Curb appeal is an important consideration for your home - regardless of whether you're selling or simply upgrading.
First, most people’s homes face the street. That often means their garage door is also facing the street and that the garage doors can claim as much as a third of what people see from the street.
Secondly, first impressions are as important for homes as they are for people. What does your garage door say about your home when someone gives it the once-over from the street or comes up the driveway?
So, if you’re trying to increase the value or saleability of your home or simply impress your neighbors and your garage doors don’t look the part, it will be an uphill battle to turn around a negative first impression.
Finally, according to recent studies - garage doors have one of the highest return-on-investments of any home improvement project.
So, think first impressions and curb appeal - then upgrade both with an updated garage door!
Garage Doors for Every Taste
Showing posts with label garage doors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label garage doors. Show all posts
April 28, 2011
April 13, 2011
Precision Door Featured on TV's The Balancing Act
Precision Door Service, the nation’s leading garage door service company, will be featured during the hit morning TV show “The Balancing Act.” The segment will air as part of the April 21st show at 7:00 am (ET/PT) on Lifetime Television. Discussion will include garage door safety and how routine maintenance can prevent mishaps and injuries. For repair or service in Seattle, Salt Lake, Spokane, Tucson and Albuquerque
For more information about The Balancing Act
March 16, 2011
The Garage Door Parts Most Likely to Fail
Garage door systems have many moving parts and all are susceptible to wear, tear and failure. However, three of these components are the most common to experience a problem.
Springs
Springs, especially torsion springs, frequently fail and are also the most expensive. Many manufacturers and service companies use un-coated springs rated at about 10,000 cycles. (A cycle is one Open/Close). This type of spring is expected to fail 3-5 years. Precision Door uses powder-coated commercial grade springs that resist rust and have cycle ratings of 30,000 or higher, meaning a much longer lifecycle. Always ask about the cycle ratings on all springs when considering replacement.
Rollers
Rollers help guide the door up and down the track. Most companies use a plastic or nylon tire on a steel shaft. These will generally show significant wear within 18 months of normal use. Rollers with bearings are typically better; Ask about the cycle and weight ratings on the rollers your technician recommends.
BearingsBearings are the third most frequent component to fail. A typical garage door should have three sets situated in the middle and both ends of the door. Many doors come with only two bearing sets and one plastic bushing.
Being aware of the garage door components most likely to fail will enable you to make a more informed decision when buying, maintaining or repairing your door system. The result is a longer lasting and smoother operating door.
Precision Garage Door Service is proud to serve you in Washington, Idaho, Utah, Arizona & New Mexico
Springs
Springs, especially torsion springs, frequently fail and are also the most expensive. Many manufacturers and service companies use un-coated springs rated at about 10,000 cycles. (A cycle is one Open/Close). This type of spring is expected to fail 3-5 years. Precision Door uses powder-coated commercial grade springs that resist rust and have cycle ratings of 30,000 or higher, meaning a much longer lifecycle. Always ask about the cycle ratings on all springs when considering replacement.
Rollers
Rollers help guide the door up and down the track. Most companies use a plastic or nylon tire on a steel shaft. These will generally show significant wear within 18 months of normal use. Rollers with bearings are typically better; Ask about the cycle and weight ratings on the rollers your technician recommends.
BearingsBearings are the third most frequent component to fail. A typical garage door should have three sets situated in the middle and both ends of the door. Many doors come with only two bearing sets and one plastic bushing.
Being aware of the garage door components most likely to fail will enable you to make a more informed decision when buying, maintaining or repairing your door system. The result is a longer lasting and smoother operating door.
Precision Garage Door Service is proud to serve you in Washington, Idaho, Utah, Arizona & New Mexico
January 12, 2011
Maintain Your Garage Door
Garage Doors are something we use often and tend to not really think about… until they stop working. Your garage door is very important and like any part of the house it should be regularly maintained as well. A properly maintained garage door will not only look good, but help you avoid accidents and mishaps that can harm your car or risk your health (and life) too! Garage overhead doors related accidents account for thousands of injuries every year (average of 30000 per year).
Don’t ignore your garage door any longer. In an average household a garage door is typically opened and closed around six – ten times per day. Relative to how often your garage is being used, a garage owner may have to replace his or her garage door at least once in its lifetime. If you have an electric door, its maintenance is obviously going to be different from that of a manual garage door. But some things are same for all kinds of garage door.
For most people, garage door installation is something they consider on two occasions- when they don’t already have an electric garage door or when their current garage door is broken. Remember that a single part of your garage door that is installed wrongly can cause serious malfunction. So it is better to let professionals change springs, hinges, rollers, etc. Also use light lubricants to grease your garage door. Heavy oils can cause build-ups so using them for maintaining your garage door is duly discouraged.
Don’t ignore your garage door any longer. In an average household a garage door is typically opened and closed around six – ten times per day. Relative to how often your garage is being used, a garage owner may have to replace his or her garage door at least once in its lifetime. If you have an electric door, its maintenance is obviously going to be different from that of a manual garage door. But some things are same for all kinds of garage door.
For most people, garage door installation is something they consider on two occasions- when they don’t already have an electric garage door or when their current garage door is broken. Remember that a single part of your garage door that is installed wrongly can cause serious malfunction. So it is better to let professionals change springs, hinges, rollers, etc. Also use light lubricants to grease your garage door. Heavy oils can cause build-ups so using them for maintaining your garage door is duly discouraged.
December 29, 2010
I KNOW ITS WINTER: But Don't Warm up Your Car inside the Garage!!
It sounds harmless doesn't it... a couple of minutes and you've got a warm car....
But, did you know... that it takes less than two minutes for gas fumes to reach lethal concentrations in a garage where a car is being warmed up—even if the garage door is open.
Just don't do it!!! - A warm car on a cold winter morning just isn’t worth the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Always open the garage door before starting the car. Once it’s started, immediately drive out and away from the garage, and close the garage door.
According to Iowa State University study - large concentrations of gas still remain trapped inside a garage even after the car is driven out. In an attached garage, fumes can quickly spread into the house and remain for hours.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in illness and even death. Carbon monoxide reduces the oxygen supply to the brain and is particularly dangerous because it is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, tiredness, flu-type symptoms, nausea and loss of consciousness. Poisoning can happen to anyone, but children, the elderly and those with health concerns are especially susceptible.
Solution? Don't warm up your car in the Garage!!!
But, did you know... that it takes less than two minutes for gas fumes to reach lethal concentrations in a garage where a car is being warmed up—even if the garage door is open.
Just don't do it!!! - A warm car on a cold winter morning just isn’t worth the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Always open the garage door before starting the car. Once it’s started, immediately drive out and away from the garage, and close the garage door.
According to Iowa State University study - large concentrations of gas still remain trapped inside a garage even after the car is driven out. In an attached garage, fumes can quickly spread into the house and remain for hours.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in illness and even death. Carbon monoxide reduces the oxygen supply to the brain and is particularly dangerous because it is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, tiredness, flu-type symptoms, nausea and loss of consciousness. Poisoning can happen to anyone, but children, the elderly and those with health concerns are especially susceptible.
Solution? Don't warm up your car in the Garage!!!
December 1, 2010
Garage Doors One of Few Home Improvements Worth Investing In!
In a recent article from The Philadelphia Inquirer, homeowners looking to invest in home improvements – especially those who plan to renovate in an effort to make their home attractive to buyers – are warned against renovations that don’t return on investment. Amenities and high-price additions are warned against, as potential buyers may or may not “get it.” Improvements that get the OK include new paint, new floors and an updated garage or entry door.
According to the real estate agents interviewed, small, inexpensive changes that make a big impact – like updated garage doors – bring more reliable returns. In fact, according to Remodeling magazine’s Cost Vs. Values report, spending $1,500 on a garage door can yield a $1,168 ROI – nearly 80 percent.
Entry doors also made the “worth the money” cut, as the report showed spending $1,440 on a steel entry door could yield a 74 percent return.
In fact, garage door and entry door replacement top the list of home improvements that create a good ROI – netting the No. 1 and number 3 spots, respectively. These improvements come above roof repair (56 percent ROI), major kitchen remodel (64 percent) or a bathroom addition (48 percent) -- all much higher-cost projects.
These numbers make for a powerful case for the value of homeowners replacing their garage door, especially those owners looking to sell in a volatile market.
According to the real estate agents interviewed, small, inexpensive changes that make a big impact – like updated garage doors – bring more reliable returns. In fact, according to Remodeling magazine’s Cost Vs. Values report, spending $1,500 on a garage door can yield a $1,168 ROI – nearly 80 percent.
Entry doors also made the “worth the money” cut, as the report showed spending $1,440 on a steel entry door could yield a 74 percent return.
In fact, garage door and entry door replacement top the list of home improvements that create a good ROI – netting the No. 1 and number 3 spots, respectively. These improvements come above roof repair (56 percent ROI), major kitchen remodel (64 percent) or a bathroom addition (48 percent) -- all much higher-cost projects.
These numbers make for a powerful case for the value of homeowners replacing their garage door, especially those owners looking to sell in a volatile market.
November 5, 2010
How to Do General Maintenance On Your Garage Door
If Life is like a box of chocolates... Your garage door is like a toaster. Every time you make toast on it, crumbs and oils fall to the bottom of the machine and onto the wires as well. The more you use the toaster without cleaning it the more the crumbs pile up. As time passes, these crumbs and the oil react with the metal and cause rusting. To avoid rust and prolong the life of your toaster you need to clean it regularly.
Just like your toaster; your garage door needs regular maintenance. Daily use can wear out the springs, loosen screws, cause misalignments or dents on the tracks, and cause the paint to chip. Here are a few maintenance tips you can do to make sure your garage door works perfectly and lasts for a good many years.
Check the tracks for dents and if there are any, pound them back into place (gently) with a hammer.Realign misaligned tracks both sides should be level with each other and slanting slightly towards the back of your garage. Clean the tracks and remove any debris. You can use a paintbrush to brush away the debris and a mild detergent to remove dirt and grease. Check and tighten any loose nuts, bolts, and fasteners. Use a screwdriver to screw them back into place. Lubricate the tracks, pulleys, and rollers. A lubricant spray specially formulated for garage doors will help to make sure that they operate smoothly.
Check the door’s spring tension by opening and closing it manually. Make sure it does so fully. If it feels too heavy to lift, or if you bring it to a halfway open position and it opens or closes, you may have a problem with the springs. The springs will probably have to be adjusted. This is dangerous and many people get hurt each year trying this.. so.... call a garage door professional to do it for you.
Do a safety reverse test by placing a piece of 2x4 tall side up below the door and see if the door reverses on sensing it. Adjust the force limits if necessary. (not sure how.. call us).
Give your garage door a fresh coat of paint every few years. Chipped off paint will expose the door to the elements so it is necessary to make sure that the paint on your door isn’t cracked or chipping off. If the wear and tear is only on a few small spots, you can do spot painting on those areas. Before you do a complete paint job, check your door’s manual for the correct materials to use on your door.
If you need garage door repairs Precision Garage Door of Seattle provides 24-hour emergency service and our certified technicians know their profession.
Just like your toaster; your garage door needs regular maintenance. Daily use can wear out the springs, loosen screws, cause misalignments or dents on the tracks, and cause the paint to chip. Here are a few maintenance tips you can do to make sure your garage door works perfectly and lasts for a good many years.
Check the tracks for dents and if there are any, pound them back into place (gently) with a hammer.Realign misaligned tracks both sides should be level with each other and slanting slightly towards the back of your garage. Clean the tracks and remove any debris. You can use a paintbrush to brush away the debris and a mild detergent to remove dirt and grease. Check and tighten any loose nuts, bolts, and fasteners. Use a screwdriver to screw them back into place. Lubricate the tracks, pulleys, and rollers. A lubricant spray specially formulated for garage doors will help to make sure that they operate smoothly.
Check the door’s spring tension by opening and closing it manually. Make sure it does so fully. If it feels too heavy to lift, or if you bring it to a halfway open position and it opens or closes, you may have a problem with the springs. The springs will probably have to be adjusted. This is dangerous and many people get hurt each year trying this.. so.... call a garage door professional to do it for you.
Do a safety reverse test by placing a piece of 2x4 tall side up below the door and see if the door reverses on sensing it. Adjust the force limits if necessary. (not sure how.. call us).
Give your garage door a fresh coat of paint every few years. Chipped off paint will expose the door to the elements so it is necessary to make sure that the paint on your door isn’t cracked or chipping off. If the wear and tear is only on a few small spots, you can do spot painting on those areas. Before you do a complete paint job, check your door’s manual for the correct materials to use on your door.
If you need garage door repairs Precision Garage Door of Seattle provides 24-hour emergency service and our certified technicians know their profession.
October 13, 2010
Slide Show of Over 40 Different Garage Doors
This great Slide Show of Over 40 Different Garage Doors provides you a chance to see many different garage door styles and designs quickly and easily. Slides can be forwarded manually or as a slide show. Enjoy!
Amarr Launches Garage Door Design Contest
Repost from Professioanl Door Dealer - Winston-Salem, N.C.
Whether you are a seasoned designer or just like to doodle on the back of napkin, Amarr Garage Doors has a contest for you. Amarr, one of the world’s leading designers, manufacturers and distributors of garage doors, is seeking ideas for the next generation of garage doors in its Great Garage Door Design Competition.
Amarr welcomes exterior garage door designs from architects, draftsmen, graphic artists and other professionals, but you don’t have to be a pro to enter the contest. Entries can be detailed sketches or simple drawings but must be submitted in a pdf format via e-mail to DoorDesign@Amarr.com in order to be considered in the competition. Students 18 and over also are encouraged to enter the contest.
“This is an opportunity for both professionals and budding designers to let their minds run free as they come up with garage door designs,” Amarr Chief Executive Officer Richard Brenner says. “Those who enter the contest should feel free to include details about materials or construction along with their design but it is not a requirement of the contest.”
Brenner added that entries do not have to be designed to reflect a particular type of architecture or home style. “The doors also do not necessarily have to be for a garage,” he adds. “There are lots of other uses for garage doors besides garages. Think out of the box and outside the garage!”
Amarr will accept contest entries until December 31, 2010. Each contestant may submit up to three door designs. A panel of judges from Amarr will evaluate the entries and announce the winner(s) on February 28, 2011. Amarr may select multiple winners. The winner(s) will receive a $500 cash prize, a certificate of achievement and will earn royalties based on sales if Amarr decides to manufacture and sell the winning design. Amarr is under no obligation to manufacture any winning design. More information and contest rules for the Great Garage Door Design Competition are available at http://www.amarr.com/content/doordesign.html.
Whether you are a seasoned designer or just like to doodle on the back of napkin, Amarr Garage Doors has a contest for you. Amarr, one of the world’s leading designers, manufacturers and distributors of garage doors, is seeking ideas for the next generation of garage doors in its Great Garage Door Design Competition.
Amarr welcomes exterior garage door designs from architects, draftsmen, graphic artists and other professionals, but you don’t have to be a pro to enter the contest. Entries can be detailed sketches or simple drawings but must be submitted in a pdf format via e-mail to DoorDesign@Amarr.com in order to be considered in the competition. Students 18 and over also are encouraged to enter the contest.
“This is an opportunity for both professionals and budding designers to let their minds run free as they come up with garage door designs,” Amarr Chief Executive Officer Richard Brenner says. “Those who enter the contest should feel free to include details about materials or construction along with their design but it is not a requirement of the contest.”
Brenner added that entries do not have to be designed to reflect a particular type of architecture or home style. “The doors also do not necessarily have to be for a garage,” he adds. “There are lots of other uses for garage doors besides garages. Think out of the box and outside the garage!”
Amarr will accept contest entries until December 31, 2010. Each contestant may submit up to three door designs. A panel of judges from Amarr will evaluate the entries and announce the winner(s) on February 28, 2011. Amarr may select multiple winners. The winner(s) will receive a $500 cash prize, a certificate of achievement and will earn royalties based on sales if Amarr decides to manufacture and sell the winning design. Amarr is under no obligation to manufacture any winning design. More information and contest rules for the Great Garage Door Design Competition are available at http://www.amarr.com/content/doordesign.html.
September 8, 2010
Top 10 Secrets about Today’s Garage Doors
(ARA) - In the last few years, garage doors have experienced a major transformation in their role on the American home. Today’s garage doors do a lot more than go up and down.
They deliver style. They can help sell your home in a difficult market. They can save energy and protect your house from powerful winds. They don’t need to be affected by power outages anymore. They can even tell you when you’ve forgotten to close them. Does your garage door do any of that? If your door is 10 years old or older, it probably doesn’t. Want a reason to replace your garage door?
There are plenty of reasons listed on GarageWowNow.com, a non-commercial Web site devoted to the new role of today’s garage doors. The site includes dozens of before and after photos that really tell the story.
Here are 10 little-known facts about today’s new garage doors. They can …
1. Add a unique style to your home’s appearance. Does every home on your street have the same garage door? A new carriage house garage door can differentiate your home and greatly increase its curb appeal. Today’s trendy looks range from hundreds of different styles of carriage house doors, contemporary doors and even raised panel doors in unique finishes and colors.
2. Help sell your home. Replacing your garage door could increase your home’s asking price anywhere from one to four percent, according to a 2006 nationwide study of real estate agents by Stratamark Research. In a tough housing market, you can differentiate your home by upgrading the one item that can comprise up to a third of your home’s front facade.
3. Save energy. Today’s garage doors offer insulation options that can save energy in both winter and summer. The federal government agrees. In 2006 and 2007, the IRS granted a tax credit to homeowners who replaced their garage door with a qualified insulated door.
4. Protect your home from powerful winds. Hurricanes, tornadoes and strong wind storms can reduce your home to rubble. Wind experts now recognize the critical role played by the garage door in protecting your home from high winds. Code-approved, wind-resistant garage doors are now widely available. In many wind-prone areas, these doors are not just helpful; they’re mandated by the building code.
5. Withstand power outages. The garage door is now used more than the front entry door, according to the 2007 Perfect Home Survey. Since most doors are now automated, how will you get in your home during a power outage? Thanks to garage door opener battery backup systems, your door can keep operating even when power is gone.
6. Tell you when you’ve left it open. An open garage, especially at night, is an invitation to thieves and vandals. Today’s garage door openers offer in-house monitors that alert you when you’ve left your door open – a security tool that provides peace-of-mind.
7. Operate at the touch of a fingertip. Exterior keypads are rapidly growing in popularity. The latest keypad models offer fingerprint-recognition technology that eliminates the need to remember codes and offers fast and easy secure access.
8. Replace your front door. A recent nationwide survey of consumers reveals that 71 percent of homeowners use their garage door to enter and exit their home every day. In today’s fast-paced society, the garage door is the new front door for the American home. The garage door is more convenient, and it commands more attention than the front entry door.
9. Reflect your personal style. Are you into a sleek modern look or the quaint charm of yesteryear? Today’s manufacturers are producing hundreds of distinct varieties that were not available 10 years ago. Why settle for a door that looks like every other door on your street?
10. Be installed by a pro. This isn’t a job for the weekend DIYer. It’s a complex and potentially dangerous task. It’s best done by a pro, who can do the job in a few short hours, haul your old door away and make sure your new door and opener are operating properly.
The content of this article was provided courtesy of ARAcontent
They deliver style. They can help sell your home in a difficult market. They can save energy and protect your house from powerful winds. They don’t need to be affected by power outages anymore. They can even tell you when you’ve forgotten to close them. Does your garage door do any of that? If your door is 10 years old or older, it probably doesn’t. Want a reason to replace your garage door?
There are plenty of reasons listed on GarageWowNow.com, a non-commercial Web site devoted to the new role of today’s garage doors. The site includes dozens of before and after photos that really tell the story.
Here are 10 little-known facts about today’s new garage doors. They can …
1. Add a unique style to your home’s appearance. Does every home on your street have the same garage door? A new carriage house garage door can differentiate your home and greatly increase its curb appeal. Today’s trendy looks range from hundreds of different styles of carriage house doors, contemporary doors and even raised panel doors in unique finishes and colors.
2. Help sell your home. Replacing your garage door could increase your home’s asking price anywhere from one to four percent, according to a 2006 nationwide study of real estate agents by Stratamark Research. In a tough housing market, you can differentiate your home by upgrading the one item that can comprise up to a third of your home’s front facade.
3. Save energy. Today’s garage doors offer insulation options that can save energy in both winter and summer. The federal government agrees. In 2006 and 2007, the IRS granted a tax credit to homeowners who replaced their garage door with a qualified insulated door.
4. Protect your home from powerful winds. Hurricanes, tornadoes and strong wind storms can reduce your home to rubble. Wind experts now recognize the critical role played by the garage door in protecting your home from high winds. Code-approved, wind-resistant garage doors are now widely available. In many wind-prone areas, these doors are not just helpful; they’re mandated by the building code.
5. Withstand power outages. The garage door is now used more than the front entry door, according to the 2007 Perfect Home Survey. Since most doors are now automated, how will you get in your home during a power outage? Thanks to garage door opener battery backup systems, your door can keep operating even when power is gone.
6. Tell you when you’ve left it open. An open garage, especially at night, is an invitation to thieves and vandals. Today’s garage door openers offer in-house monitors that alert you when you’ve left your door open – a security tool that provides peace-of-mind.
7. Operate at the touch of a fingertip. Exterior keypads are rapidly growing in popularity. The latest keypad models offer fingerprint-recognition technology that eliminates the need to remember codes and offers fast and easy secure access.
8. Replace your front door. A recent nationwide survey of consumers reveals that 71 percent of homeowners use their garage door to enter and exit their home every day. In today’s fast-paced society, the garage door is the new front door for the American home. The garage door is more convenient, and it commands more attention than the front entry door.
9. Reflect your personal style. Are you into a sleek modern look or the quaint charm of yesteryear? Today’s manufacturers are producing hundreds of distinct varieties that were not available 10 years ago. Why settle for a door that looks like every other door on your street?
10. Be installed by a pro. This isn’t a job for the weekend DIYer. It’s a complex and potentially dangerous task. It’s best done by a pro, who can do the job in a few short hours, haul your old door away and make sure your new door and opener are operating properly.
The content of this article was provided courtesy of ARAcontent
August 26, 2010
What is the Most Complicated Part of your Garage Door?
The most complicated part of a garage door is the opener and its hardware. That includes the opener (motor), the springs, the tracks and brackets. All these parts combine to make your garage door work smoothly over and over and over again.
One of the most important parts are the actual springs themselves. These powerful springs are under very high tension and that’s what gives them the strength to lift the weight of the door. If you look at your garage door, you’ll most often see a spring running across the top above the door.
The springs mounted to the header, just above the top of the door are called Torsion springs. Torsion springs are a wound spring, which means it winds up into a coil, and they can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Torsion springs wind up as the door closes, creating a great deal tension. Working on this type of spring is for professionals only. This is not a DIY project.
The remaining hardware of your opening system includes bottom brackets, cable drums, the door tracks with their hangers, plus various hingles plates and rollers. All this hardware is designed to work together to create the smooth operation of your garage door. So make sure you keep it maintained. Just like your car, this system needs at least annual maintenance to insure it works smoothly and lasts longer.
The "opener" is a motor that guides the door up and down. These typically will be one of three types – chain drive, screw drive or belt drive. The most popular today is the belt drive. While these are more expensive, it’s smooth and quiet operation is a big benefit. The most affordable option is the chain drive system, while the screw drive is powerful but slow-moving. When you schedule your annual garage door maintenance, make sure to have the opener serviced as well.
One of the most important parts are the actual springs themselves. These powerful springs are under very high tension and that’s what gives them the strength to lift the weight of the door. If you look at your garage door, you’ll most often see a spring running across the top above the door.
The springs mounted to the header, just above the top of the door are called Torsion springs. Torsion springs are a wound spring, which means it winds up into a coil, and they can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Torsion springs wind up as the door closes, creating a great deal tension. Working on this type of spring is for professionals only. This is not a DIY project.
The remaining hardware of your opening system includes bottom brackets, cable drums, the door tracks with their hangers, plus various hingles plates and rollers. All this hardware is designed to work together to create the smooth operation of your garage door. So make sure you keep it maintained. Just like your car, this system needs at least annual maintenance to insure it works smoothly and lasts longer.
The "opener" is a motor that guides the door up and down. These typically will be one of three types – chain drive, screw drive or belt drive. The most popular today is the belt drive. While these are more expensive, it’s smooth and quiet operation is a big benefit. The most affordable option is the chain drive system, while the screw drive is powerful but slow-moving. When you schedule your annual garage door maintenance, make sure to have the opener serviced as well.
August 23, 2010
Garage Doors Are the Your Home's Front Door
Your garage door is much more than it's function
For most, the main function of the garage is the shelter for your car and the household items so many of us store there. With that in mind, it's not hard to understand that many people think about their garage doors as strictly functional. Now, more and more people care about how they look. Garage doors make a huge personal statement about one's taste and style. The garage doors have to look good and welcoming due in part to the garage now being considered the most used door of a home. It's your "other" front door and the first thing that we face when we enter a house. Garage doors have become a major design element. It is only fitting that the garages must be as impressive and attractive, as it is durable and secure.
For most, the main function of the garage is the shelter for your car and the household items so many of us store there. With that in mind, it's not hard to understand that many people think about their garage doors as strictly functional. Now, more and more people care about how they look. Garage doors make a huge personal statement about one's taste and style. The garage doors have to look good and welcoming due in part to the garage now being considered the most used door of a home. It's your "other" front door and the first thing that we face when we enter a house. Garage doors have become a major design element. It is only fitting that the garages must be as impressive and attractive, as it is durable and secure.
August 3, 2010
Federal Energy Tax Credit Available
Saving Energy is good for everyone. and you can get a Federal Energy Tax Credit – receiving a 30% Tax Credit (up to $1500) when you install an approved, insulated garage door.
The key is "approved" door. This can be verified through the door manufacturer as meeting the federal requirements for this credit.
The key is "approved" door. This can be verified through the door manufacturer as meeting the federal requirements for this credit.
Is Your Door Eligible? To be eligible for the tax credit, the purchased garage door must meet all of the following criteria:
- The door must be an insulated residential garage door.
- It must be installed on an insulated garage.
- The door must have a U-factor equal to or less than 0.30, even if the door contains glazing.
- The door perimeter must have a means to control air infiltration.
- The door must be expected to remain in service for at least five years.
- The garage must be part of the taxpayer’s principal U.S. residence.
Check out additional information via Energy Star
July 8, 2010
Garage Door Repair - Assessing the Problem
Home Improvement Expert Andrew Stratton says... It can be quite easy to take your garage door for granted. Each day, as if by magic, this massive, metal contraption opens and closes at the push of a button, providing security, storage, and peace of mind. But what happens when the magic stops? This article, outlines the steps necessary in order to assess issues of garage door repair.
If you find yourself in a situation where the door fails to work, it's worth-while to first, cover the basics.
If you find yourself in a situation where the door fails to work, it's worth-while to first, cover the basics.
- Check the see that the power is one in the house. If you find that there is, in fact, power running to the opener, it's time to further evaluate the situation.
- Establish what type of spring system your door uses. There are two types of systems: The first is the extension spring. This type can be quickly and easily identified through the location of the long extension springs which run parallel with the tracks. There are a variety of dangers to consider when it comes to handling high pressure springs, however, by following the manufacturer's instructions and paying close attention to your surroundings, home owners can successfully work on these types.
If your door is operated through the use of a large mounted above the door, it is recommended the repair be left to a trained professional. This type of spring is called a torsion spring. This device is wound very tightly before being bolted into place. Fixing these springs through DIY methods is very dangerous and should not be attempted by inexperienced handymen.
In the event that you are unable to fix the problem, there is a method which will enable entry. If you've ever looked around your garage, chances are you've noticed that little red cord hanging from the ceiling. This is your ticket out... or in, depending on your desired use. Pulling this cable essentially disconnect the door from the opening system. With the door disconnected you should be able to open and shut the door.
If you believe that the issue lies more with a structural problem with the unit or tracks, try your best to figure out who the manufacturer is. You may simply be able to order the pieces which require replacement.
As a general rule, it is recommended to consult the advice of a professional in any cases which appear to be beyond your comprehension level.
If you are looking for garage door repair in the Seattle area, local experts can provide you with excellent and dependable service and also give a warranty on the work done. To know more, visit GarageDoorSeattle.com
June 24, 2010
Park your Car, behind a New Garage Door – But what kind of door?
Garage doors add a beautiful design element to your home’s exterior as well as provide a safe, secure and easy access to your garage. Today’s garage doors come in a variety of types and styles, and are available in different materials, depending on your needs and tastes.
Types and Styles
There are two types of garage doors commonly used in home construction. The first is the tilt up type which is a single panel that tilts out and up when opened. The second is the sectional roll up door. It is made of four or more horizontal panels that are hinged together and mounted on rollers in tracks on either side of the door so the sections can roll up and straight back. While the tilt up door can be 25% to 35% less expensive than the sectional door, the sectional one is preferred by many because it takes less headroom in the garage, a car can be parked directly in front of it, and it is more weather tight, fitting behind the opening rather than within it. Either type of garage door can be purchased in one of three styles – flush, raised-panel or recessed-panel.
Types and Styles
There are two types of garage doors commonly used in home construction. The first is the tilt up type which is a single panel that tilts out and up when opened. The second is the sectional roll up door. It is made of four or more horizontal panels that are hinged together and mounted on rollers in tracks on either side of the door so the sections can roll up and straight back. While the tilt up door can be 25% to 35% less expensive than the sectional door, the sectional one is preferred by many because it takes less headroom in the garage, a car can be parked directly in front of it, and it is more weather tight, fitting behind the opening rather than within it. Either type of garage door can be purchased in one of three styles – flush, raised-panel or recessed-panel.
Materials
When selecting a garage doors for you dream home, there are several types of materials available to you - Two are the most common.
- Wood is preferred by many for its natural look and affordability. A wood garage door can be stained or painted any color to complement the color scheme of the exterior of your home. Conversely, it will expand and contract with the weather and needs repainting or refinishing every couple of years. If you plan to stain your garage doors, be sure to purchase one made of appearance-grade wood to ensure the wood grain showing through the stain gives a beautiful look to your door.
- Steel provides a much stronger and more secure door than any of the other materials used today. They won’t warp, crack, de-laminate or fall apart due to weather. They are now available with wood grain patterns to complement your home’s appearance, and most are hot-dipped in vinyl or have a baked-on polyester finish for ease of maintenance. These finishes prevent rust and don’t require frequent repainting. Premium quality steel doors are insulated with a core of rigid polystyrene or polyurethane foam to maintain temperature control in the garage as well as making the door easier to operate and less likely to sag or warp over time. While the limited maintenance of the steel garage door is a plus, it can be dented and difficult to repair.
Garage doors are a distinctive element in the exterior design of your home. Whether you are refreshing the exterior of your current home or are designing a new one, the right garage door is available for you. For a Free Estimate contact your local Professionals.
June 18, 2010
Garage Doors and Curb Appeal
Real estate agents like to say that the three things that determine the value of a house are location, location and location. But they also talk about "curb appeal"—the impression a house gives when you first approach it. It also helps determine value and makes a house feel like home. While the garage door may not be the first item you think of improving when you're putting your house up for sale, but realtors say it's worth giving it some attention.
Your garage door is the single largest moving part on a home and, because it often faces the street, it plays a large part in your homes’ overall appearance. Curb appeal is a critical factor in selling a home. If a prospective buyer doesn't like the view from the street, chances are he won't waste time going inside.
In a recent study 300 realtors nationwide were surveyed to determine if garage door appearance made a difference in the listing price they would assign to a house. Nearly all of the agents interviewed agreed that a new garage door enhances curb appeal and 75 percent believe it adds value to a home. In fact, most realtors have recommended that a homeowner replace their garage door when listing their house for sale because of the condition of the door. Nearly half said appearance was a big reason because the age or style of the door detracted from the home's curb appeal. Check out how homes look before and after new garage doors were installed.
When it comes to adding value to a home's list price, the right garage door does make a difference. Depending on the style of the door, and how it fit in with the architectural style of the house, realtors increased the list price anywhere from one to four percent. On a $350,000 home, that's an increase of somewhere between $3,500 and $14,000 just because of the garage door. This doesn't mean that a home has to have a designer garage door but the door has to enhance the overall appearance.
The average price for a new garage door ranges from $800 to $5,000 depending on the size of the door and the material it's made from. The most popular look in garage doors right now is the carriage-house style door. The doors look like old-fashioned swing-out doors but function like modern roll-up doors with an electric garage door opener. The choices for design, color and materials are virtually endless.
Your garage door is the single largest moving part on a home and, because it often faces the street, it plays a large part in your homes’ overall appearance. Curb appeal is a critical factor in selling a home. If a prospective buyer doesn't like the view from the street, chances are he won't waste time going inside.
In a recent study 300 realtors nationwide were surveyed to determine if garage door appearance made a difference in the listing price they would assign to a house. Nearly all of the agents interviewed agreed that a new garage door enhances curb appeal and 75 percent believe it adds value to a home. In fact, most realtors have recommended that a homeowner replace their garage door when listing their house for sale because of the condition of the door. Nearly half said appearance was a big reason because the age or style of the door detracted from the home's curb appeal. Check out how homes look before and after new garage doors were installed.
When it comes to adding value to a home's list price, the right garage door does make a difference. Depending on the style of the door, and how it fit in with the architectural style of the house, realtors increased the list price anywhere from one to four percent. On a $350,000 home, that's an increase of somewhere between $3,500 and $14,000 just because of the garage door. This doesn't mean that a home has to have a designer garage door but the door has to enhance the overall appearance.
The average price for a new garage door ranges from $800 to $5,000 depending on the size of the door and the material it's made from. The most popular look in garage doors right now is the carriage-house style door. The doors look like old-fashioned swing-out doors but function like modern roll-up doors with an electric garage door opener. The choices for design, color and materials are virtually endless.
May 14, 2010
Steel Garage Doors
With energy costs continuing to rise, more and more homeowners are opting for garage doors that are manufactured out of steel. Depending on the specific type of door that you choose, many of them do provide a great deal of insulation. Steel garage doors are available with the single, double or triple layer construction method. These particular doors are stronger and longer lasting than almost any of the other materials; warping or denting is usually not a problem with them. They may require painting once in a while, but not as often as wood doors do.
Many look only at price when selecting a door, which leads them to a single layer door. Unfortunately, the single layer garage door does not have a layer of insulation included in it. This door is composed of a single sheet of galvanized steel. Needless to say, metal can be very cold and also very hot. Even though they are the least expensive of all of the models, think twice before selecting this kind; unless you garage is not connected to your home.
The double layer style has two layers - One layer of galvanized steel and the other layer is polyurethane. This material both insulates and limits outside traffic noise. Finally, there is also the three layer door. This is really a duplicate of the double layer except it has a second sheet of galvanized steel over the insulation. Consequently, the three layer door is a much better insulator and is able to provide a greater degree of security. However, it is also more expensive.
The choice is up the individual homeowner. Everyone, without saying, would prefer the best that is available. Consider your individual situation, and budget then carefully consider the future energy savings that are possible before making your final decision.
Many look only at price when selecting a door, which leads them to a single layer door. Unfortunately, the single layer garage door does not have a layer of insulation included in it. This door is composed of a single sheet of galvanized steel. Needless to say, metal can be very cold and also very hot. Even though they are the least expensive of all of the models, think twice before selecting this kind; unless you garage is not connected to your home.
The double layer style has two layers - One layer of galvanized steel and the other layer is polyurethane. This material both insulates and limits outside traffic noise. Finally, there is also the three layer door. This is really a duplicate of the double layer except it has a second sheet of galvanized steel over the insulation. Consequently, the three layer door is a much better insulator and is able to provide a greater degree of security. However, it is also more expensive.
The choice is up the individual homeowner. Everyone, without saying, would prefer the best that is available. Consider your individual situation, and budget then carefully consider the future energy savings that are possible before making your final decision.
April 30, 2010
3 Steps to Garage Door Safety
30,000 people annually are injured by faulty garage door systems
Your garage door is essentially a movable wall and when combined with an automatic garage door opener, it is the largest and perhaps the most dangerous moving object in your home. Reports from the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission indicate that over 30,000 people are injured by faulty garage door systems every year. It’s also important to note that these statistics count only those injuries that required medical attention while many other injuries go unreported.
The proper installation, maintenance and testing of these two pieces of equipment are necessary to provide you with safe, trouble-free operation. An improperly adjusted garage door or automatic opener can exert deadly force when the door closes. This could lead to serious injury or death from being hit by a closing garage door or from being trapped under the door.
Take a few minutes to inspect and test your garage door system and make that inspection and testing a part of your regular routine. Garage Door Safety is everyone's business. If anything is suspected to be unsafe or in need of attention, contact a garage door professional ASAP.
Testing and maintaining your garage door.
Review your garage door owner's manual. It will provide you with important information on your doors’ specific needs. If you do not have a manual, look for the manufacturer's name and model number on the back of the door or the lock handle. Request a manual from the manufacturer. You should perform routine maintenance steps once a month.
Visual Inspection
Look at the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and other door hardware for signs of wear. If you suspect any problems contact your garage door service professional.
Garage door springs and cables are under very high tension. If handled improperly, they can cause serious injury and death. Only a certified technician should adjust them. Do not attempt to repair or adjust springs yourself.
A safety cable should be installed on all extension springs (the springs mounted above the track) to help contain a spring if it breaks.
Never remove, adjust or loosen the screws on the bottom brackets of the door. These brackets are connected to the spring system by the lift cable and are under extreme tension.
Lubrication
· Like all mechanical systems, garage doors need regular lubrication. Lubricate the moving parts of the door with a silicon based spray only. However, do not lubricate plastic rollers and plastic bearings. Consult the garage door owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations
Door Balance
· Periodically test the balance of your garage door.
o Start with the door closed
o If you have a garage door opener, use the release mechanism so you can operate the door by hand when doing this test.
o You should be able to lift the door smoothly and with little resistance. It should stay open around three or four feet above the floor. If it does not, it is out of adjustment. Have it adjusted by a certified technician.
Precision Garage Door Service is proud to serve you in western Washington, Salt Lake, Tucson, Spokane and Albuquerque. Contact us at 888-822-4691
Your garage door is essentially a movable wall and when combined with an automatic garage door opener, it is the largest and perhaps the most dangerous moving object in your home. Reports from the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission indicate that over 30,000 people are injured by faulty garage door systems every year. It’s also important to note that these statistics count only those injuries that required medical attention while many other injuries go unreported.
The proper installation, maintenance and testing of these two pieces of equipment are necessary to provide you with safe, trouble-free operation. An improperly adjusted garage door or automatic opener can exert deadly force when the door closes. This could lead to serious injury or death from being hit by a closing garage door or from being trapped under the door.
Take a few minutes to inspect and test your garage door system and make that inspection and testing a part of your regular routine. Garage Door Safety is everyone's business. If anything is suspected to be unsafe or in need of attention, contact a garage door professional ASAP.
Testing and maintaining your garage door.
Review your garage door owner's manual. It will provide you with important information on your doors’ specific needs. If you do not have a manual, look for the manufacturer's name and model number on the back of the door or the lock handle. Request a manual from the manufacturer. You should perform routine maintenance steps once a month.
Visual Inspection
Look at the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and other door hardware for signs of wear. If you suspect any problems contact your garage door service professional.
Garage door springs and cables are under very high tension. If handled improperly, they can cause serious injury and death. Only a certified technician should adjust them. Do not attempt to repair or adjust springs yourself.
A safety cable should be installed on all extension springs (the springs mounted above the track) to help contain a spring if it breaks.
Never remove, adjust or loosen the screws on the bottom brackets of the door. These brackets are connected to the spring system by the lift cable and are under extreme tension.
Lubrication
· Like all mechanical systems, garage doors need regular lubrication. Lubricate the moving parts of the door with a silicon based spray only. However, do not lubricate plastic rollers and plastic bearings. Consult the garage door owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations
Door Balance
· Periodically test the balance of your garage door.
o Start with the door closed
o If you have a garage door opener, use the release mechanism so you can operate the door by hand when doing this test.
o You should be able to lift the door smoothly and with little resistance. It should stay open around three or four feet above the floor. If it does not, it is out of adjustment. Have it adjusted by a certified technician.
Precision Garage Door Service is proud to serve you in western Washington, Salt Lake, Tucson, Spokane and Albuquerque. Contact us at 888-822-4691
April 21, 2010
Garage Doors: The Crown Jewel of Curb Appeal
All garage doors open and close. Yours should do more than that. In addition to protection and insulation, it should add style and beauty to your home.
A garage door provides you with much more than just functionality. It is often one of the most prominent street-facing sections of a home, and gives homeowners the change to enhance their curb appeal with a few simple style choices. In many homes the Garage Doors represent 30% or more of what people see from the street and how it looks spells "curb appeal".
As a Homeowner you have a lot more choices these days when it comes to garage doors. They are now automated, designed to exacting industry standards, and come in a range of styles, strength and durability options. The internal structure of most garage doors is made from steel panels, and their exteriors from polyurethane and wooden finishes. Some are solid wood or composite.
These exterior finishes are essential to the overall appearance of your home. Garage doors come in a variety of materials and colors, from country to contemporary, and should blend with a home's overall style. Windows and tiles can add elegance to a garage door, while crossbeams and oak or pine slats can give it a homey, country look. Leaving exterior woods can make a garage door rustic, and choosing classic white with a simple pattern can give a door a minimalist, clean style. Start by thinking about your homes' architectural style.
Most garage doors use automatic openers, too, adding convenience to function. Most come with remote controls, making driving home a pleasure instead of a hassle. In fact, garage doors are now the most commonly used entrance into the typical home, surpassing even your front door.
As you search for the right garage door for your home, remember that style matters, and have fun choosing from the many door designs available today. One way to test ideas is through garage door design software.
A garage door provides you with much more than just functionality. It is often one of the most prominent street-facing sections of a home, and gives homeowners the change to enhance their curb appeal with a few simple style choices. In many homes the Garage Doors represent 30% or more of what people see from the street and how it looks spells "curb appeal".
As a Homeowner you have a lot more choices these days when it comes to garage doors. They are now automated, designed to exacting industry standards, and come in a range of styles, strength and durability options. The internal structure of most garage doors is made from steel panels, and their exteriors from polyurethane and wooden finishes. Some are solid wood or composite.
These exterior finishes are essential to the overall appearance of your home. Garage doors come in a variety of materials and colors, from country to contemporary, and should blend with a home's overall style. Windows and tiles can add elegance to a garage door, while crossbeams and oak or pine slats can give it a homey, country look. Leaving exterior woods can make a garage door rustic, and choosing classic white with a simple pattern can give a door a minimalist, clean style. Start by thinking about your homes' architectural style.
Most garage doors use automatic openers, too, adding convenience to function. Most come with remote controls, making driving home a pleasure instead of a hassle. In fact, garage doors are now the most commonly used entrance into the typical home, surpassing even your front door.
As you search for the right garage door for your home, remember that style matters, and have fun choosing from the many door designs available today. One way to test ideas is through garage door design software.
March 23, 2010
5 Things Every Home Owner Should Know About Repairing Garage Doors
The most common garage door repair is the Garage door springs. They are designed to do virtually all of the work necessary to lift your garage door. Garage door springs, cables, brackets, and other hardware attached to the springs, are under very high tension and, if not handled properly, can cause serious injury.
1. When dealing with garage door springs, you should take into account what type of door you have (sectional, tracked one-piece), and what type of springs you have. Garage Door Springs are available in two main types: extension and torsion.
2. Garage door springs come in different lengths to accommodate various standard size doors, from single garage doors to double doors. Garage door springs are sized or adjusted at time of initial installation to balance the weight of the garage door. It is important when handling springs to prevent any nicks or scrapes to the wire.
3. Spring pairs should be replaced together, since the mate is likely to fail soon after the first, and any possible savings in parts isn’t worth the extra effort to repeat the work later. You must release the tension on the garage door springs before attempting adjustment or replacement.
4. Correct spring size is determined by factors such as the weight and height of the door. For example, garage door springs are designed to accommodate the original intended weight of the door. If additional weight is added to the door sections after the original door installation, the door could become unbalanced such that operation is not smooth, possibly even resulting in damaged or broken springs.
5. Also, the function of any opener on the door could be adversely affected such that a motor could become overworked or cease functioning. The safety of a garage door is directly attributed to the design of these components working together without any other added material. For example, adding weight, including hanging large objects, to any part of the door or track can obstruct the pathway of the door and can cause the horizontal track to twist, buckle or deform. This has the potential to allow the door to fall out of the horizontal track.
Because doors are large, heavy moving objects that can weigh anywhere from 90 pounds to over 500 pounds, a door falling out of its tracks is dangerous to persons, and hazardous to property, under the door or in the area. Always consult with experienced repair services like Precision Door Service.
1. When dealing with garage door springs, you should take into account what type of door you have (sectional, tracked one-piece), and what type of springs you have. Garage Door Springs are available in two main types: extension and torsion.
2. Garage door springs come in different lengths to accommodate various standard size doors, from single garage doors to double doors. Garage door springs are sized or adjusted at time of initial installation to balance the weight of the garage door. It is important when handling springs to prevent any nicks or scrapes to the wire.
3. Spring pairs should be replaced together, since the mate is likely to fail soon after the first, and any possible savings in parts isn’t worth the extra effort to repeat the work later. You must release the tension on the garage door springs before attempting adjustment or replacement.
4. Correct spring size is determined by factors such as the weight and height of the door. For example, garage door springs are designed to accommodate the original intended weight of the door. If additional weight is added to the door sections after the original door installation, the door could become unbalanced such that operation is not smooth, possibly even resulting in damaged or broken springs.
5. Also, the function of any opener on the door could be adversely affected such that a motor could become overworked or cease functioning. The safety of a garage door is directly attributed to the design of these components working together without any other added material. For example, adding weight, including hanging large objects, to any part of the door or track can obstruct the pathway of the door and can cause the horizontal track to twist, buckle or deform. This has the potential to allow the door to fall out of the horizontal track.
Because doors are large, heavy moving objects that can weigh anywhere from 90 pounds to over 500 pounds, a door falling out of its tracks is dangerous to persons, and hazardous to property, under the door or in the area. Always consult with experienced repair services like Precision Door Service.
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