Cold Weather and Garage Doors: Common Problems and Solutions

Winter in Pennsylvania can be a beautiful, snowy spectacle, but it’s not always a friend to your home’s mechanisms, especially the garage doors. As temperatures drop, several common problems can arise with garage doors, leading to frustration and inconvenience. However, with the right knowledge and maintenance tips, you can keep your garage door functioning smoothly all winter long.

1. Contracting Metal

If you notice your garage door sticking or becoming misaligned, the culprit could be the contracting metal due to the cold. This common issue happens because low temperatures cause metal components to contract. Regularly lubricate the tracks, hinges, rollers, and pulley system with a silicone-based lubricant. This maintenance step can keep your garage door moving smoothly, regardless of the temperature outside.

2. Worn or Broken Springs

Your garage door may be difficult to open or close during colder months. Often, this is due to garage door springs becoming brittle and breaking in cold weather. Dealing with broken springs is a task for professionals. It’s essential to call a trained expert, like those at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, to repair or replace the affected springs, ensuring your door operates safely and efficiently.

3. Motor Malfunctions

Cold weather can also take a toll on your garage door’s motor. If you’re experiencing a malfunctioning or completely non-working garage door motor, it’s important to have a professional check the motor and wiring for any damage. In such situations, professional repair or replacement of faulty components is crucial to restoring functionality.

4. Ice Formation 

Garage doors with multiple panels are more susceptible to moisture, which can freeze in winter, causing the door to lock up. A quick visual inspection can reveal this issue. If you spot ice in the panels, a simple solution is to use a hairdryer on a moderate setting to melt the ice. Remember to clean up any resulting moisture to prevent refreezing.

5. Brittle Weather Stripping

Another winter challenge is the weather stripping around your garage door becoming brittle and cracking. This can let cold air into your garage. The best approach is to clear away snow and puddles regularly to prevent the weather stripping from freezing to the ground and replace it if it’s damaged.

Get Professional Help Today!

Winter in Pennsylvania doesn’t have to mean trouble for your garage door. With the right care and professional support, you can ensure your garage door remains a reliable and functional part of your home all season long. For expert garage door maintenance and repair, don’t hesitate to contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors. We’re here to help you weather the winter without garage door woes.

Deterring Burglars: 10 Tips for Improved Garage Door Security

Did you know that nearly 9% of burglars gain entry into homes through the garage door? This startling statistic highlights that the garage door is a frequently overlooked aspect of home security. Often considered just a secondary entrance, it can, unfortunately, become a primary target for those with ill intentions.

Ensuring your garage door is fortified against such threats not only protects your belongings but also fortifies your home against unwelcome intruders. Keep reading as we explore ten tips to elevate your garage door security, transforming it from a potential weak spot into a stronghold of safety.

1. Upgrade to a Modern Garage Door

Modern garage doors come equipped with advanced security features like reinforced materials and sophisticated locking and opening mechanisms, making them a formidable barrier against intruders. For a quality upgrade that ensures both safety and aesthetic appeal, consider partnering with reputable companies like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors.

2. Install Motion-Detecting Lights

Illuminating the area around your garage door can deter potential intruders. Motion-detecting lights are energy-efficient and only activate when they detect movement, startling would-be burglars and alerting you to their presence.

3. Reinforce Door Locks

Enhance your garage door security by installing heavy-duty locks. A sturdy deadbolt or a slide lock can act as an extra layer of defense, especially when you’re away for an extended period.

4. Use a Door Sensor

Door sensors alert you when your garage door is opened unexpectedly. Integrating them into your home security system keeps you informed and ready to act in case of any security breach.

5. Cover Windows to Conceal Contents

If your garage door model has windows, you can prevent burglars from peering inside by covering your garage windows. Use blinds or frost the windows to maintain privacy and reduce the temptation for potential intruders.

6. Regular Maintenance Checks

A broken garage door is a blaring security weakness. Regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all parts are in good working condition to avoid any security vulnerabilities.

7. Secure the Emergency Release

Secure your garage door’s emergency release to prevent burglars from exploiting it. You can use a zip tie or a specialized lock for this purpose without compromising the emergency release functionality.

8. Install a Timer

A garage door timer can automatically close your door after a set period if left open accidentally. This feature ensures your garage remains secure even when you forget to close it.

9. Reinforce the Door Itself

If your garage door is older or made of lightweight material, consider reinforcing it. A sturdy, well-built door is less likely to be breached by force. The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. will work with you to determine the best reinforcement options for your existing door, including the door materials.

10. Keep Your Garage Door Opener Remote Secure

Never leave your garage door opener remote in your car, especially if parked outside. Treat it like a house key and keep it secure.

Work With Professionals to Boost Your Garage Door Security

Implementing these tips can significantly enhance your garage door’s resilience against potential intrusions. If you’re considering upgrading your garage door or need expert advice on garage door security, look no further than Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

Our team is dedicated to ensuring beauty, durability, and safety in every garage door we install. We can help you find the perfect garage door that meets your security needs, complements your home, and fits your budget. Contact us today to secure your home with a garage door that blends seamlessly with your style and security needs.

Snow and Ice: Preventing Garage Door Freezing and Sticking

When winter’s frosty grip takes hold, every corner of our homes feels the chill, from frosted windows to snow-capped roofs. But of all these cold-induced inconveniences, one of the most frustrating is the stubborn refusal of a frozen garage door to budge.

Whether you’re hurrying to get your vehicle out on a chilly morning or striving to secure it safely inside during a snowstorm, a frozen garage door can throw a wrench in your plans. This article will tell you how to prevent a frozen garage door.

Apply a Silicone-Based Lubricant

Using a silicone lubricant on the bottom rubber seal of your garage door can deter it from adhering to icy surfaces. These lubricants have a low freezing point, ensuring that your garage door doesn’t stick to the ground even in extreme cold.

Sprinkle Salt Beneath the Garage Door

Rock salt acts as an inhibitor to water’s freezing process. By sprinkling it on the ground both inside and outside of the garage door, you expedite the snow’s melting process. This action ensures the melted snow doesn’t solidify again, preventing the garage door from sticking to the ground.

Add an Electric Heater in Your Garage

If you anticipate snow or frost overnight, activate the heater upon waking for a faster melting process on the door. However, it’s essential to exercise caution. Only use the heater while you’re present and vigilant, and position the heater away from combustible items to minimize the risk of fire.

Install an Insulated Garage Door

An insulated garage door enhances thermal efficiency, keeping cold air out and warmth in. This conserves energy and minimizes the likelihood of your door freezing shut in colder months.

Weatherstripping

Ensuring a tight seal between the door and the floor prevents cold air and moisture from seeping in, reducing the chances of the door freezing. Regularly checking and replacing worn-out weatherstripping can be crucial to maintaining a frost-free garage door in the winter.

What If Your Garage Door Still Freezes?

If your garage door still freezes despite your best efforts, don’t force it. Instead, you can use a hairdryer or a heat gun to melt the ice. If you’re unsure how to handle a stuck door, it’s always best to call professionals like the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors. They possess the knowledge and tools to safely and efficiently handle the situation.

Embrace Winter Without Garage Door Woes

While winter has its challenges, a frozen garage door doesn’t have to be one of them. With the right preventative measures, you can ensure your garage door operates smoothly all winter. If you’re looking to upgrade or need a reliable garage door solution, turn to Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

Holiday Decorating: Creative Ways to Spruce Up Your Garage Door

As the festive season approaches, every corner of your home will most likely get a touch of holiday magic. But there’s one often-overlooked canvas ready for your creative flair: your garage door! Instead of leaving it plain and unnoticed, why not turn it into an awe-inspiring holiday masterpiece?

A well-decorated garage door not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also sends out a cheery holiday greeting to everyone who passes by. Below, we share some imaginative ways to transform your garage door into a standout piece this holiday season.

Festive Decals and Magnets

Given their size and visibility, garage doors make perfect backdrops for holiday decals and magnets. Select a theme that suits your festive spirit—snowmen, reindeer, or Santa Claus—and let your garage door proudly showcase it. With the convenience of easy application and removal, you can change your garage decor every season.

Garland Frames

Outline your garage door with lush garlands. Choose from evergreen, tinsel, or even LED-lit garlands. This method accentuates the door and gives a cozy, welcoming touch to your driveway. Remember to secure the garlands properly so they stay in place even on windy days.

Projected Holiday Scenes

With technological advancements, you can now project holiday scenes onto your garage door. You can display moving snowflakes, dancing elves, or a tranquil winter scene, making your garage the focal point of your home’s exterior decorations. Garage door dealers like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. often have garage doors with suitable finishes that make projections stand out even more.

Light It Up

Design a pattern or shape with string lights on your garage door. Whether you opt for classic white lights or a colorful variety, the soft glow will add a magical ambiance to your holiday setup, especially during those chilly winter nights.

3D Elements and Wreaths

Instead of just sticking to flat decorations, why not add a bit of depth? Attach 3D elements like gift boxes, baubles, or even small sleighs. Complement this with a large wreath in the center of the garage door, bringing a touch of tradition to your innovative decor.

Get Creative With Your Garage Décor This Festive Season

Your garage door doesn’t have to be just a functional aspect of your home. This holiday season, let it reflect your creativity and festive spirit. And remember, a beautifully decorated garage door deserves a quality foundation.

If you find your garage door needs an upgrade or a festive touch, reach out to Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors. We offer an impressive selection of garage doors from trusted manufacturers, ensuring that your holiday masterpieces have the perfect canvas. If you’re ready to make your garage the star this holiday season, start with a door from Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

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.