El Dorado Hills Garage Door Repair

Tag: garage door replacement

  • When You Should DIY and When You Should Call A Pro to Fix Your Garage Door

    When it comes to garage door maintenance and repairs it can be a difficult call to make whether or not to DIY or hire a professional. Minor issues such as a rattling or squeaky opener can often be fixed with a few simple tools and a little patience. However, more complex problems such as a broken cable or spring require specialized knowledge and skill and should be handled by a professional.

    Generally Safe to DIY These Repairs

    Before attempting any repair, take the time to assess the situation. Even if the problem is something you feel comfortable tackling yourself always proceed with caution. Make sure you have the right tools and parts, and read up on the repair process. If, however, you’re unsure of how to fix the issue, then it’s best to call in a professional. With this out of the way let’s look at a couple common garage door issues you can likely fix yourself:

    • Squeaking

    A squeaky garage door is usually a simple matter of needing lubrication. Most hardware stores sell garage-door specific lubricants for this purpose which you can apply to your moving parts to see if that fixes the issue.

    • Rattling

    A rattling sound, especially in new installs or ones that have not been maintained in a while, are generally caused by a loose bolt somewhere. Use the emergency garage door opener pully and manually open the garage door. After that you can meticulously check every bolt to see if that solves your problem.

    • Your Remote Isn’t Responding

    Usually this can be resolved on your own pretty simply, and might not be worth the cost of hiring a technician to diagnose. There are a few issues this can be. First, make sure the garage is getting power. Next, check your batteries. If those are fine, make sure the receiver is clear of debris such as cobwebs or grease.

    If you notice additional sounds, such as banging, or the problem do not resolve here, it’s probably time to call a service technician to diagnose the issue.

    Always Call a Pro If You Notice These Issues

    A professional can quickly identify the root of the problem and they’ll have the right tools and parts to get the job done right. They’ll also be able to provide advice and guidance on how to best maintain your garage door in the future. They may be able to spot potential problems before they become major issues, saving you time and money, or advice you if your garage door is becoming a safety hazard and should be replaced.

    • Banging Sounds

    Stop using your garage door immediately if you hear any sort of banging sounds coming from the door while operating it. This is a telltale sign of an unbalanced garage door and it is likely causing extreme stress on parts of your garage door opener that are not meant to handle that extra load. This can be a costly repair if not rectified immediately, and potentially dangerous.

    • Rusty or Broken Springs and Cables

    Though you may be able to diagnose these yourself on sight, do not under any circumstances attempt to change these out yourself. Stop all operation of your garage and call a professional. These parts are under high torsion and can cause injuries if handled improperly.

    Only Hire Quality and Vetted Garage Door Technicians

    By following these tips, you can ensure that your garage door remains secure and functional for years to come. When it comes to repairs, however, it’s almost always best to hire a professional. They’ll be able to quickly and efficiently diagnose and repair any issues, saving you time and money in the long run.

  • How to Choose the Best Garage Door for Your Home

    As much as you might love your home, there’s always going to be some small changes that could make it even more perfect. Perhaps you feel like the entry to your home could use an update? Upgrading your home with a new garage door can go a long way in making your house feel brand new and exciting. 

    With so many options and designs available, you may find it somewhat difficult to know exactly what you’re looking for when choosing the right door for your garage. Let’s take a look at a few things to consider when taking on this task.

    What to Look for in a Garage Door

    While there are many factors to consider when looking for a new garage door, there are a few things you should always keep an eye out for. First, make sure it’s going to be safe for your home and family. This includes a number of different factors, including the weight of the door, the type of hardware, security features, and more. Garage service specialists worth their salt should be able to go over all of this with you.

    Material and Style Options

    Additionally, and much more fun, you’ll want to make sure that your garage door is the right fit for your home’s style and décor. You’ll want to consider the material, color, and finish of your garage door. Garage doors come in a wide range of finishes, including wood, steel, fiberglass, and aluminum, among others.

    The type of material you choose will depend on a number of factors, including your budget, the look you’re going for, and the climate in your area. Wood tends to be a classically popular choice, but steel and fiberglass have their benefits as well.

    Style-wise things can get a little tricky, especially when replacing an old garage door with a new one. Sectional overhead doors tend to be the most popular in neighborhoods across the country, but carriage style hinged doors can give your house a classic look that’s pretty hard to emulate otherwise.

    Refitting an old garage installation for a new style can definitely increase your budget, but it’s definitely possible and should be kept in mind if you find a door you fall in love with.

    Find the Right Size for Your Home

    Make sure to have accurate measurements of your old garage door before getting too invested in replacing it with any specific new door. There can be odd variants to its size depending on its age, or especially if it was a custom job. When measuring you’ll want to make sure to include the width of its track and its height, including the height of the door when it’s fully open. 

    Get a Quote from The Experts

    A professional garage door service company can go along way in helping you narrow down your search. They’ll have a large catalogue to go through and might have ideas in mind that you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. They can also help you find a way to fit your perfect style and design into a budget that’ll work.

  • Stop Ignoring Repairs, Call A Garage Door Service Today

    We empathize with those who absolutely detest have to deal with repairs. You use your garage door multiple times a day and likely take it for granted. After all, you get to sit in your car and open the door thanks to the push of a button. Long gone are the days of opening and closing the hundred-pound door manually. When something goes wrong, it’s easy to ignore it and assume it will go away, but that’s never the case.

    You should have your overhead door regularly maintained and inspected by a garage door service. If you’re not already doing that, learn some of the ways you can find out if there’s something wrong with your system. If you know that a repair is needed, you’ll be able to get it done before a major issue arises which will require replacement. 

    Keep An Ear Out for A Noisy Garage Door 

    Your garage door is fine with an average hum or occasional loud sound but once it becomes a constant that you just can’t ignore, it’s time to call a garage door service. A noisy garage door is an extremely serious problem and is likely doing more damage than just annoying your eardrums. A noisy garage door could mean that there’s something wrong with the springs, overhead door opener, or tracks. These are key garage door parts that should be in optimal condition. 

    Check your tracks and notice if they are dirty, bent, or damaged. If the tracks are dirty, they can be cleaned with a household cleaner and a rag. Don’t lubricate your tracks – this will prematurely rust them and will force a costly replacement. That being said, if your door tracks are bent or significantly damaged, they will need to be replaced by an expert who can have them fit in tightly. Ignoring this could lead to a door off track if that hasn’t happened already. If the tracks aren’t the issue, take a look at the rollers, they could be worn out. Rollers can be replaced by a garage door repair technician. Most hardware stores and online shops will carry affordable garage door rollers that won’t break the bank. 

    Pay Attention to Garage Door Springs

    The springs are responsible for doing the heavy lifting when it comes to door operation. Every few months you should inspect them and ensure they’re in place. Be sure to also look out for rust. If any garage door parts are rusty, an overhead door service should replace them immediately. A broken spring can cause serious issues, including loud noises. Your door could collapse at any time, so err on the side of caution and stop using it until a professional can take a look at it. 

    Get Issues Fixed Fast

    If you notice anything wrong with the overhead door, it’s time to have an inspection. A professional garage door service will determine the issue and have the problem parts replaced or repaired in a timely manner. Ignoring issues may seem like the wise thing to do in the moment but it’s something you’ll regret when the door comes crashing down, or worse: it injures you. In most cases, it’s recommended that you let professionals handle repairs, as DIY fixes are only for those who have experience. 

  • What are the Benefits of Insulating My Garage Door in a Mild Climate?

    Insulation is not just for cold Midwestern winters. Its use in keeping out the cold works the other way around, as well (it’ll keep out heat). But it’s not really about fighting the outside temperatures – it’s more about keeping your indoor temperatures controlled without racking up a crazy electric bill. Here’s why having an insulated garage door is smart:

    With Less Cooling or Heating Needed, Your Bills Should Go Down

    One of the primary benefits of an insulated garage door is its ability to enhance the energy efficiency of your home. The insulation helps to mitigate the loss of heating or cooling from your living space. It creates a thermal barrier between the interior and exterior of your garage. By preventing the exchange of air from outside, an insulated overhead door reduces the need for temperature adjustments. It maintains a more stable indoor climate. This translates to lower energy consumption and reduced utility costs.

    With The Extra Layer, It Makes Your Garage Door More Sturdy

    Insulated garage doors feature strong frames and dense centers. They’re more durable and longer-lasting compared to typical single-panel doors. The insulation materials contribute to the door’s structural integrity. They provide support and resistance against impact, wind, and other external forces. The robust construction of insulated doors ensures they can withstand daily use, harsh weather conditions, and wear and tear. Garage doors with insulation are often more reliable than those without.

    Insulation Prevents the Outside Noise from Coming In

    Insulation in garage doors offer superior sound insulation properties compared to non-insulated alternatives. The tight fit and solid construction of these doors reduces the transfer of sound between the interior and exterior of your garage. This means that noises from outside, such as street traffic or neighbors, are reduced. You’ll create a quieter and more peaceful environment inside your garage. 

    You Don’t Need Electric Temperature Control

    By insulating your garage, your door helps regulate the temperature within the space. This is particularly beneficial if you use a portion of your garage as a workshop, gym, or recreational area. The insulation helps maintain a more reasonable temperature. It prevents heat from building up in the summer or excessive cold during winter months. By creating a comfortable environment, you can use your garage comfortably. You won’t need other temperature control measures, keeping down costs.

    Keeps Whatever Noise You Make Inside

    In addition to noise reduction, insulated doors also provide sound isolation properties. This means that the sounds generated within your garage, such as tools or music, are less likely to escape and disturb the surrounding areas. The insulation materials help absorb sound. This creates a quieter atmosphere both inside and outside the garage.

    Investing in an insulated garage door offers advantages beyond temperature control. By considering the benefits of insulating a garage door, you can make an informed decision. One that could help enhance your home’s efficiency and improve your garage’s functionality.

  • Garage Door Installation: Is Your Old Door Dangerous?

    Garage Door Installation: Is Your Old Door Dangerous?

    Garage Door Installation Is Your Old Door Dangerous

    We like to get our money’s worth out of things, especially these days. Value is important. And we tend to push the limits — wearing a pair of shoes or jeans right up to the breaking point. Garage doors should be an exception to the rule, however. Put off replacing your old door too long and it can become incredibly dangerous and can cost you more in the long run. Think about installing a new garage door before it’s too late.

    Why a Garage Door Can Be a Serious Safety Issue

    A garage door is the largest and heaviest moving part of your home. If you raise and lower it even just 2 to 3 times per day, that’s literally a thousand times a year. Your door requires very precise balance and well working components in order to function properly and safely. The more you use it, the less efficient it gets at doing its job. While it will still serve its purpose, it will get slower at doing it, resulting in frustration and door parts that barely get the job done. 

    The Danger of Your Garage Door Springs

    If you’ve got an older door that hasn’t had much maintenance, your springs could very well be a hazard. Garage door springs work on a counterweight system and require regular adjustment to be able to work effectively and safely. They have a lifespan of about 7 years. When’s the last time you had them replaced, repaired or even inspected? If you’re looking to upgrade your garage door springs, it’s recommended that you switch over to torsion springs. They’ll last far longer and can carry more weight, meaning they’ll break down far slower than extension springs.

    If you disengage your automatic opener, you should be able to lift up the door with one hand. If not, call a professional to have it inspected. The springs may need some adjustment. Don’t attempt the repair yourself. These springs are under considerable tension and may be a safety hazard. Let a professional tend to you garage door spring repair and remain worry free.  

    How are Your Rollers?

    Rollers should roll smoothly, not slide along. If your rollers have rounded edges or are coming off the shaft, they need to be replaced. Replacing garage door rollers can be dangerous if you don’t have experience in this realm. Loosening bolts which hold the bottom of the garage door could lead to the entire fixture falling. Feel free to find replacement rollers at hardware stores but let a garage door repair company step in to take care of the upgrade. 

    How Old Is Your Garage Door Opener?

    Is your garage door opener more than 20 years old? If so, you might consider installing a new opener. Modern openers are equipped with automatic reversal systems, which will stop the door from moving if a pet or child runs underneath, or there’s something in the way. New overhead door openers also boast great quality of life features remote access, which allow you to open and close your door from anywhere in the world. Perfect for letting delivery drivers securely tuck away your package or to let the kids home from school.

    Looks Matter

    Besides safety, visual aesthetics should also be a consideration when considering garage door replacement. Installing a new garage door has one of the best returns on investment when it comes to home improvement. It can improve its real sale value as well as its equity.

    Garage Doors Have Come a Long Way, Baby!

    Garage door technology has gotten pretty advanced over the last 15 years or so. Insulated doors can limit heating and cooling bills and provide a comfortable environment to relax in. There are also numerous garage door security devices that can improve the safety of your home. 

    Installing A New Garage Door Can Be Easy

    If your garage door hasn’t been replaced in the last 20 or so years, it’s time for a change. Upgrade your house’s look and security by replacing your overhead door today. Spend time and research different garage door styles and models that suit your home’s needs. Afterwards, consult a certified and insured garage door installation company. A reputable installation company will be able to replace your garage door with relative ease and in case anything goes wrong, you’ll be reimbursed or compensated for any damages. 

  • How to Convert Your Garage into a New Room

    Most people think that the garage is for storing your car and other household belongings. At most, you might think to use the extra space at the back as a workshop or a place for your teen to play his drum set outside of your house, for obvious reasons. But did you know that you can actually add living space to your home just by making modifications to your garage? Take a look at these 30 sweet garage transformations that show what a little creativity can do. If you browse through the photos in that HGTV article, you’ll notice that there are many choices of how to convert your garage, and also that they vary from very little work and investment, to extreme makeovers that make it almost unbelievable the space was ever a garage.

    But hold on a second, because first, depending on the extent of your plans, you’ll need to find out if a building permit is required. Even though you may own the home, there are zoning laws that must be followed. If you’re located in El Dorado Hills, you can find the county website here. Even if you aren’t changing the structure of the garage itself, there are still legal codes you have to consider; for instance, if you want your renovation to be a legal bedroom, you need at least one egress window. Do your research before you finalize your plans, because it’s always a bummer to have a vision, or worse, spend money on supplies or services only to find out what you’ve done is either structurally unsound or just straight up illegal. Rooms or structures that don’t meet code are seriously negative factors in residential real estate.

    Get Started with Proper Planning

    Get started by drawing out a detailed blueprint for how you want your garage conversion to look. Once you have developed a plan, you can better estimate the budget required and timeframe needed. If it’s a total transformation, you may need a contractor, and expect the process to take a month or two. Depending on your plan, you may need to install insulation, heating/cooling, and run wiring for electricity. Windows and plumbing are also possible, but the latter is more complicated and could drive costs up further.

    Costs involved in renovating your garage depend on the scope of the project, with minor conversions (like a workout room) being a few hundred dollars and complete transformations (like a master suite) being as much as $40,000. When you’re working with areas like El Dorado Hills, where many of the foundations are slab cement, you really need to consider what utilities you’ll need for your project. Insulating and running electric before you drywall is one matter, but if you’re trying to alter plumbing, you have to literally jackhammer into the foundation to reach the existing plumbing (if there is any) and trench new paths for whatever new plumbing you’re installing. That is a big cost, because after all that destruction, you’ll essentially have to have that part of your foundation redone, and that takes time as well as money.

    Start Your Renovation with New Garage Doors

    If you thought garage door replacement would be the first step in the renovation, you’d be correct. New garage doors will help protect your investment, and provide a great starting point for your project. If you’re making a new living room or a gym, a glass garage door is a great solution. Another factor in keeping a garage door in the room, no matter how much you’re altering the space, is because when it comes time to sell your house, it’ll make it way easier to convert it back to a garage, if that is what the new owner wants. Regardless, a garage conversion definitely deserves a garage door upgrade.

    Install an Insulated Garage Door to Start

    An insulated garage door is a fantastic starting point for this transformation. It serves as a barrier between the outdoor elements and your new interior space, providing numerous benefits.

    Firstly, insulation in the garage door helps regulate the temperature inside the converted room. It keeps the space warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, ensuring year-round comfort. This temperature control reduces the need for additional heating or cooling systems, saving you on energy costs. This alone is worth it to install a brand-new garage door.

    Secondly, insulation improves soundproofing. It helps reduce noise from outside, making the converted room quieter and more peaceful. This is particularly important if you plan to use the space as a bedroom, home office, or recreational area. Furthermore, insulation enhances energy efficiency. With a well-insulated garage door, you’ll have better control over the indoor climate. This translates into energy savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

    Lastly, an insulated garage door contributes to the aesthetics of the space. It provides a clean and finished look while ensuring that the room is not compromised by drafts, moisture, or temperature extremes. 

    If You Don’t Want the Garage Door, You Might Need a Permit 

    If you’d rather eliminate the garage door altogether and make that area into an exterior wall, this is another time you need to consult your county’s building codes, as well as an engineer, so that whatever alterations you make are legal and structurally sound.