How to Secure Your Garage Door During Holiday Travels

Two story home decorated brightly for the Christmas holiday

As the holiday season approaches, many families plan trips to visit loved ones or enjoy well-deserved vacations. While you’re away, your home can become a target for burglars, especially if it’s evident that no one is home. One of the most vulnerable points of entry is the garage door. Here’s how to secure your garage door to ensure your home stays safe while traveling. 1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener Before leaving, consider disconnecting the automatic garage door opener. This prevents would-be intruders from opening the door with a universal remote. Most openers have a cord or lever disengaging the door from the opener track. 2. Install a Manual Lock If your garage door doesn’t have a manual lock, consider adding one. A sturdy, manual slide lock provides an extra layer of security by preventing the door from being opened from the outside. 3. Use a Smart Garage Door Opener Investing in a smart garage door opener allows you to monitor and control your garage door remotely. You can check if the door is open or closed and even receive alerts if someone attempts to open it, giving you peace of mind while you’re away. 4. Secure the Emergency Release The emergency release cord is crucial for safety, but it can also be a point of vulnerability. Intruders can fish for the cord through a small gap at the top of the door. To prevent this, secure the cord with a zip tie, but ensure it can still be easily broken in an emergency. 5. Reinforce the Door Itself Consider reinforcing your garage door with a bracing kit if it is older or made from thin material. This makes the door more resistant to forceful entry attempts and adds strength and durability. 6. Install Security Cameras Positioning security cameras around your garage can deter potential intruders and provide you with a visual check-in while you’re away. Opt for cameras with motion detection and night vision for added security. 7. Add Exterior Lighting Well-lit areas are less attractive to burglars. Installing motion-sensor lights near your garage door can deter intruders by eliminating dark hiding spots and drawing attention to their presence. 8. Avoid Leaving Remotes in Vehicles If you park a vehicle outside or at an airport, don’t leave your garage door remote in it. Instead, bring the remote inside or consider using a keychain remote that stays with you. 9. Secure Any Windows If your garage door has windows, make sure they are locked, and consider adding a frosted film or covering them to obscure the view inside. This prevents potential intruders from seeing valuables or assessing whether someone is home. 10. Enlist a Neighbor or Friend Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property while you’re away. They can collect mail, take out trash, and create the appearance of an occupied home, which is a strong deterrent to burglars. Conclusion Securing your garage door is a critical step in protecting your home during holiday travels. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of break-ins and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind. If you need help with installing locks, smart openers, or any other security features, contact Precision Garage Doors Services Las Vegas for professional assistance.

The Pros and Cons of Windows in Your Garage Door: Everything You Need to Know

The Pros and Cons of Windows in Your Garage Door: Everything You Need to Know

The Pros and Cons of Windows in Your Garage Door: Everything You Need to Know The Pros and Cons of Windows in Your Garage Door: Everything You Need to Know Introduction: The Role of Windows in Garage Doors and Their Impact on Aesthetics and Functionality Garage door windows have become an increasingly popular choice among homeowners, as they offer numerous benefits and enhance the overall design of the garage door. These windows are strategically placed in the panels of the garage door, allowing natural light to enter the space while maintaining privacy. One of the key advantages of having windows in garage doors is the increased amount of natural light they bring into the garage. This not only creates a brighter and more inviting environment but also reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. Natural light can make it easier to find items in storage, work on projects, or simply navigate through the space. Furthermore, garage door windows contribute to improved ventilation inside the garage. They allow fresh air to circulate, preventing a stale or musty atmosphere that can sometimes occur in enclosed spaces. This is particularly beneficial if you use your garage for hobbies or as a workshop where proper airflow is essential. In addition to practical benefits, windows in garage doors also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home’s exterior. They add an element of visual interest and break up what would otherwise be a plain expanse of metal or wood. With various window styles and designs available, you can choose options that complement your home’s architectural style and overall curb appeal. It’s worth noting that while garage door windows offer numerous advantages, privacy should be taken into consideration when selecting window styles. Frosted or obscured glass options are often preferred to ensure privacy while still allowing natural light to enter. Overall, incorporating windows into your garage door design offers several benefits including increased natural light, improved ventilation, and enhanced visual appeal. Whether you want to brighten up your workspace or add a touch of style to your home’s façade, garage door windows are a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. The Pros of Having Windows in Your Garage Door Garage door windows offer numerous benefits that can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your garage. One of the key advantages is the introduction of natural light into your garage space. By allowing sunlight to filter in, you can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, resulting in energy savings and a more environmentally friendly approach. In addition to providing natural light, garage door windows also contribute to improved curb appeal. These windows can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the exterior of your home, enhancing its overall appearance. The presence of windows on your garage door can create a harmonious visual balance between your home’s architecture and its surroundings. Another advantage of having garage door windows is enhanced ventilation. Proper airflow is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment inside your garage, especially if it is used as a workshop or storage area. Windows allow fresh air to circulate, reducing humidity levels and preventing unpleasant odors or mold from developing. Furthermore, certain window designs offer additional security options for your garage. For instance, you can choose windows with reinforced glass that provide an extra layer of protection against potential break-ins or vandalism attempts. Additionally, some window models come with built-in security features such as impact resistance or shatterproof properties. Overall, incorporating garage door windows into your home brings several benefits including increased natural light, improved curb appeal, enhanced ventilation, and additional security options. Consider exploring different window styles and designs that align with both your aesthetic preferences and functional needs for an optimal solution tailored to your specific requirements. 1. Increased Natural Light in Your Garage Space Natural light is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides numerous benefits for our well-being. It has been proven to improve mood, increase productivity, and even enhance cognitive function. When it comes to garage lighting solutions, incorporating natural light can be a game-changer. Not only does it create a more inviting and pleasant environment, but it also helps save energy. Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of any lighting system, and natural light offers a sustainable solution. By utilizing daylight in your garage, you can significantly reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. This translates into lower energy consumption and reduced electricity bills. There are various ways to maximize natural light in your garage. Installing windows or skylights is one effective method that allows ample sunlight to enter the space. Additionally, reflective surfaces such as white walls or light-colored flooring can help distribute and amplify the available natural light. Furthermore, consider using translucent materials for your garage doors or walls that allow diffused sunlight to penetrate while still providing privacy and security. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light without compromising on safety. In terms of energy efficiency with natural light, it’s important to optimize its usage throughout the day. Utilize window treatments such as blinds or curtains that allow you to control the amount of sunlight entering the space. This way, you can minimize glare during certain times while still enjoying the benefits of daylight. Lastly, don’t forget about proper maintenance of windows and skylights in your garage. Keep them clean and clear from any obstructions like dirt or debris to ensure maximum sunlight penetration. In conclusion, incorporating natural light into your garage not only provides numerous benefits for your well-being but also contributes to energy efficiency. By utilizing daylight effectively through windows, skylights, reflective surfaces, and proper maintenance techniques; you can create an inviting space while reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. 2. Improved Curb Appeal and Aesthetic Appeal When it comes to garage door design, windows can add a touch of elegance and curb appeal to any home. Not only do they allow natural light to enter the garage space, but they also provide an opportunity

Boost Property Value by Updating Your Garage Door

value and home model wooden blocks

  Replacing your garage door can have a significant impact on property value. In 2014, U.S. News and World Report estimated homeowners can get an 83.7% return on investment, while the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report noted a possible 95.5% ROI. This means new garage door installation now has a near-perfect return. Garage doors come with significant aesthetic and functional characteristics. They can take up to a third of your exterior façade and are used every time you drive out of or into the garage. But a garage door system’s purpose isn’t the only factor that contributes to property value. By updating your garage door, you address several factors potential homebuyers tend to put on their checklist, including: Bolsters Security and Safety New garage doors must comply with the most recent federal regulations. These set rules for everything from the design of automatic garage door openers to electronic sensors that detect objects in the way. If your garage door doesn’t have an auto-reverse feature, then it is not up to code and is a safety hazard. Newer models also have a closed-spring design that contributes to safety and that can be adjusted more easily. All you need are a drill or ratchet to turn a bolt without ever touching the spring. Allows You to Save Energy Any new homeowner can benefit from energy efficiency. After all, who wants to spend more on the bills after purchasing a home? New garage doors can be fitted with insulation to prevent heat from escaping your home and cooler air from leaking in. An insulated door means your HVAC system can work less yet keep your home just as comfortable. Efficient solutions can also help your heating and cooling system last longer, while electric bills don’t increase due to excess energy usage. Helps to Increase Curb Appeal Updating your garage door doesn’t only remove dents, scratches, and other visual distractions. You also have an opportunity to choose a door that matches your home’s façade or surroundings. For example, custom wood doors help accentuate the charm of Victorian and Colonial homes or houses in wooded areas. Aluminum and glass garage doors are more suited for modern houses. Be sure to match the color and material with the style and location of your home. A new garage door can increase your home’s value by up to 4%. Plus, a garage door can last from 15 to 30 years. If you’ve recently installed the door, it’s a bonus for potential home buyers because they won’t have to pay to replace the door for possibly decades. Automatic garage door openers can last up to 15 years, so a recent installation here can add additional points for anyone looking at your home. New garage doors offer other benefits too, as they tend to operate more smoothly, reliably, and quietly. These are great selling points. Another is that any new property owner will have fewer maintenance costs to deal with. Constant maintenance is a burden on your time and bank account. If a garage door is relatively new, the cost of maintenance is generally not much of a concern. Contact Precision Door Service of Las Vegas We offer many options if you are considering garage door replacement in Las Vegas. Choose from the most suitable styles, sizes, colors, and materials as well as insulation and decorative elements such as windows or raised panels. For assistance, use our interactive Garage Door Designer or contact us directly at 877-301-7474. Our garage door installation experts can answer your questions or schedule a free in-home estimate.  

Garage Sale Tips

You know what they say: “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Whether you are looking to make some decent pocket change or rid yourself, and your home, of some excess clutter be sure and read the following nine tips to ensure a successful, money-making sale. Preparing Your Garage Sale #1. Set a date, or dates, for your sale #2. Purge: Go through your home, one room and garage at a time, and decide what to sell. If you read last month’s blog: “Spring into Garage Organization,” then you should one step of the game already. The items that make it into your garage sale pile should be in good to excellent condition. They should be something you’d willingly spend your own money on. #3. Advertise: A lack of advertising can have negative effects on your sale. The best ways to advertise your sale are through social media, websites, and garage sale finder apps. You should also advertise your sale with brightly colored signs that are legible to read. Make sure to post your hours and address, along with directional arrows, so bargain hunters know when and where to go. Setting Up Your Sale #4. Organize: The way you display your items speaks volumes. Organize your sale like you would see in a store. Hand clothing on racks, separated by size and gender. Set out tables and place items in categories, such as: kitchen gadgets/utensils, sports and camping equipment, toys, tools, seasonal décor, appliances, and electronics. Supply a power source so that customers can test any working items. #5. Price Everything: As an experienced bargain hunter, a sale without clearly marked prices is one of my biggest pet peeves, and is often the reason behind me walking from a sale. Price all for sale items as you set them out – no exceptions. “Name Your Own Price” sales generally don’t fare as well as traditional garage sales. Maximize Your Sale #6. Multi-household Sale: To get the most out of your sale, consider having a neighborhood sale, or inviting a friend or family member to come over and sell his/her wares right alongside you. There is nothing bargain hunters like more than a multi-household sale. #7. Be Approachable: Always greet your customers with a friendly smile and a “Good Morning.” Offer your assistance when able to, but don’t follow your customers around or be pushy, as this can make people uncomfortable. Some good conversation starters include asking them: “Are there a lot of garage sales out there today?” “Can you believe how lucky we are with the weather today?” “Are you looking for anything special?” #8. Involve the Kids: Give your children a taste of private enterprise by entrusting them with their own lemonade or water stand – within your eyesight. They’re sure to get a kick out of it! Are they selling cookie or popcorn for girl/boy scouts? Set them up for success by allowing them to sell those products at your sale. #9. Guard Your Money and Valuables: Don’t ever leave your money or valuable items unattended – not even for a second. Carry your money on you in either a fanny pack or carpenter’s belt at all times. As for valuables, keep those in a locked box or case when not showing to an interested party.