El Dorado Hills Garage Door Repair

Author: epicnine

  • Have You Organized Your Garage This Year?

    It’s Garage Spring Cleaning Time!

    Spring cleaning is here and there’s no better time to get your garage organized. We know you’ve been putting this one off for awhile, but there’s no better time than now!

    The easiest way to organize your garage is to keep it simple. Start by making a pile of everything you no longer need. From here, you can decide if you want to donate it or start a yard sale. If it’s junk, just throw it away!

    Once you’re left with the necessities, start organizing them into piles too. Tools in one pile, garden equipment in the other, etc. After that, decide where you want everything to go. For example, tools can be hung on the wall and other parts can be stored in bins.

    Here’s 38 interesting ways to keep things organized in the garage.

    Don’t forget to sweep your garage floor when you’re done!

  • Exciting Remodeling Ideas for Your Garage Space

    5 Ideas for a Complete Garage Makeover

    If you’re like most families, your garage is a place of clutter. Old yard decorations, long-forgotten tools, unknown critters lurking in corners – all perfectly normal signs that you’re a regular garage owner. But let’s be real for a moment. Most of us don’t have an icky garage because we want to. We’re just lazy and it’s an easy place to plop our junk.

    Fortunately, your garage doesn’t have to be a place of dread. With a little creativity, you can turn your garage space into just about anything.

    You Can Add an Extra Bedroom to Your Home

    Make it a bedroom. Yep – that’s right. By installing insulation and finishing the walls and floor, your garage is no different than your upstairs bedroom. You could even install a bathroom in the garage if you’d like! It’s like a second master bedroom. This can be improved with installing a brand-new garage door with windows on it. A set of glass panels on your garage door can help let in a lot of natural light so you’re not relying on artificial lighting.

    A Garage Can Be a Perfect Home Gym

    Is limited space within your home preventing you from buying workout equipment? Then how about turning your garage into a home gym? Asides from the cost of fitness equipment, this is probably one of the most affordable and simple garage conversions you could do. With an insulated garage door, you can even control the temperature of your gym to exactly what you need. No longer will you go to the gym only to find that the temperature is too cold. You can also lay out any flooring you may want for proper support.

    A Garage Winery Is Great for Wine Fanatics

    For all those wine connoisseurs out there, a garage door winery is a great alternative to a more expensive wine cellar. This may be more expensive because you will want to control the temperature of the environment. Installing insulation in both the garage, the door and making sure your windows are properly sealed is necessary. 

    Why Go to the Cinema When You Can Go to Your Garage

    Transform it into a home theater. Don’t be scared away with how expensive this one sounds. With a few small modifications and a cheap projector, you’ll be on your way to a garage movie theater in no time. You can even paint the back of your garage door to be perfect for projecting onto. A strong white paint or just putting up some fabric won’t hurt your garage door but make for a perfect home theater setup. This is even better if your garage is reasonably soundproofed. Insulation and some new garage door weatherstripping help here. It helps keep your surround sound setup in, and the outside world out. 

    A Garage Greenhouse Can Save You Money on Plants

    Start your very own greenhouse in the garage. A standalone greenhouse is exactly on the cheap side, so why not make your own? Just like the winery, you will want to control the temperature of your garage to support whatever plants you want to grow. A new garage door installation may be in order, but at the same time you can add glass to you garage door panel. You can have both natural light and carefully curated artificial lights in your garage greenhouse.

    Of course, you could just leave it as a regular garage. Just be sure to keep it clean!

  • The Worst Place Possible to Leave a Garage Remote

    Prevent Theft By Safeguarding Your Garage Door Remote

    Thieves are particularly attentive to details we tend to not think so much about. One bad habit that could result in both a garage and home break-in is leaving your garage door remote clipped to the visor in your car.

    Conceal Your Door Opener’s Remote

    Would you hang the key to your front door in your car for all to see? Probably not – but that’s exactly what most people are doing when they leave their garage remotes visible in their car. Consider investing in a small garage door opener remote holder or pouch that can attach to your keychain. This way, you’ll always have your remote with you, just like your house key, and reduce the risk of it falling into the wrong hands.

    Your Inner Garage Door Is Your Last Wall of Security

    If a thief were to break into your vehicle, they now also have a way to partially enter your home. To make matters worse, many homeowners leave their inner garage door unlocked, leaving your home completely vulnerable. Treat your inner garage door as a crucial layer of security for your home. Never leave it unlocked, as it provides direct access to the interior of your house. Always lock your doors when you’re not in the garage, even if you’re just stepping inside briefly.

    Reinforce Your Garage Door to Keep Your Home Safe

    Reinforcing garage door security is essential to safeguarding your home. A high-quality garage door made of sturdy materials like steel or reinforced wood can deter break-ins. Smart locking systems, such as keypad entry or smartphone-controlled access, add an extra layer of protection. Taking proactive measures ensures that your garage remains a formidable barrier. But it all fails if you lose your garage door opener’s key.

    A word of advice? Bring your remote inside with you and keep your doors locked.

  • Check out This Sweet Garage Door Art!

    Cool Ideas for Painting Your Garage in 2016

    Art can be a fun and affordable way to spice up a boring garage door. Check out these amazing and sometimes scary designs that will truly make your door stand out!

    You can do this at home with some quick and easy ideas here!

    A Whimsical Mural Can Be Memorable and Fun

    Brighten up your garage door with whimsical murals! It can feature vibrant landscapes, playful characters, or abstract designs. A mural can add a burst of color and creativity to an otherwise plain door, instantly making it an eye-catching focal point.

    Paint Trees and Nature to Promote Serenity

    Embrace nature-themed designs like serene forests, serene beach scenes, or blooming flower gardens. These designs can evoke a sense of tranquility. They can connect your garage door to the natural surroundings, creating an inviting atmosphere.

    You Can Use Scenic Illusions for A Fun Look

    Create an optical illusion with your garage door by painting scenes that give the illusion of depth. This clever approach adds an element of surprise and captivates passersby.

    Spooky Art for Halloween Seasons

    For the brave-hearted, Halloween-inspired designs can add a spooky twist to your garage door. From creepy creatures to haunted houses, these designs are perfect for the Halloween season. They can add a touch of seasonal fun and fright to your home’s exterior. Add a few props and your garage can be a door to spooky town!

    Use a Classic Design for a Vintage Look

    Transform your garage door into a work of art with vintage-inspired designs. These timeless designs add a touch of elegance and charm to your home.

    Use Simple Geometric Patterns

    Create a modern and contemporary look with geometric patterns and shapes. Bold lines and shapes can add a sense of sophistication to your garage door, making it a standout feature of your home.

    You Can Always Just Apply a New Coat of Paint

    If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider repainting your garage door instead. A fresh coat of paint can rejuvenate its appearance and enhance curb appeal. Go for classic colors that complement your home’s exterior and architectural style. Soft neutrals or traditional shades are safe choices that can add a touch of sophistication. You don’t need to overpower your home’s look.

    Painting your door is always a great option for maintaining the door and your home’s curbside appeal.

    Remember, your garage door takes up a significant portion of your home exterior and plays the main role in curb appeal. You may want to think it through before painting it neon!

  • Follow These Steps to Keep Your Garage Door in Great Shape

    How to Properly Maintain Your Garage Door

    Important Maintenance Tips For Your Door

    Do you remember the last time you performed routine maintenance on your garage door? If not, then you’re past due for some routine tune-ups. While it’s usually a good idea to hire a garage door repair company to tune-up your door, you can also perform some DIY maintenance that’ll help catch problems before they occur. Perform the following garage door maintenance checks regularly:

    Starting with a safety check, place a large paper towel roll under the door and hit the switch. It should reverse immediately upon contact. If it crushes the towel, then your door requires immediate service for safety. If you don’t have experience fixing garage doors, your best bet is to contact a professional to assess the situation. While you may consider taking your car out to run errands, note that the crushed towel method is a tell-tale sign that your garage door is a disaster waiting to happen. 

    After the towel check, examine all the various parts of the door: rollers, track, spring, hinges, panel, etc. Fortunately, you don’t need to be particularly knowledgeable to notice an obvious problem. Rusted, corrosion, damaged cables, loose or worn parts – these are all things that need to be addressed sooner rather than later. 

    Garage Door Off Track? 

    You can also balance check the door by disabling the automatic opener and operating the door by hand. It should open and close fluidly. Another maintenance tip is to open your ears for any sounds that can be heard while you open your door beyond the general “whrrr”. If you hear a rubbing or stuttering sound, or anything out of the ordinary, there’s a chance your garage door has jumped off track. This is a common issue with garage doors after general use over the years. Get on top of this as soon as possible, as the last thing you want is the sound getting louder, and the garage door getting jammed. 

    When It’s Time To Get An Expert

    Remember, the door on your garage has plenty of moving metal parts. For most homeowners, maintaining a garage door simply means keeping an eye out for potential issues, not solving them themselves. As tempting as it might be to play hero, the garage door can weigh hundreds of pounds and requites a litany of experience to master. If you’re not sure what you’re doing, ask for help! There are experts and professionals on standby 24/7 to ensure your garage door is working as intended. 

  • How Often Does Your Garage Door Require Maintenance?

    The Benefits of Frequent Garage Door Inspections

    Regular maintenance of your garage door is essential for maintaining its safety and functionality. It can be tempting to put off routine checks, but procrastinating on these important tasks can lead to dangerous situations. By committing to periodic inspections and tune-ups, you can catch and rectify issues early. This ensures the safety of your family and the longevity of your door.

    Now, how often should you inspect your overhead door? While specific needs can vary, a generally recommended maintenance schedule includes monthly inspections and biannual tune-ups to keep everything in tip-top shape. During these monthly inspections, it’s important to look for any signs of wear and tear such as frayed cables, rusty springs, or misaligned tracks. Additionally, checking the balance of the door and testing safety features like the auto-reverse mechanism are crucial for preventing accidents.

    Biannual tune-ups should be more comprehensive. They typically involve the lubrication of moving parts, tightening of bolts and hinges, and the replacement of worn or damaged components. These preventive measures not only ensure smooth and efficient operation but also extend the lifespan of your garage door. A little elbow grease will save you from costly garage door repairs or even replacement in the future.

    While DIY maintenance can be effective, it’s advisable to also have your garage door professionally serviced at least once a year. A professional technician can provide a more thorough inspection and might catch issues that could be easily overlooked otherwise. This annual check-up can be pivotal in maintaining your garage door’s integrity and functionality over the years. By staying proactive with these scheduled maintenance tasks, you contribute significantly to the safety and efficiency of your home’s primary access point. The most important part of all this is to make regular inspections a habit.

    Maintenance Is an Easy Way to Prevent Further Headaches

    Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Make it a routine to regularly examine your door and it’ll pay off in the long run. By making it a routine to examine your garage door, you can stay ahead of potential problems. Avoid costly repairs or, worse, accidents down the line. Prioritizing the maintenance and safety of your overhead door will pay off in the long run. Keeping up with your garage maintenance will provide both peace of mind and a well-functioning door that you can rely on.

  • Garage Door Insulation: Polyurethane or Polystyrene?

    In El Dorado Hills, where high temperatures are a common occurrence, finding ways to regulate the temperature in your garage is essential for comfort. If you’re considering DIY insulation, selecting the right kit for your overhead door is important.

    When browsing insulation options, you’ll likely encounter two main types: polystyrene and polyurethane. Polystyrene, often likened to the material found in disposable coffee cups, is a budget-friendly choice. However, its insulation capabilities may fall short compared to polyurethane. Polyurethane, a denser polymer, offers superior insulation but typically comes at a slightly higher price point. Either kit is reasonably easy to install on your garage door.

    Some insulation kits and garage doors come with a layer of reflective aluminum foil. This addition serves to further enhance insulation by deflecting heat away from the garage. While it may incur additional costs, the reflective foil can significantly contribute to maintaining a cooler garage environment, particularly during the scorching summer months.

    The Benefits of Garage Insulation Are Clear and Numerous

    Installing insulation in your garage offers numerous benefits beyond temperature control. Here are a few advantages to consider:

    • Energy Efficiency: By insulating your garage door, you can reduce the transfer of heat. This helps maintain a more stable temperature inside. This can lead to lower energy bills, as your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to regulate the temperature.
    • Enhanced Comfort: A well-insulated garage provides a more comfortable environment for various activities, such as DIY projects, workouts, or simply spending time relaxing in the space.
    • Protects Belongings: Insulation can help protect items stored in your garage from extreme temperatures. It prevents damage to sensitive belongings like electronics, tools, and seasonal decorations.
    • Noise Reduction: Insulation can also help dampen noise from outside sources, such as traffic or neighborhood activities. It helps create a quieter and more peaceful environment within your garage.
    • Increased Home Value: Adding insulation to your garage can enhance the overall value of your home. Potential buyers may view an insulated garage as a desirable feature, leading to increased resale value when it comes time to sell your property.

    By carefully selecting the right garage door insulation kit and investing in proper installation, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable, and energy-efficient garage space year-round.

  • Don’t Lubricate This Important Garage Door Part

    Why Lubricating the Tracks on Your Garage Door Is a Bad Idea

    Consistent lubrication is one of the best ways to maintain your garage door. Best part about it: you can do it by yourself – no repair service needed. Your overhead door can last a lot longer if you spend time maintaining it and doing minor DIY repairs every few months. Lubrication allows the door to be more in tune with itself and prevents key parts from getting rusty and more importantly: makes the door run smoothly so you don’t have to wait precious seconds for it to open or close.

    Lubrication Can Do a Lot of Good for Your Garage Door

    While keeping the parts on your garage door well lubricated is a good idea, there are certain areas you shouldn’t lubricate. With proper lubrication, your garage door will glide on its track, saving you precious time and effort.

    Here’s a reminder of what you can (and should) lubricate: The top of the rail, the lock, hinges, rollers, bearing plates, and the door’s springs (bonus points if you have two springs instead of one!) Proper lubrication in these areas will enhance the performance and durability of your garage door.

    It Can Also Do Just as Much Harm If Done Incorrectly

    However, the one location that should not be lubricated is the tracks. Lubricant in this spot can quickly send a garage door off track, which can result in a semi-costly repair. While it might seem like a smart idea to lubricate the area, your best course of action is just to clean the area thoroughly.

    You can use WD-40 to clean the track area if needed. Since it’s a solvent and not lubricant, it works well for cleaning. Just be sure to wipe down the track afterward to remove any remaining mineral oil left from the WD-40. That being said, WD-40 should not be used to lubricate the areas mentioned above – it will just cause the door to prematurely degrade. Instead, use grease or lubrication specifically made for garage doors, your local hardware store will be filled with options. By adhering to these guidelines and performing regular lubrication, you can keep your garage door running. You’ll enhance its lifespan and avoid plenty of unnecessary repair costs.

  • What’s the Difference Between Torsion and Extension Springs?

    Your average garage door is made up of dozens of parts that work in unison so you don’t have to manually lift it. One of the most important parts of your door – and most dangerous – is the spring. Without it, your automatic overhead door opener would be rendered useless. If you’re interested in learning more about your door, it’s important to pay strict attention to the garage door springs. 

    Garage Torsion vs. Extension Springs

    The majority of overhead garage doors use a counterbalance system with a spring. Without a spring, your door would be incredibly heavy and difficult to operate. The two types of springs used are torsion and extension.

    Extension springs are the oldest design and typically 2 of them are required to the balance the door. They work by contracting and expanding during operation.

    Torsion springs are a superior design and usually, only 1 is needed to operate your door. Instead of expanding, garage door torsion springs actually turn.

    When it comes down to it, torsion springs are superior in every possible way. There’s little reason to choose extension nowadays. Torsion is better because:

    1) They last much longer. Extension springs tend to last about 10,000 cycles whereas high-end torsion springs can last up to 100,000 cycles. The longer torsion springs last for your door, the less likely you’ll end up spending on repairs. Repairs involving garage door springs can get quite costly, so It’s prudent to take the step in upgrading your extension springs. 

    2) In the event of a broken garage door spring, torsion is much safer. There have been reports of extension springs launching through walls, windshields, and even injuring bystanders.

    3) The sudden jerking motions caused by extension can lead to a garage door off track, which is another costly repair. Torsion stabilizes the operation of your door so you don’t have to worry about your door veering off track. 

    We recommend everyone consider switching to torsion style springs for their garages. It’s a small upgrade that could potentially save you money and your life. 

    A Reminder on Spring Safety

    At EDH-Serrano, when we discuss springs, we always like to remind everyone that they can be extremely dangerous. Never place body parts in or around springs. They’re under heavy tension and should they be recklessly tampered with, it’s extremely like that your door could break or crash, resulting in a pricey garage door repair. Also, springs have been known to cause death and dismemberment, so be extra cautious if you’re a novice. Should you want to upgrade your door’s springs, it’s key to contact a company that specializes in spring repair. They’ll walk you through the necessary info needed to purchase torsion springs for your door and will install it swiftly.

  • This Lubricant Should Never Be Used on Garage Doors

    Don’t Use WD-40 on Your Garage Door!

    When it comes to garage door maintenance, it’s crucial to use the right lubricant. Contrary to popular belief, WD-40 should not be your go-to option. While it may initially improve your door’s performance due to its cleaning properties it won’t last. Every homeowner needs to understand that WD-40 is not a lubricant; it’s a solvent. This means it can strip away existing oil, leading to metal-to-metal contact, which can cause long-term damage to your garage door.

    What’s the better choice for lubricating your garage door then? Two highly recommended options are white lithium grease and silicone lubricants. These not only offer superior lubrication but also help protect your garage door parts from wear and tear. When using lubricants, ensure you’re applying them to the correct parts of the door. It’s essential not to overdo it, as excess lubricant can attract dust and dirt, potentially causing more harm than good.

    You can use WD-40 to clean parts like rails if you want. White lithium grease and silicone are two of the best choices and offer superior lubricating qualities. Just be sure you’re lubricating the correct parts and cleaning everything else whenever you’re performing maintenance.

    If you’re unsure on how to lubricate a garage door and a text guide just isn’t enough, check out this video of Mike Holmes explaining how you can lubricate your garage door safely.