Why Garage Door Repairs and Installation Should Be Left to the Professionals

Reasons to Leave Garage Door Repairs to the Professionals

Chances are you’ve tried your hand at a number of DIY home projects and consider yourself proficient with the tools you have. This gives you the confidence to tackle bigger and more complex tasks. However, you may not have the experience to accomplish garage door repairs, and below are a few reasons why these repairs should be left to professionals.

DIY Garage Door Installation Is Time-Consuming

If you’re the average DIYer, you know how time-consuming some projects are. Even if you can set aside time for installing your own garage door, you may find that it’s far more time-consuming than you realized. Having a professional install your garage door frees your time and allows you to focus on other things.

Saves You Money

Having a professional install your garage door or perform repairs saves you money. You may find that a component you need is far more expensive than your bank account can handle. Let the professionals take care of finding the correct parts for a good price. They probably know more about the industry than you do.

Professionals See the Details

While you might have an eye for details in other areas of your life, you might miss details that can ruin your garage door project. An experienced professional knows when your garage door needs extra weatherstripping, as well as other issues you may have with your garage door.

Professionals Preserve Your Warranty

As with your car or HVAC system, most garage doors come with a manufacturer warranty in the event of something going wrong with your garage door. As with your HVAC system, the warranty only stays valid if a qualified professional performs the repairs and installation. When you perform DIY repairs and installations, you risk voiding your warranty.

Professional Repairs Are Safer

One of the disadvantages of doing your own garage door repair or installation is that you have a higher chance of getting injured in the process. These injuries range from puncture wounds, falling off ladders, and injuries from torsion springs. A professional knows how to work safely and has the proper safety equipment for the job.

When you decide to fix your garage door, you want to know that you’re in good hands. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. today for all your residential and commercial garage door repairs and installations.

How Can a Storm Door Protect Your Home Against Extreme Weather?

Ways That Storm Doors Protect Your Home During Extreme Weather

A storm door is your first line of defense against the elements. Learn why it’s a great addition to a home.

A Water Barrier

Standard doors can’t effectively defend a house against flooding because water will slowly seep underneath the threshold. With a storm door, your home will have an extra layer of protection if excessive rainfall causes flooding. The key is the vinyl sweep. It seals the gap between the threshold and door slab. A storm door also has a drip cap. If any water flows down the door, the drip cap will channel it into a tapered section on the threshold.

Practical Insulation

Storm doors are great in the event of power outages because they’re insulated. If you power up a whole-home generator and your HVAC system, an insulated storm door will help hold the heat within your home.

A Barrier Against Bugs

A storm door’s setup is better because it keeps insects away from the primary door. Extreme weather can often attract swarms of bugs, such as mosquitos. These kinds of bugs like to build nests near standing water after rainstorms. If you open your usual door in the spring or summer, nothing will stop these bugs from entering your home. A storm door adds a second layer of protection and a stronger defense against those pesky bugs. 

Great Components for Convenience and Long-Lasting Protection

Storm doors are high-quality products. If you have one installed, it will protect your home for a long time. Many wonderful designs are available. Here are some features and benefits:

• A storm door with full-size panels let in plenty of light.
• A storm door with a wire screen provides good airflow.
• A storm door with a kick plate better protects the door.

Install a storm door this season, and have peace of mind when extreme weather strikes. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. today, and set up an appointment for our storm door installation services. We’re a family-owned business, and we’ve been installing doors since 1950.

Preparing Your Garage Door for Winter

Four Tips for Getting Your Garage Door Ready for Winter

Wintertime can be a rough season for your garage door. Battering winds and freezing temperatures are examples of things that can damage this important segment of your home. Here are four ways to protect and reinforce your garage door before the temperatures start to drop.

Perform a Thorough Inspection

Look for any existing damage on your door and its tracks. Stand outside and open and close the door a few times. Is it producing any abnormal sounds like clanking or screeching? Observe how smoothly the door moves up and down and if it gets caught up on the tracks at any given time. For a more comprehensive assessment, consider bringing in a garage door maintenance and installation company, like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

Grease Your Door’s Moving Mechanical Parts

This is a simple maintenance tip that you can do yourself without needing to hire a professional garage door technician. Purchase a quality lubricant solution, usually in spray form, and apply a fresh coat to any of the door’s moving components. These include the rollers, springs, and hinges.

Fully Seal Your Garage Doors

At nighttime, stand outside of your garage door and close it. Check the bottom of the door to see if there is any light seeping out from inside the garage. If so, the garage door does not fully seal. And although that doesn’t cause any structural damage, a garage door that isn’t fully sealed allows hot air to escape to the outside. You may need to call a garage door specialist to help you fix this issue.

Clean the Sensors

Modern garage doors typically come with safety sensors that keep them from closing on a person or object passing below them. This is especially important for households with children, pets, and elderly tenants. Dirt and debris can accumulate and cover or damage the sensors, preventing them from doing their job. Clean these regularly to protect yourself and your loved ones.

One of the easiest ways to prepare your garage door for the cold months is to schedule regular garage door maintenance at least once a year.

Things You Should Know About Dock Seals

Four Things To Know About Dock Seals

You want your shipping area to be productive as well as safe and secure. Loading dock seals provide the barrier between the warehouse door and the backed-in trailer for loading and unloading assets. Designed to compress, they create a tight seal. Here are some things to know about the addition of dock seals to your company’s loading dock area.

Your Loading Dock Is Safer

Pests or even fire are left out when your loading dock is sealed. Employees won’t be worried about swatting flies, bugs or bites, which can slow down operations. Moreover, the wind will stay outside, making it easier to carry items and load them into the trailer. Protected from unwanted entry, the sealed doors will help keep everything and everyone safer.

Your Loading Dock Is More Productive

Unwanted weather like rain and snow won’t be able to disrupt your loading and unloading when you utilize a dock seal. Your staff will not need to worry about wet floors and their safety. They can focus on their job, sending and receiving and making your warehouse more productive. 

Your Loading Dock Will Remain in Better Condition

Wind and rain may take a toll on your loading area as exposure to the elements creates wear and tear on the doors. Gradually, they will wear down. Having strong seals minimizes exposure to the elements and makes the doors last longer. This saves money in the long run.

You’ll want to consider the usage, type of trucks and the height of your docks when selecting the appropriate seals for your loading dock. We can help you select the right option for your specific business needs before you order. Interested in learning more about how loading dock seals or shelters can help your business? Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. to get in touch with our experts for assistance.

4 Reasons to Upgrade to a Keyless Lock System

Why You Need to Upgrade to a Keyless Lock System

Keeping garages, commercial buildings, and residential buildings secure should always be a priority. Upgrading to a keyless lock system can allow you to better protect your property. When using such a lock system, you will not need a physical key to open a door since these systems use electronic access control mechanisms.

When using a keyless lock system, you will need an electronic device to unlock your door. For instance, you will need to use a sensor or a proximity card reader, depending on your lock system. Read on for more details about keyless entry systems and their benefits.

Better Security

You can easily lose traditional physical keys, or someone can steal them from you. The garage’s security will be compromised when either of these occur. However, such a thing cannot happen when you use a keyless lock system since only authorized users can access your building.

Remote Access

Most of the available keyless lock systems have remote access capabilities. That means you can unlock and lock doors even when you are not onsite. This is convenient for people who need the ability to remotely open and close their business doors for employees and deliveries.

Tracking All Entry Activities

When using traditional locks, it is hard to know who opened the garage door in your absence. However, when using a Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. keyless lock system, you will be able to track all entry activities. Tracking these activities can help you effectively respond to security threats and emergencies.

There are a variety of benefits associated with installing a keyless lock system in your home, business, or other property as laid out above. Call our garage door experts at Giel Garage Doors to learn more about how a keyless entry system can benefit you specifically.

Benefits of Installing a Garage Door Monitor

Three Important Benefits of Installing a Smart Garage Door Monitor

Keeping your home safe is one of the most important tasks you have as a homeowner. With technological advances in home security, monitoring your garage door is now a reality that’ll help you stay connected to the activity surrounding your home’s garage. Here are four important benefits of installing a smart garage door opener.

24-7 Monitoring

With smart technology, your garage door can easily be monitored every minute of the day or night right from your smartphone. Reliable, real-time alert logs let you know when your garage door has been opened or closed, giving you time to call the authorities for help even when you’re not home if a breach should occur. This feature also lets you keep tabs on package deliveries and temporary access codes given to family or staff for entry.

Security Features

Smart garage door monitors often come equipped with advanced security and safety features that include battery backup and rolling door codes that generate a new code each time you use your garage door to prevent security breaches. Automatic schedules can be programmed to ensure garage door closure and opening no matter where you are so that you can let pet sitters, housekeepers or family members in. Many of these openers are also compatible with larger security smart systems that include motion-activated lights and security cameras, which can be controlled with the same application.

Ease of Use

In addition to the benefits of installing a smart garage door monitoring device, the initial setup is a fast, seamless process that enables virtually any model to easily be paired to your smartphone. Quick integration is supported for IOS and Android operating systems, and some openers offer additional features that connect to Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.

Utilizing the features of a smart garage door opener is a simple and effective way to boost the security of your home. By installing a garage door monitoring system, your entire family can enjoy its long-lasting benefits. For more information, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. offers resources and services to fit your garage door’s specific security needs.

Common Garage Door Repairs

Common Garage Door Problems and Their Solutions

An average garage door’s life expectancy is about 15 years. If you schedule maintenance for your door, it could stay in good shape for up to 30 years. Although regular maintenance prevents the need for repairs, a good garage door can still malfunction or break down.

There are a few very common garage door repair situations. Read below to learn more about what they are and how a trained garage door technician can help.

Broken Wheels

When a garage door has broken wheels, it will fail to roll smoothly on the horizontal and vertical tracks. If you keep your rollers properly lubricated, you’ll protect them.

The Solution

This type of repair job has phases. You’ll need to know how to disconnect the power and how to align the door. An experienced technician can perform these tasks quickly and effectively.

Broken Springs

The springs pull a garage door up. If they’re damaged, a garage door won’t open correctly. Typically, garage door springs are extremely durable. On average, they can withstand up to 10,000 cycles.

When your garage door’s springs require maintenance or repair, you’ll notice some signs. If your door isn’t balanced, the springs are probably failing. Also, listen closely as the garage door opens. If you can hear a squeaking sound, the springs may need repairs or lubricant.

The Solution

To replace a broken garage door spring, you’ll need to know how to identify specific extension or torsion springs. As knowledgeable technicians, we work with these springs every day. We can replace:

Clipped-end extension springs

Double-looped extension springs

Open-looped extension springs

Torque-master torsion springs

Steel-rolling door torsion springs

Early-set torsion springs

Standard torsion springs

Broken Automatic Opener

A garage door opener has many components that work together. If a garage door opener fails, it probably has a defective part or a wiring problem.

The Solution

You should hire a trained garage door technician for this job. This isn’t a DIY project because a garage door opener has many electrical hazards.

Garage door repairs require a certain level of expertise. If you’re not certified, it is best to turn to Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. whenever your garage door needs repairs.

Different Types of Awnings and the Benefits of Each

7 Awning Types and Their Advantages

Awnings are a great way to incorporate shade and protection into your outdoor living space. With so many different styles, colors, and sizes available, the first decision you’ll need to make is what awning style you want for your home. Here are some of the most common types of awnings along with the benefits each one offers.

Minimalist

A minimalist style awning provides the most stylish look with very little fluff. Since there are no side panels, minimalists are best suited for doorways and can be great space savers.

Cascades

A cascading style awning is one of the most popular because of its artistic appeal. The “cascading” effect allows these awnings to fit in virtually any setting and provides a nice change from the traditional vertical look of most fabrics today.

Butterfly

The butterfly-style awning provides light and shade in one. Other than the fact that they are a bit more expensive, butterfly styles are very similar to minimalist styles. Both come with no side panels, and some homeowners believe they provide just as much shade as those with panels.

Roman

A Roman-style awning is best suited for higher ceilings, doorways, and windows that require maximum protection or protection from the sun. Roman styles are similar to the cascade style, except Roman styles have side panels. This gives them a more traditional look and feel.

Motorized

A motorized awning allows you to control when you want to have shade, light, or both. With so many options available, you can find one that perfectly suits your home’s needs and your individual preferences.

Aluminum Awnings

Aluminum awning styles are by far the most common. They are easy to maintain, come in a variety of colors, and are very affordable. The average aluminum awning will last 10 to 15 years.

Roller

A roller-style awning does not require the use of a wall or bracket and instead attaches directly to the ceiling, rolling back when you need sun or shade. This is an excellent option for homes with vaulted ceilings and allows you to take advantage of every inch of available space. If you’re interested in retractable awnings for heat and sun protection, contact our team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. today.

Conclusion

There are many factors that you’ll need to consider when going out to purchase a new awning. Think about multiple aspects of an awning including size, colors, materials, and your desired budget to make the right choice for your home.

Benefits of Installing a New Garage Door

6 Advantages of Getting a New Garage Door

If you’re not already keeping up with the latest developments in garage door technology, then it might be time to take a look at your options. There are plenty of benefits that come with having a new garage door installed. 

Comfort and Ease

Your garage door is a source of comfort for you and your family. The features and designs that come with a new garage door today will provide you with a sense of peace that comes from knowing your home is secure.

Energy Efficiency

Mirrors, lights, and other accessories used to keep your garage door closed are very energy-intensive. Replacing them with more efficient designs will save you money on utility bills every month.

Security

A new design garage door will not only make your home more inviting, but it will also help ensure the security of the people inside. The new designs and features come with added protection against crime. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. today for more information about how these new features protect your home and your family.

Convenience

Your garage door is a source of convenience for you and your family. The latest designs of this type come with state-of-the-art features that will make it easy for everyone to get inside or leave the house quickly and efficiently.

Durability and Reliability

Currently, these new designs of garage doors come with several features that make them robust and reliable in even the harshest weather conditions. The new designs will ensure the longevity of your garage door for years to come.

Color

Today’s garage doors come in a wide range of colors. You won’t have to settle for the color that was installed when you built your home. You can now choose from various colors and materials that will increase your home’s value.

There are many benefits of installing a new garage door, such as better energy efficiency, protection, durability, and more. Homeowners should consider the benefits of the upgraded features of newer models. Reach out to Giel Garage Doors to learn more about installing a new garage door.

Choosing the Right Door for Your Business Needs

How to Choose a Door for Your Business

As a business owner, choosing the right doors for your business may not be a pressing concern. However, doors can be a huge expense down the line depending on your commercial door needs for your business.

There are many types of specialty doors that can be installed depending on what you need them for. For example, an auto shop might need to install garage doors so that cars can get in and out. Here’s a list of different kinds of specialty doors and what they might be used for.

High-Speed Doors (aka Cycle Doors)

A business that deals with enhanced security measures and fast operations might require a high-speed/cycle door. These doors are designed to open and close faster than a typical overhead door and can be upgraded with security features.

Alternatively, if security isn’t as much of an issue as speed, there are also high-speed fabric doors made from reinforced PVC or vinyl material. These open quickly but offer airtight sealing.

Cold Storage Doors

These are doors designed to house frozen goods and keep a section climate controlled. For cold storage warehouses, you can get overhead doors that are designed to stay climate controlled. You can also get side-sliding doors for ease of access. Most cold storage doors come with an airtight seal and can be upgraded with maximum isolation and high-speed features.

Sound Control Doors

These doors are designed to separate environments and keep sounds contained in interior spaces. These doors are used to maintain acoustics within a space. Sound doors are insulated in order to prevent sound from traveling. As such, there’s a wide selection of overhead, rolling steel, sliding doors, and more depending on the space.

Finding the Right Door

You might not know what add-ons make a door work for your company, but getting the perfect door for your business can be essential to saving time and money down the line. Get in touch with Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. to check out your options.