How Safe is Your Garage Door?

As a homeowner and the head of your household, it is your responsibility to make sure all the inhabitants of the home are safe and out of harm’s way. Whether it is black mold or stray wires, keeping up with hazards can become exhausting. But one danger that tends to be forgotten is your garage door. From faulty sensors to aging garage doors, these household staples could create serious problems. Here are some questions you can ask to determine how safe your garage door really is. 

Is it Time for a Garage Door Replacement?

There are a lot of moving parts that must work together perfectly for a garage door to function properly. If the pulleys, track, cables, etc. are not working, it is time to replace your garage door. If you procrastinate, this can cause potential harm to you or your loved ones. 

Are My Garage Sensors Operating Correctly?

It is always a good idea to periodically check your garage sensors for problems. If for whatever reason it has complications opening and closing or is behaving erratically, be sure to check the photo eyes for issues. More times than not the problem needs a minor fix that can be completed easily. But sometimes it is mandatory that a garage door installation professional visits your home and fixes the malfunction. In situations like these, it is often better to be safe than sorry. While homeowners may believe they’re saving money with a DIY project, if done incorrectly, these seemingly harmless projects can be dangerous for your home’s residents and vehicles. 

How Do I Know if My Garage Door is Safe?

One easy way to test your door to see if it is working properly is to frequently place an object in front of the sensors to see if the garage door is shutting and opening the way it should. A garage door balance test can also be a beneficial way to determine the safety of a garage door. Release the emergency lever and lift the door, it should stay even and steady, but if it were to fall, it is time to get in contact with a Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. technician to come and take a look. 

There should be no higher priority than that of keeping your family safe from potential dangers. Your home should be a place of safety and peace of mind, this is why it is so vital that you continuously check your garage door to ensure it is safe. For more helpful information, visit the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blog. 

How to Clean Your Garage Door

Like other home components, garage doors function best with regular cleaning and maintenance. In order to preserve beauty and functionality, homeowners are encouraged to wash their garage doors twice a year. In addition to better appearance and functionality, many warranties require doors to be cleaned and maintained regularly. Below are some strategies to safely and effectively clean your garage door.

Preparing for a Wash

Begin the process by removing dirt chunks with a dry cloth. This will minimize the amount of work required when the door is wet. Once visible dirt is removed, wet the inside and outside of the door with a hose. Using a gentle sprayer on the door will ensure the finish remains undisturbed. Prepare for the next step by gathering soft rags or a sponge. As with the gentle sprayer, non-abrasive rags will help maintain the beauty of the door for the maximum number of years.

Washing the Door

Using a cleaning bucket, mix water and a gentle cleaner. Car wash soap and dish soap are commonly used. Many homeowners clean the interior of the door then move to the outside. With a soft rag or sponge, begin washing the door with the soapy water, including the weatherstripping. Once dirt and grime are removed from all areas, gently rinse off the soapy water using a hose. Bleach water can be used on non-wood doors to treat problem areas. Rinse the bucket, rags, and door thoroughly before using bleach water.

Finishing the Process

After the door is satisfactorily clean, allow it to dry completely. Similar to the car washing process, the cleaning of garage doors should end with a wax finish. For wood doors, a wood finish is to be used in place of wax. If there are any places on the wood door where the existing finish is worn or absent, correct this (often with primer) before applying the new coat of finish. For non-wood doors, a liquid car wax is commonly used. As the wood finish or wax dries, cover all exposed parts of the door, which includes the interior and exterior of the bottom piece.

Maintaining a clean garage door can amplify the beauty of a home. Performing a twice-yearly washing and waxing will, in many cases, fulfill the warranty requirements set by the manufacturer. For the owner, regular cleaning will save money by minimizing repairs, lengthening the door’s lifespan, and, often, maintaining the manufacturer warranty. The steps above outline an effective approach to augment the appearance and functionality of garage doors. 

For more information about maintaining your garage door, visit the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blog. 

A Guide to Changing Your Garage Door Remote Batteries

Man by using remote garage opens in a cloudy day

From the outside, garage doors are typically opened using either a keypad or remote. The remote is an especially convenient way to open the garage door while remaining in the vehicle. Over time, remote openers may begin to require several presses in order to open the door. In such instances, the solution may be as simple as replacing the battery. Below are three simple steps for changing your garage door remote batteries.

Step 1: Remove the Battery Cover

On many remote garage door openers, the battery cover is often located on the back of the device. In this case, the cover may be opened by pressing the back piece of the device and sliding it back. Other remotes have covers with no discernable battery covers. These can usually be opened by splitting the remote into two pieces. A small screwdriver will assist with battery covers attached with a screw.

Step 2: Identify the Battery Type and Obtain a Replacement

Remove the battery from the remote. Most may easily be pulled or popped out of the remote. Many remote batteries are small, round, silver in color, and flat on the top and bottom. Such batteries come in specific sizes. The battery will have the type and size identified on the side as a series of numbers. A safe option is to simply take the exhausted battery to a store where the staff will provide the appropriate replacement. 

Step 3: Replace and Reprogram

Place the replacement battery or batteries in the remote, facing them in the correct direction as indicated on the remote. Replace the cover using the reverse process which was used to remove it. Once the battery has been replaced, the remote may need to be reprogrammed to operate correctly with the garage door. The manufacturer of the remote provides instructions for reprogramming, which can be accessed online.

Garage door remote openers can often be rejuvenated by inserting a new battery or batteries. This process can be accomplished by removing the cover, replacing the battery, and reprogramming the remote. Following these steps as listed above, batteries can be replaced quickly and easily, allowing the user to enjoy the remote as it is designed to function: consistently opening the garage door on the first attempt. 

For more information about how to maintain your garage door and opener, visit the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blog.

3 Signs That Your Garage Door Needs to be Serviced

Man installing a garage door

Like other home appliances, garage doors endure wear and tear as they are used. Over the course of a year, many garage doors are opened and closed about 1,500 times. This much usage may, in time, create a need for Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. professional services. Regular maintenance (such as tightening bolts and keeping lubrication on the necessary components) may improve the longevity of the system. Inevitably, though, the garage door will need to be serviced. Listed are some indicators that it may be time to contact your service provider.

Your Garage Door is Noisy

A garage door will naturally produce some level of noise. The noise it creates is a relatively consistent sound, so if it begins to make different types of sounds or if the volume is distinctly different from the regular hum, a professional evaluation may be in order. Listen for creaking, popping, rumbling, grating, grinding, and other unusual sounds. Such noises may indicate abnormalities such as misalignment or worn springs.

Your Door Won’t Open or Close

Garage doors, naturally, are designed to open and close. Many homeowners open and close the door using a remote device, particularly while driving a vehicle. If the door does not open in these instances, first examine the remote before servicing the garage door (see our blog about changing your garage door remote batteries). The functionality of the door may also be tested using the keypad or interior opener. Once it has been established that the garage door simply will not open or close, the next step is to contact a professional to evaluate the situation.

There is a Visible Imbalance

Some serviceable issues are visible. Schedule a service if the door is off the tracks. Another indicator is the sagging of individual sections, which may result from a door imbalance. Test balance by disconnecting the garage door from the door opener then manually opening the door to about half-way. Let go, and, if it moves either up or down, the door is likely off balance. If the door does not move, it is properly balanced. For sagging panels, a balanced door will need closer inspection in order to work its best. Unbalanced doors may also benefit from a professional balancing.

Garage doors are a common feature in most American homes. In order for homeowners or renters to access the garage, the door must function properly. The Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. team of professionals are able to evaluate such situations and provide effective, reliable services. By watching for visible abnormalities, listening for unusual noises, and noting when the door does not open or close, residents may prevent further complications by contacting a professional service provider as soon as possible.

6 Clever Ways to Organize Your Garage

Mess and tools in disorder in a workroom. Equipment, home, interior, rope, dirty, house, messy, objects, stuff, box, chaos, clutter, cluttered

Decluttering a home and yard often results in several items needing to be disposed of or stored for later use. Many homeowners utilize garages for storage, but quickly run out of space. Below are a few clever tips for getting or staying organized and maximizing garage storage space.

Utilize Vertical Space

One of the most efficient ways to maximize available storage is to utilize space above the floor. 

Shelves And Cabinets

Shelving and cabinets allow items or bins to effectively be stacked without limiting access or causing damage to items at the bottom of the pile. Free-standing shelves can be used where permanent shelves and cabinets are not an option.

Peg Boards

Peg boards utilize vertical space for items that do not have much depth, or are awkwardly shaped, such as shovels, rakes, and brooms. A key advantage of peg boards is that they do not take up much lateral space and can therefore be placed in tight places, such as next to a vehicle.

Overhead Space

Many organizers recognize the availability of overhead space, which includes space directly above vehicles. This can be utilized by shelves running across the width of the garage. Considerations for overhead shelves include adequate gapping between shelves (for adding and removing items), distance from ceiling to shelf, distance from shelf bottom to tallest vehicle, and structural integrity/weight limit.

Bins and Bags

Organization begins with grouping. Similar items can be stored together by use of bins, which come in sizes to accommodate most items. Subgroups can also be established (e.g. different sizes of nails or screws) and placed in plastic bags within the bins. These, of course, can be labeled for ease of use.

Accessibility

Storage is most effective when items can be accessed as needed. Seasonal storage can be stored far from reach when not in use. Frequently used or emergency items will be most accessible near a door and stored between 3-6 feet high. Additionally, items can be stored together near places where they are likely to be used. For example, tools can be stored near a workbench, garden equipment near the appropriate door, and deep freezers near the door to the house.

An organized garage allows the home and yard to have less clutter. The organization process can be achieved with minimal worry when considering these simple guidelines. For more tips and tricks to a more functional garage, follow our blog at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

3 Tips to Spruce Up Your Entry Door

Panorama frame Green painted front door to a suburban house with floral wreath and Welcome sign alongside

With each new season, many homeowners enjoy setting out decor, both in and outside the home. Entry doors can be spruced up to improve the look and feel using a few temporary and non-invasive techniques.

Door Hangings

Wreaths are a popular choice in all seasons. Flower or pastel wreaths can bring spring color to an area. For those who prefer something more modest, various sizes of galvanized steel buckets can be hung using live or silk flowers. Silk flowers can be updated seasonally. A more adventurous approach could center around silk flowers in a handle-up umbrella.

On the Ground

Welcome mats can personalize an entry while remaining simple. A growing trend this year includes placing a larger rug under the welcome mat to add extra depth to the space. Planters may be placed on the ground near the door as well as a bench and/or chairs.

Off of the Ground

Wall and hanging decor can increase workable space while adding personality to an area. Hanging flower baskets, lanterns, and artwork can improve the atmosphere and leave plenty of space for shoes and other entry-way items.

A Fresh Coat of Paint

The above suggestions are non-invasive and easy to implement. But if you really want to take your sprucing up a notch, consider adding a new coat of paint to your entry door. Black matte doors are trending now and red doors are forever popular. Consider the style of your home and type of door when choosing a new color.

Whether it’s a brand-new home or a home that simply needs a few styling ideas, sprucing up an entry door can add life to it and make that part of the home feel more personal and personable. This can be achieved several ways. If your old entry door is a lost cause and you’re in the market for a new one, call Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. for complete details on all entry, storm, and patio doors.

Why Your Garage Door Needs an Annual Tune-Up

Fittings on the end of a garage door spring are twisted

Like automobiles, garage door systems are machines with working parts. What homeowners should know is that, like automobiles, garage doors and their openers require regular maintenance. Many experts recommend maintenance every 12 months. Annual tune-ups can help keep the machine working properly. This can save money and add to peace of mind.

Save Money

Any system made of moving parts is subject to wear and tear. Trained professionals know what areas to focus on to ensure all bolts are tightened, belts are not worn, tracks are balanced, et cetera.  The cost of replacing a belt is much lower than replacing all the parts that may have been damaged by a belt breaking during operation.

Peace of Mind

Homeowners rely on their garage doors to provide both access for the family and a barrier against unwanted entrance. Maintaining garage door dependability through tune-ups is an easy way to keep the garage door open when it’s supposed to be open and closed when it’s supposed to be closed, without any surprises. Additionally, most garage-door-related injuries are the result of some sort of malfunction. These are less likely to occur when the system is properly maintained.

The majority of homeowners rely on garage doors just as they would their automobile. A well-functioning garage door provides peace of mind for the person using it. Annual tune-ups will keep the system in its best working order, which will save money on serious repairs as well as lower the overall risk of injury. If your garage door is ready for regular maintenance, schedule an appointment with Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. today.

Is My Garage Door Sensor Damaged?

Is your garage door no longer opening and closing properly? Then you may need to do some troubleshooting to discover what’s causing your garage door to malfunction. Sometimes it is not clear whether your garage door sensor is simply broken, but there are some things to look for that might indicate that it is having issues. It is essential that as a homeowner you are aware of the signs that your garage door sensor needs to be replaced. Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors offers some simple steps that could help you determine the issue.

1. Check for power

One of the more common reasons that the sensors for garage doors seem to malfunction is a result of an insufficient power supply. Search for small lights that appear on the sensors. If all the lights seem to be glowing, then this is not the problem and you can cross it off your list of possible problems.

2. Be sure the path is clear of objects

The purpose of a garage door sensor is to restrain the door from closing if there is something in its path. This function is valuable because it keeps your car and loved ones safe from falling garage doors. If there is something in its path, it is programmed not to close, so make sure nothing is obstructing the sensor beam.

3. Check for dirty sensors

At times, dirt or grime can become plastered on the lenses of your garage sensor. This could be the culprit that is preventing your garage sensors from performing properly. To avoid this from occurring, be sure to clean the lenses regularly.

4. Sensor alignment

There is a possibility that the problem you have encountered with your garage sensors has to do with their alignment. Be sure to check thoroughly that both of your sensors are properly aligned. The way to check this is to examine both LED lights on the sensors and see if they are green. If you discover that these lights have turned red or are flashing continuously then you have found your problem and you will need to realign your sensors.

5. Simple wear and tear

Like with most things, time will surely catch up to anything, including your garage sensors. This is certainly accurate if you haven’t changed your sensors for more than ten years at a time. If you have conducted the tests that were previously outlined and you still cannot determine what is causing your faulty sensors, perhaps a replacement is needed. Consult Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for repairs or to learn more about what may be hindering your garage doors.

6 Steps to Get Your Patio Ready for Summer

It seems insane that spring is already upon us. But it is important that spring cleaning and prepping projects are finished before the brutal heat of summer sneaks in. The days of pool parties, cookouts, and other outdoor activities are on the horizon and it is time to make your backyard and patio look pristine for entertaining. Preparing your patio for the summer is no easy task, so you’ll need all the help you can get. So here are some steps that will assist you when you decide it’s time to get to work. Start Fresh. The surface of your patio is the best place to start the prepping process. If you have a patio that is made of concrete, then you might want to opt for a pressure washer to clean the surface. If your patio’s surface is made of another material, then you might choose a mop and broom to clean the surface of your patio.

1. Clean the Furniture. After a long winter, there is most likely going to be some mildew and dirt that has found a home on your patio furniture. It may be a good idea to pressure wash your furniture as well, then follow with a sponge.

2. Tidy Up the Flower Beds. This could mean simply trimming and pruning your flowers to help them complement your beautiful patio. You must also make sure that you weed the area and make it look neat and presentable.

3. Update Older Pieces. There are many reasons why your patio may be in need of an update. But the weather can play a part in damaging your patio and is the most common culprit. Animals can also take a toll during the colder months. Either way, it is vital that you replace or repair these damaged or worn pieces to give your patio a facelift. Furniture cushions are an item that frequently needs to be replaced.

4. Add a Little Flare. This part of the preparation can be fun and allows you to show your personality and creativity. Small and simple changes can make a big difference in the appearance of your patio. Add extra accessories to give your patio a little added flair.

5. Install a Patio Screen. When you install a solar shade or retractable screen for your patio it adds value to your property and can be seen when you need it and hidden when you don’t. These retractable screens have the ability to take out any glare from the sun as well as control the amount of light that enters your home, so the sun isn’t in anyone’s eyes. There are many variations of models available for purchase. Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors carries both Phantom Screens and Sunair varieties and can provide a consult upon request. Contact our team today to schedule a free estimate.

5 Types of Mounted Garage Door Openers

Spring is an ideal time to replace worn-out or outdated garage components. While painting walls and installing shelving may be more exciting updates, it’s important to be proactive about the maintenance of the most functional feature of your garage: the mechanism that operates your garage door. The following is a user-friendly guide to select the right garage door opener for both your budget and lifestyle.

General Considerations

Lightweight aluminum doors are a good match for ½ horsepower openers at home, while larger, heavier, or single-piece doors may require ¾ – 1 ¼ horsepower openers. Larger motors last longer, although they may have a higher initial cost compared to smaller motors.  In addition, consider how much noise is acceptable.  For example, will the opener be used in an attached garage next to a bedroom? Lastly, decide how much maintenance you’re willing to put into its upkeep.

Wall Mount (Jackshaft)

For garages with vaulted ceilings or for homeowners seeking additional overhead space, a wall mount (or “jackshaft”) opener is a good option. One benefit is that no overhead electrical sockets are required because it is mounted on the wall at eye level and can reach standard outlets nearby. These garage door openers require professional installation, and the use of belts means they will require regular maintenance, similar to a belt drive.

Screw Drive

This low-maintenance design is a good choice for heavy or large doors. The lift mechanism is attached to the door and slides up and down a threaded rod.  Due to the small number of working parts, screw drive garage door openers require less maintenance than other styles, such as the belt drive. Since this style has more horsepower than belt drive or direct drive openers expect it to create more noise due to the larger motor which typically runs on AC power. 

Chain Drive

These are budget-friendly openers that use a system similar to a large bicycle chain.  These generally run on AC power and are a good choice for consumers who don’t mind a little added noise and understand that some regular maintenance will be required.

Belt Drive

Belt-drive openers are known to be the quietest type of garage door opener. This belt-drive opener generally runs on DC instead of AC power, making it quieter than other varieties. It uses a steel and rubber belt. The pliability of the rubber helps it to run smoothly. The rubber, however, means it will require some regular maintenance.

Direct Drive

Comparable to the belt drive, the direct drive is an alternative that produces slightly more noise while requiring less maintenance. The direct drive may use AC or DC power, rendering some models quieter than others.  Employing a stationary chain in a steel rail, the direct drive requires less maintenance than the belt drive.

There are several types of garage door openers, many of which have specific applications for many types of doors. After considering noise, horsepower, and maintenance, this list should give a general idea of which type of opener will be most appropriate for your home. Selecting the most appropriate garage door opener will ensure the garage continues to function optimally. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. for more information or to schedule an appointment.