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The longevity of retractable awnings is further enhanced by their ability to be withdrawn in adverse weather conditions, preventing potential damage.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.

The Versatility of Storm Doors: Summer Uses Beyond Protection

Today, storm doors can do so much more than just protect your home from the elements. They offer a variety of uses that can be especially beneficial during the summer months. From ventilation to insulation to privacy and protection, storm doors provide versatility for homes of all sizes. Below, we’ll explore why you should consider installing storm doors and how they can benefit your home:

Ventilation

Storm doors can provide extra ventilation to your home. During the summer months, when temperatures tend to be higher, opening windows and doors can lead to drafts of cooler air circulating throughout your home. Storm doors act as a barrier between the outside and inside and provide you with an additional layer of protection while still allowing for air circulation.

Reduces Noise Pollution

Storm doors are made from durable three-layer materials for maximum security. As such, their thickness also provides insulation to block out any noise from outside sources. Installing storm doors can help reduce the amount of outdoor noise your family is exposed to, which is especially beneficial if you live in a noisy neighborhood or near a busy street.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Most storm doors are designed with energy-efficient features such as double-paned glass and insulated frames. This can help reduce your energy bills by providing an additional layer of thermal insulation between your home and the outside environment. Storm doors also come with weather stripping that can further improve their ability to keep heat in during winter months while keeping cool air in during summer.

Offers Protection Against Bad Weather

As their name implies, storm doors are designed to offer protection against inclement weather. In addition to providing a physical barrier between your home and the elements, many storm doors come with adjustable roll-down shutters that can be used when bad weather is imminent. This can provide added security and peace of mind during severe storms or hurricanes.

Gives You Privacy And Security

Storm doors can also help provide you with privacy and security. Most models feature a solid core construction, so it’s difficult to see through them from the outside. Some even come with interchangeable glass panels that allow you to control the level of visibility depending on your needs.

You can choose between clear glass for maximum visibility or tinted or frosted glass for added privacy. Many also come with locks and deadbolts, so you can keep intruders out.

Install the Perfect Storm Door for your Home Today- CTA

If you’re looking for a way to increase the safety, security, and energy efficiency of your home while also providing protection from extreme weather conditions, investing in a storm door is an excellent choice. With so many options available on the market today, it’s easy to find the perfect one for your home. 

Contact us now at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc., to get started on finding the perfect storm door for your home. We’ll provide you with a free quote so you can make an informed decision. With our help, you can rest assured knowing that your family is safe and secure from the elements and intruders alike!

What to Expect During a Professional Residential Garage Door Installation

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

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

1. Pre-Installation Inspection

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

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

2. Preparation for the Installation

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

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

3. Door Removal and Disposal

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

4. Installation of the New Garage Door

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

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

5. Final Tests and Cleanup

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

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

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

Hire Us Today for Garage Door Installation CTA

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

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

The Pros and Cons of Windowed Garage Doors in the Summer

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

Pros

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

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

Cons

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

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

Choose the Right Garage Door for Your Business

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

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

The Role of Commercial Cold Storage Doors in Food Safety and Compliance

Food safety is a crucial aspect of the food industry. Food-borne illnesses can have severe consequences, including legal actions and loss of customers. One of the essential components of food safety is maintaining the optimal temperature of food products. For this reason, commercial cold storage doors are a vital tool in the food industry. In this article, we will discuss the role of commercial cold storage doors in food safety and compliance.

What Are Commercial Cold Storage Doors?

Commercial cold storage doors are specialized doors designed to maintain the temperature of refrigerated or frozen rooms. They are used in a variety of industries to store perishable food items like seafood, meat, and dairy products. These doors regulate the temperature and prevent heat transfer from one room to another.

The Importance of Commercial Cold Storage Doors in Food Safety

The primary goal of commercial cold storage doors is to maintain the optimal temperature of refrigerated or frozen rooms. Optimal temperature control ensures the freshness and quality of perishable foods. Without effective temperature control, bacteria can develop and grow, leading to food spoilage and food-borne illnesses.

In addition, commercial cold storage doors help comply with the United States Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) regulations, which are designed to ensure the safety of the food supply.

Types of Commercial Cold Storage Doors

There are various types of commercial cold storage doors available in the market to meet different needs. You can choose overhead-acting doors, which are ideal for high-traffic areas, or side-sliding doors for smaller spaces. These doors can also be customized to have maximized insulation, high-speed functions, or a combination of both. The idea is to reduce heat transfer and ensure optimal temperature regulation.

Get the Ideal Commercial Cold Storage Doors for You

Commercial cold storage doors play a crucial role in ensuring food safety and compliance with regulatory standards. They protect perishable food items from bacteria growth and prevent heat transfer between rooms, ensuring optimal temperature control. With different types available in the market, there is a solution for every cold storage need. By investing in the right commercial cold storage door, companies in the food industry can ensure their products are safe, compliant, and fresh for consumption.

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc., we offer a wide range of high-quality cold storage doors designed to meet the demands of the food industry. Contact us today for more information.

The Impact of Summer Weather on Your Garage Door Springs

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

Hot Weather Can Cause Garage Door Springs to Expand

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

High Humidity Can Cause Rust on Garage Door Springs

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

Summer Storms Can Cause Garage Door Springs to Weaken

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

Keep Your Garage in Good Shape at All Times

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

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

How to Prevent Damage to Trucks and Trailers with Dock Bumpers

As any seasoned truck driver knows, navigating tight loading docks can be tricky. Not only is it challenging to maneuver large vehicles in tight spaces, but constant bumping and scraping against the dock can cause serious damage to trucks and trailers. That’s where dock bumpers come in.

Dock bumpers are designed to act as a buffer between the loading dock and the truck or trailer. Below, we explain what dock bumpers are and why they are important for protecting your trucks and trailers.

What Are Dock Bumpers?

Dock bumpers are safety devices installed on a loading dock to prevent damage to trucks and trailers during the loading and unloading process. They are usually made of durable materials such as rubber or plastic and are designed to absorb the impact of a truck or trailer hitting the dock.

The Benefits Of Using Dock Bumpers

Dock bumpers are a must-have if your business needs to back its trucks or trailers up against a loading dock regularly. The bumpers reduce wear and tear on both the docks and vehicles by absorbing the shock of contact. This means less time and money spent repairing or replacing damaged docks or vehicles due to collisions between them.

Dock bumpers can also protect the opening of the loading dock from debris and weather elements. Elements such as rain can damage the structure of the loading dock if it’s not properly sealed. Dock bumpers provide a seal around the edges of the opening, which reduces any damage from these elements.

Coupled with proper loading dock signage, dock bumpers ensure safety during operations. Accidents can occur when trucks and trailers make contact with the dock while loading or unloading. Dock bumpers prevent this by providing a buffer between the two surfaces.

Dock bumpers also have anti-skid properties, which keep the truck and trailer in place while backing up. This helps reduce the risk of accidents due to slips and slides during loading and off loading.

Protect Your Trucks and Trailers With Dock Bumpers

If your loading dock doesn’t have bumpers, it’s time to invest in them to stop putting your trucks and trailers at risk of damage. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc., we provide dock bumpers to ensure the safety of your trucks, trailers, and loading docks.

We can customize the bumpers to suit your truck types, dock heights, and other factors. Contact us today to learn more about our loading dock equipment.