How to Remove Garage Floor Stains

Your garage can quickly become a dirty, messy place if you let it get out of hand. But like most parts of your home, you can combat this issue by keeping up with it regularly. At times, grease and oil can spill and stain the floor of your garage. Your garage is full of machines such as lawn mowers and vehicles that have the potential to leak fluids from time to time. When you notice a stain, it is vital that you clean it as soon as you can, reducing the risk of tracking it into your home, or worse, someone slipping and hurting themselves. There are a variety of methods that can prove to be successful in removing stains from the floor of your garage. There are several different kinds of stains and a different technique to combat each type.

Oil and Grease

The first step to cleaning this type of spill is to sprinkle either sawdust or cat litter onto the stain to absorb the liquid. Next, let the stain soak for an extended period of time before sweeping it up and throwing it away. After you have properly disposed of the sawdust or cat litter, simply drip some detergent or dish soap on the garage floor and let it sit for just under an hour. For the next step you will need to apply some elbow grease, as you will need to scrub the stain thoroughly for up to 15 minutes. Keep in mind that the older the stain, the more difficult it is to remove. 

Rust 

There are many culprits capable of leaving rust stains, such as nails, hammers, and other tools which are typically found in the garage. To remove these stains, begin by squeezing a lemon directly on the stain and let it sit for approximately ten minutes. Then you need to scrub the stain with a brush and rinse the garage floor with water with pressure. It is possible that you may need to repeat this cycle numerous times. 

Paint

These kinds of stains can be difficult to remove, although with a few steps your garage can look good as new. Locate a putty knife and scrape away the paint that is loose and sweep it up with a broom. Pour some trisodium phosphate (TSP) on the area and scrub the paint off. Be sure that you are wearing gloves for your own safety. 

For more information considering your garage, browse the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blog for more helpful hints and tips.

5 Tips to Update Your Front Door This Fall

During these times of what seem like life in pause, it can be natural to yearn for change. Drastic changes can be problematic, complicated, and expensive. One change that could satisfy your fix could be fulfilled by simply upgrading and changing the look of your home’s front door. Here are some easy steps to give your front door a fresh new look.

1. Apply a new coat of paint. 

Keeping up with the Jones’ can prove to be exhausting and boring, if your home’s front door is the same color as everyone else’s on the block, maybe it is time for a change. A quart of paint runs you a little less than twenty dollars and comes in almost every color.

2. Replace the hardware.

Hardware could be anything from mail slots to handles. If the hardware on your door is out of date, or if you’re simply sick of looking at it, it may be time for a change. This is a simple and inexpensive project that goes a long way.

3. Include a new trim. 

If the wooden trim around your door has paint that has begun to chip, then you might want to dress up your front door with a brand new PVC trim that looks like its wooden counterpart, but is much more durable. 

4. Spruce up your entryway. 

The front door is the first part of your home that most people see. You can tell a lot about a homeowner by the way they decorate their entryway. It can really create a pleasant experience for anybody that visits your home. Add a wreath or a welcome mat to spruce up your home’s main point of entry.

5. Maintain cleanliness in your front yard.

Even if you have completed all other steps and you have the best-looking front door and entry on the block, it would all be for not if your front lawn and entryway is filthy and cluttered. Never forget to continuously take the time to tidy up your yard to keep the attention on the doorway. 

There are numberless ways homeowners can improve their homes, as well as their quality of life. For further hints and tips, be sure to take a deep dive into the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. website and blog to find new ways to keep your house up-to-date. 

5 Trending Garage Door Colors

Your front door should not be the only part of your home that captures the attention of your visitors, your garage door should also make a great first impression and improve your home’s value. The garage door should be the perfect complement to the front door and not compete for attention. When selecting a color for your garage door, be sure to consider the colors of the other parts of your home, such as your roof and the front door. 

White. White is by far the most popular color for garage doors. If you were to drive around and look at garage doors you would find that they are both crisp and bright. One of the few downsides of a white garage door is that they get dirty easily. Every little splatter of dirt will be easily shown upon the white surface. 

Light Grey. This color is growing in popularity because of its ability to blend in and match with all other colors. It is a neutral color that keeps the attention on other parts of the home. 

Black. Black is yet another example of an extremely popular color for a garage door. In the newer neighborhoods that are being built, you can find this darker color becoming more prevalent. To complement the black color, consider painting the window panes the same black color. Not only does the darker color help hide dirt and grime but is both elegant and trendy. 

Beige or Taupe. This is a color that is not for everyone and will only work if you take into consideration the various colors around the home. If your home is made from beige bricks or other materials, then be sure to match the garage doors with it. 

Walnut Brown. Some homeowners prefer colors that are warmer, but also enjoy the idea of a darker color. If this is you, a walnut brown may be the perfect choice. This can be a relatively inexpensive option, that looks like it has a higher price tag than it really does. 

Whichever color you choose, be sure to avoid painting your garage door an off color or two separate colors. For more helpful hints and ideas, be sure to scroll though the rest of the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blogs. We pride ourselves in assisting homeowners everyday to create the peace of mind that comes from the perfect home. 

Most Common Garage Door Repairs

When you take the time to troubleshoot your garage door, you can save yourself a lot of time and money as a homeowner. It is common for your garage door to malfunction every now and then. There are certain situations where you may need to get in contact with a professional at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. for assistance, but other times you may be able to fix the issues with your garage door on your own. The faster you identify the problem, the more likely you are to save your garage door from potential damage and minimize costs. Here are some of the most common garage door issues that people encounter and their remedies. 

1. Garage door opener malfunction. This may be one of the most common problems that a homeowner will encounter. A simple solution for a chain and drive screw operated garage door could be that there is too much friction, this can be fixed simply by adding a lubricant to help it run more smoothly.
2. Loud grinding sounds. This problem can also be solved quite easily. When there is loud squeaking, it could be due to loose hardware. Much like the previously mentioned problem, this can also be solved simply by using applying a lubricant.
3. Gaps or cracks. This is another issue that people encounter frequently and is not a huge cause for concern. If you feel that the cracks are widening, it is time to apply a waterproof filler or sealant to fill in the cracks.
4. Garage door does not open fully. If you find this occurring, the most likely culprit is the springs above the garage door. It may be time for them to be replaced. If you have already had the springs replaced in the last three years, then it is only necessary to replace the springs that are not operating correctly. Contact a professional to replace a faulty spring.
5. Formation of rust. Rust is never a good look; it degrades the value of your garage door as well as your home. Rust forms when iron is exposed to water or air for long periods of time. To get rid of the annoying rust, scrub the area that has been infected by use of soap first, next rub down the rust with a rag that has been soaked in vinegar. Finally, use sandpaper to smooth off of the rust and apply a new coat of paint and primer. 

For more information about garage door upkeep, continue to browse the Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. blog. If your garage door is in need of professional repair or maintenance, contact the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. to schedule a free estimate.

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.