Preparing Your Garage Door for Las Vegas’s Spring Wind and Dust Storms
Las Vegas may be known for its sunny skies and dazzling nightlife, but come springtime, wind and dust storms can sweep through the valley, leaving homeowners scrambling to protect their properties. One of the most vulnerable points in a home during these storms is the garage door. Properly preparing and maintaining your garage door can save you from costly damage and keep your garage clean. Here’s how to get started:
Smart Garage Door Openers: Is It Worth the Investment in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is no stranger to all things sleek and innovative. From high-tech shows on the Strip to households embracing smart home devices, the city is often at the forefront of convenience-driven technology. One increasingly popular home upgrade is the smart garage door opener. But is it truly worth the investment in a desert climate like ours? Let’s find out. What Makes a Garage Door Opener “Smart”? In essence, a smart garage door opener connects to your home’s Wi-Fi and syncs with an app on your phone, tablet, or computer. This means you can open or close the garage from anywhere—be it your office in Summerlin or a cafe in Henderson. You’ll also receive notifications if the door is left open or whenever it’s used. Many models allow voice commands through platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, meaning you could simply say, “Alexa, open the garage,” without ever leaving your couch. The Security Advantage Las Vegas is a busy place, with a steady stream of visitors, new residents, and bustling neighborhoods. While this vibrancy is part of the city’s charm, it can also mean more concerns about property safety. A smart opener gives you real-time alerts each time your garage door opens. If someone attempts a break-in or if you’ve simply forgotten to close the door, you’ll know immediately and can secure it with a quick tap on your phone. Traditional openers can be easy to forget about after you pull into your driveway, and that small oversight can leave you vulnerable to theft. Staying Cool in the Desert Heat Summer temperatures in Las Vegas can soar well above 100 degrees, turning your garage into a veritable sauna if you’re not careful. Having a smart garage door opener means you can keep the garage closed up tight during the hottest parts of the day, and still pop it open remotely for deliveries or if a contractor needs access to your home. Some smart openers even integrate with thermostats and other home devices, so you can maintain a more efficient cooling strategy. This can translate into lower utility bills, which is always a plus in Southern Nevada’s climate. Convenience Beyond Compare How many times have you driven away from home and wondered, “Did I remember to close the garage door?” It’s a common worry—one that used to mean a U-turn back to the house. With a smart opener, you just check an app. If it’s open, you tap a button and watch via live feed (on certain models) as the door closes. This convenience also extends to those moments when friends or family members need to borrow something from your garage. Instead of handing out extra keys or garage remotes, you can open the door from wherever you are and close it the moment they’re done. Considering Cost and Value It’s natural to question whether the benefits justify the price. A mid-range smart garage door opener might cost a few hundred dollars more than a basic model, and professional installation can add to the overall expense. Yet, many homeowners in Las Vegas see it as a worthwhile investment. The peace of mind alone—knowing your home is more secure—can be a major selling point. Additionally, smart features often add value if you decide to sell your home down the line. Buyers are drawn to modern conveniences, and a smart opener is a tangible upgrade that can help your property stand out. What If It’s Not for You? Not every household will make full use of these features. If you rarely use your garage, prefer minimal technology in your home, or simply don’t want one more device connected to Wi-Fi, a traditional opener might still meet your needs. Also, if your garage is far from your home’s router, you may face connectivity issues unless you invest in a Wi-Fi extender. It’s important to weigh these considerations before making the jump. Making the Decision For many Las Vegas homeowners, a smart garage door opener is more than just a tech gadget—it’s a practical solution that makes day-to-day life easier and more secure. The convenience factor is a big draw, as is the added peace of mind in a busy, growing city. If you’re intrigued, consider reaching out to our specialist at Precision Garage Door to discuss which models work best with your home’s configuration and Wi-Fi setup. They can provide advice on everything from power requirements to additional accessories, ensuring that your upgrade is smooth from start to finish. Final Thoughts In a city as progressive as Las Vegas, it’s no surprise that high-tech home improvements are catching on quickly. A smart garage door opener can help keep your home secure, streamline your daily routines, and even save on energy costs by better managing your garage’s environment. Whether you see it as a must-have upgrade or a “maybe later” option, it’s certainly something to consider as you look for ways to enhance and modernize your living space. If you’re ready to explore the world of smart garage door openers—or if you just have more questions about installation—don’t hesitate to contact us. With the right guidance, you’ll be able to decide if a smart garage door opener is a perfect fit for your Las Vegas lifestyle. Interested in learning more about smart garage door openers or scheduling an installation? Get in touch with our team to discover the latest models and find the ideal solution for your home. Let us help you enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that come with modern garage door technology in Las Vegas.
Show Your Garage Door Some Love This Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and while flowers and chocolate might top your gift list for family or friends, don’t forget a key part of your home that works hard all year round—your garage door! Show it a little extra love this February with a few simple steps that keep it looking great and working smoothly.
How Falling Temperatures Affect Your Garage Door: What to Watch Out For
As the temperature begins to drop in the fall, your garage door may start to show signs of strain. Colder weather can have a surprising impact on the performance of your garage door, from slower operation to outright malfunctions. To help you avoid inconvenient breakdowns, here’s a look at how falling temperatures affect your garage door and what you can do to keep it running smoothly throughout the season. 1. Metal Contracts in Cold Weather When temperatures drop, metal parts in your garage door system—like springs, tracks, and cables—tend to contract. This natural process can lead to a range of issues, from stiff movements to more serious problems if parts are already worn out. What to Watch Out For: Stiff Movement: If you notice that your garage door is opening or closing more slowly than usual, it could be due to contracted metal parts. This extra resistance can put strain on your garage door opener. Spring Breakage: Cold weather can put extra stress on the springs that help lift your garage door. If your springs are already worn, the contraction caused by the cold can lead to sudden breakage, leaving your door inoperable. How to Prevent It: Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks, rollers, and springs to keep everything moving smoothly. Avoid using grease, as it can harden in cold temperatures. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Having your garage door inspected in the fall can help identify worn or damaged parts before they fail in the colder months. 2. Garage Door Opener Struggles In colder weather, garage door openers can experience added strain. The contraction of metal parts, combined with the viscosity of thicker lubricants, can make it harder for the opener to lift and lower the door smoothly. If your opener is already aging or under strain, cold temperatures can worsen its performance. What to Watch Out For: Slow Opening or Closing: If your garage door opener is struggling to lift the door, or if it hesitates or jerks when closing, it could be a sign that the opener is being strained by colder weather. Increased Noise: A garage door opener that makes loud grinding or squeaking noises could be signaling that it’s struggling with the extra effort of moving the door in cold weather. How to Prevent It: Inspect and Lubricate the Opener’s Chain or Belt: Lubricating the chain or belt of your garage door opener can help reduce friction and make it easier for the opener to lift the door. Check the Opener’s Settings: Some garage door openers allow you to adjust the force settings. In colder months, you may need to increase the force slightly to help the door move smoothly. 3. Weatherstripping Becomes Brittle The weatherstripping along the bottom and sides of your garage door is essential for keeping out drafts, moisture, and debris. However, cold temperatures can cause weatherstripping to become brittle and crack, reducing its effectiveness. What to Watch Out For: Cracks or Gaps: Inspect the weatherstripping around your garage door. If you notice any cracks, gaps, or signs of wear, it’s time to replace it. Drafts and Moisture: If you feel drafts or notice water seeping into your garage, the weatherstripping may no longer be providing an adequate seal. How to Prevent It: Replace Worn Weatherstripping: Replacing damaged weatherstripping is a simple DIY project that can help prevent cold air and moisture from entering your garage, protecting both your door and your belongings. Opt for Heavy-Duty Weatherstripping: When replacing old weatherstripping, choose a high-quality, heavy-duty option designed to withstand cold temperatures. 4. Frozen Garage Doors When temperatures drop below freezing, your garage door can freeze shut—especially if there’s snow or ice buildup around the door. This can be frustrating if you need to get in or out of the garage, and trying to force the door open can cause damage to the door or opener. What to Watch Out For: Ice Around the Bottom Seal: Snow or water that collects around the bottom of the garage door can freeze, creating a seal of ice that prevents the door from opening. Door Stuck to the Ground: If your garage door feels like it’s stuck when you try to open it, avoid forcing it. The ice may be preventing it from moving. How to Prevent It: Keep the Area Clear of Snow and Ice: Shovel snow away from the bottom of the door, and clear any ice buildup before trying to open the door. Applying a small amount of de-icer around the base of the door can help prevent freezing. Insulate the Garage: By insulating your garage or upgrading to an insulated door, you can help maintain a more stable temperature inside, reducing the likelihood of the door freezing shut. 5. Sensor Malfunctions Garage door sensors are essential for safe operation, but they can malfunction during the colder months if they’re blocked by frost or debris. Dirty or misaligned sensors can prevent your garage door from closing properly, leaving your home vulnerable to security issues. What to Watch Out For: Garage Door Reverses: If your garage door starts to close but then immediately reverses, it’s likely an issue with the sensors. Obstruction Warnings: Some automatic garage doors will signal an obstruction even if nothing is in the door’s path, indicating the sensors may be dirty or misaligned. How to Prevent It: Keep Sensors Clean and Clear: Regularly wipe down the sensors with a soft cloth to remove any dirt, frost, or debris that may be blocking the beam. Check Alignment: Ensure the sensors are properly aligned. Even a slight misalignment can cause the door to malfunction. If needed, adjust the sensors carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Conclusion: Prepare Your Garage Door for Fall and Winter Falling temperatures can bring several challenges for your garage door, from stiffened parts to frozen seals. By staying proactive and performing regular maintenance, you can prevent these cold-weather issues and keep your garage door running smoothly all season long. Need help winterizing your garage door? Precision
Common Garage Door Problems
Common Garage Door Problems Introduction: Understanding the Importance of a Well-Functioning Garage Door A well-functioning garage door is essential for any homeowner who needs to protect their property and ensure their safety. Here are some reasons why a well-functioning garage door is important: Security: A properly functioning garage door helps to keep your home and belongings safe from intruders. A malfunctioning garage door can be an open invitation to burglars. Convenience: A garage door that works well is convenient for homeowners who use it regularly. It can be frustrating to have to manually open and close a garage door that is not functioning properly. Energy efficiency: A garage door that is not sealed correctly can lead to energy loss, resulting in higher energy bills. A well-functioning garage door can help to keep your home’s temperature regulated and reduce energy costs. Property value: A well-maintained garage door can add value to your property. It is a small investment that can pay off in the long run if you ever decide to sell your home. Overall, a well-functioning garage door is an important part of any home that should not be overlooked. Regular maintenance and repairs can help to ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and efficiently for years to come. 1. Noisy Garage Door A noisy garage door is not only annoying but can also be a sign of a bigger problem. Here are some possible causes of a noisy garage door: Worn out rollers: Over time, the rollers that help the garage door move up and down can wear out, causing noise as they move along the tracks. Loose hardware: Garage door hardware can come loose and rattle around, causing noise and potentially damaging other parts. Lack of lubrication: Proper lubrication of the moving parts of a garage door is essential to keep it running smoothly and quietly. Misaligned tracks: If the tracks that guide the garage door are not properly aligned, the door can rub against them and make noise. If you have a noisy garage door, it’s important to address the issue sooner rather than later to prevent more serious problems from developing. Consider calling a professional garage door technician to diagnose and fix the issue. 2. Garage Door Won’t Open or Close Properly If your garage door is not opening or closing properly, it can be a frustrating experience. Here are some possible causes and solutions to this common issue: Check the tracks: Make sure the tracks are free from debris or any objects that may be obstructing the path of the door. Clean them thoroughly and make sure they are properly aligned. Check the springs: If your garage door uses extension or torsion springs, check to see if they are in good condition. If they are broken or worn out, they will need to be replaced. Check the opener: If your garage door opener is not functioning properly, it could be due to a faulty or misaligned sensor, a broken chain or belt, or a malfunctioning motor. Check the opener and its components carefully to determine the cause of the problem. Call a professional: If you are unable to identify the problem or if you are uncomfortable working with garage door components, it may be best to call a professional. A trained technician can diagnose the issue and provide a safe and effective solution.
Understanding the Importance of Your Garage Door Opener
Understanding the Importance of Your Garage Door Opener Introduction: The Role of a Garage Door Opener in Your Everyday Life A garage door opener plays a critical role in your everyday life by providing convenience, safety, and security. It is a device that is designed to open and close your garage door automatically, making it easier for you to go in and out of your garage without having to manually lift the heavy door. Here are some ways in which a garage door opener can make your life easier: Convenience: With a garage door opener, you don’t have to get out of your car to open or close the garage door. This is especially helpful during bad weather conditions or if you’re in a hurry. Safety: A garage door opener comes with safety features such as sensors that detect objects in the way and automatically stop the door from closing. This prevents accidents and keeps you and your family safe. Security: A garage door opener provides an added layer of security by allowing you to close your garage door with just a push of a button. This prevents unauthorized access to your home and protects your belongings inside the garage. Overall, a garage door opener is an essential device that can save you time, improve your safety, and provide peace of mind. The Importance of Security and Safety Features in Your Garage Door Opener Your garage door opener is an essential part of your home security system. It not only helps you gain access to your garage but also keeps your home safe from intruders. Here are some reasons why security and safety features in your garage door opener are important: Protection from intruders: A garage door opener with security features such as rolling code technology or a keypad entry system can help protect your garage from intruders. These features make it more difficult for someone to gain access to your garage without your permission. Safety for your family: Garage door openers with safety features such as infrared sensors or auto-reverse mechanisms can prevent accidents and injuries. These features ensure that the door will stop or reverse if something is detected in its path. Peace of mind: Knowing that your garage door opener has security and safety features can give you peace of mind when you’re away from home. You can be confident that your garage and your family are protected. Investing in a garage door opener with security and safety features is a smart choice for any homeowner. It can help prevent break-ins, keep your family safe, and give you peace of mind. Increase the Value and Curb Appeal of Your Home with an Upgraded Garage Door Opener One of the biggest factors in determining the value of a home is its curb appeal. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior can significantly increase the perceived value of a property. One often overlooked aspect of your home’s curb appeal is your garage door. Upgrading your garage door opener is a quick and easy way to improve the look of your home’s exterior while also adding value. Here are some additional benefits of upgrading your garage door opener: Improved Security: A newer garage door opener can provide better security features, including the ability to remotely monitor and control access to your garage. Convenience: Many modern garage door openers come with smartphone apps that allow you to open and close your garage door from anywhere, even when you’re not at home. Noise Reduction: Older garage door openers can be loud and disruptive, especially if you have a bedroom above the garage. Upgrading to a newer model can significantly reduce noise levels. Energy Efficiency: Newer garage door openers are often designed to be more energy-efficient, which can save you money on your utility bills over time. Overall, upgrading your garage door opener is a smart investment that can improve the look and value of your home while providing added security and convenience. The Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Benefits of Investing in a High-Quality Garage Door Opener Garage door openers have become a staple in many households, providing a convenient and efficient way to access your garage without having to manually open and close the door. Investing in a high-quality garage door opener can offer a range of long-term benefits and cost savings that make it a worthwhile investment in the long run. Some of the benefits of investing in a high-quality garage door opener include: Improved security: Many modern garage door openers come with advanced security features that can help keep your home and belongings safe from potential intruders. This includes features such as rolling code technology, which generates a new code each time you use the remote, making it much harder for someone to hack your system. Increased convenience: With a garage door opener, you can quickly and easily open and close your garage door without having to get out of your car. This can be especially helpful during inclement weather or when you’re carrying groceries or other heavy items. Cost savings: While the initial cost of a high-quality garage door opener may be higher than a lower-quality model, investing in a durable and reliable opener can save you money in the long run. A quality opener will require less maintenance and repairs over time, reducing your overall costs. Enhanced curb appeal: A sleek and modern garage door opener can add to the overall aesthetic of your home, enhancing its curb appeal and potentially increasing its resale value. Overall, investing in a high-quality garage door opener is a smart choice for any homeowner looking to improve their home’s security, convenience, and value. Conclusion: Recognizing the Significance of a Well-Functioning Garage Door Opener for Your Daily Life and Home Security A garage door opener is an essential part of your daily life, providing convenience and security to your home. It allows you to easily open and close your garage door with the push of a button, without having to manually lift the heavy
Does My Garage Door Need Servicing or Does It Need to be Replaced?
Does My Garage Door Need Servicing or Does It Need to be Replaced? Introduction: Understanding the Importance of Maintaining Your Garage Door A garage door is an essential part of your house and serves multiple purposes. Apart from providing a secure way to park your vehicle, it also safeguards your home and belongings from theft and weather conditions. Moreover, it adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of your house. Regularly maintaining your garage door is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal functionality. Neglecting to maintain it can lead to costly repairs or even replacement. The good news is that regular maintenance is simple and can be done by following some basic steps. Here are some reasons why maintaining your garage door is important: Safety: A properly maintained garage door ensures the safety of your family and pets. A malfunctioning garage door can cause accidents and injuries. Regular maintenance can prevent such incidents from occurring. Cost-effective: Regular maintenance can save you money in the long run. It can prevent costly repairs or replacement of parts. Energy efficiency: A well-maintained garage door can help regulate the temperature in your garage, which in turn can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Durability: Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door, saving you money on replacement costs. In conclusion, understanding the importance of maintaining your garage door is key to ensuring its optimal functionality, safety, and longevity. By following some basic maintenance steps, you can save yourself time, money, and potential safety hazards. Signs that Your Garage Door Needs Servicing If you own a garage door, it is important to keep it in good working order. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent costly repairs down the line. Here are some signs that your garage door may need servicing: Slow or uneven operation: If your garage door is slow to open or close, or if it operates unevenly, it may be a sign that the door is out of balance or that there is an issue with the spring tension. Excessive noise: If your garage door is making more noise than usual, it may be a sign that there is an issue with the garage door opener or with the door itself. Sagging or damaged panels: If you notice that your garage door panels are sagging or damaged, this can be a sign that the door is not functioning properly and may need servicing. Lack of response to remote: If your garage door does not respond to the remote control or keypad, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning opener or a problem with the wiring. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a professional garage door technician to assess and repair the problem. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place, so be sure to schedule annual inspections and tune-ups to keep your garage door in good working order. Common Garage Door Problems that Require Repair Garage doors are an essential part of any home, providing security, convenience, and protection for your vehicles and other possessions stored in your garage. However, like any mechanical device, garage doors can experience problems that require repair. Here are some common garage door problems that you may encounter: The door won’t open or close: This is the most common problem with garage doors and can be caused by a range of issues, including broken springs, damaged cables, damaged tracks or rollers, or a malfunctioning opener. A professional garage door technician can diagnose and fix the problem. The door makes loud noises: If your garage door is making loud grinding or scraping noises when it opens or closes, it may be due to worn-out rollers or hinges. These components can be replaced easily by a technician. The door opens or closes unevenly: If one side of your garage door opens or closes faster than the other, it may be due to a broken spring or cable. This can cause your garage door to become unbalanced and potentially damage the door or opener. The door won’t stay open: If your garage door won’t stay open, it may be due to a malfunctioning safety sensor. The sensor detects objects in the door’s path and stops the door from closing if it detects an obstruction. If the sensor is malfunctioning, the door may not stay open. If you experience any of these problems with your garage door, it’s important to contact a professional garage door technician for repair. Attempting to repair a garage door yourself can be dangerous and result in further damage or injury. Factors to Consider When Deciding between Servicing and Replacement When it comes to deciding between servicing and replacement, there are several factors to consider. These factors can help you make an informed decision that will ensure your equipment or appliance continues to function optimally. Here are some of the key factors to consider: Age: The age of the equipment or appliance is an important factor to consider. If it is relatively new, servicing it may be a better option. However, if it is old and has been repaired multiple times, replacement may be a more cost-effective solution. Cost: The cost of servicing versus replacement is another critical factor to consider. In some cases, the cost of repairing an item may be more than the cost of purchasing a new one. However, it is important to weigh the long-term costs of replacement versus servicing. Condition: The current condition of the equipment or appliance is also important. If it has significant wear and tear, replacement may be the better option. However, if it is in good condition and only needs minor repairs, servicing may be the way to go. Efficiency: The efficiency of the equipment or appliance is crucial. If it is not functioning efficiently, it may be costing you more money in the long run. In this case, replacement may be the better option. By considering these factors, you
What Happens When I Neglect My Garage Door? Understanding the Consequences and Risks
What Happens When I Neglect My Garage Door? Understanding the Consequences and Risks Introduction: Importance of Regular Garage Door Maintenance Regular garage door maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of your home. Neglecting the maintenance of your garage door can lead to various issues such as malfunctioning, wear and tear, and even accidents. Keeping your garage door in good condition not only ensures that it functions properly but also enhances the curb appeal of your home. Here are some reasons why regular garage door maintenance is important: Safety: A garage door that is not functioning correctly can be a serious safety hazard. Regular maintenance can help identify and prevent potential safety issues such as broken springs, faulty sensors, and misaligned tracks. Cost-effective: Regular maintenance can help identify and fix small issues before they become bigger and more costly problems. It is much more cost-effective to replace a worn-out part than to replace the entire garage door. Extended lifespan: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door by preventing premature wear and tear on its components. This means you can save money by avoiding the need for a premature replacement. Convenience: A garage door that is well-maintained operates smoothly and quietly, making it convenient for you to access your garage and home without any hassle. In conclusion, regular garage door maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety, security, and convenience of your home. It is a small investment that can save you money and prevent potential accidents in the long run. 1. Decreased Functionality and Performance of Your Garage Door If you notice that your garage door is not functioning as it should, it may be a sign of decreased functionality and performance. This can be due to various reasons such as wear and tear, lack of maintenance, and even weather conditions. Here are some additional points to consider: A garage door that is struggling to open or close may have an issue with its springs or cables. Grinding or scraping noises when the door is in motion may indicate that the door needs lubrication or other repairs. A garage door that shakes or vibrates excessively may be due to loose or damaged hardware or misaligned tracks. It’s important to address any issues with your garage door promptly to avoid further damage and potential safety hazards. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. Remember, your garage door is an important part of your home’s security and convenience. Don’t hesitate to call a professional if you suspect that your garage door is not functioning correctly. 2. Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries with your Garage Door If you have a garage door that is not functioning properly, there is an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Here are some of the ways that garage door issues can lead to accidents: A malfunctioning garage door can fall suddenly, causing serious injuries to anyone underneath it. If the garage door opener is not working correctly, you may be tempted to open and close the door manually. This can be dangerous if the door is heavy or if it is difficult to open and close. If the garage door is not closing all the way, it can create a tripping hazard for anyone walking by. To reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, it is important to have your garage door inspected and maintained regularly. This can help identify any issues before they become serious and ensure that your garage door is functioning properly. Additionally, it is important to follow all safety guidelines when using your garage door, such as keeping children and pets away from the door while it is opening or closing. 3. Security Vulnerabilities and Break-ins of your Garage Door Garage doors are an essential part of a home, providing both security and convenience. However, they can also be a vulnerable point of entry for intruders if not properly secured. Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to the security of your garage door: Always keep your garage door closed and locked, even when you are at home. An open garage door can be an invitation for burglars to enter your home. Consider installing a security system that includes a garage door sensor. This will alert you if the garage door is opened unexpectedly, giving you time to react. Make sure the garage door opener is not visible from the outside of your home. This can be a tempting target for thieves who may try to break in and steal the opener, giving them access to your garage and potentially your home. Regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of damage or wear and tear. A damaged door can be easier to break into, so it’s important to address any issues quickly. If you have an older garage door opener, consider upgrading to a newer model that includes additional security features such as rolling code technology. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your garage and home are secure and protected from potential break-ins. 4. Higher Energy Costs and Poor Insulation of your Garage Door If you’re experiencing higher energy costs in your home, your garage door might be a contributing factor. Poor insulation in garage doors can result in heat loss during colder months and heat gain during warmer months, which can make your HVAC system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. In addition to higher energy costs, poor insulation can also lead to other issues such as: Moisture buildup inside the garage Warping or damage to garage door panels Reduced lifespan of the garage door To address these issues, you may want to consider upgrading your garage door with better insulation. This can not only improve energy efficiency and save you money, but it can also increase the overall value and curb appeal of your home. 5. Expensive Repairs and Premature Replacement Needs of your Garage
The Importance of Garage Door Weatherstripping
Your garage door is the most significant access point to your home, which means that if there is a faulty seal, your house is at risk of exposure to the elements and pests like rodents and insects. Sealing your garage door can save energy, reduce heating and cooling costs, protect your garage from water damage, and keep pests at bay. While garage doors come with weather seals, they wear out over time and need replacement. Weatherstripping your garage door ensures that nothing can get into your home. What is Garage Door Weatherstripping? Weatherstripping is a seal that improves energy efficiency and protects homes from air leaks around moving components like windows, doors, and garage doors. The weatherstrip on the bottom of the garage door creates an airtight seal against the garage floor, keeping the garage cool in summer and warm in winter and preventing water and pests from entering your home. Sealing Garage Door Benefits The benefits of garage door weather seals are numerous and extend from lowering your energy costs to protecting your home from damage: Offers Protection From Water and Flooding: Water damage can happen quickly, so weatherstripping your garage doors can protect your home and possessions from damage caused by rain and condensation. Decreases Energy Bills and Increases Insulation: Weatherstripping your garage doors prevents drafts from entering your home and makes it easier to heat or cool your garage when necessary, reducing energy bills. Keeps Insects and Rodents Out: Sealing your garage door ensures no pests can enter your home. Decreases Damage to Your Garage Door: Weatherstripping protects your garage door from structural damage and prolongs its lifespan. Do You Need a Professional to Seal Your Garage Door? Sealing garage doors with precise measurements and high-quality materials is crucial, as even a minor difference in the sizes can put your garage at risk of water damage, drafts, and vermin. Professionals can assess your garage door and create a comprehensive plan to seal it with the best materials for your garage. How Long Does Weatherstripping Last? Weatherstripping lasts an average of two years with normal wear and tear, but this depends on your location, climate, and weather conditions. Signs that indicate it is time to replace the weatherstripping include visible distortions, the seal no longer bouncing back into place, water entering your garage, and pieces of the weatherstripping breaking off. Contact Precision Overhead Garage Door Service to Seal Your Garage Doors If you notice your weatherstripping is not as effective as it once was, contact Precision Overhead Garage Door Service to apply new weatherstripping to your garage door. This will create a durable seal that can fend off anything that tries to enter your garage while lowering your energy usage.
Maintain a Smooth Operating Garage Door with Regular Chain Lubrication
As a homeowner, it’s no secret that you rely on your garage door opener to function whenever you need access to your garage. Unfortunately, issues can arise with this area of your home. To ensure a quiet and smooth transition from an open to a closed garage door, you should regularly lubricate your garage door chain. A garage door professional can take care of this task as part of a routine maintenance appointment, or you can do it yourself. This article explores the benefits of lubricating your garage door chain, how often this should be done, and the appropriate steps to follow. The Importance of Regular Garage Door Chain Lubrication To fully understand why it’s essential to lubricate your garage door chain regularly, let’s look at some of the benefits of this process. Smooth Transition from Open to Closed A garage door chain that requires lubrication can be very loud and experience some resistance, causing it to rattle during the transition from open to closed. Instead of tolerating a shaking and rattling garage door, you can lubricate the chain to maintain smooth movement. Prevent Chain Malfunction Have you ever pressed the button for your garage door to open or close, and nothing happened? A malfunctioning chain can be the cause, including a broken or jammed chain. A dry chain that requires lubrication is more likely to snap, making it necessary to call a professional to replace the chain. This is far more time-consuming and expensive than quick lubrication. Frequency of Garage Door Chain Lubrication Lubricate your garage door chain at least twice a year. The frequency may increase depending on how often you open and close your garage door. Living near the beach or in another harsh environment can put a lot of wear and tear on the chain because of exposure to different materials like sand and high humidity. Some homeowners lubricate their garage door chains every couple of months. Ideally, you want to keep up with this maintenance rather than wait for your garage door to sound noisy or rattle. Tips for Lubricating Your Garage Door Chain Avoid using an excessively greasy or oily product when lubricating your garage door chain. This type of product tends to attract a lot of dust and particulates to the chain, which can accumulate in all the cracks and crevices of the chain and make it more prone to breaking. If you apply too much product, you can wipe the excess off. Avoid spraying lubricant on other areas of your garage door, such as the rollers or garage door openers. Steps for Lubricating Your Garage Door Chain Here are the steps to follow when lubricating your garage door chain: Ensure your garage door is entirely closed, and unplug the door opener from its power outlet. When lubricating the chain, it’s essential to avoid having the door move. Use an old rag to remove dirt, residue, or grease from the garage door chain. You can also use a vacuum to remove any debris that has accumulated. Apply a product explicitly designed for lubricating a garage door chain. These products are generally silicone-based for longevity and durability. You can also use WD-40 in a pinch. Spray the top, bottom, and sides of your chain lightly. Plug your garage door opener back into the power outlet. Open and close your garage door a few times to evenly distribute the lubricant. You may need to repeat the process if the chain is shaky or loud. Other Related Maintenance Besides lubricating your garage door chain, other related maintenance tasks must be completed simultaneously. Inspect the Rollers A thorough inspection of your garage door rollers will determine whether a repair or replacement needs to be done. You want to ensure the roller doesn’t shift or wiggle when touching it. You can lubricate your rollers with lithium- or silicone-based grease for optimal protection. Inspect the Hinges Check your garage door hinges to make sure the attached hardware is secure. You also want to inspect for rust or signs of wear and tear. Hinges can be quickly replaced, if need be, which helps secure your garage door and protect its longevity. Hinges can also be lubricated if they are squeaking when in motion. Tighten Your Garage Door Chain Your garage door chain can have a little bit of a sag, but it shouldn’t come anywhere near your garage door. You also want to prevent the chain from being tightened too much, which increases the chance of the chain snapping. If you need to pull the chain, loosen the nut closest to the garage door. The chain should drop slightly. Loosening the inner nut at this point will allow you to tighten the chain using the outer nut. Make sure both are secure when you are finished. Listen for Odd Noises Aside from visually inspecting your garage door chain and lubricating it, there are other issues to listen for. The sound of your garage door chain hitting your garage door indicates that the chain needs to be tightened. A vibrating sound may mean that the bolts holding the chain in place are loose or damaged. Many people mistake roller issues for a damaged chain, so look closely at both of these areas if there are odd noises when your door is in motion. If you regularly lubricate your garage door chain and still experience issues with your garage door, you may need to seek the attention of a garage door professional. Contact Precision Overhead Garage Door Service to schedule a garage door maintenance or repair appointment. In addition to emergency repairs and services, Precision Overhead Garage Door Service will address residential and commercial garage door maintenance, spring repair, and total garage door replacement.