Frosty Nights and Garage Door Lubrication: What You Need to Know

As winter approaches and temperatures drop, you’re likely to face a number of concerns as a homeowner, including icy driveways and frozen pipes. The garage door, however, is an often overlooked aspect of winter home maintenance. Frigid temperatures can make your garage door sluggish, noisy, or even completely unresponsive.

That’s why you should winterize your garage door. Lubricating is one of the best garage door maintenance tips to ensure optimal functionality. Discover the importance of garage door lubrication during the colder months and how it can help keep your door running smoothly.

The Effects of Cold on Garage Door Mechanics

As temperatures drop, the metals and lubricants used in your garage door system contract. This contraction can lead to stiffened components and reduced efficiency in operation.

The garage door lubrication becomes more viscous, making it less effective in ensuring smooth motion. The result? A garage door that struggles to open or close, making unsettling noises in the process.

Why Lubrication is Essential

Regular garage door lubrication reduces friction between the various moving parts, allowing the door to operate smoothly and quietly. Lubrication prevents parts from sticking and grinding against each other, minimizing the risk of unexpected breakages and damages during the frigid winter.

Choosing the Right Lubricant

When it comes to garage door lubrication, it’s vital to choose an all-weather lubricant that won’t gum up or freeze in low temperatures. Silicone-based lubricants are recommended for their durability and resistance to cold temperatures.

Tips for Effective Lubrication

Follow these garage door lubrication tips for the best results:

• Clean first: Before you apply any lubricant, ensure that the tracks, rollers, and other moving parts of your garage door are clean. Dirt and debris can interfere with the lubrication process.
• Apply sparingly: A little goes a long way. Apply the lubricant lightly, ensuring it coats all moving parts without dripping excessively.
• Focus on key areas: Pay extra attention to the springs, tracks, rollers, and hinges. These areas are most susceptible to wear and tear and benefit greatly from regular garage door lubrication.

How Often Should You Lubricate?

At a minimum, lubricating your garage door twice a year is recommended. However, if you live in an area with extreme cold or if your garage door sees heavy usage, consider lubricating it more frequently. Garage door experts like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. can provide insights tailored to your specific situation.

Keep Your Garage Door Lubricated This Winter

As the cold season approaches, give your garage door the care it deserves with proper lubrication. And if you’re considering a new garage door or an upgrade, remember to choose a trusted name like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Reach out to us and keep your garage door moving smoothly, no matter the season or frequency of use.

Winter Garage Door Safety: Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Garage doors provide a number of benefits, from securing your storage space to an increased home value. But as temperatures drop and winter sets in, we also need to be aware of the potential hazards of the cold weather.

From accidents and injuries caused by malfunctioning garage doors to keeping your car safe in the snow – here are some garage door maintenance tips for preventing common cold-weather dangers associated with your garage door.

1. A Frozen Garage Door

One of the most common winter hazards for garage doors is ice and snow buildup, which can cause your door to freeze shut. Ice and snow paired with frigid temperatures make it difficult to open and put strain on your opener and motor, potentially leading to costly repairs.

To prevent this from happening, make sure to clear any snow or ice from your garage door before trying to open it. You can also use a de-icing product or a hairdryer to melt any ice buildup around the edges of the door.

2. Malfunctioning Sensors

Garage door sensors are essential for preventing accidents and injuries by detecting obstacles in the door’s path and stopping it from closing. However, these sensors can malfunction during winter due to extreme temperatures or snow drifts, leading to a potentially dangerous situation.

To prevent sensor malfunction, regularly check and clean your sensors and ensure they are correctly aligned. You can also add a protective cover or shield around the sensors to protect them from snow and ice. Giel Garage Doors can provide you with a number of options for sensor maintenance.

3. Power Outages

Winter storms can often lead to power outages, which can prevent you from opening or closing your garage door. This can be inconvenient and pose a safety risk if you need to get in or out of your garage quickly.

To prevent being stuck with a malfunctioning garage door during a power outage, make sure to invest in a secondary power source for your opener, such as a battery backup or generator.

4. Broken Springs

Cold weather can cause the metal to become brittle and more prone to breaking, including the springs on your garage door. Broken springs can cause the door to slam shut suddenly, potentially causing injuries or damage.

To prevent bodily harm or property damage, regularly inspect and maintain your garage door springs, and consider replacing them with high-quality, weather-resistant springs designed for cold climates.

Choose Giel Garage Doors for Safe and Reliable Garage Door Services

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we understand the importance of personal safety and garage door maintenance, especially during winter.

That’s why we offer a range of services, including tune-ups and weather seal replacements, to ensure your garage door is functioning correctly and safely.

Don’t let the cold weather bring potential hazards to your home. Contact us today for all your garage door needs.

Why Insulated Garage Doors Are a Must-Have for Winter

Winter brings about a range of challenges for homeowners. The dropping temperatures and the increase in precipitation can negatively affect various aspects of your home, including your garage. Installing an insulated garage door can be a proactive approach to not only protect your vehicle but also enhance your home’s living experience during the cold months. Let’s delve into the reasons why an insulated garage door is indispensable during winter.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

The first and foremost benefit of an insulated garage door is improved energy efficiency. Traditional garage doors often have gaps that allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape, leading to higher heating costs. An insulated door, however, keeps the garage warmer by preventing heat loss, helping you save on energy bills. Additionally, a warmer garage reduces the burden on your heating system, prolonging its lifespan.

Improved Durability

Insulated garage doors offer a more robust and durable solution compared to their non-insulated counterparts. They are constructed with a dual layer of steel and insulation, providing extra strength and resistance against dents and damages. This ensures a long-lasting door that can withstand harsh winter conditions, giving you peace of mind.

Quieter Operation

An added advantage of insulated garage doors is the quieter operation they offer. The insulation dampens the noise produced during the opening and closing of the door, resulting in a smoother and quieter function. This means no more disturbing sounds interrupting your peaceful home environment.

Better Protection for Your Vehicles

A garage shields your vehicle from adverse weather conditions. However, a garage with a regular door doesn’t offer optimum protection during the cold winter months. Installing an insulated garage door safeguards your car from freezing temperatures, helping maintain its battery life and fluid levels, which can significantly be affected in cold environments.

Increase in the Value of Your Home

Investing in an insulated garage door not only provides immediate benefits but also increases the value of your home. Prospective buyers often appreciate homes with upgraded features, and an insulated garage door stands as a testament to quality and modernity, potentially raising your home’s market value.

Conclusion

Winter calls for a home that embraces both functionality and efficiency. An insulated garage door encapsulates these attributes, promising a warmer, quieter, and more secure garage space. It’s more than a door; it’s a shield against the harsh winter, a guardian for your vehicle, and a wise choice for energy-conscious homeowners.

Get ready to step up your home’s functionality this winter. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today and invest in a garage solution that protects and serves you in the best way possible.

Winterizing Your Garage Door: Essential Maintenance Tips

Winter can be hard on your garage door. Ice, snow, and cold air can do a lot of damage if your garage is not properly sealed and insulated. Taking the proper steps to winterize your garage door can help protect it from the cold weather and keep it functioning correctly. Here are some essential tips for winterizing your garage door.

1. Inspect Your Garage Door

The first step to winterizing your garage is to inspect it thoroughly for any wear and tear or damage that may have occurred over the summer months. Check for cracks, dents, rust spots, and other forms of damage. If you notice any issues that need to be addressed, it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

2. Clean Your Garage Door

Cleaning your garage door is essential for keeping it in good condition throughout the winter months. Start by using a damp cloth to wipe down the door and remove any dirt or debris that has settled on it. You can also use a mild detergent to clean tougher areas.

3. Lubricate Your Garage Door

To ensure your garage door is functioning properly, remember to lubricate all of its moving parts. This includes the hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks. We recommend using either white lithium grease or silicone spray.

4. Check the Weather Stripping

Check that your weather stripping is in good condition and that there are no gaps where cold air could get in. Additional weather stripping can be added between panels for an air-tight seal. If the weather stripping is cracked or detached, now is the time to replace it. You can purchase weatherstripping specifically designed for garage doors at most hardware stores.

5. Call in the experts

If you’re not confident in your ability to winterize your garage door yourself, it’s best to call in a professional. They can inspect the door for any potential issues and make sure that it is properly insulated and sealed against the cold weather. This will save you money in the long run by preventing weather damage and extending the life of your garage door.

Choose Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for your Pennsylvania Garage Doors

With 73 years of experience in the industry, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is your go-to source for quality garage door products and services in Pennsylvania.

We specialize in residential and commercial garage doors, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and customization. Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to providing personalized service to meet all of your individual needs.

Contact us today for more information about our available products and services!

Garage Door Replacement vs. Repair: Making the Right Decision for Winter in Pennsylvania

Bracing for Pennsylvania’s harsh winter? Your garage door becomes more than an entry point; it’s a crucial barrier against the cold. Here, we dissect garage door repair and garage door replacement on five important metrics to guide you in winterizing your home.

Cost

A Garage Door Repair generally demands less money upfront. Think of it as a patch-up job for isolated issues like broken springs or faulty sensors. But beware: frequent repairs add up, making this option less economical over time.

Conversely, a garage door replacement comes with a higher initial price tag. Yet the long-term benefits can outweigh the upfront cost. Energy-efficient designs contribute to lower heating bills, an important consideration during Pennsylvania’s intense winters.

Time Investment

If you’re short on time, garage door repair can often be done within a day. Repair is your quickest route to sealing off the cold. A garage door replacement, though, needs a longer time commitment. Between selecting a new door, installation, and potentially removing the old one, you’ll need to plan ahead.

Energy Efficiency

In terms of winterizing your home, a new garage door has the upper hand. Engineered with superior insulation and sealing features, a new door keeps your garage and home warmer. An older, repaired door may lack these advanced features, which may leave you with higher heating bills.

Longevity

Repairing an existing door extends its life, but often only for a short period. These quick fixes don’t prevent future issues, particularly if your door has significant wear. A garage door replacement offers a fresh start with a lifespan of up to 15-20 years when well-maintained. The upfront investment translates into years of reliable operation and fewer repair concerns down the line.

Aesthetics and Home Value

When it comes to elevating the look and resale value of your home, a garage door replacement is the clear winner. A new, modern design refreshes your home’s exterior. Repairs, while functional, don’t contribute to visual appeal or add value to your property.

Conclusion

Winterizing your home is non-negotiable. If a quick, affordable fix is what you need, opt for a garage door repair. but for long-term reliability, energy savings, and a bump in home value, a garage door replacement is worth considering. Act quickly, as Pennsylvania’s unforgiving winter waits for no one. Secure your home — and peace of mind — by making the right garage door decision before the snow starts falling.

The Role of Weather Stripping in Winter Garage Door Care

As winter arrives, icy winds and frigid temperatures can turn your garage into a less-than-inviting space. But with a small investment in weather stripping, you can transform your garage into a warm, insulated place. In this guide, we’ll explore the three critical roles that weather stripping performs during winter.

Preserves Indoor Temperature

Imagine running your heating system day and night, only to find that your garage still feels like a freezer. That’s a scenario you could face without adequate weather stripping. By forming an airtight seal around your garage door, weather stripping keeps the warm air inside and the cold air outside. The result? Your heating system works more efficiently, conserving energy and lowering your utility bills. In the long run, this can add up to significant savings.

Keeps Out Moisture and Snow

Winter isn’t just about cold air; it’s also about moisture in the form of rain, sleet, and snow. Any of these can slip through the cracks in your garage door and wreak havoc. Excess moisture can damage stored belongings and even contribute to mold growth. Weather stripping serves as a frontline defense, blocking moisture and keeping your garage dry. This is an essential step in ensuring that your valuable items — like seasonal decorations, gardening tools, and sporting equipment — stay safe and dry all winter long.

Enhances Door Longevity

Your garage door takes a beating from fluctuating winter temperatures, which can cause materials to contract and expand. This back-and-forth can lead to cracks, warping, and a decreased lifespan for your door. Weather stripping minimizes these temperature swings by maintaining a more consistent indoor climate. In doing so, it can significantly extend the lifespan of your garage door, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to get the most out of their door.

Conclusion

Weather stripping is not just an accessory; it’s a necessity for keeping your garage comfortable, dry, and functional throughout the winter months. If you haven’t yet installed weather stripping on your garage door, don’t wait any longer. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for superb installation services and make this winter your most comfortable yet.

Fall Garage Organization: Making the Most of Your Space

Fall is the season of transformation. Leaves change color, the air turns crisp, and it’s the perfect time for a fall cleaning — specifically, garage organization. A well-organized garage offers more than just a tidy space; it enhances your lifestyle and adds value to your home. Let’s dive into why you should take time this autumn to get your garage in shape and strategies to achieve it.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time for Garage Organization

The moderate weather of fall creates an ideal environment for this project. You’re not sweating in the summer heat or freezing in the winter cold. Moreover, as fall precedes the holiday season, organizing your garage now ensures you can easily access decorations and create additional space for potential holiday gifts.

Benefits of Garage Organization

So why bother with cleaning up the garage? It’s not just about aesthetics. Let’s delve into some compelling benefits you’ll experience.

• Unlock More Space: A clutter-free garage makes room for what truly matters, whether it’s your car, a home gym, or even a small workshop.
• Boost Home Value: A neat, functional garage can actually boost your property value. Potential buyers will appreciate the well-maintained extra space.
• Improve Safety: Loose tools and equipment can be hazardous. Organizing eliminates these risks, keeping you and your family safe.

Strategies for a Well-Organized Garage

Having a game plan makes any task more manageable. Here are some proven strategies to help you tackle your garage organization.

• Start with a Clean Slate: Empty out your garage to assess the space you have. This gives you a clear vision of how to allocate areas for different functions or items.
• Categorize Your Items: Separate your belongings into categories. Tools, sporting equipment, and seasonal items should each have their own designated areas.
• Invest in Quality Storage Solutions: Opt for durable shelving units, heavy-duty storage bins, or even a pegboard to hang tools. This investment pays off in the long run.
• Label Everything: Clearly written labels save you time when you’re searching for items. A simple label maker can make a big difference.

Take Action Today!

Don’t let the season pass you by; capitalize on this perfect time for garage organization. Need professional assistance? Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today. We’ll assess your garage door and provide the necessary maintenance so you can have the functional, organized space you’ve always desired. Let this fall be the season of change for your garage, elevating your lifestyle in the process.

Garage Door Security: How to Keep Your Home and Family Safe

Imagine this: You’ve worked hard to ensure every window and door in your home is secure, yet you’ve overlooked one entrance that can be a potential point of vulnerability—the garage door.

With burglars becoming more innovative, it’s essential that your garage door security is top-notch. After all, ensuring your family’s safety starts by fortifying the largest entry point to your home: the garage. Here are some tips you should consider to enhance your garage door security:

Invest in a High-Quality Garage Door

Not all garage doors are created equal. A flimsy door can be an open invitation for unwanted guests. Investing in a robust, durable garage door can deter potential burglars and withstand adverse weather conditions.

Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener

Modern technology has brought about smart garage door openers that offer more than just convenience. These openers come with security features like real-time alerts, remote access, and integration with your home security system. With a smart garage door opener, you can always know the status of your garage door.

Install Motion Detector Lights

Burglars thrive in the dark. Installing motion detector lights around your garage door area can startle potential intruders and draw attention. When the lights suddenly flash on, it’s a clear indication to the burglar that they’ve been detected.

Regular Maintenance is a Must

A garage door’s security features can only be effective if the door is in good working condition. Regular maintenance checks will ensure that no parts are rusty or broken and that your door’s security features are functional.

Never Leave the Garage Door Remote in Your Car

An often-overlooked tip! If thieves break into your car and get the remote, they have an easy pass into your home. Always carry the remote with you or invest in a keychain remote.

Always Keep It Locked

This may sound like a no-brainer, but many homeowners overlook this security measure. Even if you’re home, always ensure your garage door is locked. It’s a habit that can make a huge difference.

Enhance Your Home Security With the Right Garage Door

Garage door security is integral to overall home security because the safety of your family and valuables starts with a secure entrance. If you’re looking to enhance your home’s safety with a quality garage door, reach out to Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

We will work with you to determine the best door for your home’s security needs and ensure we install it with the utmost attention to detail. Contact us today to get started on designing your preferred garage door.

The Impact of a New Garage Door on Your Home’s Curb Appeal

The first impression is a lasting one. When it comes to your home, its exterior offers that coveted first impression to passersby and potential buyers.

While manicured lawns, freshly-painted walls, and decorative landscaping often take the spotlight in enhancing curb appeal, there’s another element that holds transformative power—the garage door. This article focuses on the power of curb appeal and the surprising role the garage door plays in elevating your home’s façade.

Why is Curb Appeal Important?

Curb appeal is vital because it creates the first impression for potential buyers or visitors, setting the tone for their entire experience with the property. Research indicates homes with high curb appeal sell for 7% more than comparable houses with a lackluster exterior.

This is why 92% of real estate professionals recommend that sellers enhance their property’s curb appeal before listing. But besides increasing the property value and appealing to potential buyers, great curb appeal fosters a sense of pride and positivity among the home’s occupants.

Factors to Enhance Curb Appeal

When elevating curb appeal, most homeowners tend to focus on the following:

• Landscaping
• Exterior paint
• Outdoor lighting
• Roofing
• Exterior design features like an updated mailbox, patio, and deck

Garage Doors: The Unsung Hero of Curb Appeal

Considering their size and prominence on a property, it’s surprising how people have traditionally overlooked garage doors. Here are several reasons why a new garage door is also crucial to boosting your home’s curb appeal:

• Size matters: For many homes, the garage door covers up to 40% of the front facade. It’s a sizeable chunk of visible space that greatly influences the overall appearance.
• Modernization and style: Today’s garage doors come in various styles, materials, and colors. A contemporary door can instantly modernize an older home, while a rustic wooden door can infuse character into a plain facade.
• Function and efficiency: Beyond aesthetics, newer garage doors often provide better insulation and security, adding to the home’s energy efficiency and safety, which can be a significant selling point.
• Data speaks volumes: According to the recent Cost Versus Value Study, spearheaded by Remodeling magazine, a garage door replacement ranks second among projects with the highest return on investment. Astonishingly, you can recoup an average of 102.7% of your expenditure on a new garage door when selling your home.

Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal With the Perfect Garage Door

While the path to perfect curb appeal involves various factors, it’s clear that the garage door is crucial in this journey. If you’re ready to take that transformative step, consider working with Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Our experts will collaborate with you, ensuring the door style, construction, and size resonate with your home’s aesthetic and budget.

Sectional Commercial Garage Doors: Types and When to Use Them

Selecting the right garage door for your business is a crucial decision. The correct choice ensures enhanced security, better energy efficiency, and overall improved business operations. The appropriate garage door also contributes to a professional appearance and supports the smooth workflow of daily operations.

Steel Sectional Doors

Steel sectional doors are a solid choice for their durability and strength. These doors are designed to withstand rigorous industrial use, making them ideal for warehouses, factories, and high-traffic loading areas. A high-grade steel door can offer years of worry-free operation.

Insulated Sectional Doors

Insulated sectional doors offer the benefit of energy efficiency, temperature control, and noise reduction. Ideal for businesses operating in areas with extreme weather conditions, these doors maintain indoor temperature, resulting in cost savings from reduced energy consumption.

Aluminum Full View Doors

Aluminum full-view doors provide a modern, sleek look with maximum visibility and light infiltration. These doors are best for businesses wanting to showcase their interior, such as showrooms and service stations. The rust-proof feature of aluminum adds to its longevity.

Sectional Glass Doors

Glass sectional doors offer the same benefits as aluminum full-view doors but with a touch of elegance. These are ideal for businesses that value aesthetics along with functionality, like boutique shops and upscale restaurants. They provide natural light and can create a welcoming entrance.

Roll-Up Service Doors

Roll-up service doors save on space while offering robust protection. Their compact design is perfect for businesses with space constraints. These doors provide easy accessibility and high security, making them suitable for retail stores and commercial parking lots.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sectional Commercial Garage Door

• Your business type and its unique needs
• The local climate and weather conditions
• Energy efficiency requirements
• Space constraints
• Desired aesthetic appeal
• Budget considerations
• The level of maintenance required

Conclusion

Choosing the right garage door for your business can significantly impact your operations. It’s more than just a purchase. It’s an investment in your business’s functionality and appeal. For quality and professional service, consider Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Our team can help you navigate these choices, ensuring you select the perfect door that suits your business’s needs and enhances its value. Don’t compromise on your business’s security and operation; let us guide you through the selection process.