Choosing the Right Garage Door Material for Your Climate

Are you considering a new garage door, but puzzled by the variety of materials available? Your garage door material isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about durability and function. Depending on your regional climate, the material you select can determine how well your garage door stands up to the elements.

Let’s break down the optimal garage door materials for different weather conditions to help you make an informed decision.

A Mild, Temperate Climate: Steel Garage Doors

In areas with a mild, temperate climate, you can choose from various garage door materials. Steel is a particularly attractive choice.

It’s durable, low maintenance, and offers excellent value for money. Steel doors come in various designs and finishes, allowing you to complement the architectural style of your home.

Harsh, Cold Winters: Insulated Garage Doors

If you live in a region where winters are harsh and unforgiving, consider an insulated garage door. Made from either steel or aluminum, these doors contain a layer of insulation to help keep the cold air out of your garage. This maintains a comfortable temperature inside your garage and can significantly reduce heating costs.

Hot, Dry Climate: Wood Garage Doors

For hot and dry climates, wood garage doors are an excellent choice. These doors do not absorb heat like metal doors, making them more energy-efficient during hot summers.

Since natural wood can resist temperature changes, your wooden garage door won’t expand under extreme heat. While requiring a bit more maintenance, their aesthetic appeal is unrivaled.

Humid, Salty Environment: Fiberglass Garage Doors

If you live near the ocean, where humidity and salty air are prevalent, consider fiberglass garage doors. The material is resistant to salt corrosion and humidity, making the door last longer in such environments. It also requires less maintenance compared to wood or steel doors.

Choose the Right Garage Door

Making a wise choice in garage door material can significantly enhance the longevity of your door while also adding to the aesthetic appeal of your home. With the right selection, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, durable garage door that stands up to your local climate.

To make your garage door decision even easier, consider choosing your next door from Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. With an extensive range of materials and designs, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect fit for your home and climate.

What to Expect During a Professional Residential Garage Door Installation

Are you tired of wrestling with that old, creaky garage door whenever you come home? It’s time to say goodbye to the hassle and invest in a brand-new garage door that will bring a renewed level of convenience and security to your home.

But before you can start enjoying your new door, you need to hire a professional garage door installation service. And while most people only think of the cost and the end result, there are some critical steps that go into a successful installation. Below are the five things to expect during a residential garage door installation.

1. Pre-Installation Inspection

Before the installation, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors will send out a technician to survey and inspect the work site. The main purpose of the inspection is to ensure that your home structure can support your preferred garage door.

The technician will measure the opening of the garage, inspect the structure of the walls, and check that the door jambs are in good condition. They will also check whether your power supply is adequate for the installation.

2. Preparation for the Installation

Before the technician starts working on the task, they will take time to prepare for the installation. This includes purchasing and assembling the necessary parts and tools, such as weatherstripping, hinges, and screws.

They will also review the door size, weight, and type to make sure that it’s compatible with your home’s structure. The technician will also request that you clear the workspace of any obstacles hindering their access. This way, they can quickly and easily complete the job without disruptions.

3. Door Removal and Disposal

Once the pre-installation inspection is complete, the technician will remove the existing garage door, if present. They will disconnect the springs and hardware before disposing of the old door components. If you have a roll-up or a sectional garage door, the technician will also remove the tracks and hardware and make sure that the walls are in sound condition.

4. Installation of the New Garage Door

To most homeowners, the installation process seems very simple and straightforward on paper. However, it’s a very complex process that requires absolute precision and accuracy. The technician will first attach the springs and cables to the appropriate places. 

They’ll install tracks, rollers, hinges, and other hardware components before inserting your door section. The technician will also make minor adjustments and calibrations so your garage door runs smoothly and without obstruction.

5. Final Tests and Cleanup

Finally, the technicians will test the door several times to ensure it’s safe and secure for use. If the door is installed incorrectly, it could lead to severe injuries, property damage, and even death.

The imminent risk to your family members, friends, and pets is the biggest reason why garage door installation and maintenance should be left to professionals.

The technicians will also clean up the area and leave it neat and tidy. They will get rid of all the debris, tools, and materials and make sure that you are satisfied with their work.

Hire Us Today for Garage Door Installation CTA

If you’re looking for a reliable and professional team to install your garage door, contact us today at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors. Our experienced technicians will ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely the first time.

Call us now to schedule an appointment or find out more about our services! We look forward to working with you.

The Pros and Cons of Windowed Garage Doors in the Summer

The scorching summer months can be a trying time for homeowners. One thing that complicates matters is deciding on the right type of garage door, especially when it comes to windows. Windowed garage doors offer a range of advantages, but there are also drawbacks to consider. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of windowed garage doors in the summer so you can make an informed decision.

Pros

The biggest advantage of windowed garage doors is that it adds extra light into your space, which may be helpful during the darker days of summer. Windowless doors can make any area look overly dark and uninviting. With windows, you can brighten up your space and make it look more inviting. Additionally, the added light can help reduce energy costs since you won’t have to turn on any lights during the day.

Another bonus of windowed garage doors is that they add extra style to your home. It’s easy to customize windowed doors to suit your personal taste, and you can find a wide variety of styles available. Windowless garage doors don’t have as much potential for customization and may not be able to match the overall aesthetic of your home.

Cons

One of the drawbacks of having windowed garage doors is that it can reduce privacy. Unless you have window treatments, it’s easy for anyone to look in and see what’s inside your garage. This can be an issue if you keep valuable items like tools or machines in the space. It’s also possible that the windows could let in too much sun during the summer months, making your garage overly hot and uncomfortable.

Windowless garage doors can also be a bit more secure than windowed ones. While it’s still possible for someone to break into your garage, it’s harder for them to do so without windows. So if security is a major concern, you may want to go with a door that doesn’t have any windows.

Choose the Right Garage Door for Your Business

With the right garage door decision, you can enjoy a comfortable and stylish garage all year round. Think about factors like security, style, and energy efficiency. Ultimately, you want to choose a garage door that both looks good and provides adequate protection from the summer heat.

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc., we offer a wide range of high-quality garage door options. Contact us today to find the perfect door for your home this summer.

The Impact of Summer Weather on Your Garage Door Springs

As summer approaches, many homeowners are preparing their homes for the season. However, garage doors often go overlooked during this preparation. This is unfortunate, given the impact that the summer weather can have on garage door parts, especially the door springs. Here are some of the ways that summer weather can affect your garage door springs and what you can do to prevent potential damage.

Hot Weather Can Cause Garage Door Springs to Expand

During the summer months, temperatures soar, causing your garage door springs to expand. This expansion can put additional strain on your springs, making them more likely to break. If you notice that your garage door is moving slower or making unusual noises, it could be a sign that your springs are under stress. If this is the case, replace your garage door springs as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

High Humidity Can Cause Rust on Garage Door Springs

Summer also brings high levels of humidity, which can cause rust to form on your garage door springs. Rust can weaken the springs, making them more vulnerable to breaking or snapping. If you notice rust on your garage door springs, replace them right away. Rust is a sign that your springs are no longer in good working condition and need to be replaced.

Summer Storms Can Cause Garage Door Springs to Weaken

If you live in an area that experiences frequent summer storms, check your garage door springs regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or dents, and replace your garage door springs if necessary.

Keep Your Garage in Good Shape at All Times

Summer weather can have a significant impact on your garage door springs, but by taking the proper steps, you can keep them in good condition. If you notice any signs of wear and tear on your garage door springs, be sure to replace them right away to prevent further damage. With a little bit of care and attention, you can ensure that your garage door will continue to work properly all summer long.

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc., we provide exceptional garage door parts and service to ensure that your garage door is always in top condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

The Role of Garage Door Monitors in Preventing Accidents

Garage door accidents are preventable, but they are still happening and often. Statistics show that between 20,000 and 30,000 adults and children sustain injuries every year due to garage door accidents. The accidents involve being hit by a falling garage door or having fingers caught or pinched.

These alarming statistics emphasize the importance of using the right garage door accessories to ensure garage door safety. This is where garage door monitors come into play. This article discusses what garage door monitors are and how they prevent accidents.

What Are Garage Door Monitors?

Garage door monitors are devices that allow you to monitor and control your garage door from anywhere. The devices provide real-time notifications on the state of your garage door and allow you to open or close it remotely. You can also receive alerts when your garage door opens unexpectedly.

Most garage door monitors have built-in Wi-Fi connections and alerts that make it easy to monitor your garage even when you’re not home. Some monitors also have additional features, such as motion sensors and alarms, for added security.

How Do Garage Door Monitors Prevent Accidents?

Accidents related to falling garage doors can occur when garage doors are left open, allowing people or animals to enter or exit the garage unexpectedly. Garage door monitors prevent such accidents by ensuring that the door is closed when it should be.

Garage door monitors prevent accidents by providing real-time updates on the door’s status, so you can ensure it is safely secured. The motion sensor can detect when someone is in the way of the door and stop it from closing to prevent injuries. With the garage door monitor, you can rest assured that the door will not accidentally close on someone underneath it.

Some garage door monitors also come with motion sensors and alarms, which can alert you if someone or something enters the garage unexpectedly. This added security feature can prevent accidents and ensure you are aware of potential threats to your home. The device can help deter burglars, as most burglars look for easy targets like a garage door left open.

Invest in a Garage Door Monitor Today

Garage door monitors are a valuable tool for preventing garage-related accidents. They provide real-time updates on the state of your garage door and allow you to control it remotely.

If you’re ready to revamp your garage’s functionality, invest in a garage monitor from Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Contact us today to learn more about our garage door accessories.

10 Reasons Why You Need a Storm Door for Your Home

Having a storm door installed on your home might be the best decision you make this season. Here are 10 reasons why you should get a storm door for your home.

1. Safety & Security – Storm doors add an extra layer of security to your home by stopping intruders in their tracks. 

2. Energy Efficiency – Storm doors act as an additional insulation barrier between your home and the outside elements, helping to reduce energy costs.

3. Noise Reduction – The thick glass used in storm doors helps to block out unwanted noise from outside sources such as traffic or construction sites near your home.

4. Increased Ventilation – Many storm doors come with adjustable vents that allow you to control how much air circulates through them during hot summer days without compromising security or energy efficiency levels in your house.

5. Curb Appeal – Installing a well-crafted storm door can instantly increase the curb appeal of any house, making it look more inviting and attractive to potential buyers or visitors alike.

6. Improved Air Quality – Storm doors help keep dirt and allergens out of your home while still allowing fresh air to enter, improving indoor air quality overall.

7. Easy Maintenance – Most modern storm doors require minimal maintenance; all you need is some soap and water. 

8. Reduced Wear & Tear on Main Door – By installing a storm door on your home’s main entrance, you can prolong the life of its primary entryway by protecting it from environmental damage over time.   

9. Variety of Styles & Options – Choose from dozens of different styles ranging from traditional full-view designs with decorative glass inserts all the way up to modern options featuring high-tech aluminum frames. 

10. Customization Available – The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing just how customized you want your new storm door system to look. 

It’s easy to see why having a storm door installed is so beneficial, maybe even essential for today’s homeowners. 

So, if you think that a storm door is right for your home but don’t know where to start, contact Thomas V Giel Garage Doors Inc. today. We offer a wide selection to choose from and can get you started on putting together the perfect storm door setup for your home. 

The Benefits of Automated Garage Doors

Are you considering getting an automated garage door? If you don’t have one yet, you don’t know what you’re missing out on. 

But we’re going to fill you in right here and explain 3 of the top benefits of having an automated garage door. 

Convenience

Does the convenience factor need much explanation? Nope!

After all, who really likes having to jump out of their car to open the garage door when they get home? When it’s cold and raining, the last thing you want to be doing is standing outside trying to find the right key for your garage door. 

The automatic door allows you to open it with a push of a button while nestled comfortably inside your car. 

Security

Aside from just being convenient, automatic garage doors help keep your home more secure as well. They can’t be opened from the outside without a remote and you don’t have to remember to make sure they are locked all the time. 

And if you’re worried about savvy thieves who use remote control scanners, you can put your garage door in vacation mode. This disables remote controls so you can go on vacation and know your home is protected as much as possible. 

Safety

Automatic garage doors are equipped with safety features that don’t allow the door to come down if there is someone or something in its path. Regular garage doors don’t have these features.

All it takes is for the door to come too far forward and gravity will ruthlessly bring it down — regardless of if there is someone standing there. Automated doors have sensors that make the likelihood of being crushed by your garage door almost zero.

The Best Automatic Garage Door

When an automatic garage door system is installed correctly, it’s a huge benefit to your daily life. Of course, proper installation is a must so you’ll want professional help like that of the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Reach out today to learn more!

Essential Safety Tips for Garage Doors

Can you imagine having your 150-pound garage door come down on top of you? You probably can’t and it’s better you don’t. Let’s just put it on the list of things you don’t need to try to know they are a bad idea. 

While the likelihood of your garage door falling on top of you is slim, here are a few safety tips you can follow to bring the risk down to virtually zero.

Check the Sensors

Automatic garage doors have little infrared sensors on either side of the door that send a beam of light across the bottom of the garage door. If anything is breaking this beam, the door won’t close. However, if the sensors get misaligned, this safety feature won’t work. Check them once a month or so to ensure they are working properly.

Test the Reversal System

The reversal system is a big safety feature that is mandatory on all garage door systems. Sensors are used to detect if the door touches something on its way down. If it does, the door is supposed to immediately reverse and go back up. 

Check the system by placing an object on the ground short enough that it won’t break the sensor beam so the door will close. A 2×4 piece of wood works well for this. When the door touches the object, it should reverse direction. 

Listen to Your Door

Garage doors will often complain about their problems, you just have to be paying attention. Listen for unusual screeching, knocking, rattling, or squeaking sounds while your garage door is in operation.

Concerned About Your Garage Door?

If you have any reason to be concerned about your garage door, it doesn’t hurt to call the experts. The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. can help you make sure that your system is running properly and safely. 

After all, garage doors can be dangerous, but keeping them safe is a piece of cake. So why not prevent problems before they start?

Factors to Consider When Buying a Garage Door

It’s time for a new garage door. There are lots of options available, but which one is right for you? It can be helpful to narrow your search by determining what factors are most important to you when choosing a garage door.

Let’s look at the top factors to consider here.

Material

The material affects everything about your garage door including its function, how it looks, and even the price tag. Choose from relatively inexpensive steel, corrosion-resistant aluminum, or the classic look of wooden doors. 

Aesthetics

No matter how you look at it, your garage door takes up a lot of space on your home’s facade. Thus, it has a huge impact on the overall look of your home. But thankfully, you can choose from hundreds of colors, styles, and glass designs to get a door that not only complements but augments the look of your home. 

Door Noise

Garage doors can be quite noisy as they roll up and down. If you have an attached garage, this racket can be a bit of a pain. Imagine having just got the baby down for a nap, only to have your spouse come home and wake them with the garage door opener!

A door with polyurethane insulation and nylon rollers can help cut down on the noise. 

Price

While the price of your new garage door shouldn’t be the principal concern, it always is a major factor. 

Decide on what type of door will best fit your needs and then try to find something in your price range. If you have to compromise on one of your factors, choose carefully. Not getting the garage door you need because of the price can end up being more expensive in the long run.

Ready to Buy a New Garage Door?

Of course, a great way to make sure you get the best door for your needs is to chat with the experts. Our team here at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. is ready to help you choose the perfect garage door for your home!

The Benefits of Installing an Insulated Garage Door

Your garage door doesn’t just keep your home secure. As part of your building’s exterior envelope, it’s the front line in your fight against the weather. Here’s why it might make sense to fortify your defenses by upgrading to an insulated garage door. 

You Can Capitalize on Energy Savings

Installing an insulated garage door has an obvious benefit: The more insulation your door has, the better it stops heat transfer. In other words, you’ll lose less warmth to the exterior in winter and absorb less heat from outside when you’re trying to stay cool in summer.

These benefits don’t just impact your garage itself. Remember: Garages may seem like independent spaces, but they still connect to the rest of a building’s interior. Keeping your space temperate lets you spend less on climate control throughout your entire home or business. Upgrading can also boost your property’s value ahead of a future sale.

You Might Spend Less on Maintenance

Insulated doors tend to absorb far less heat. After your installation, your door will stop feeling like a frying pan every time you get near it on a sunny day. Nearby components, such as the springs, cables, tracks, and motors that let your garage door function properly, will also absorb less heat.

Over time, this can result in less temperature-induced expansion and contraction. In other words, it helps you minimize wear and tear. Although you’ll still need regular maintenance from a reputable provider, you may reduce your upkeep bills in the long run.

You’ll Protect Your Possessions

One of the coolest unanticipated benefits of insulated doors is that they make it easier to keep your possessions safe. Many property owners use their garages as catch-all storage spaces. Whether you’re keeping tools, summer vacation gear, memorabilia, or your favorite snacks in your garage, an insulated door is the best choice. 

Ready to change how you think about property ownership with an insulated garage door? Chat with an expert at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. to get started.