The Pros & Cons Of Having A Manual Vs Automatic Garage Door

When it comes to the installation of garage doors, there are a couple of different options that you are able to choose from. The two main categories, however, are the first thing that you will need to take into consideration. Both manual and automatic garage doors have their benefits and drawbacks. Having a complete understanding of these factors makes it easier to determine what will work best for you. 

Manual Garage Doors

Manual garage doors are simple and easy, and they do not require a connection to a power source. They are also the more affordable option among the two categories, and the risk of being locked out of your own garage is lower compared to an automatic door. 

On the other hand, they do take more effort to open and close. There is no button that you can press to open the door without leaving your car first. 

Automatic Garage Doors

Convenience is one of the key factors that come with an automatic garage door. The opening system allows you to adjust the current position of the garage door by simply pressing a button on a remote. Automatic garage doors are ideal for people who live busy lives, as they can also be time-saving too. 

While there are many advantages of an automatic garage door, a remote failure can create quite a difficult situation. Whether you are inside or outside the garage, when the remote fails, it won’t communicate with the receiver. Automatic garage doors are also much more expensive compared to manual options. 

Conclusion

There are several factors to keep in mind when choosing between manual and automatic garage doors. Just as you pay attention to the garage entry door that comes from your home, you should also ensure the garage door itself provides your family with adequate protection. Choosing a reliable service provider like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors Inc can ensure you get a door that is an ideal fit for your building. 

References

https://garagemadesimple.com/garage-entry-door-to-house/

https://cambiatuascensor.com/the-advantages-of-automatic-garage-door-openers/

Essential Safety Tips for Garage Doors

Can you imagine having your 150-pound garage door come down on top of you? You probably can’t and it’s better you don’t. Let’s just put it on the list of things you don’t need to try to know they are a bad idea. 

While the likelihood of your garage door falling on top of you is slim, here are a few safety tips you can follow to bring the risk down to virtually zero.

Check the Sensors

Automatic garage doors have little infrared sensors on either side of the door that send a beam of light across the bottom of the garage door. If anything is breaking this beam, the door won’t close. However, if the sensors get misaligned, this safety feature won’t work. Check them once a month or so to ensure they are working properly.

Test the Reversal System

The reversal system is a big safety feature that is mandatory on all garage door systems. Sensors are used to detect if the door touches something on its way down. If it does, the door is supposed to immediately reverse and go back up. 

Check the system by placing an object on the ground short enough that it won’t break the sensor beam so the door will close. A 2×4 piece of wood works well for this. When the door touches the object, it should reverse direction. 

Listen to Your Door

Garage doors will often complain about their problems, you just have to be paying attention. Listen for unusual screeching, knocking, rattling, or squeaking sounds while your garage door is in operation.

Concerned About Your Garage Door?

If you have any reason to be concerned about your garage door, it doesn’t hurt to call the experts. The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. can help you make sure that your system is running properly and safely. 

After all, garage doors can be dangerous, but keeping them safe is a piece of cake. So why not prevent problems before they start?

Adding Value to Your Home with a Metal Awning

Are you looking for a home improvement project that makes your home more comfortable and adds value? Adding a metal awning is a great way to do it.

Check out just some of the reasons why here!

Add Aesthetic Appeal

An awning gives your home a welcoming look, which is great for curb appeal. And since metal awnings come in a wide variety of colors and styles, you can find something that will fit perfectly with your home’s aesthetic.

Increase Entertaining Space

Having a deck for backyard parties and barbecues is fantastic, but how often does the hot sun end up pushing your party indoors? There are some days of the year when it just isn’t comfortable to be outdoors.

That is, without some kind of cover! An awning over your outdoor space keeps the hot sun off so you can party every day of the year — and buyers love the idea of a more entertaining space!

Improve Energy Efficiency

Did you know that the hot rays of the sun beaming in through your windows are costing you money? Your air conditioning system has to work harder to cool your home because those sun rays are heating it up. 

An awning blocks the sun from entering your windows, helping to keep the interior cool. You’ll enjoy savings on your energy bill and anything that offers energy efficiency is very attractive to buyers and creates added value.

Snow Protection

The sun isn’t the only thing that metal awnings can offer protection from. Light yet strong, metal awnings can stand up to snowfall, protecting your decking from all that moisture. 

Plus, you can remove shoveling snow off your deck from your to-do list. You will appreciate this benefit just as much as a potential buyer.

Expert Awning Installation

Are you ready to benefit from the added value of a new metal awning? Both you and a potential future buyer will appreciate the benefits these simple constructions can offer. 

Interested in learning more? Contact us here at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc.!

Factors to Consider When Buying a Garage Door

It’s time for a new garage door. There are lots of options available, but which one is right for you? It can be helpful to narrow your search by determining what factors are most important to you when choosing a garage door.

Let’s look at the top factors to consider here.

Material

The material affects everything about your garage door including its function, how it looks, and even the price tag. Choose from relatively inexpensive steel, corrosion-resistant aluminum, or the classic look of wooden doors. 

Aesthetics

No matter how you look at it, your garage door takes up a lot of space on your home’s facade. Thus, it has a huge impact on the overall look of your home. But thankfully, you can choose from hundreds of colors, styles, and glass designs to get a door that not only complements but augments the look of your home. 

Door Noise

Garage doors can be quite noisy as they roll up and down. If you have an attached garage, this racket can be a bit of a pain. Imagine having just got the baby down for a nap, only to have your spouse come home and wake them with the garage door opener!

A door with polyurethane insulation and nylon rollers can help cut down on the noise. 

Price

While the price of your new garage door shouldn’t be the principal concern, it always is a major factor. 

Decide on what type of door will best fit your needs and then try to find something in your price range. If you have to compromise on one of your factors, choose carefully. Not getting the garage door you need because of the price can end up being more expensive in the long run.

Ready to Buy a New Garage Door?

Of course, a great way to make sure you get the best door for your needs is to chat with the experts. Our team here at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. is ready to help you choose the perfect garage door for your home!

The Benefits of Installing an Insulated Garage Door

Your garage door doesn’t just keep your home secure. As part of your building’s exterior envelope, it’s the front line in your fight against the weather. Here’s why it might make sense to fortify your defenses by upgrading to an insulated garage door. 

You Can Capitalize on Energy Savings

Installing an insulated garage door has an obvious benefit: The more insulation your door has, the better it stops heat transfer. In other words, you’ll lose less warmth to the exterior in winter and absorb less heat from outside when you’re trying to stay cool in summer.

These benefits don’t just impact your garage itself. Remember: Garages may seem like independent spaces, but they still connect to the rest of a building’s interior. Keeping your space temperate lets you spend less on climate control throughout your entire home or business. Upgrading can also boost your property’s value ahead of a future sale.

You Might Spend Less on Maintenance

Insulated doors tend to absorb far less heat. After your installation, your door will stop feeling like a frying pan every time you get near it on a sunny day. Nearby components, such as the springs, cables, tracks, and motors that let your garage door function properly, will also absorb less heat.

Over time, this can result in less temperature-induced expansion and contraction. In other words, it helps you minimize wear and tear. Although you’ll still need regular maintenance from a reputable provider, you may reduce your upkeep bills in the long run.

You’ll Protect Your Possessions

One of the coolest unanticipated benefits of insulated doors is that they make it easier to keep your possessions safe. Many property owners use their garages as catch-all storage spaces. Whether you’re keeping tools, summer vacation gear, memorabilia, or your favorite snacks in your garage, an insulated door is the best choice. 

Ready to change how you think about property ownership with an insulated garage door? Chat with an expert at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. to get started.

Top 3 Benefits of Aluminum Awnings During the Winter

There are many benefits to aluminum awnings during the summer months. Have you ever wondered how an awning can help during the winter? Let’s discuss the top three reasons why you will be glad to have aluminum awnings on your home this winter.

Benefit #1: Aluminum Awnings Prevent Snow and Ice Buildup 

Winter snow and rain often fall during the day when the temperatures are slightly above freezing. Then, as night falls and temperature drops, this moisture can quickly form an invisible sheet of dangerous ice creating hazardous conditions, as well as a slip-and-fall liability. Aluminum awnings can shield your windows, stairs, and walkways from the snow and rainfall, preventing the buildup of ice around windows and in high traffic walking areas.

Benefit #2: Reduce Energy Bills with Aluminum Awnings 

During cold winter weather, savings on energy bills is often a consideration when making decisions about exterior or interior home improvement. There are many different ways to keep your home cozy and save on energy costs, and aluminum awnings can help. The design of the aluminum awning can prevent heat from escaping from your windows, as well as shield windows from icy blasts of wind. 

Benefit #3: The Durability of Aluminum Awnings  

Awnings are often installed with the objective of keeping the home cooler in the warmer months by shading your windows, patio, or entryways from direct sunlight. While retractable fabric awnings are very efficient at shading these areas during the summer, aluminum awnings are durable and long lasting, providing you with protection from the elements like rain and snow. Aluminum awnings also require little to no maintenance to stay looking great for decades.

Aluminum awnings are great for covering your porch, patio, deck, windows, or doors. Rust-free aluminum never rots, stretches, or rips. Additionally, there are many different colors and designs available to compliment the color and style of your home. Add to your curb appeal and reduce your energy bills year round with fixed aluminum awnings from Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Call us today at 724-443-1437 to learn more.

Protecting Your Garage Door Springs This Winter

The freezing temperatures that can come along with winter are hard on your garage door springs. Find out how you can minimize the effects of cold on garage door springs in the winter time. 

Cold Weather and Your Garage Door Springs 

Cold winters often bring snowball fights, sledding, and cozy evenings at home. Unfortunately for a garage door, the low temperatures can cause issues with your garage door springs. The springs on a garage door maintain the doors balance, as well as offset the weight of the door itself. This allows the door to be raised with minimal effort and lowered gently to prevent damage. The main problem during the cold weather is that garage door springs become more brittle when they are very cold, leaving them vulnerable. Fortunately there are several ways to reduce the cold weather’s effect on your garage door springs.  

Rest the Garage Door Springs on Warmer Days 

Garage door springs are under the most tension when your garage door is closed. This means that during cold weather months, the springs are likely to be under tension almost 24 hours per day. If you happen to have some unseasonably warm days, consider leaving your garage door open for a couple of hours each day to allow the springs to rest. 

Proper Garage Door Maintenance 

There are several factors that can prevent the failure of a garage door spring including preventing rust, proper spring lubrication, and regular door maintenance. Repair leaks in your garage, and check your system regularly for rust damage. Garage door springs should also be properly lubricated up to 3 times per year. Professional garage door service is recommended at least annually. A qualified garage door technician will inspect and lubricate your garage door system thoroughly to ensure that everything is in peak condition.  

Keeping You Garage Door Springs Warmer

During the coldest days of the year, you can protect your garage door springs by keeping your garage warmer than the outside. The best way to do this is proper insulation, particularly on your garage door. Well insulated garage doors and walls will help maintain a reasonable temperature inside the garage and protect your garage door springs as well.   

If you are interested in more information about service for your garage door springs, call the professionals at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. at 724-443-1437. 

Ideas for Decorating Your Garage for the Holidays

The holiday season is in full swing! There is no better time than now to put up your Christmas decorations and start sprucing up your home for the holidays. At the same time, don’t limit yourself to just decorating inside your home with Christmas decorations. Take the time to decorate your garage door in a way that will make you want to jump with joy. With a few inexpensive supplies and a little imagination, anyone can turn their garage door into a fantastic postcard with a holiday theme. Here are some exciting garage door decorating ideas, perfect for making your garage door the talk of the town.

Projections For The Holidays

The market is full of affordable holiday projectors online and in-store, perfect for entertaining your entire neighborhood. Consider investing in a projector if you want to display elaborate holiday-inspired scenes or special effects on your garage door. 

A Giant Gift Box

Make your garage door a gift that keeps on giving. Turn up the festive charm by embellishing it with a grand ribbon and giant red bows. To create a giant curtain for your garage door, you can cut colorful strips from sheets, and adorn it with felt balls, plush fabric, or huge ribbons. 

Lighting and Garlands
For a classic and elegant holiday look, decorate your garage with Christmas decorations, lights, and garlands. For a wintery glow, add sparkling snowflake lights, alternating with red and green lights. Your home exterior will be adorned with holiday warmth without being overbearing.

Christmas Winter Mural

If you’re looking for ways to make your garage look cheery and festive, the winter months are a great time to get creative. This holiday season, consider painting a mural on your garage door if you want to take your decorations to the next level. Grab some exterior paint and primer and create your very own wintery masterpiece. 

Now anyone can transform their boring garage door into a vibrant holiday delight with these effortless garage door decorating ideas. Whether you need a residential or commercial garage door, look no further than Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. Get in touch with us at 724-443-1437. 

Do Awnings Help Cut Down Energy Costs in Winter?

The cost of heating and cooling your home can add up over time. However, reducing energy usage and energy costs can make a big impact in the long run. A home’s carbon footprint can be significantly reduced by finding energy-efficient ways to heat and cool it. An efficient method of lowering energy costs is by installing window coverings or awnings. Awnings are not just good for summer savings, they can also help save money on energy during winter.

What are aluminum awnings?
Aluminum awnings or overhangs provide a secondary covering mounted to your home’s exterior wall. They’re smart solutions that offer sturdy protection from rain, snow, and sunlight, and they come in a variety of styles and colors. 

Benefits of aluminum awnings
1. Awnings result in a significant reduction in energy and utility bills during winter.
2. They deliver comfort and safety by providing all-weather protection.
3. Throughout different seasons, awnings are secure, dependable, and durable.
4. They shield exterior walls, paint, windows, and doors from harsh weather conditions.
5. They enhance and expand your outdoor living space for fun and relaxation.

Can aluminum awnings reduce energy costs in winter?
Yes, adding aluminum awnings to your house will improve its energy efficiency in winter as well as summer. Aluminum awnings can be used year-round due to their ability to endure wind, hail, and snowfall. By trapping heat around the windows, they can help to keep the area around the windows warmer. During the warmer months, your awning will not only keep the sun out of your home, but it can also reduce the amount of heat that enters your house – allowing your air conditioner to run at a lower setting.

Aluminum awnings or Fabric awnings. Which is better?
Aluminum awnings are weather-resistant, easy to maintain, and reduce energy bills drastically during winter. They provide protection against rain, snow, and wind, and they are capable of preserving heat inside your home as well. Because aluminum awnings are durable, they require little maintenance. It’s unlikely that they will need repairs or patching as often as fabric awnings during severe weather conditions. Luckily, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. is your one-stop shop for garage doors and awnings installation. Call us at 724 443 1437 to know more about our services. 

Preparing Your Awning for Winter Weather

Ice, snow, and the major fluctuations in temperature that come along with a cold winter could present some concerns for your awning. Here is what you need to know to protect your awning from these conditions. 

Inspect your awning for damage, and make needed repairs. 

While the weather is still nice, it is a good idea to inspect your awning to locate any possible damage from spring, summer, and fall use. Look carefully at seams for loose thread or missing stitches. Be sure to note any fabric tears or weak spots. It is much more economical to have minor repairs taken care of than it is to replace an awning when a small tear spreads. 

Keep your awning clean. 

In regions with very cold winters, the falling leaves always precede the freezing temperatures. It is important to make sure that your awning is clean, and free of leaves and debris before jack frost arrives. A fabric awning can be cleaned with a hose to remove dust, pollen, and other particles brought in by the wind. If needed, a gentle scrub brush with mild dish soap can be used for a deeper clean. Be sure that the awning is completely dry to avoid mold and other moisture related problems. 

Store the awning in a protected location during the winter. 

While it is still clean and dry, it is best to retract the awning so that no snow or ice will build up on the surface. These conditions can make the awning brittle and harsh winter wind can create tearing. Moisture through the cold months can cause added damage to the awning. Once the awning is retracted, make sure that all the fabric is fully covered by the housing. Any exposed pieces of the awning would be exposed to the harsh conditions and could become weak points at a later time. Additionally, rolled or folded fabric can attract insects during cold months, so it is also a good idea to have the stored awning protected with a winter cover.

If you are interested in more information about retractable awnings, winterization, or awning accessories, call Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. at 724-443-1437. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help!