where you can see and touch the products they offer? What brands do they carry? Knowing this type of information will help you know if you’re interested in doing business with them.

    Learn About Past Customers

    The most reputable companies will gladly provide a list of previous customers who were satisfied with their services. These customers will provide their feedback and opinions about their experience with the company. Ideally, these customers will be in or near your neighborhood. You can also ask companies to provide details, including pictures of past completed projects.

    How Well do They Communicate?

    If you are going to be working with a company, knowing how they communicate before the process will be a good indication of how they communicate throughout the process. In their correspondence with you, they should gather information to accurately advise you on how to choose a door that meets your needs.

    Information that they will need to provide you with an expert opinion should include:

    • Size requirements
    • Budget
    • Design and style of your home
    • Functions, features, and traits you can’t live without
    • Other unique requirements

    With the answers to these questions, they will be able to provide you with different options that fit within your established budget. Additionally, knowing your budget will enable them to provide you with a detailed quote that includes labor and equipment. They can also provide a written warranty in detail that includes the opener, the labor, and all other aspects of the garage door.

    You want a company that will communicate openly with you during the initial planning phases of bidding and selecting a new garage door. You also want a garage door dealer that will be there for you after the installation is complete and will continue to communicate with you if warranty issues arise.

    Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is the premier Pittsburgh garage door dealer, with years of experience and knowledge. Whether you are looking for a new garage door or garage door repairs, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is the best garage door expert serving the greater Pittsburgh area.  

  • Residential vs. Commercial Garage Doors

    commercial garage doors

    The easiest way to distinguish between residential and commercial garage doors is simply by the type of building it is attached to. But here, we will discuss some of the other big differences between the two types of doors.

    Appearance

    One of the biggest differences between commercial and residential garage doors is that residential doors tend to be more focused on looks than commercial doors. This is because many homeowners tend to want a garage door that is aesthetically pleasing, whereas commercial or industrial building owners are more focused on function. This is because a residential garage door tends to have a greater effect on a home’s overall curb appeal, and eventual resale value. To improve the appearance of residential garage doors, often windows, designs, or color options are carefully selected. Because commercial doors are more concerned with functionality, they tend to be plainer and simpler. The majority of commercial doors are of the conventional white roll-up or flat designs.

    Height and Width

    One of the most obvious differences is that commercial doors tend to be a lot bigger than residential doors. Residential doors tend to have a standard height of seven feet and vary between eight and nine feet wide. Although these are the standard sizes, homeowners with an RV, boat, etc. can special order a garage door that can be as tall as 12 feet high. Where residential doors come in standard sizes, commercial doors do not. The size of a commercial garage door is going to be dependent on its application. Commercial buildings that use a lot of oversized machinery will need a larger door than commercial buildings that do not.

    Materials

    Homeowners can purchase a garage door in different materials—wood, steel, fiberglass, etc. The deciding factor on what type of material is going to be best will depend on the homeowner’s personal preference and budget. Wood doors offer better curb appeal, while steel doors are long-lasting. On the other hand, commercial doors are primarily only made of aluminum or galvanized steel. This is because both materials are extremely durable and offer the security and longevity that commercial business owners are searching for in a garage door.

    Opening Capacity

    Residential doors are designed to only be opened a couple of times each day, whereas commercial doors are designed to be opened and closed several times a day. As a result, a residential garage door opener is made to endure being open and closed only a few times a day. Whereas a commercial door opener is designed to open and close a door multiple times a day. Additionally, commercial doors are designed to operate more quickly and efficiently.

    Value

    Another major difference between residential and commercial garage doors is the cost. Commercial doors cost significantly more to install and repair than residential doors because they are designed for commercial-level security, and are often larger in size. Because commercial doors are more expensive, they are rarely used in residential applications.

    On the surface, both residential and commercial garage doors appear to be the same, when in fact they do have some big differences. Whether you are looking to replace your existing garage door or need repairs, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors  can do it all. Since 1950, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors has been providing new garage doors and repairs to homeowners and business owners across Pittsburgh.

  • 5 Reasons to Install an Insulated Garage Door

    Pittsburgh garage doors

    There are many reasons homeowners decide to upgrade their Pittsburgh garage doors. For others, it’s not necessarily a want, but a need, as their current garage door is in disrepair. Regardless of the reason, there are a few things you should know about insulated garage doors before making a purchase.

    As with most other products, you have several options when selecting the right garage door for your home. A garage door serves as more than just an entrance to your home, it is a major part of your curb appeal and can have a big impact on your resale value if you ever try to sell your home.

    One of the newest garage door trends is to purchase one that offers energy efficiency options. Here are five of the top reasons you should install an insulated door on your Pittsburgh home.

    Saves Energy

    The majority of energy saving tips focus on the inside of the home. This makes sense because this is where the majority of heat gain and loss takes place. In fact, some people don’t even consider the garage when developing their energy savings plans. It is important, as most garages have finished rooms above them which are heated and cooled, along with having a door that connects to the main part of the house.

    As a result, your uninsulated garage will transfer cold air into the rooms around it. Simply having a garage door that is insulated can cut down on the amount of energy required to heat or cool the rest of your home.

    More Durable

    Aside from assisting with energy cost, insulated garage doors are more durable. This is a result of the way the doors are constructed. Insulated doors are constructed using either a steel or aluminum frame that is filled with solid-core insulation. The insulation is then sandwiched between either single or dual steel panels. This style of construction creates a door that is both durable and lightweight.

    A more durable door will be more resistant to dents, reducing the amount of maintenance homeowners have to perform around the house. Because there is going to be less damage done to an insulated door, the lifespan of the door will be prolonged as well.

    Quieter

    Garage doors are going to make noise. But insulated doors tend to be quieter than uninsulated doors. Noise isn’t an important factor in determining how a door functions, it is a nice bonus feature. Because all doors will produce noise, finding one that is quieter than others can make a huge difference. Insulated doors tend to be quieter than other doors due to their tight construction. Each panel is composed of materials tightly sandwiched together, reducing the amount of loose material that can make excess noise. Additionally, because insulated doors also weight more than uninsulated doors, they are less likely to jolt or vibrate on the track, thereby reducing the amount of noise made.

    Protects Cars

    When vehicles are parked inside a garage, they are protected from the extreme weather outside. This is especially important during cold weather, as the cold can have a negative impact on your car in several ways. An insulated door can have a big impact on the overall life of your car.  As a result of cold temperatures, you may experience any of the following:

    • Shorter Battery Life or Dead Battery
    • Thickened Transmission, Engine, and Brake Fluids
    • Low Air Pressure in Tires
    • Unreliable Spark Plugs and Wiring

    The lower the temperature, the less likely your car is to run and function properly. Simply installing an insulated garage door can increase the temperature inside the garage enough to protect your vehicle.

    More Convenient

    For some, a garage is more than just a place to park your car. Some use it as a place for extra storage, for others, it is a great space to work out or participate in hobbies. Regardless of the way you use your garage, keeping it warm makes it easier and more enjoyable for you to use it. In areas with a colder climate, like here in Pittsburgh, that extra layer of warmth can make a huge difference in simple, daily tasks, such as carrying in groceries or carrying sleeping children into the house from the car.

    There are many benefits to switching out an uninsulated garage door for one with insulation. If you decide an insulated garage door will make a positive impact on your home, contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today. As a leader in Pittsburgh garage doors, we have a wide selection of garage doors that make it easy to find the right garage door for your home.

  • How to Protect Your Garage in Winter

    garage door installation pittsburgh

    Cold weather is fast approaching, bringing in the winter months with it. When the weather starts to turn cold, it is a good indication that it is now time for you to begin winterizing your home. One way that you can help cut down on your home’s heating costs during the winter is with a well-insulated garage. If your garage is too cold, you risk damage to your vehicles and anything else that you store inside your garage. The best way to prevent expensive repairs from accruing later on, is to winterize your garage ahead of time. Here are a few things you can do to protect your garage before winter sets in which will prevent you from needing to invest in a new garage door installation Pittsburgh come spring.

    Replace Weather Stripping

    One of the easiest things you can do is to start by replacing the weather stripping on your garage door. This will create a seal between the garage door and the garage door opening, keeping cold air from coming in. When cold air is allowed to find its way inside your garage, it will create cold drafts that cause the temperature inside your garage to drop dramatically.

    To install new weather stripping, start by removing the old weather stripping and remaining sealant. Use a putty knife or scraper of some sort to remove as much of the old weather stripping as possible. Cleaning the surface as much as possible will make it easier for the new weather stripping to be installed. Once you have the surface cleaned and prepared for the new weather stripping, be sure to measure before you begin to install anything. You’ll want to make sure that you don’t have too much rubber sticking to the sides, where it could possibly interfere with the garage door track. Close the garage door and align the weather stripping so the rubber flap flattens slightly against the door. A good seal on your door allows the garage door to operate easier.

    Insulate the Garage Walls

    Another way to insulate your garage to prepare it for winter is to insulate your exterior garage walls. You can purchase fiberglass batt insulation fairly cheaply at any home improvement store. You can simply tack it into place on the walls of your garage. You’ll want to check to see that you have the right insulation thickness to ensure that you provide your garage with plenty of insulation against the cold. Failure to install the insulation securely to the wall or forgetting to provide extra support for the insulation can result in problems. In order for insulation to work properly, you’ll need to ensure that it has a snug fit and completely covers your wall.

    Repair Garage Door

    If your garage door is old or broken and is the source for the cold air getting into your garage, you might want to consider replacing it before the really cold weather arrives. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we provide garage door installation Pittsburgh, along with repairing and replacing broken panels and other parts. A garage door that is properly repaired or replaced can work to eliminate cold air from finding its way inside. Often, replacing an old or broken door with a new, insulated door is the best option for homeowners.

    Heat the Garage

    Another great way to ensure that your garage stays warm throughout the winter is to install a heater unit after you’ve completed all the other necessary precautions. Heaters will not only protect your garage from getting too cold, but they will also protect your vehicle and other belongings from the low temperatures. Keep in mind, it is important to be careful when using a heater, as heaters pose a risk of personal injury or potential house fires if not handled properly.

    As you can see, your garage plays an important role in keeping your home warm during the cold winter months. If you are considering replacing or repairing your garage door before the cold sets in, contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today!

  • 3 Interesting Facts About Garage Door Openers

    garage door opener pittsburgh

    Nearly every new home has a garage door opener Pittsburgh and many older homes have been remodeled to include one. This seemingly simple piece of technology is actually a device that is equipped with several different abilities, all designed to make your life easier. Garage door openers are capable of handling different sizes and weights of garage doors. Newer models are equipped with safety features that provide optimal safety and convenience. Here are three interesting facts about garage door openers that you might not know about.

    Increase the Value of Your Home

    When it comes to adding value to your home, many don’t think about installing a garage door opener. When homes are equipped with the right garage door and garage door opener, it can make a huge difference to the value of your home. One of the biggest reasons why this is true is that they provide your home with added security. Automatic garage door openers not only keep your family, home, and belongings safe; some models are even equipped with built-in safety features, such as rolling codes and vacation mode protecting your home while you’re away. Along with built-in security features, many garage door openers are quiet, energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and affordable.

    Garage Door Openers Have Improved

    Over time, garage door openers become outdated, worn down, or misaligned. As a result, the vast majority of garage door accidents result from faulty openers. The garage door industry is working hard at constantly improving the technology found in garage door openers and sensors. When considering a new garage door opener, it is important to get the opinion of a garage door expert. While openers that are equipped with all the bells and whistles might be attractive, it isn’t necessarily the right fit for your garage door.

    New Openers are Safer Than Ever Before

    To prevent children, vehicles, and pets from getting trapped beneath a garage door, safety sensors should be built into every garage door opener. If your sensors are damaged, broken, or not working properly, you don’t necessarily need to invest in a whole new unit. Often, this type of damage can be repaired or replaced. But, if you live in a home with an older model it might be in your best interest to invest in a newer one. Especially if your unit is missing any safety sensors, it could potentially be putting your family, pets, and vehicles in unnecessary danger. Even if your model is in working condition, it still might be worth looking into an upgrade for the safety features.

    Whether you are looking for a new garage door opener Pittsburgh, or are in need of some repairs on your current model, contact the experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today. With years of experience, trained technicians, and professional knowledge, you won’t find a better garage door supplier than those at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors.

  • How to Prepare for a Garage Door Installation

    door installation pittsburgh

    Congratulations, you have ordered a new garage door to be installed. But there are a few things that you can do to help ensure your door installation Pittsburgh goes as smoothly as possible. Many of these steps are simple and can make the experience easier for you and the professionals who you’ve hired to install your new door. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your garage door installation.

    Clear Out Garage

    The first thing you can do before having a new garage door installed is to make sure your garage is clear. This means parking all vehicles outside before installation. As a courtesy, try to park your vehicles in such a way that allows the installation professionals to park their vehicle with the necessary tools and materials as close as possible to the garage.

    In addition to removing vehicles from the garage, be aware of any yard equipment, sports equipment, garbage cans, and any other items that might be located near the garage door and tracks. Any items that are located near the opening should be moved to the back of the garage prior to the installer’s arrival. A good rule of thumb is to have a minimum of one-foot on each side of the track and fourteen-feet back into the garage; this will allow the installer to set up ladders, removing the existing door, and set up a new door system easily.

    Keep Track of Pets and Kids

    If you have pets at home, be sure that your pet is kept in a safe place away from the garage throughout the duration of the installation. Far too often, homeowners allow their pets to roam freely during an installation, which is dangerous not only for your pet but for the installer as well. Even if pets are friendly, it is best to keep them away, as it is easy for installers to trip over pets and drop something. Pets may even end up chewing on something they shouldn’t.

    Along with pets, children should be kept away from the garage while installers are working. It is natural for children to be curious and want to watch, but children need to be kept away for their own safety as well as the safety of the installer. The installation process requires working with heavy items, overhead items, and items that are under spring tension. Because of this, only those who are trained to work on garage doors should be allowed in the garage during installation.

    Consider Location of Wall Consoles or Keyless Entry Pads

    Spend some time thinking about where you want to have your wall console or keyless entry pad located. As a general rule, most wall consoles are located next to the personnel door that enters the garage from the house, on the garage side of the wall. Most keyless entry pads are located on the left side exterior jamb of the garage door, roughly five feet off the ground. If you would like either one to be located somewhere different, be sure to talk to your installer before they begin working.

    If you need residential or commercial door installation Pittsburgh, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can meet and exceed all your garage door needs. Whether it be repairs or a new installation, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can do it all!

  • What You Need to Know Before Speaking with a Commercial Garage Door Salesman

    pittsburgh commercial garage doors

    As a business owner, you are probably looking for ways to make your business run more efficiently. The more efficient your business runs, the more your business profits. Whether you are looking to purchase your first set of Pittsburgh commercial garage doors or are looking to replace your existing ones, here are a few things you should know before you start talking to a garage door salesman.

    Application

    Before deciding on a new commercial garage door, you’ll want to think about how the doors will be used. While this might seem like a no-brainer, commercial doors can be used to fulfill a wide variety of applications. Also, commercial doors need to be able to stand up to the rigors of businesses that rely on them to open and close with no problems for an extended period of time. You’ll also want to consider how you’ll be using your door and what features are going to be important for you and your situation. Knowing how you’ll be using your door should play an important role in the type of door and system you choose.

    Material

    Once you have determined the application in which your door will be best utilized, you’ll want to consider what type of door material is going to work best for your needs. Commercial garage doors are available in different materials, the most common being steel or aluminum. Steel is a durable and low-maintenance option for business owners. Aluminum is also a low-maintenance, as well as resist to corrosion. Steel doors are ideal for businesses needing a door that can withstand high-volume cycles. On the other hand, aluminum doors work great in areas where there is high humidity.

    Size

    One of the biggest differences between commercial and residential garage doors is that commercial doors are available in nearly any size, while residential doors generally come in either one- or two-car options. When you first talk to a commercial garage door salesman, one of the first things they’ll need to know is what size of door you’re looking for. So, you’ll want to measure your openings before you start talking with them.

    Features

    There are numerous commercial garage door features available. A few of the most common features include:

    • Insulation
    • Automation
    • Safety
    • Motor
    • Cycle Speed
    • Aesthetics
    • Price
    • Maintenance
    • Security

    When you are ready to talk to someone about which Pittsburgh commercial garage doors are right for your business, contact the experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors!  

  • 9 Frequently Asked Questions About Overhead Doors

    For many homeowners, the garage door is not only a place to park your car, but also the main access point for your home. Because a garage door is so important to the daily functioning around your home, it is imperative that you know and understand how it works and the do’s and don’ts. Read on to learn the answer to nine of the most frequently asked questions your overhead door of Pittsburgh professionals receive. What are the standard sizes available for residential garage doors? As a general rule, most standard residential garage door widths are 8’, 9’, 10’, 12’, 15’, 16’, 18’, and even 20’. Depending on the specific door type and brand, there may be some exceptions to this rule. You’ll want to check with your garage door supplier to learn about the specific sizes that are available to you, or to learn about custom door widths. Can I paint my garage door? Aluminum garage doors can be painted any color. Be sure you use latex paint when painting your garage door. Can I replace a section of my door or do I need to replace the entire door? There are a few variables that will need to be taken into consideration before you can accurately answer this question. The amount of damage that your door sustained is going to be one of the biggest contributing factors. In most cases, minor damage can be rectified by simply replacing the damaged sections of your garage door. Extensive damage to more than just the panels will generally require the whole door system to be replaced. Your garage door professionals will be able to assess the damage and provide you with recommendations on how best to repair or replace your garage door system. What is R-Value and how does it benefit me? R-Value is a standardized unit of measuring thermal efficiency. The higher the R-Value, the greater the insulating properties of the product. Different garage doors are equipped with a wide range of R-Values, designed to meet your specific needs. How much does a new garage door system cost? There are several factors that contribute to the cost of a new garage door system. These factors will include the style and type of door you select, color, size, motor and assembly, and more. We recommend you have one of our trained professionals come to your home and provide you with an estimate prior to installing a new garage door system. What maintenance will my garage door require? Once again, the amount of maintenance required for your garage door to continue to operate at optimal efficiency will be dependent upon a few factors. How often does your door get used? Is there any damage to the door, tracks, motor, or springs? Because each door is different, we recommend that you have your garage door inspected annually by a trained professional. A trained garage door professional will be able to thoroughly check your garage door system and perform any routine maintenance that may be needed. Investing in preventative maintenance now can save you money down the road. Will a garage door opener work in my space if I have low ceilings in my garage? In most cases, yes. Residential doors require a minimum of 4½-inches of headroom. In these situations, garage door systems will generally implement a low headroom extension track or a low headroom torsion rear track. For your garage door opener, you’ll need a minimum of 6 ½-inches of headroom. How can I get a new remote control for my garage door opener? If you need a new garage door remote control, your overhead door of Pittsburgh dealer can provide you with a wide range of remote controls or wireless keypads. In order to get a new remote control, you’ll need to know if your opener is a newer or older model. If you are not sure, a trained technician can come out and take a look at your opener and help you get the right remote control for your opener. In most cases, trained technicians can also help you program your new remote control or keyless entry keypad as well. Can a non-insulated garage door be insulated? Yes, you can turn a non-insulated garage door into an insulated one by simply installing an insulation kit on your current garage door. These kits are available from your local garage door supplier. We hope you found these answers to be helpful and informative. If you have any more questions regarding your garage door, or would like to have a trained technician come to your home, please contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors at 724-502-2394 today! We guarantee you’ll not only get superior service, but you will also get the best deal in Pittsburgh!

    For many homeowners, the garage door is not only a place to park your car, but also the main access point for your home. Because a garage door is so important to the daily functioning around your home, it is imperative that you know and understand how it works and the do’s and don’ts. Read on to learn the answer to nine of the most frequently asked questions your overhead door of Pittsburgh professionals receive.

    What are the standard sizes available for residential garage doors?

    As a general rule, most standard residential garage door widths are 8’, 9’, 10’, 12’, 15’, 16’, 18’, and even 20’. Depending on the specific door type and brand, there may be some exceptions to this rule. You’ll want to check with your garage door supplier to learn about the specific sizes that are available to you, or to learn about custom door widths.

    Can I paint my garage door?

    Aluminum garage doors can be painted any color. Be sure you use latex paint when painting your garage door.

    Can I replace a section of my door or do I need to replace the entire door?

    There are a few variables that will need to be taken into consideration before you can accurately answer this question. The amount of damage that your door sustained is going to be one of the biggest contributing factors. In most cases, minor damage can be rectified by simply replacing the damaged sections of your garage door. Extensive damage to more than just the panels will generally require the whole door system to be replaced. Your garage door professionals will be able to assess the damage and provide you with recommendations on how best to repair or replace your garage door system.

    What is R-Value and how does it benefit me?

    R-Value is a standardized unit of measuring thermal efficiency. The higher the R-Value, the greater the insulating properties of the product. Different garage doors are equipped with a wide range of R-Values, designed to meet your specific needs.

    How much does a new garage door system cost?

    There are several factors that contribute to the cost of a new garage door system. These factors will include the style and type of door you select, color, size, motor and assembly, and more. We recommend you have one of our trained professionals come to your home and provide you with an estimate prior to installing a new garage door system.

    What maintenance will my garage door require?

    Once again, the amount of maintenance required for your garage door to continue to operate at optimal efficiency will be dependent upon a few factors. How often does your door get used? Is there any damage to the door, tracks, motor, or springs? Because each door is different, we recommend that you have your garage door inspected annually by a trained professional. A trained garage door professional will be able to thoroughly check your garage door system and perform any routine maintenance that may be needed. Investing in preventative maintenance now can save you money down the road.

    Will a garage door opener work in my space if I have low ceilings in my garage?

    In most cases, yes. Residential doors require a minimum of 4½-inches of headroom. In these situations, garage door systems will generally implement a low headroom extension track or a low headroom torsion rear track. For your garage door opener, you’ll need a minimum of 6 ½-inches of headroom.

    How can I get a new remote control for my garage door opener?

    If you need a new garage door remote control, your overhead door of Pittsburgh dealer can provide you with a wide range of remote controls or wireless keypads. In order to get a new remote control, you’ll need to know if your opener is a newer or older model. If you are not sure, a trained technician can come out and take a look at your opener and help you get the right remote control for your opener. In most cases, trained technicians can also help you program your new remote control or keyless entry keypad as well.  

    Can a non-insulated garage door be insulated?

    Yes, you can turn a non-insulated garage door into an insulated one by simply installing an insulation kit on your current garage door. These kits are available from your local garage door supplier.

    We hope you found these answers to be helpful and informative. If you have any more questions regarding your garage door, or would like to have a trained technician come to your home, please contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors at 724-502-2394 today! We guarantee you’ll not only get superior service, but you will also get the best deal in Pittsburgh!