• Why Shouldn’t Homeowners Attempt Garage Door Repairs Themselves?

    garage door installation pittsburgh

    As a homeowner, and self-proclaimed handyman, you may want to save money by attempting to complete all the home repairs yourself. This is great for many necessary home repairs, but there is one repair that you should not attempt on your own—the garage door. Garage doors can pose a serious threat to your own safety as well as the safety of family members, pets, or vehicles. There are numerous dangers that are associated with garage door repairs that should be left to garage door installation Pittsburgh professionals. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t attempt garage door repairs yourself.

    Experience

    When it comes to working on or repairing garage doors, knowledge and experience are crucial. One of the most common problems that arise when homeowners attempt to repair garage door problems themselves, is that they inadvertently make the problem worse. As with most things, when the problem is worse it requires more time and money to correct.

    Save yourself some time, money, and hassle by hiring a professional and knowledgeable garage door repair technician to fix the problem from the get-go. Not only will they be able to quickly diagnose the issue, but they will also be able to provide you with options on repairs to ensure you get the repair that is right for you and your budget.

    Right Tools

    It is also important that you have the right tools. Most garage door repairs require the use of unique tools that most homeowners do not have lying around. This is because most homeowners won’t have the need for garage door specific tools to complete other projects around the home. Therefore, purchasing the tools probably won’t be worth the investment.

    A professional garage door technician will have all the necessary tools needed to repair any garage door-related issues you might encounter. Not only will they have all the tools necessary, but they will also know how to use them correctly.

    Avoid Accidents

    You can’t predict everything that is going to happen while performing garage door repairs, but there are three accidents that are the most common during DIY repairs. The three most common accidents include:

    • Falls: Garage door repairs require you to work on stools or a ladder. While it is essential to be high up in order to perform the repairs, you are at an increased risk of falling as well. Falling means that you could injure yourself or someone else. You also run the risk of damaging any equipment that you are using during the time of the fall or any that happens to be nearby.
    • Springs: Springs pose the greatest danger to homeowners who attempt to repair garage doors on their own. This is because torsion springs are under extreme amounts of tension and pressure. It is this tension and pressure that carries your garage door up and down. When they work properly, they are safe to be around. But when they aren’t working properly, they can be extremely dangerous. Professionals are trained to safely handle torsion springs and know how to prevent them from turning into projectile objects that could cause serious damage and danger.
    • Collapses: Garage doors weigh hundreds of pounds. Because of their weight, inexperienced homeowners are at greater risk of having their garage door, and its hundreds of pounds, come crashing down.

    Now that you know how dangerous it can be to work on a garage door yourself, hire professional garage door installation Pittsburgh technicians to do the work for you. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we not only install new commercial and residential garage doors, but we also know how to effectively and safely perform garage door repairs! Call us for all your garage door needs.

     

  • How to Open Your Garage Door When the Power Goes Out

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    There are few things more frustrating than not being able to open your garage doors Pittsburgh, PA with the push of a button. Once you have gotten used to the convenience of having an automatic garage door opener, it is hard to ever go back to a manually operated door. Unfortunately, there are times when you’ll have no choice but to operate your door manually. This can be the result of dead batteries in your remote, a broken motor, or because your home is experiencing a power outage. While no one plans on these events happening, they do occur. These factors are why it’s important to know how to manually open and close a garage door in Pennsylvania.

    Pull the Trigger

    Nearly every garage door comes equipped with a bypass switch for just such occasions. Located on the garage opener there is a rope, generally red, with a handle on the end. This rope is the manual release that disengages the garage door from the motor, allowing it to be operated manually. Because the door can then be operated manually, it is recommended that you pull the release while the door is down, otherwise it could come slamming down causing damage and possible injury.

    Staying in Manual Mode

    The red rope you pulled to manually operate your door also controls the spring attachment in the trolley. If you are going to be experiencing an extended power outage or if your operator is malfunctioning, you’ll need to keep your door in manual mode. When using the door in manual mode, it is important to remember that you should pull the release rope down and toward the back of the garage to prevent it from getting caught on the tracks.

    Reattaching the Door When the Power Returns

    Once your home has its power restored or your door operator has been repaired or replaced, you’ll want to reattach your door in order to take full advantage of the automatic capability. To re-engage your door, you will need to simply pull down on the release cord again, this time toward the garage door opening. This will prevent the lever from engaging. At the same time, pull up on your garage door until it snaps back into place and you’re back in automatic mode. If you need assistance, simply push the button on your remote and the door track will force the spring attachment back into place.

    Important Things to Remember About the Door Release Cord

    It is important to remember that even if parts of your garage door are corrupted, the automatic system will keep the door operating as a single functioning unit. Springs or cables that are weak or broken will be supported by the track. But as soon as you disengage the track, this is no longer true.

    • If at all possible, only use the release cord to enter manual mode when the door is closed. While this isn’t always possible, remember that the door can come slamming down if the release cord is pulled while the door is open.
    • If the door must be disengaged from the track while in the open position, use 2X4s to prop the door open to safely close it.
    • When releasing the door while open, be sure to clear away all people and objects prior to pulling the release cord.
    • If the cord doesn’t release, don’t hang on it. While it does require some force to disengage the door, hanging on the cord when it won’t disengage, can result in damage to the rope or lever.

    If you find that you have to disengage your door and operate it manually because it isn’t working properly, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors has extensive knowledge in repairing and replacing garage doors Pittsburgh, PA.

  • 3 Popular Residential Garage Door Styles

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    Your home is not only the place where your raise your family, but it also reflects your style. Your residential garage doors Pittsburgh are the largest entrance to your home, and a major factor when it comes to “curb appeal.”  That being the case, it is good to personalize your door to reflect your style by selecting a door that is unique to your home.

    Traditional Raised-Panel Garage Doors

    While traditional, the raised-panel garage doors are still a clean and classic look. This particular style of door is identifiable due to its iconic symmetrical, raised-rectangular panels. Traditional doors are available in different sizes and colors, with or without glass, to help you achieve the exact look you are searching for.

    Contemporary Garage Doors

    Homes that are newer and more contemporary, can be greatly enhanced by a contemporary garage door. These types of doors provide homes with a clean and functional design that enhances curb appeal. Contemporary doors are available in aluminum, glass, steel or wood. If you are looking for a truly unique yet beautifully contemporary door, a combination of metal, glass, and wood can create a fresh look for your home’s exterior.

    Carriage-House Garage Doors

    Carriage-house style garage doors are sometimes referred to as barn style garage doors. These doors have a distinct rustic style, making them stand out from all the other garage doors on the block. Carriage-house garage doors are the perfect complement to a craftsman or mission style home. If you’re a homeowner looking for a distinct door with an aesthetically pleasing look that can complement your home’s existing décor, the carriage-house door is the perfect style for you!

    When you are looking for the right door for your home, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is your residential garage doors expert in Western Pennsylvania. With years of experience and a wide selection of residential garage doors Pittsburgh to choose from, you can’t go wrong purchasing your next garage door from Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors!

  • 6 Signs You Need a New Garage Door

    As a homeowner, spending money on costly repairs and upgrades to your home with little to no return on your investment is anything but satisfying. One repair that can be made to your home that won’t break the bank, while offering an immediate return on your investment, replacing an overhead door Pittsburgh PA. Not only are garage doors one of the first things that people see when they come to your home, they are also a feature that you use multiple times a day. Because it is such a vital part of your home, it is important that it is in good working condition.

    Because garage doors can be a huge investment, you’ll want to make sure that your door can’t be repaired and needs to be replaced. There are a few factors that will indicate that it is time to invest in a new door, some of which include:

    1. Speed: When you push your garage door button, you should start to notice some sort of movement right away. If your door isn’t responding to your remote as fast as it used to, you might need to look into getting it replaced.
    2. Noise: Noise is a good indication that either a part needs to be repaired or replaced on your garage door. Don’t just ignore the noise, thinking that it is just part of the garage door. It could potentially be an indication of something serious that needs to be addressed. If your garage door starts to make a lot of noise in the form of grinding, crunching, grating, squeaking, or banging, you’ll want to look into a replacement door.
    3. Safety and Security: Due to the excessive weight, garage doors can pose a huge safety risk if they come slamming down too fast or unexpectedly. As soon as you notice a potential safety risk, such as your door not shutting all the way, or your sensors not working properly, it is time to get your door replaced. These are all issues that can harm you, your family, or your pets.
    4. Appearance: The way your garage door looks will have a tremendous impact on the overall curb appeal and value of your home. Over time, doors will go out of style, leaving your home looking older and less stylish. Investing in a new garage door not only improves your home’s curb appeal but can also make your home look more modern and attractive. It is an investment that is money well spent.
    5. Functionality: Over time, wear and tear will accumulate on your garage door. Dings and dents are inevitable, while debris can build up over time. Garage door springs generally only last around 10,000 cycles before they need to be replaced. Most issues with an older garage door can be repaired, but if you are worried about your garage door not working properly or failing, it might be time to consider investing in a replacement.
    6. Price: Because garage doors are made up of several parts, you will generally be making a huge investment up front or over time as you continually pay for repairs on an older door. If you find that you are continually forking out money for repairs or breakdowns, you might want to consider investing your money in a new door and not repairs. Maintenance costs for your overhead door Pittsburgh PA should not be a constant expense.

    At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we have experienced technicians that can diagnose garage door problems and provide you with cost-effective solutions. Whether it is a simple repair job or a complete, new door install, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is your Pittsburgh garage door expert!

  • The 4 Most Common Garage Door Repairs For Homeowners

    Many homeowners consider their garage door’s creaking and groaning to all be part of owning a garage door and don’t consider the possibility that it could be an indication of something more serious. If your garage door has visible damage to the panels, is making loud noises, or simply doesn’t open or close, it might be time to hire garage door repair Pittsburgh PA professionals. Here are 4 common garage door repairs to be aware of.

    • Broken Garage Door Springs

    For manual garage doors, it is easy to notice when your springs are broken, as the door will be difficult to lift and will slam down when trying to close it. For automatic doors, the door won’t open at all. In order for you to manually open your door, you’ll have to disengage the emergency release and operate it manually.

    • Misaligned Sensor

    Automatic doors are equipped with two laser sensors located at the bottom of your garage door to prevent damage and injuries. If there is an object that disrupts the laser from beaming directly into the other laser, the door will not shut. If these sensors get bumped or become misaligned, the door will not be able to shut, reversing immediately or not operating at all. Sensors can be adjusted and realigned until they are lined up again, allowing the door to operate properly.

    • Dead Garage Door Remote

    For most, garage door remotes can last for a long time before the batteries need to be replaced. If your remote no longer operates your garage door, try replacing the batteries. If new batteries don’t fix the problem, you may need to replace the entire remote. If remotes get dropped, they are more susceptible to breaking. Try using the wall switch to see if your door will operate to determine if you need to replace your remote or if you have other, more serious problems.

    • Door Off Track

    If a door gets hit with an object or slams down too hard it is easy for your door to get off track. When this happens, you’ll need to hire professional garage door repair Pittsburgh PA to repair and perform maintenance to the door and track. In most cases, your door will need to be reattached to the rail, which you should not do yourself.

    The best way to prevent garage door problems is to perform regular maintenance. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we have experienced technicians who are trained in inspecting and repairing garage doors to ensure that your door continues to work time after time. If you find that your garage door isn’t working or needs maintenance, contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today!

  • Single Panel vs. Sectional Garage Doors: What’s the Difference?

    Residential garage doors generally come in many different colors, sizes, and designs. However, two of the most common styles are single panel garage doors and sectional, panel-style doors. Either option can be a welcome addition to a home, especially when properly installed and maintained. Still, it never hurts to have a good idea of how these two common styles that may end up on your Pittsburgh garage stack up when compared.

    Cost

    At one time, single panels garage doors were widely considered to be cheaper in price than sectional ones. This isn’t so much the case anymore because single panel doors are harder to find and in higher demand among historically-minded homeowners. Sectional doors, on the other hand, are widely available in many price ranges, making it easier to shop around. However, due to their simplicity, one-piece doors tend to cost less to maintain and repair.

    Appearance

    The main appeal of single panel garage doors is their vintage look. And because there’s just one piece, the panel can be conveniently stained or painted to match existing exterior features without worrying about intrusive section gaps. Modern sectional garage doors can be just as versatile. Whether your prefer carriage house styles or contemporary flush panels, sectional doors can mimic many different preferred looks.

    Insulation

    If your garage is adjacent to your home, then you’ll definitely want a door that provides a strong barrier against indoor and outdoor air. Sectional doors generally have the advantage if insulation quality is one of your top concerns.

    Ease of Use and Space

    Both styles are fairly easy to operate because of spring systems that help with lift. Because there are no tracks, and springs and levers are along the interior edges, single panel garage doors have more headspace. Sectional doors require outward clearance when opened.

    Safety

    Extension springs on each side of single panel doors serve the same function as the torsion spring does on sectional garage doors. This only becomes a serious safety concern if springs aren’t properly maintained or upgraded to be in line with current safety standards. Also, one-piece doors can only withstand so much wind and they can’t be reinforced.

    Ultimately, what’s best for your Pittsburgh garage will depend on several factors, such as how exposed your garage is to the elements, your available budget, and the overall size of your garage. When you turn to a company like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors , you’ll benefit from additional assistance with your garage door selection. Added insights from experienced garage door technicians can help you make a confident decision when it’s time for a new installation or replacement.

  • 4 Reasons You Shouldn’t DIY a Garage Door Installation

    Garage doors are designed to increase the level of security on a property. Over time, the products can begin to deteriorate, and the door will need to be replaced. Although you may want to save money, there a few reasons you should avoid installing the garage door without the help of a professional.

    Risk of Injury

    Without the proper tools and experience, it can be easy to put yourself or others at risk of an injury while installing a garage door. Professionals have the knowledge and training needed to perform the task. It’s important to remember that the installation process is physically strenuous and can be dangerous due to the parts that are involved. If you get injured during the install, your medical will certainly offset the potential DIY savings.

    A Complicated Process

    Although you may be handy when it comes to performing minor repairs around the house, a garage door installation can be difficult for anyone who isn’t a specialist. There are many different parts involved, and this can make it easy to spend a lot of time on the job.

    Mistakes

    Many homeowners who attempt to perform garage door installation Pittsburgh PA make mistakes due to the number of steps involved. Mistakes can be costly to repair and cause you to spend more money in the long run. Many errors lead to the garage door not being able to close. If the garage is left open for many days, this can put your personal belongings and family members at risk.

    Special Tools Required

    It’s important to hire a professional to perform a garage door installation Pittsburgh PA because special tools are required to complete everything correctly. Since you probably won’t have the necessary tools or equipment available in your home, you may have to spend a significant amount of money attempting to purchase them at a local home improvement store. If you attempt to perform the task without the right tools, there’s likely to be damage to the parts and your home. You’ll end up saving more money by hiring a professional to handle the project.

    Although you may feel confident enough to install a new garage door, there are many reasons that the task should be left to an expert who is skilled and trained. You can avoid mistakes and save more money by hiring a professional. When you’re ready to start your installation, reach out to the specialists at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors .

  • How to Know When to Replace Your Garage Door

    The garage door is one of the most important components of your home. When it is not working properly, it can keep you trapped in your home or allow others to gain unauthorized access. If you’re trying to decide whether your garage door is ready to be replaced or if a simple repair will fix the problem, ask yourself the following questions.

    How Much Damage Has It Incurred?

    If you see that your garage door has chipped paint, significant water stains, or signs of a pest infestation, it is time to replace it. In most cases, you can schedule a garage door replacement for a time that is most convenient for you. This means that you could schedule an appointment for your next day off or ask someone to repair your door as soon as possible.

    How Old Is the Door?

    Garage doors can generally last for about a decade depending on how well they are maintained. Some doors may wear out sooner if they are exposed to harsh weather or not taken care of properly. However, if your door was installed 10 or more years ago, it is often better to get a replacement. In the long run, a new door could cost less to maintain.

    Has Someone Tried to Break Into Your Home?

    A thief may attempt to get into your home by damaging your garage door. If the structure has sustained any significant dents or cracks as the result of a home invasion, you should schedule a garage door replacement from a company like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors immediately. Even if the thief doesn’t come back, a weakened door could make it easier for pests and water to get into your garage. Furthermore, a damaged door may not open or close properly.

    Is the Door Simply Not Working Like it Should?

    If you discover that your door is consistently not working like it was designed to, you should have it replaced in a timely manner. A new door will close properly each time you hit the button on your remote sensor. A new door may also do a better job of not closing when there is an object or person in its path.

    Getting a new garage door can make your home look nicer and feel more secure at the same time. Instead of having to worry about whether something or someone will get into the house while you’re sleeping or at work, you can have the peace of mind that comes with an upgraded product.

  • What to Consider Before Getting a New Custom Garage Door

    Whether you are looking to replace your old, outdated garage door with custom garage doors , or are building a new home, there are a few things you need to consider before you make the purchase. Factors including where you live and the resale value should factor into your decision. Keep reading to learn more factors you should consider before purchasing a new, custom garage door for your home.

    Location

    Garage doors are extremely heavy objects, therefore, they require necessary hardware and tracking that is dependent upon your location. Based on weather and climate safety measures your new garage door may require additional bracing or other installation specifications.

    Wind and water aren’t the only elements that can impact your garage door. The direction that your garage door faces can also affect your door. If your garage door faces the sun, your home and garage are more likely to heat up from air escaping from the garage. If this is the case for you, consider purchasing an insulated garage door to improve energy efficiency throughout your home.

    Energy Efficiency Requirements

    As with most custom items, a custom garage door will cost more than your typical garage door. But, a typical garage door won’t be able to save you nearly as much on your utilities as a custom, insulated door would. Choosing to purchase a door that has a higher energy efficiency rating will not only aid in keeping your home warmer or cooler around the garage, but it will also save you money on energy bills.

    Market Value

    Any investment you make in your home will increase your home’s resale value. Before you make a final decision on the garage door that you want to purchase for your home, you should first calculate the cost of your home. This will allow you to determine how much value will be added to your home when you purchase a new door.

    The price of garage doors vary, so knowing how much return you’d get on your investment can help to justify your decision to purchase a new door.

    Type of Door

    There are different types of doors to choose from. The ultimate deciding points for estimating how much your custom door will cost is the type, build, and design. Some of the most common types of doors include:

    • Aluminum: lightweight, yet comes with a higher price tag. This is a good option for wet climates, as aluminum doors hold up better to rust than steel doors.

    • Steel: If you are looking for variety, you’ll want to invest in a steel door. Available in different colors, insulation and flexible price options make steel an attractive choice. These doors are strong and light and can be equipped with foam insulation to protect against heat and cold.

    • Wood Composite: Wood doors have a classic look and feel to them, but they don’t tend to last as long as other materials. Although, wood composite doors are widely available and cost effective.

    • Fiberglass: Fiberglass is great due to its durability. Fiberglass is known to hold up well against insects and most elements. Fiberglass is not a good option for cold climates where temperatures are known to drop below freezing.

    • Vinyl: Vinyl doors are one of the more expensive options available. They are great for those who are looking for a particular look or a different visual appeal than they can get with other door types. An advantage of vinyl doors is that they require less maintenance than most other options and are rust resistant as well.

    • Carriage House Doors: Generally, carriage house doors are more affordable than you might initially think and add a lot of curb appeal to your home. These doors are the most aesthetically pleasing style of custom doors available.

    As you can see, there are many things to consider when choosing custom garage doors. If you are looking to have a custom door installed, contact the professionals at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today to learn more about your options and get the right door for your home!

  • How Well Do You Know Your Garage Door?

    There are many different components that make a garage door function properly. Each part is intended to help the door function with the assistance of the motor, so that it easily goes up and down without any hiccups every time you push your remote. Knowing what components are included on a garage door and what their functionality is can save you time and money when something goes wrong. Additionally, knowing the various components of a Pittsburgh garage can help to protect you and your family from any potential harm from a malfunctioning garage door.

    Here is a list of the components that make up a garage door:

    Sections : Steel panels that create the door part of your garage door. These panels are reinforced with stiles which are then interconnected with hinges and rollers. Sections can be replaced when damaged, without having to replace the entire door.

    Bottom Brackets: These devices are located at the bottom of a garage door and provide structural support and attachments for lifting cables.

    Cable Drums: Located on the torsion spring, these grooved drums provide a place for the lifting cables to wind up when the door is opened.

    Torsion Springs: The means to open and close the garage door through the use of cable winding on the drums.

    Extension Springs: These springs extend along both horizontal tracks and assist in the raising and lowering of the garage door.

    Operator Hanger: Used to attach the horizontal tracks to the ceiling of the garage, providing additional support.

    Track: Used as a guide for the garage door to run up and down on. Tracks are installed on both sides of the door and are often referred to as either horizontal or vertical tracks.

    Hinges: Attached to the sections of a garage door and provide support. It is the hinges that allow for a garage door to roll up and down.

    Emergency Pull Cord: This cord allows for the motor to be disengaged, allowing for the door to be opened or closed manually.

    Motor: This is what powers a garage door, mechanically opening and closing the door.

    Operator Rail: Most garage doors operate on either a chain, belt or screw drive.

    Rear Track Hanger: This is what attaches the horizontal track to the ceiling, therefore providing additional support.

    Bearing Plate: Attached to the header, the bearing plate is used to support the spring and shaft.

    Photo Eye: The part of the sensor’s safety measure that transmits an infrared light from one sensor to another. If the beam of light is interrupted, the garage door will not be able to close. These must be properly aligned in order for the garage door to operate properly.

    It is obvious that there are numerous components that are in place to not only assist a Pittsburgh garage to operate efficiently but to provide safety as well. When a garage door doesn’t open, the most common problem has to do with a damaged spring. As springs are the most dangerous component of a garage door, do not attempt to repair a spring yourself.

    Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors has trained garage door technicians who know how to work on garage doors and return them to working order. When you find that your garage door needs repair work done, call on the experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors!