Winterizing Your Garage Door: Essential Maintenance Tips

Winter can be hard on your garage door. Ice, snow, and cold air can do a lot of damage if your garage is not properly sealed and insulated. Taking the proper steps to winterize your garage door can help protect it from the cold weather and keep it functioning correctly. Here are some essential tips for winterizing your garage door.

1. Inspect Your Garage Door

The first step to winterizing your garage is to inspect it thoroughly for any wear and tear or damage that may have occurred over the summer months. Check for cracks, dents, rust spots, and other forms of damage. If you notice any issues that need to be addressed, it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

2. Clean Your Garage Door

Cleaning your garage door is essential for keeping it in good condition throughout the winter months. Start by using a damp cloth to wipe down the door and remove any dirt or debris that has settled on it. You can also use a mild detergent to clean tougher areas.

3. Lubricate Your Garage Door

To ensure your garage door is functioning properly, remember to lubricate all of its moving parts. This includes the hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks. We recommend using either white lithium grease or silicone spray.

4. Check the Weather Stripping

Check that your weather stripping is in good condition and that there are no gaps where cold air could get in. Additional weather stripping can be added between panels for an air-tight seal. If the weather stripping is cracked or detached, now is the time to replace it. You can purchase weatherstripping specifically designed for garage doors at most hardware stores.

5. Call in the experts

If you’re not confident in your ability to winterize your garage door yourself, it’s best to call in a professional. They can inspect the door for any potential issues and make sure that it is properly insulated and sealed against the cold weather. This will save you money in the long run by preventing weather damage and extending the life of your garage door.

Choose Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for your Pennsylvania Garage Doors

With 73 years of experience in the industry, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is your go-to source for quality garage door products and services in Pennsylvania.

We specialize in residential and commercial garage doors, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and customization. Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to providing personalized service to meet all of your individual needs.

Contact us today for more information about our available products and services!

Garage Door Replacement vs. Repair: Making the Right Decision for Winter in Pennsylvania

Bracing for Pennsylvania’s harsh winter? Your garage door becomes more than an entry point; it’s a crucial barrier against the cold. Here, we dissect garage door repair and garage door replacement on five important metrics to guide you in winterizing your home.

Cost

A Garage Door Repair generally demands less money upfront. Think of it as a patch-up job for isolated issues like broken springs or faulty sensors. But beware: frequent repairs add up, making this option less economical over time.

Conversely, a garage door replacement comes with a higher initial price tag. Yet the long-term benefits can outweigh the upfront cost. Energy-efficient designs contribute to lower heating bills, an important consideration during Pennsylvania’s intense winters.

Time Investment

If you’re short on time, garage door repair can often be done within a day. Repair is your quickest route to sealing off the cold. A garage door replacement, though, needs a longer time commitment. Between selecting a new door, installation, and potentially removing the old one, you’ll need to plan ahead.

Energy Efficiency

In terms of winterizing your home, a new garage door has the upper hand. Engineered with superior insulation and sealing features, a new door keeps your garage and home warmer. An older, repaired door may lack these advanced features, which may leave you with higher heating bills.

Longevity

Repairing an existing door extends its life, but often only for a short period. These quick fixes don’t prevent future issues, particularly if your door has significant wear. A garage door replacement offers a fresh start with a lifespan of up to 15-20 years when well-maintained. The upfront investment translates into years of reliable operation and fewer repair concerns down the line.

Aesthetics and Home Value

When it comes to elevating the look and resale value of your home, a garage door replacement is the clear winner. A new, modern design refreshes your home’s exterior. Repairs, while functional, don’t contribute to visual appeal or add value to your property.

Conclusion

Winterizing your home is non-negotiable. If a quick, affordable fix is what you need, opt for a garage door repair. but for long-term reliability, energy savings, and a bump in home value, a garage door replacement is worth considering. Act quickly, as Pennsylvania’s unforgiving winter waits for no one. Secure your home — and peace of mind — by making the right garage door decision before the snow starts falling.

The Role of Weather Stripping in Winter Garage Door Care

As winter arrives, icy winds and frigid temperatures can turn your garage into a less-than-inviting space. But with a small investment in weather stripping, you can transform your garage into a warm, insulated place. In this guide, we’ll explore the three critical roles that weather stripping performs during winter.

Preserves Indoor Temperature

Imagine running your heating system day and night, only to find that your garage still feels like a freezer. That’s a scenario you could face without adequate weather stripping. By forming an airtight seal around your garage door, weather stripping keeps the warm air inside and the cold air outside. The result? Your heating system works more efficiently, conserving energy and lowering your utility bills. In the long run, this can add up to significant savings.

Keeps Out Moisture and Snow

Winter isn’t just about cold air; it’s also about moisture in the form of rain, sleet, and snow. Any of these can slip through the cracks in your garage door and wreak havoc. Excess moisture can damage stored belongings and even contribute to mold growth. Weather stripping serves as a frontline defense, blocking moisture and keeping your garage dry. This is an essential step in ensuring that your valuable items — like seasonal decorations, gardening tools, and sporting equipment — stay safe and dry all winter long.

Enhances Door Longevity

Your garage door takes a beating from fluctuating winter temperatures, which can cause materials to contract and expand. This back-and-forth can lead to cracks, warping, and a decreased lifespan for your door. Weather stripping minimizes these temperature swings by maintaining a more consistent indoor climate. In doing so, it can significantly extend the lifespan of your garage door, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to get the most out of their door.

Conclusion

Weather stripping is not just an accessory; it’s a necessity for keeping your garage comfortable, dry, and functional throughout the winter months. If you haven’t yet installed weather stripping on your garage door, don’t wait any longer. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for superb installation services and make this winter your most comfortable yet.

Fall Garage Organization: Making the Most of Your Space

Fall is the season of transformation. Leaves change color, the air turns crisp, and it’s the perfect time for a fall cleaning — specifically, garage organization. A well-organized garage offers more than just a tidy space; it enhances your lifestyle and adds value to your home. Let’s dive into why you should take time this autumn to get your garage in shape and strategies to achieve it.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time for Garage Organization

The moderate weather of fall creates an ideal environment for this project. You’re not sweating in the summer heat or freezing in the winter cold. Moreover, as fall precedes the holiday season, organizing your garage now ensures you can easily access decorations and create additional space for potential holiday gifts.

Benefits of Garage Organization

So why bother with cleaning up the garage? It’s not just about aesthetics. Let’s delve into some compelling benefits you’ll experience.

• Unlock More Space: A clutter-free garage makes room for what truly matters, whether it’s your car, a home gym, or even a small workshop.
• Boost Home Value: A neat, functional garage can actually boost your property value. Potential buyers will appreciate the well-maintained extra space.
• Improve Safety: Loose tools and equipment can be hazardous. Organizing eliminates these risks, keeping you and your family safe.

Strategies for a Well-Organized Garage

Having a game plan makes any task more manageable. Here are some proven strategies to help you tackle your garage organization.

• Start with a Clean Slate: Empty out your garage to assess the space you have. This gives you a clear vision of how to allocate areas for different functions or items.
• Categorize Your Items: Separate your belongings into categories. Tools, sporting equipment, and seasonal items should each have their own designated areas.
• Invest in Quality Storage Solutions: Opt for durable shelving units, heavy-duty storage bins, or even a pegboard to hang tools. This investment pays off in the long run.
• Label Everything: Clearly written labels save you time when you’re searching for items. A simple label maker can make a big difference.

Take Action Today!

Don’t let the season pass you by; capitalize on this perfect time for garage organization. Need professional assistance? Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today. We’ll assess your garage door and provide the necessary maintenance so you can have the functional, organized space you’ve always desired. Let this fall be the season of change for your garage, elevating your lifestyle in the process.

Garage Door Security: How to Keep Your Home and Family Safe

Imagine this: You’ve worked hard to ensure every window and door in your home is secure, yet you’ve overlooked one entrance that can be a potential point of vulnerability—the garage door.

With burglars becoming more innovative, it’s essential that your garage door security is top-notch. After all, ensuring your family’s safety starts by fortifying the largest entry point to your home: the garage. Here are some tips you should consider to enhance your garage door security:

Invest in a High-Quality Garage Door

Not all garage doors are created equal. A flimsy door can be an open invitation for unwanted guests. Investing in a robust, durable garage door can deter potential burglars and withstand adverse weather conditions.

Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener

Modern technology has brought about smart garage door openers that offer more than just convenience. These openers come with security features like real-time alerts, remote access, and integration with your home security system. With a smart garage door opener, you can always know the status of your garage door.

Install Motion Detector Lights

Burglars thrive in the dark. Installing motion detector lights around your garage door area can startle potential intruders and draw attention. When the lights suddenly flash on, it’s a clear indication to the burglar that they’ve been detected.

Regular Maintenance is a Must

A garage door’s security features can only be effective if the door is in good working condition. Regular maintenance checks will ensure that no parts are rusty or broken and that your door’s security features are functional.

Never Leave the Garage Door Remote in Your Car

An often-overlooked tip! If thieves break into your car and get the remote, they have an easy pass into your home. Always carry the remote with you or invest in a keychain remote.

Always Keep It Locked

This may sound like a no-brainer, but many homeowners overlook this security measure. Even if you’re home, always ensure your garage door is locked. It’s a habit that can make a huge difference.

Enhance Your Home Security With the Right Garage Door

Garage door security is integral to overall home security because the safety of your family and valuables starts with a secure entrance. If you’re looking to enhance your home’s safety with a quality garage door, reach out to Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.

We will work with you to determine the best door for your home’s security needs and ensure we install it with the utmost attention to detail. Contact us today to get started on designing your preferred garage door.

The Impact of a New Garage Door on Your Home’s Curb Appeal

The first impression is a lasting one. When it comes to your home, its exterior offers that coveted first impression to passersby and potential buyers.

While manicured lawns, freshly-painted walls, and decorative landscaping often take the spotlight in enhancing curb appeal, there’s another element that holds transformative power—the garage door. This article focuses on the power of curb appeal and the surprising role the garage door plays in elevating your home’s façade.

Why is Curb Appeal Important?

Curb appeal is vital because it creates the first impression for potential buyers or visitors, setting the tone for their entire experience with the property. Research indicates homes with high curb appeal sell for 7% more than comparable houses with a lackluster exterior.

This is why 92% of real estate professionals recommend that sellers enhance their property’s curb appeal before listing. But besides increasing the property value and appealing to potential buyers, great curb appeal fosters a sense of pride and positivity among the home’s occupants.

Factors to Enhance Curb Appeal

When elevating curb appeal, most homeowners tend to focus on the following:

• Landscaping
• Exterior paint
• Outdoor lighting
• Roofing
• Exterior design features like an updated mailbox, patio, and deck

Garage Doors: The Unsung Hero of Curb Appeal

Considering their size and prominence on a property, it’s surprising how people have traditionally overlooked garage doors. Here are several reasons why a new garage door is also crucial to boosting your home’s curb appeal:

• Size matters: For many homes, the garage door covers up to 40% of the front facade. It’s a sizeable chunk of visible space that greatly influences the overall appearance.
• Modernization and style: Today’s garage doors come in various styles, materials, and colors. A contemporary door can instantly modernize an older home, while a rustic wooden door can infuse character into a plain facade.
• Function and efficiency: Beyond aesthetics, newer garage doors often provide better insulation and security, adding to the home’s energy efficiency and safety, which can be a significant selling point.
• Data speaks volumes: According to the recent Cost Versus Value Study, spearheaded by Remodeling magazine, a garage door replacement ranks second among projects with the highest return on investment. Astonishingly, you can recoup an average of 102.7% of your expenditure on a new garage door when selling your home.

Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal With the Perfect Garage Door

While the path to perfect curb appeal involves various factors, it’s clear that the garage door is crucial in this journey. If you’re ready to take that transformative step, consider working with Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Our experts will collaborate with you, ensuring the door style, construction, and size resonate with your home’s aesthetic and budget.

Pergolas vs Retractable Awnings: Choosing the Right Shade Solution

The choice between pergolas and retractable awnings can significantly impact the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space. Understanding their distinct advantages can help you make an informed decision.

Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings offer a versatile solution to managing outdoor light and shade. With their easily adjustable design, you can extend or retract them based on your needs, be it to shield against harsh sunlight or to enjoy a starry night. They are typically made from durable, weather-resistant fabric and come with either a manual crank or motorized controls. 

The longevity of retractable awnings is further enhanced by their ability to be withdrawn in adverse weather conditions, preventing potential damage. Their flexibility makes them popular for homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor spaces.

Pergolas

Pergolas are a solid and sturdy choice for consistent shade and shelter. Made from various materials like wood or aluminum, these fixtures are built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions. While they lack the adjustability of retractable awnings, they make up for it with their durability and maintenance-free nature. 

Their fixed structure can also add a unique architectural element to your home’s exterior, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. Pergolas are a great option for those seeking a long-lasting, reliable shade solution.

Factors to Consider when Choosing:

• Purpose: Is the awning primarily for shade, aesthetics, or both?
• Flexibility: Do you prefer the versatility of retractable awnings or the permanence of fixed ones?
• Durability: Consider the local weather and its impact on the longevity of the awning.
• Maintenance: Retractable awnings may require more upkeep compared to their permanent counterparts.
• Cost: Evaluate your budget, as prices can vary significantly between the two types.
• Aesthetics: Which style best fits your home’s exterior?

Conclusion

Your choice between pergolas and retractable awnings depends on your unique needs and preferences. Whether you seek flexibility, durability, or a blend of both, there’s a shade solution for you. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc, we provide top-quality awnings to meet your diverse needs. Contact us today, and let’s make your outdoor space both functional and beautiful.

Sectional Commercial Garage Doors: Types and When to Use Them

Selecting the right garage door for your business is a crucial decision. The correct choice ensures enhanced security, better energy efficiency, and overall improved business operations. The appropriate garage door also contributes to a professional appearance and supports the smooth workflow of daily operations.

Steel Sectional Doors

Steel sectional doors are a solid choice for their durability and strength. These doors are designed to withstand rigorous industrial use, making them ideal for warehouses, factories, and high-traffic loading areas. A high-grade steel door can offer years of worry-free operation.

Insulated Sectional Doors

Insulated sectional doors offer the benefit of energy efficiency, temperature control, and noise reduction. Ideal for businesses operating in areas with extreme weather conditions, these doors maintain indoor temperature, resulting in cost savings from reduced energy consumption.

Aluminum Full View Doors

Aluminum full-view doors provide a modern, sleek look with maximum visibility and light infiltration. These doors are best for businesses wanting to showcase their interior, such as showrooms and service stations. The rust-proof feature of aluminum adds to its longevity.

Sectional Glass Doors

Glass sectional doors offer the same benefits as aluminum full-view doors but with a touch of elegance. These are ideal for businesses that value aesthetics along with functionality, like boutique shops and upscale restaurants. They provide natural light and can create a welcoming entrance.

Roll-Up Service Doors

Roll-up service doors save on space while offering robust protection. Their compact design is perfect for businesses with space constraints. These doors provide easy accessibility and high security, making them suitable for retail stores and commercial parking lots.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sectional Commercial Garage Door

• Your business type and its unique needs
• The local climate and weather conditions
• Energy efficiency requirements
• Space constraints
• Desired aesthetic appeal
• Budget considerations
• The level of maintenance required

Conclusion

Choosing the right garage door for your business can significantly impact your operations. It’s more than just a purchase. It’s an investment in your business’s functionality and appeal. For quality and professional service, consider Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Our team can help you navigate these choices, ensuring you select the perfect door that suits your business’s needs and enhances its value. Don’t compromise on your business’s security and operation; let us guide you through the selection process.

Warranty and Maintenance: Understanding the Aftercare of Your New Garage Door

Investing in a new garage door can be a significant home improvement project that brings considerable benefits in terms of aesthetic appeal, convenience, security, and even energy efficiency. However, it’s critical to understand the post-purchase process, including the warranty and regular maintenance, to ensure your new garage door serves you well for years to come.

Understanding Your Garage Door Warranty

A warranty is essentially a guarantee by the manufacturer that your garage door will function as promised within a specified timeframe. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship that might occur during normal use. It is essential to understand the terms of your warranty, including its duration, what it covers, and any potential limitations. An effective warranty can potentially save you from incurring repair costs, highlighting its importance in your purchase decision.

The Pillars of Garage Door Maintenance

Beyond the warranty period, regular maintenance is vital to prolonging your garage door’s lifespan and maintaining its optimal operation. Here are five tips:

• Regular Inspection: Carry out a visual inspection of all the garage door parts periodically. Look out for signs of wear and tear, like rusting or fraying cables, loose or broken springs, and bent or misaligned tracks. Early detection of any problem can prevent costly repairs or replacements.
• Lubrication: Keeping the moving parts of your garage door well-lubricated reduces friction, ensuring smoother operation. Apply a high-quality, non-greasy garage door lubricant to rollers, hinges, and springs at least twice a year.
• Cleaning: Use a mild detergent to clean the exterior and interior of your door every few months to remove grime, dirt, and other contaminants. This not only enhances the door’s appearance but also prevents corrosion.
• Regular Professional Maintenance: Engage a professional garage door technician for an annual tune-up. They have the tools and knowledge to spot and fix issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
• Testing Safety Features: Modern garage doors come equipped with safety features like auto-reverse and motion detection. Regularly test these systems to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Remember, your garage door is not just an aesthetic element of your home; it’s also a functional feature that requires proper care. Following these tips, alongside leveraging the protection of your warranty, ensures your garage door continues to serve you effectively for years to come. For any queries or concerns about your garage door’s warranty or maintenance, the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. is here to help.

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.