Are Winter Electric Bills Skyrocketing? The Role Your Garage Door Plays
Winter often brings more than just snow and festive holidays—it can also mean a sharp increase in your monthly electric bill. While many homeowners focus on windows, attic insulation, and thermostat settings to lower heating costs, they may overlook a key culprit that’s causing temperature fluctuations: the garage door. In this blog, we’ll explore how your garage door could be contributing to higher winter energy bills, and what steps you can take to make your home more efficient and comfortable during the colder months. Why Your Garage Door Matters Your garage door is one of the largest openings in your home’s exterior. When it’s in good shape—sealed properly, well-insulated, and functional—it can help keep cold air out. However, if it’s old, poorly insulated, or has gaps around the edges, it can allow frigid air to seep inside, creating a domino effect on your home’s overall temperature. As a result, your heating system has to work harder to maintain a comfortable environment, leading to higher energy consumption and soaring utility bills. Signs Your Garage Door May Be Causing Energy Loss Drafts and Temperature Swings If you feel an icy draft whenever you walk into your garage or notice that temperature swings in adjacent rooms are more dramatic than usual, your garage door might be a problem. Increased Humidity or Condensation Condensation on windows or excess moisture inside the garage can indicate that cold air is mixing with warmer indoor air, often because the door’s seal is compromised. Visible Gaps or Cracks Stand inside your garage during daylight with the door closed and look for any shafts of light coming in around the edges. If light can pass through, so can cold air. Difficulty Maintaining Indoor Temperatures If you find yourself frequently cranking up the thermostat, your garage door insulation (or lack thereof) could be forcing your HVAC system to overcompensate. How to Reduce Winter Energy Bills by Improving Your Garage Door Upgrade Your Weatherstripping One of the easiest ways to prevent cold air from entering is to replace worn or damaged weatherstripping along the door’s bottom and sides. Weatherstripping forms a tight seal when the door is closed, blocking out drafts that can spike your heating costs. Add or Improve Insulation If your garage door isn’t already insulated, consider upgrading to a model with built-in insulation or adding aftermarket insulation panels. Modern insulated doors can maintain a more stable interior temperature, which means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. Check and Replace the Threshold Seal The threshold seal sits at the bottom of the garage door opening. Over time, it can crack or flatten, allowing cold air and even water to enter. Replacing the threshold seal is a relatively simple, cost-effective fix that helps keep your garage dry and comfortable. Ensure Proper Alignment and Balance A garage door that’s misaligned or unbalanced can leave small openings around the perimeter. Regular tune-ups—either DIY or from a professional technician—make sure all components are working correctly, the door closes tightly, and no gaps remain at the top or bottom. Consider a New Door If your existing garage door is decades old, damaged, or repeatedly causing issues, replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model might be the best long-term solution. Newer doors often come with advanced insulating materials and better weathersealing, significantly reducing heat loss. Additional Tips to Curb Winter Heating Costs Use a Smart Thermostat Pairing a well-sealed garage door with a smart thermostat can lead to even more savings. Program your thermostat to maintain optimal temperatures when you’re home and reduce heating when you’re away. Insulate Garage Walls and Ceilings Even with a high-quality garage door, uninsulated garage walls can still leak cold air into your home. Adding insulation to the walls and ceiling keeps the space warmer, which in turn reduces the workload on your heating system. Keep the Door Closed It may sound obvious, but make an effort to keep your garage door closed as much as possible. An open door allows heat to escape and cold air to flood in, undoing your energy-saving efforts. Preventative Maintenance Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure your door’s components—like springs, rollers, and tracks—are operating efficiently. A well-maintained door not only improves insulation but also extends the life of your investment. Final Thoughts Winter energy bills don’t have to break the bank. By paying attention to your garage door’s condition and taking the right steps to improve its insulation and weathersealing, you can protect your home from frigid outdoor temperatures. A few small changes—like replacing weatherstripping or upgrading to a new door—can make a significant difference in keeping your garage (and the rooms adjacent to it) more comfortable and your energy costs more manageable. If you suspect your garage door may be contributing to higher energy bills this winter, don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance. Precision Garage Door Las Vegas offers professional inspections, repairs, and installations designed to keep your home warm and efficient all season long. Contact our dedicated team of specialists today and let us help you stay cozy and cost-conscious throughout the colder months.
When Should You Replace Your Garage Door Motor?
When Should You Replace Your Garage Door Motor? When Should You Replace Your Garage Door Motor? The garage motor is an important part as it controls the carriage and will open or close the door each time you push the remote button or enter your code on the keypad. If everything is working properly, the motor will turn on immediately after you have signaled the door to open or close and it should shut or open the door in several minutes. Like every other motor, the garage door opener is only able to last an extremely short lifespan and could have a variety of issues that can prevent it from operating correctly. That means there will come an occasion when you will need to get the garage door motor repaired, and here are some signs that could indicate that you require the replacement of your garage door motor. Motor Makes Excessive Noise Garage door motors will always emit a sound but it shouldn’t get too loud or produce strange sounds. If the garage door opener sounds incredibly loud, it is usually a sign it is starting to wear down and trying to open and close the door. Squealing, scraping and grinding sounds coming from the door opener are a sign that your motor is not working properly and needs to be replaced or repaired. If the motor of your garage door is louder than usual or has an unusual sound it is recommended to have it checked at the earliest opportunity. Garage Door Opens and Closes Slowly As the motor for your garage door gets older, it can begin to experience more difficulty opening and shutting the door. If it’s in great working order and functioning well the garage door should fully open and close in about 10 to 15 minutes. If you find that it begins taking more than 20-30 seconds for the garage door to either open or close, it’s an indication that your motor may be deteriorating and needs to be replaced. Garage Door Won’t Shut or Open Garage door motors are typically damaged over time, but some issues could cause them to cease to function completely. If your garage door stops working, shut or open then you must first check inside to ensure that the trolley remains linked to the motor and that none of the rollers have fallen off the tracks. It is also important to check the torsion springs as well as the cable lifts for obvious problems and ensure that nothing blocks the door. If everything appears like it should, but the door isn’t able to open or close it is recommended to inspect the motor. This issue could be related to an electrical issue in the outlet where the opener is connected to or the motor has burned out and requires to be replaced. Garage Door Stalls When Opening or Closing Garage door openers that are unable to open and close only a fraction of the way, before stopping is a typical problem. The reason for this is usually due to bent tracks or the rollers being damaged. If the tracks and rollers are in good condition and appear normal, it could mean an indication that your motor may not work properly and requires replacement. In any case, this is an issue that you’ll need an expert to look at as soon as possible since garage doors that get stuck can be very dangerous and can cause serious injuries. Garage Door Opener Isn’t Always Responsive The garage door motor must start immediately after you press the button on your remote or the keypad. If you discover that you have to press the button on your remote a few times before the motor starts responding to your touch, the first thing to take is to replace the batteries on the remote. If this does not resolve the problem or the motor doesn’t always respond to the button, you’ll be required to have the opener examined. Most of the time the issue is that the motor is experiencing electrical problems that require to be fixed or replaced. Garage Door Opens and Closes on its Own Garage doors that open and close on their own are an issue that needs to be addressed since it could let anyone gain entry when the door was opened even though you were away, or during the night when you’re asleep. The keys on the keypad, or remote may become stuck, causing the motor to close or open by itself. But, this issue more often indicates an issue in the circuit board of the motor that is causing the issue, like an unbalanced circuit. A short circuit may cause the motor to start which causes the door to close or open independently. If you ever discover that your garage door opens or closes by itself then you must get the motor replaced as soon as possible to ensure the safety of your family members and for your home’s security. Garage Door Reverses and Reopens Following Closing Another common issue is when a garage door shuts and the motor then reverses and then opens the door. This is typically due to a malfunction in the safety sensors that are designed to stop the doors from closing when there’s something that is in its way. The first step when you notice the issue is to ensure that both sensors are in alignment, after which clean and disinfect the lens of the sensors. Also, you should check that nothing is blocking the flow between the two sensors. The safety sensors function by emitting a beam of light back and forth. If the sensors aren’t aligned correctly and the lens is dirty the light beam cannot pass between them. This can lead to the door not closing completely or reopening after it’s shut. When the sensor is in good condition and aligned properly, but the issue persists it is usually a sign that the motor is suffering from mechanical issues or worn-out
How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door?
How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door? How Often Should You Service Your Garage Door? Introduction: The Importance of Regular Garage Door Maintenance Regular garage door maintenance is essential for several reasons. Here are some important points to consider: Safety: A properly maintained garage door is safer to use. Malfunctioning garage doors can be hazardous and cause serious injuries or damage to property. Regular maintenance can prevent accidents from happening. Durability: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door. By identifying and fixing minor issues early on, you can prevent them from turning into major problems that could require costly repairs or replacements. Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained garage door can help to keep your home energy-efficient. If there are gaps or leaks in the door, it can let in drafts and make it harder to regulate the temperature inside your home. Regular maintenance can help to keep your garage door sealed and insulated. Convenience: A garage door that works smoothly and reliably is more convenient to use. Regular maintenance can help to prevent breakdowns and ensure that your garage door opens and closes properly every time you need it to. By prioritizing regular garage door maintenance, you can ensure that your garage door remains safe, durable, energy-efficient, and convenient to use for years to come. Frequency of Garage Door Servicing Based on Usage and Environment If you own a garage door, it’s important to keep it well-maintained to prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure it operates safely. The frequency of garage door servicing required will depend on various factors, including usage and environment. Here are some factors to consider: Usage: If you use your garage door multiple times a day, you may need to have it serviced more often than someone who only uses it a few times a week. A professional garage door technician can assess your usage patterns and recommend a maintenance schedule that suits your needs. Environment: The weather and other environmental factors can also impact the frequency of garage door servicing required. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or high humidity, your garage door may require more frequent maintenance. Similarly, if you live in an area with a lot of dust or debris, you may need to have your garage door serviced more often to prevent buildup and wear and tear. Overall, it’s a good idea to have your garage door professionally serviced at least once a year, even if you don’t notice any issues. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the line and ensure that your garage door operates safely and reliably. The Benefits of Regularly Servicing Your Garage Door Regularly servicing your garage door can have many benefits. Here are some reasons why you should consider scheduling a maintenance appointment for your garage door: Increased durability: Regular maintenance can help keep your garage door in good condition and prevent wear and tear, which can extend the lifespan of your garage door. Improved safety: A well-maintained garage door is less likely to malfunction, which can reduce the risk of injury or damage to your property. Lower repair costs: Addressing issues early on can prevent them from developing into more serious and costly problems down the line, saving you money on repairs in the long run. Increased energy efficiency: A properly maintained garage door can help keep your garage insulated and prevent drafts, which can reduce your energy bills. Improved curb appeal: A well-functioning and aesthetically pleasing garage door can enhance the appearance of your home and increase its value. Overall, regularly servicing your garage door can provide many benefits and help ensure that it functions properly for years to come. The Warning Signs That Indicate Your Garage Door Needs Immediate Servicing When it comes to the safety and security of your home, your garage door plays a crucial role. A malfunctioning garage door can not only lead to inconvenience but can also pose a serious threat to you and your family’s safety. Here are some warning signs that indicate your garage door needs immediate servicing: The door is making unusual noises when opening or closing The door is moving slower than usual or shaking excessively The door is not responding to the remote or keypad The door is uneven or crooked when opening or closing The door has visible damage or wear and tear on the tracks or springs If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s essential to seek professional garage door servicing to prevent any accidents or further damage. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and keeps your home safe and secure. Hiring a Professional vs. DIY: Which Option is Best for Your Garage Door? If you’re considering making changes to your garage door, you may be wondering whether to take the DIY route or hire a professional. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision: Skill level: Do you have the necessary skills and experience to tackle the job? Garage door installation or repair can be complex and dangerous if you’re not familiar with the process. If you’re not confident in your ability to do the job safely and effectively, it’s best to hire a professional. Time: If you’re short on time, hiring a professional can be a good option. They have the experience and tools to get the job done quickly and efficiently, without you having to spend your precious free time on the project. Cost: DIY projects can be appealing because they often come with a lower price tag. However, it’s important to factor in the potential cost of mistakes or accidents. If you make a mistake during installation or repair, it could end up costing you more in the long run to fix the issue. Warranty: Hiring a professional often comes with the added benefit of a warranty or guarantee. This gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong with your garage door down the line, you can
Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention
Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Introduction: Understanding the Importance of a Well-Functioning Garage Door A garage door is an essential part of any home, providing security, convenience, and protection for your vehicles and other valuable belongings. However, many homeowners often neglect their garage doors, which can lead to malfunctions, safety hazards, and costly repairs. Here are some key reasons why a well-functioning garage door is crucial: Security: A functioning garage door provides a secure barrier between your home and the outside world, protecting your property from theft, vandalism, and other unauthorized access. Convenience: A working garage door allows you to easily enter and exit your home without having to manually open and close the door. This can be especially helpful during inclement weather or when carrying heavy items. Protection: A garage door can also protect your vehicles and other possessions from damage caused by weather, pests, and other environmental factors. Overall, investing in the maintenance and repair of your garage door can help ensure that it continues to function properly and provides the necessary security, convenience, and protection for your home and belongings. Identifying and Troubleshooting Common Garage Door Problems Garage doors are an essential part of your household, and it is frustrating when they malfunction. Here are some common garage door problems that you might encounter: The door does not open or close: This problem could be due to a dead remote or a malfunctioning garage door opener. Check the power source and the remote batteries, and if they are fine, call a professional to check the opener. The door reverses before closing: If the garage door starts to close but then reverses, it could be due to a dirty or misaligned photo-eye sensor. Clean the sensors and check if they are aligned correctly. Unusual noises: If you hear grinding, scraping, or squeaking sounds when opening or closing the door, it could be due to worn-out rollers, springs, or hinges. Lubricate the moving parts and replace the worn-out components if necessary. The door is off-track: If the door is uneven or crooked, it could be due to a broken cable or a misaligned track. Do not try to fix it yourself as it can be dangerous. Call a professional to repair it. By identifying and troubleshooting these common garage door problems, you can ensure that your garage door is functioning correctly and avoid any potential safety hazards. Maintaining Your Garage Door to Prevent Future Issues Garage doors are an essential part of our homes, providing security and convenience. To ensure that your garage door functions efficiently and lasts for a long time, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips to help you maintain your garage door and prevent future issues: Lubricate moving parts: Regularly lubricating your garage door’s moving parts can prevent wear and tear, reduce friction, and extend the life of your door. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks. Inspect and tighten hardware: Check all the nuts, bolts, and screws holding your garage door together. Over time, these can loosen due to normal wear and tear. Tighten any that have become loose to prevent further damage. Keep the tracks clean: Debris and dirt can accumulate on your garage door’s tracks, causing the door to malfunction. Regularly clean the tracks with a damp cloth and remove any buildup of debris. Check the balance of the door: An unbalanced garage door can cause additional strain on the opener and other parts, leading to premature wear and tear. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If not, you may need to call a professional to adjust the tension. By following these maintenance tips, you can prevent future issues with your garage door and ensure that it operates smoothly for years to come. When to Call a Professional for Garage Door Repairs? Garage doors are an essential component of any home, providing security and convenience to homeowners. However, like any other mechanical system, garage doors can break down and require repairs. While some minor repairs can be done by homeowners, it’s important to know when to call a professional for garage door repairs to ensure safety and prevent further damage. Here are some signs that indicate you need to call a professional for garage door repairs: The garage door is not opening or closing properly. The garage door is making unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking. The garage door is shaking or vibrating excessively. The garage door opener is not functioning correctly. The garage door is off track or misaligned. In these situations, it’s best to call a professional garage door repair technician who has the knowledge, skills, and tools required to diagnose the problem and fix it safely and effectively. Trying to fix the problem yourself can be dangerous and result in further damage or injury. Remember, regular maintenance and inspection of your garage door can help prevent major repair issues from arising. It’s recommended to have your garage door system inspected by a professional at least once a year to catch any potential problems before they become major repairs. Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and PreventionCommon Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Common Garage Door Problems: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention
Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It
Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Introduction: The Impact of Heat on Garage Doors Garage doors are an essential part of any home, providing security and protection for vehicles and other items stored in the garage. However, extreme heat can have a significant impact on the function and lifespan of garage doors. Here are some key points to consider: Heat can cause garage door panels to warp or bend, leading to difficulty opening and closing the door. High temperatures can also affect the springs and other hardware, causing them to weaken or break over time. Exposure to heat and sunlight can also cause the paint on garage doors to fade and peel, leaving them looking worn and unattractive. Additionally, heat can cause insulation in the garage door to break down, reducing its effectiveness at regulating temperature and potentially increasing energy costs. To mitigate the impact of heat on garage doors, it’s important to take preventative measures such as: Installing a garage door with panels that are designed to withstand high temperatures. Applying a protective coating to the garage door to shield it from UV rays and heat. Ensuring proper ventilation in the garage to reduce heat buildup. Regularly inspecting and maintaining the garage door hardware to identify and address any issues before they cause significant damage. By taking these steps, homeowners can help ensure that their garage doors remain functional, secure, and attractive for years to come. Why Does the Heat Cause Garage Doors to Break? The heat can be a significant factor in causing garage doors to break down due to various reasons. Here are some of the possible causes: Expansion of metal components: When it’s hot outside, the metal components of garage doors, such as springs, tracks, and panels, tend to expand. This expansion can cause the door to warp or become misaligned, leading to malfunctions. Lack of lubrication: High temperatures can cause the lubricants used in garage door systems to evaporate quickly. When the lubrication dries up, the door’s moving parts can grind against each other, causing wear and tear and eventually leading to a breakdown. Electrical issues: The high temperatures can cause electrical components, such as sensors and motors, to overheat and malfunction. This can prevent the door from opening or closing properly, or it may stop working altogether. To prevent garage doors from breaking down due to heat, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance and inspections. This includes lubricating moving parts, checking the door’s alignment, and ensuring that the electrical components are functioning correctly. Additionally, it’s a good idea to invest in a door that is designed to withstand high temperatures, especially if you live in an area with extreme heat. Tips for Preventing Garage Door Damage from Heat During the hot summer months, your garage door can be vulnerable to damage from the heat. Here are some tips to prevent garage door damage and keep it functioning properly: Regularly inspect and maintain your garage door: Check the alignment of the tracks, lubricate moving parts, and tighten any loose bolts or screws. This will help prevent any small issues from turning into bigger ones. Keep your garage door clean: Dirt and debris can accumulate on your garage door and cause damage over time. Regularly cleaning your garage door with a soft brush and mild detergent can help prevent this. Use a heat-resistant material: Consider replacing your garage door with a heat-resistant material such as steel or aluminum. This can help prevent warping and cracking, which can be caused by extreme heat. Install a vent or fan: Installing a vent or fan in your garage can help circulate air and prevent the buildup of heat. This can help prevent damage to your garage door and other items in your garage. By following these tips, you can help prevent garage door damage from heat and keep it functioning properly for years to come. Conclusion: Protecting Your Garage Door from Heat-Related Breakdowns If you live in an area with high temperatures, it’s important to take steps to protect your garage door from heat-related breakdowns. Here are some tips: Install a garage door insulation kit to help regulate the temperature inside your garage Consider painting your garage door a lighter color to reflect the sun’s rays Keep your garage door clean and free of debris to prevent overheating Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional to ensure your garage door is in good condition By taking these preventative measures, you can help extend the lifespan of your garage door and avoid costly repairs down the road. Stay cool and keep your garage door running smoothly all summer long! Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent ItUnderstanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent ItUnderstanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It Understanding Why Garage Doors Break from Heat and How to Prevent It
A Guide to Garage Door Windows
Windows are one of the most innovative features of garage doors. Aside from the broad choice of materials and styles available, installing a garage door with windows has aesthetic and functional benefits. By doing so, you can: Add natural light to your garage without installing additional bulbs and fixtures. Increase the curb appeal of your home, as windows add character to the façade. Customize your garage door to make it one-of-a-kind. Match the style of your garage door windows to your front entry door windows. Adhere to building codes for impact-rated glass in high-wind areas. Preparing to Add Garage Doors with Windows The use of mixed materials is the latest design trend. A garage door with glass along with wood, steel, or aluminum can provide a classic or contemporary look. The entire door can be customized to compliment your home’s architectural design. When planning to install garage door windows, here are some important considerations: Safety: Garage door windows are structurally safe; they don’t change the stability of the door itself. However, windows are vulnerable to severe weather and impacts by objects, but overall, they are easy to replace. Privacy: Clear glass is common for garage doors. And since garage door windows are usually placed near the top of the door, a typical person can’t see inside, although privacy glass options (frosted, tinted, mirrored, etc.) are available. Selection and Installation Installing garage door windows is no small task. Retrofitting an existing door with windows is difficult and not the wisest choice. Windows add weight to the door, which affect its stability and balance, not to mention put excess strain on the door springs and garage door opener. When installing a garage door with windows, you want to pay careful attention to: Insulation: Insulated glass windows are available. They can maximize energy efficiency and even contribute to the year-round comfort in your garage, especially if you use it as a playroom or workspace. Color matching: Replacing single panels on an existing door can leave mismatched parts. Even if the new panel is the same color as the rest, older panels may have faded in sunlight, and the existing finish might not match. Design options: Adding garage door windows provides more design flexibility. Not all are square; there are different shapes to choose from, representing styles ranging from classic to modern, to Colonial, Art Deco, or Mid-Century. Adding garage door windows is effective only if they match the style of your home. The windows should exhibit a similar shape and style to other elements of the architecture. For example, arched windows can complement curved architectural elements and help make your boxy home feel more sophisticated. The design options for windows is practically unlimited. Depending on the garage door, windows can be custom fit in any section. Some people choose to string them horizontally across the top, but windows can be stacked vertically as well. You can also choose which sections will have windows or put windows in every section of your garage door. Garage Door Windows with Precision Door Service of Las Vegas At Precision Door Service, we install custom garage doors of any style, including those with glass. We offer a wide range of design options from setup to panel design, to color choices to numerous options for windows and more. Select your favorite options using our design page, and request a quote for your project. We also perform all types of garage door repair and take calls 24/7. For more information, call 702-553-4621.