Author: Jeffrey Sanford

Add Value to Your Home With One of These Unique Garage Update Ideas

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on December 21, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Add Value to Your Home With One of These Unique Garage Update Ideas

A garage door can have a huge impact on the curb appeal of your home. If your garage door is old and outdated, it can make your entire home look tired. On the other hand, a new door can create a fresh, modern look and add value to your home.

If you’re thinking of selling your home in the future, updating your garage door is a great way to increase its selling price. In fact, according to some estimates, replacing an old garage door with a new one can increase a home’s value by up to 4%. So, if you’re looking for ways to add curb appeal, updating your garage is a great place to start.

Add Insulation and Ventilation

Adding insulation and ventilation to your garage is one of the simplest ways to upgrade your home. With new insulation and air circulation, you can make your garage more comfortable and energy efficient, which will make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Garage door technicians can add insulation to your garage door to help keep the heat in and the cold out. They can also add vents to allow fresh air inside, which will help keep the temperature consistent. Furthermore, technicians can install weather stripping around the door to seal gaps and prevent drafts. They can also install invisible vents in the walls or ceilings to allow hot air to escape.

Organize Your Space With Storage Containers

By installing shelves, drawers, and storage containers throughout your garage, you can create a well-organized space that’s both functional and visually appealing. An organized garage can make your home more inviting to potential buyers as it demonstrates that your home is well-maintained. Additionally, an organized garage can help free up living space by providing a place to store seasonal items, holiday decorations, and other belongings that aren’t used on a daily basis.

Add Lighting to Your Garage Interior and Exterior

Adequate lighting is important for both the interior and exterior of your garage and prospective homebuyers will take this into consideration when making an offer. Interior garage lighting is important for safety purposes as it can help prevent trips and falls. It can also make it easier to find items that are stored away in your garage.

Good exterior garage lighting helps deter crime and makes it easier for family members and guests to find their way to the front door. In addition, well-lit garages add to the visual appeal of a home and make it look more inviting.

Finish the Floor With High-Quality Epoxy

Floors with epoxy finishes are more resistant to stains and damage, making them easy to clean and maintain. For this reason, prospective homebuyers often see a garage floor with an epoxy finish as a valuable selling point.

In addition to protecting your garage floor from stains and damage, an epoxy finish can also give it a sleek, professional look. This can help you to make a good impression on potential buyers as well as get the best possible valuation for your home, whether you’re planning to sell or simply storing up home equity.

Increase the Number of Electrical Outlets

Adding more electrical outlets to your garage can add value to your home while making you more productive. Most people use their garage for storage and as a workshop, and having enough outlets to support power tools and other equipment is essential.

Electrical outlets are also useful for charging batteries as well as giving you a backup in case of a power outage. Prospective homebuyers are often looking for homes with plenty of electrical outlets in the garage, so ensuring they’re available can raise the selling price of your home.

Add a Side Door

A walk-through side door in your garage can make it easier to get in and out when your hands are full. Not only will a side door add value to your home, but it will also make your life simpler and more convenient.

If you have young children, a side door will enable them to go straight from the car to the house without having to open the sliding garage door. Plus, prospective homebuyers are always looking for features that will make their lives easier, so a walk-through side door is a great selling point.

Opt for a Deep Cleaning and Repairs

If your garage door is dirty or not functioning properly, it can give the impression that your home isn’t well-cared for. Not only can this affect your home’s curb appeal, but it can also reduce its value. Prospective homebuyers are often turned off by a dirty or damaged garage door, and they may be willing to offer less for your home as a result.

Garage door cleaning and repair is a smart investment that can pay off in both the short and long run. In addition to boosting your home’s value, it can also improve your quality of life. A clean and well-maintained garage door will be more reliable and easier to use, and it will also help to keep your home safe and secure.

Choose an Attractive New Garage Door

Not only can a new garage door make your home more beautiful, but it’s also an investment that will pay off when it comes time to sell. Prospective homebuyers value add-ons like new garage doors, and you’ll be able to recoup a large portion of the cost of the door if you decide to sell.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a new garage door. If you have a traditional home, wood panel doors will add an elegant touch. For a more modern look, aluminum doors are a great option. And if you’re looking for something unique, carriage doors can really make your home stand out from the rest.

How a Garage Door Specialist Can Help Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

A technician from Garage Door Doctor can help you choose a door that perfectly complements the style of your home. From traditional to contemporary, there are many different styles of garage doors available, so it’s important to choose one that will nicely accent your home’s existing architecture.

Moreover, our experts can help you choose a material that’s durable and low-maintenance. Many garage doors are made from wood, but there are also options available in steel and fiberglass. Choosing a material that’s easy to care for will help keep your door looking its best for years. Additionally, one of our garage door techs can help you choose a color that will make your door pop. There are many different colors to choose from, so it’s important to find one that will really make your home stand out.

Garage Door Doctor is a reliable garage door company serving Indianapolis, Indiana and the surrounding areas. We specialize in garage door installation, repair, and replacement services. Our knowledgeable and experienced technicians are dedicated to providing outstanding service. We offer a wide range of garage door styles and brands to choose from, and we can help you find the perfect door for your home. Garage Door Doctor is your one-stop shop for all your garage door needs. Contact us today to learn more.

How to Protect Your Garage Door From the Rain

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on November 18, 2022. Posted in Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Protect Your Garage Door From the Rain

As any homeowner knows, the garage door is one of the most important parts of the house. Not only does your garage door provide security and protection from the elements, but it also helps to keep your home energy efficient. However, garage doors are also susceptible to damage from rain. Water can cause rust and corrosion, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth. In addition, rainwater can leak into the garage, damaging stored belongings and causing structural damage. Read to learn how you can protect your garage door from the rain.

1. Weather-stripping

Weather-stripping is a narrow strip of material that is installed around the edges of your garage door. It helps to seal the door and keep out moisture, wind, and pests. There are many different types of weather-stripping available on the market, but most commonly, you’ll see three types: foam, rubber, and vinyl.

Foam weather-stripping is the most common type of weather-stripping that is used in homes. It is made from a flexible foam that is filled with air pockets. This type of weather-stripping is easy to install and can be cut to fit any size opening. Vinyl weather-stripping is another popular option. It is made from a PVC material that is smooth and durable.

Vinyl weather-stripping can be used on both doors and windows and can be trimmed to fit any size opening. Rubber weather-stripping is the most heavy-duty option. It is made from a solid rubber material that is very thick and durable. Rubber weather-stripping is typically used on commercial doors and industrial applications. It can also be trimmed to fit any size of opening.

How to Install Weather-stripping

Weather-stripping is an inexpensive and easy way to boost your home’s energy efficiency, and it only takes a few minutes to install. If you’re not sure how to install weather-stripping on your garage door, it’s best to hire a professional. They will have the tools and experience necessary to do the job quickly and efficiently.

First, they will clean the surface of your door to remove any dirt or debris. Next, they will measure the door to ensure that the weather-stripping fits correctly. Once the stripping is in place, they will use a special adhesive to secure it. With professional installation, you can be sure that it will be done correctly and last for many years to come.

2. Test Your Garage Door’s Function

It’s always a good idea to test your garage door’s functionality before the bad weather hits. To do this, simply open and close the door a few times to make sure everything is working properly. You should also clean off any sensors that might be blocked by dirt or debris. If you notice anything that’s not working correctly, it’s best to call a professional for help. By taking these small steps, you can help protect your garage door from the damage that can be caused by severe weather.

3. Check the Quality of Your Garage Door

Garage doors are not indestructible, and they can be damaged by heavy rains. In order to keep your garage door in good condition, it is important to inspect it regularly for signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks and holes in the door, and make sure that the bottom of the door is properly aligned. If you notice any problems, call a professional for repairs. By taking care of your garage door, you can help to extend its lifespan and protect your home from the elements.

4. Install a Trench

A trench drain is a type of drainage system that is used to channel water away from an area. Trench drains are often used in areas where there is a lot of rainfall or where there is a risk of flooding. Trench drains are installed underground, and they are lined with a material that is impervious to water. The trenches are then covered with a grating or a slotted cover so that water can enter the trench but debris will be trapped on top of the grate.

Why Do You Need a Trench Drain for Your Garage Door?

Your garage door is exposed to the elements every time you open it, and over time, this exposure can cause damage to your garage door. Water can seep into the cracks and crevices of your garage door and cause rusting and corrosion. In addition, if your garage door is made of wood, water exposure can cause the wood to rot. A trench drain will protect your garage door from water damage by channeling water away from the door.

Installing a Trench Drain

If you think a trench drain might be right for your home, the first step is to contact a professional contractor who specializes in drainage systems. They will be able to assess your property and recommend the best solution for your needs. Once you’ve decided on a type of system and location for your trench drain, the contractor will excavate a narrow trench along the perimeter of your property. The trench will be lined with gravel before the pipe network is installed; once everything is in place, the trench will be filled back in and covered with grass or concrete.

5. Clean Your Gutters

It’s no secret that gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from the elements. By diverting rainwater away from your foundation, gutters help to prevent water damage and keep your basement dry. But did you know that your gutters can also help to protect your garage door from the rain?

When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, they can no longer effectively divert water away from your home. This can lead to rainwater spilling over the sides of the gutters and onto your garage door, where it can seep into cracks and cause corrosion. Not only does this ruin the look of your door, but it can also shorten its lifespan.

To prevent this from happening, it’s important to clean your gutters on a regular basis. You should also make sure that they are properly installed and angled so that water moves away from your garage door and towards a drainage area. If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may also want to invest in gutter guards to keep leaves and other debris out of your gutters.

6. Check the Water Path From Your Garage Door

It’s important to check the water path from your garage door to the ground to ensure that rainwater will not pool around your garage door and cause damage. Inspect the area around your garage door for any cracks or holes in the concrete that could allow water to seep through. If you find any, repair them with caulk or sealant.

Contact Professionals Today!

If you’re in need of experienced and reliable garage door services, look no further than Garage Door Doctor. We offer a wide range of services, including garage door repair and replacement, spring repair and replacement, and garage door maintenance. We serve Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. Our technicians are highly experienced and always ready to serve you, so you can rest assured that your garage door is in good hands. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

8 Amazing Ways to Modernize Your Garage

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on October 17, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on 8 Amazing Ways to Modernize Your Garage

Your garage may be your favorite place in your Bloomington, Indianapolis home. Many homeowners use their garages for far more than vehicle storage. Some have used them to create functional offices and workout rooms; others have turned them into comprehensive workshops for their favorite hobbies. No matter how you use your garage or how often you visit it, investing in improvements in this area is guaranteed to grow the value of your property. The right upgrades will set your home apart from comparable houses in your neighborhood, boost its resale price, and increase its marketability. Following are eight amazing ways to modernize your garage with breathtaking results.

1. Build on Top of Your Garage

Depending upon your garage’s general design, you may have the option of building on top of it. Do you want the extra cushion of a passive income source but aren’t quite ready to take on the extra debt load that buying a rental property entails? The top of your garage is a great place for a functional in-law unit. It could also be the perfect location for your home office, dance studio, art studio, or music recording studio. If you’ve got the time, you can complete this Herculean project in small, manageable phases. (Make sure to check your local zoning laws and HOA guidelines, as each area has different requirements for home additions.)

2. Establish a Multi-Layered Lighting Plan

Not every garage upgrade is as ambitious as building another unit on top of your garage. One of the best ways to upgrade your garage is by investing in a multi-layered lighting plan. People are using layering techniques to produce universal and highly adaptable lighting plans on both the interior and exterior of their homes. You can use different lighting types to create task lighting, overhead lighting, adjustable lighting, and lighting that’s purely for aesthetics. This way, you can create the perfect ambiance in here just as you can everywhere else in your living environment. Whether you’re making fishing lures, showcasing your sports car, lifting weights, or watching TVs and tossing back beers with your friends, you’ll have the right level of lighting for every mood and activity.

3. Add Color to Your Garage With an Epoxy Floor Coating

Garage epoxy floor coatings are stunning, easy to maintain, and long-lasting. These pour-in-place flooring solutions take garage interiors from run-of-the-mill to downright head-turning. Available in multiple colors, styles, and designs, epoxy flooring systems can have matte or high-gloss finishes. Once yours is in, you won’t have to worry about stained concrete due to automotive fluid leaks or other spills. Best of all, epoxy floor coatings are entirely slip-resistant. Whether you’re working with engine oil, paints, or other slick, slippery materials, there’s no fear of losing your footing or facing liability issues because someone else has.

4. Take Your Garage Door to the Next Level

When you want to turn your garage into a truly unforgettable space, it’s best to start with your garage door. After all, this is the first thing that people will see when pulling up or passing by your home. There are many kinds of garage doors out there to fit into a variety of home aesthetics, such as carriage house doors for rustic farmhouse looks and more modern doors with wood-plank exteriors.

Your garage door will also determine how well-insulated your favorite space is. If you intend to spend lots of time in this area, look for garage doors that are built with high-performing, insulating materials. You can also use your garage door upgrade as an opportunity to add yet another level to your multi-layered lighting plan. There are a number of garage doors made from insulated steel that have varied window designs. You can shop by R-values or materials. You can even opt for an all-aluminum, full-view garage door that lets you see outside without letting everyone else peer in.

5. Go Vertical With Your Organizational Strategy

Even a large and undeniably spacious garage can feel cramped once everyone starts piling things in. Of all the rooms and closets in a home, garages have a tendency to become go-to dump sites for everything miscellaneous. Rather than stashing every individual item that people want to store in random areas, have a plan. If you’re looking to maintain your garage as a relatively private space or as a functional workshop, but still have to accommodate the needs and preferences of other household members, invest in an organizing system that capitalizes on all the vertical space that you have access to. Install shelves that reach or near the ceiling’s actual height. Use wall-mounted racks to hang tools and equipment or to organize random items like old blankets, camping gear, and board games.

The more time and money that you invest into creating a functional, intuitive, and easy-to-use organizing system, the easier it will be to keep your garage looking stellar all of the time.

6. Install a Ductless Mini-Split

Properly venting your garage is just as important as insulating it. This is especially true if you intend to use a portion of your indoor space for parking your vehicle. The good news is that you may be able to solve multiple problems with a single installation. Ductless mini-split heat pumps are great heating and cooling solutions for remote areas of your home that aren’t serviced by your central HVAC system. Having one put in will ensure that your garage remains both usable and enjoyable even when the outside temperatures soar or plummet. It will also give you an easy way to maintain an acceptable indoor air quality in this area. In addition to heating and cooling, ductless mini-split heat pumps also act as dehumidifiers, air filters, and air purifiers.

7. Consider Having a Solar Roof Installed

Solar panels aren’t just for primary buildings. Having a solar roof installed on your garage is an easy and effective way to offset your home’s ongoing energy use and energy costs. Although you’re unlikely to meet your household’s total energy needs with this installation, the solar energy that you do harness could be enough for powering up one or more electric cars, creating a noticeable drop in your monthly home energy bill, and significantly reducing your carbon footprint. This improvement will make it easier to manage run-off during times of heavy precipitation. Along with your new garage door, it will also supply added insulation. Moreover, if you’re especially ambitious about saving or creating your own energy, there are a number of solar installers who can show you how to use your garage to move closer to being off-grid.

8. Paint the Walls

The bare-bones, unfinished look of the typical garage certainly has its appeal, but if you’re adding epoxy flooring, a multi-layered lighting plan, and a top-tier and well-insulated garage door, you might as well give the walls special treatment too. Using a high-quality latex paint will protect these surfaces from excess moisture and from any solutions or lubricants that you use in this area. You can choose a bright, uplifting color, one that will wear well despite lots of traffic and active use, or a combination of tones that pair perfectly with your flooring and help define the room’s ambiance.

Garage Door Doctor is a trusted provider of residential and commercial garage doors throughout Bloomington, Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. Our clients can also turn to us for innovative garage door openers and garage door repairs. If you’re looking for the perfect garage door for your home improvement project, get in touch with us today.

How Do You Make a Garage Tornado-Proof?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on September 12, 2022. Posted in Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on How Do You Make a Garage Tornado-Proof?

Friendly people, four distinct seasons, and low costs of living are among the great reasons to live in our service areas around Bloomington and Indianapolis. You might even benefit enough to live in a home with a garage attached to it. However, you also live in an area known to be at risk of storms and tornados. Your top priority should always be the safety of yourself and your family, but you also need to do everything you can to protect your home and its contents. Getting your garage as prepared as possible for tornados is a great step in that direction.

How Tornados Impact Garages

Your garage door will normally provide convenient access to your home as its biggest entrance. However, it’s also weaker and lighter than the walls that make up the rest of your home’s exterior. That unfortunately means it’s the most likely part of your home to give way to the extreme pressure of a serious storm.

Tornados create negative pressure. That’s how they’re able to suck tiles off of roofing, if not an entire roof itself. A failing garage door might likewise face pressure buildup that lets a tornado rip it off of your house.

Start With a Door Inspection

Schedule a service technician working with a garage door service provider in your area to come out and look at your door. They should make sure your current door is capable of withstanding a heavy load of wind. You’ll know then whether it’s possible to do upgrades or if you need to do a total replacement. If you don’t actually know how old your current garage door is, then a replacement is probably going to be a good idea.

Maintain the Garage Door

Garage door maintenance is a crucial step towards being ready for storms, and a lot of the tasks involved are better off in the hands of service professionals who know what they’re looking for and how to deal with potential issues. Breaches, cracks, and holes are the biggest storm threats to your garage. No matter how small they are, they can let storm winds in.

Once wind does get in, there can be forces from it blowing through or even getting pushed out into the storm’s pressure. This causes a lot of damage, even if a full-blown tornado doesn’t come by. If one does, your garage will certainly be at much higher risk.

The first thing to do would be to seal cracks or holes in the actual garage door. Next, you and your technician should also regularly inspect the weather stripping for holes, cracks, and missing portions. Finally, the garage door bracing and tracks might have portions that are bent or weakened.

Any identified problem spots need to be also fixed, sealed, or otherwise addressed. Keeping your garage properly secure and sealed off gives it a better chance of surviving storms and tornados.

Make Sure the Door Is Braced

Vertical braces are components of a larger system secured in multiple places. They can be secured above the garage door, along the hinges, and in the flooring. Normally, the braces wouldn’t even be in physical contact with the door, as they would keep the door from actually opening.

They can be handy if you’re home when a tornado warning happens. You can stick the braces in place, where they’ll give your garage door extra strength that it might need during a storm.

Proper bracing helps most garage doors. Overhead doors are run on tracks, and carriage doors open with hinges; neither is usually strong enough to deal with extreme wind in a serious storm.

Braces anchor the garage door to your floor and walls. They’re often made of robust materials, such as aluminum, so that they provide a structural backbone against wind forces. Get one with a high rating for wind resistance.

Secure the Windows

Garage door windows are a potential point of a breach in a tornado or storm. Replacing them is one option. Removing them altogether is a better move for the sake of security.

Impact-resistant glass is a good upgrade. You can follow that up with exterior shutters that you can close before locking up to prevent debris from penetrating your garage doors. Wrought-iron window protectors can also provide some shielding from bigger pieces of debris getting through.

Install a New Door

A new door that doesn’t have windows is going to fare better in storms than one with windows. While you’re at it, consider getting a door that’s 9 feet wide or less. When the door width is more narrow, the door is going to be stronger against storm winds. The winds blowing about just won’t have as much surface area to work with.

Since tornados and rain storms go hand in hand, you might face problems with water. That water might be blown into and across your neighborhood by strong winds even if it wouldn’t naturally flow there. It only takes an inch of water to deliver serious damage to your home. Make sure your new door seals tight and doesn’t let water in.

Your new door needs to have a high impact rating to avoid penetration by flying debris. It should also have wind-resistance measurements appropriate for tornado-prone areas. That means withstanding winds of 130 mph or even higher.

Put Flood Vents and Drainage in Place

If possible, have contractors design and install a trench drain right in front of your garage. It should also go along either side of your property’s driveway. You want it there to direct water in any direction that’s away from your home.

You might even install flood vents inside your garage. If water gets in, then it drains out quickly. That will hopefully prevent water from accumulating enough to do real damage to your home.

Respect Tornados

No matter how much you prepare your garage for a tornado, you’re still dealing with one of the most destructive forces of nature. Even with upgrades, a garage is not a safe place for your family to be during a tornado. Even adjoining rooms are still at higher risk than other potential safe spots. Riding out a tornado in a car inside your garage is also a risk if the garage door is removed and your vehicle is pulled into the storm. The whole point of this is to prevent damage to your garage and home, but it does not create a tornado shelter for your loved ones.

Turn to Trusted Professionals

If you want to tornado-proof your garage, turn to our trusted professionals. Count on our seasoned professionals for any or all of the tasks listed above. We offer residential garage door services and garage door repairs, including spring repairs and emergency calls for garage doors. Commercial clients can contact us for garage door brands and openers. We provide anyone who needs it with products including garage door types and openers as well as loading dock equipment. We also offer free consultations, so calling us costs you nothing in terms of money or commitment. Contact the Garage Door Doctor for any of these services right away!

How much does a typical garage door replacement cost

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on August 16, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How much does a typical garage door replacement cost

You might be surprised to learn just how much a typical garage door replacement costs. In fact, the cost of replacing a garage door can vary significantly depending on the type of door you choose, the materials used, and the labor involved in the installation. So, what are your options when it comes to getting a new garage door? And more importantly, how can you save money on this home improvement project? Let’s find out.

Assess the Situation

Before you start shopping around for a new garage door, it’s important to take a step back and assess the situation. That way, you can be sure that replacing your garage door is the best course of action and not just a quick fix for a problem that could be easily repaired.

Is Your Garage Door Repairable?

If your garage door is still in good working condition but just needs a few repairs, it might be cheaper to simply repair the door rather than replace it. However, if your garage door is old, damaged, or otherwise not functioning properly, then replacing it is the best option.

How Do You Know if You Need to Replace Your Garage Door?

There are a few key indicators that it might be time to replace your garage door. If your door is more than 20 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Additionally, if your door is starting to show signs of wear and tear or is no longer functioning properly, it’s time to get a new one.

Ideally, you can bring in a professional to determine whether you need to repair your garage door or simply replace it. You want to find a professional service that has a lot of experience working on a variety of garage doors. Often, these services will offer an evaluation at no cost or commitment.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Garage Door Replacement?

There are a few different factors that can affect the cost of replacing your garage door. First, the type of door you choose will impact the overall cost. There are three main types of garage doors: wood, steel, and composite.

Wood garage doors are the most expensive option, but they also offer the most curb appeal. If you’re looking for a garage door that will make a good first impression, then a wood door is the way to go. Steel garage doors are a more affordable option than wood doors, but they’re not as aesthetically pleasing. If you’re mostly concerned with function over form, then a steel door might be the right choice for you. Composite garage doors are made from a combination of materials, including wood and steel. These doors offer a good mix of curb appeal and affordability, making them a popular choice among homeowners.

In addition to the type of door you choose, the cost of a garage door replacement will also be affected by the size of the door, the materials used, and the labor involved in the installation.

What Does the Installation Process Entail?

The installation process for a garage door replacement can be extensive. First, the old door needs to be removed and disposed of properly. Next, the new door must be measured and cut to fit the opening. Then, the new door must be hung and secured in place. Finally, any trim or molding around the door opening will need to be replaced.

How Much Does a Garage Door Replacement Cost?

As you can see, there are a lot of factors that can affect the cost of replacing your garage door. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000 for a new garage door, with the average cost falling somewhere in the middle.

How Can You Reduce the Cost of a Garage Door Replacement?

If you’re concerned about the cost of replacing your garage door, there are a few things you can do to reduce the overall expense. First, consider opting for a less expensive door material, such as steel instead of wood. Additionally, if you’re handy, you might be able to install the new door yourself, which would save you the cost of labor. This is generally not advised, though. Finally, be sure to shop around for the best deals on materials and installation services.

Tips for Choosing the Right Garage Door for Your Home

When it comes time to replace your garage door, you want to make sure that you choose the right one for your home. There are a few things that you will need to take into consideration when making your selection. The first thing that you need to do is decide what style of garage door you want. There are many different styles to choose from including traditional, contemporary, and even carriage house style doors.

The next thing that you need to consider is the material that you want your garage door to be made of. There are many different materials to choose from including wood, steel, aluminum, and even fiberglass. Another thing to take into consideration is the insulation of the garage door. This is important if you live in an area that gets very hot or cold. There are many different types of insulation to choose from including polystyrene, polyurethane, and even fiberglass.

You will also need to decide on the size of the garage door. The size of the door will depend on the size of your garage and how many cars you plan on parking in it. The last thing to take into consideration is the price. Garage doors can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. You will need to decide how much you are willing to spend on your new garage door.

Can You Replace Your Garage Door by Yourself?

Installing a garage door is not a difficult task, but it is one that requires two people. It is also important to have the right tools for the job. If you do not feel comfortable doing the installation yourself, then it is best to hire a professional.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional to Install Your Garage Door

There are many benefits to hiring a professional to install your garage door. One of the biggest benefits is that they will be able to do it much faster than you could. They will also be able to do a better job because they have the right tools and experience. Using a professional may also prevent voiding your home warranty.

Final Thoughts

Nobody ever wants to have to replace their garage door. It is an inconvenience that definitely comes at a cost. Here at Garage Door Doctor, we are family owned and operated and understand that cost. That is why we pride ourselves on making sure our customers have the best experience. We proudly serve Bloomington, Indianapolis, and the surrounding areas. We offer garage door installation and repair for both residential and commercial projects. Our same-day service and 24/7 emergency make it easy and convenient to get your garage taken care of any time. We have different garage doors to choose from as well as openers and dock equipment. Visit our website for more information or give us a call today!

Can Sunlight Exposure Affect Garage Door Sensors?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on July 18, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Can Sunlight Exposure Affect Garage Door Sensors?

Your garage door’s sensors are one of its most important components to ensure safe operation. As critical as these sensors are, there are multiple factors that can cause them to malfunction. As a knowledgeable Indianapolis homeowner, it’s important to understand these variables so that you can properly maintain your garage door’s sensors at all times. One potential challenge to watch out for is direct sunlight shining on the sensors. To understand more about this issue, check out this guide from Garage Door Doctor.

How the Sensors Work

The two sensors on either side of your garage door are the heart of the automatic opener system. The two units constantly send an infrared signal from one side of the garage door opening to the other. If the system senses that the receiving sensor is receiving the infrared signal from the sending sensor, it allows electricity to flow to the opener motor so that your garage door can open or close. If the signal is blocked or interrupted in any way, the system will interrupt the flow of electricity and prevent your garage door from operating.

Light Interference

Typically, the infrared system is efficient and effective. The problem is that infrared energy is part of the light spectrum. Since sunlight contains all of the various types of light, including light types with more energy than infrared light, sunlight can interrupt the signal flow between the two infrared sensors. This means that your garage door might not work even if the sensors are clean and no unsafe conditions exist. Fortunately, even if you do experience interference from the sun, it isn’t likely to last long. That’s because garage door sensors use focused infrared beams. This means that the sun has to be at the perfect angle in the sky to cause interference. This also means that you may not have any problems with your garage door until you leave your home at just the right time one day, making you think there’s a major malfunction with your garage door.

Additional Complications

Unless your home sits at just the right angle, sunlight interference will likely only be a problem for a few minutes out of a few days of the year. However, there are other variables that can make your sensors more susceptible to sunlight interference that may make this problem more common. A major variable is dust or cobwebs on your sensors. In some cases, dust or cobwebs can catch sunlight and direct it toward your garage door’s sensors. Thus, even if your sensors wouldn’t otherwise be at the correct angle, they will have problems as long as they are dirty. Of course, even if sunlight doesn’t come into play, dust and dirt on garage door sensors can interrupt the infrared signal without sunlight. That’s why Garage Door Doctor recommends cleaning your sensors with a dry cloth about once a month.

A Source of Heat

It’s important to understand that repeatedly allowing sunlight to shine directly on your garage door’s sensors could cause more than just a temporary inconvenience. Since sunlight also contains heat energy, prolonged exposure to sunlight could cause your sensors to overheat and stop working permanently. Since garage door sensors use convex lenses, the lenses will focus the light from the sun on the electronic components in the sensors. Similar to using a magnifying glass to start a fire, this phenomenon, over time, could lead to problems that you’ll need Garage Door Doctor to fix.

Do-it-Yourself Solution

Fortunately, protecting your garage door’s sensors from sunlight is a fairly easy task, even if you’re on a budget. Something as simple as a cardboard toilet paper roll can provide an effective shield against sunlight. All you have to do is cut a short section of the tube, center it on the “eye” of the sensor, and tape it in place. You can also use a short section of PVC pipe to create a sensor shield. When installing the shield, make sure that you keep the sensor’s lens in the center of the shield. Otherwise, the shield could redirect the infrared signal and lead to signal interruption. Another important consideration is to make sure that you don’t make the sensor shield too long so that you don’t run into it when you’re walking in and out of your garage.

Professional Option

For a more permanent fix for your sunlight interference problems, Garage Door Doctor recommends purpose-made sensor shields. These shields attach to the sensor using a wing nut, making them less likely to come off over time. Another advantage of purpose-made shields is that they have a more professional appearance, making them ideal for the well-kept garage. Plus, the shields are made of heavy-gauge metal that helps them last a long time. Finally, these types of shields tend to be thinner than a do-it-yourself shield. This tends to make purpose-made shields easier to install correctly without needing to worry about signal redirection.

Other Workarounds

If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to make a sun shield, you can try other temporary workarounds to correct the problem. One quick fix is to shield one of the sensors with your hand or a piece of paper. If the other sensor isn’t in direct sunlight, this technique could help boost the signal strength to the point that the garage door can open and close normally. If this doesn’t work, try waiting for a few minutes to allow the sun to get to a different position in the sky. Since the sun has to be at just the right angle to interfere with the sensors, waiting just a few minutes should restore normal operation.

Safety Is Vital

Some homeowners become frustrated with their garage door’s sensors to the point that they override them. Most garage door openers have a setting that allows you to manually override the sensors so that your garage door will go all the way up and down without stopping for any reason once you press the correct button. Remember, though, that the sensors are entirely there for your safety. The reason sensors became mandatory in the first place is that garage doors close with a lot of force and are quite heavy. This means that they can cause serious injury if someone is in the path of the garage door. Therefore, it’s best to try one of the other fixes listed above. If those don’t work, you can override the sensors, but be sure to call Garage Door Doctor as soon as possible for a safer fix.

Taking Care of Garage Doors and Sensors

The professionals at Garage Door Doctor have years of industry experience. This experience allows them to perform all types of garage door services, including garage door repair and replacement, spring repair and replacement, and garage door opener upgrades. They can take care of both commercial and residential garage doors. Accredited by the Better Business Bureau, each employee at Garage Door Doctor takes pride in giving the very best service to each customer. That’s why we continually receive five-star reviews from our raving customers. To learn more about garage door safety, contact the experts at Garage Door Doctor today.

Is It a Good Idea to Crack Open Your Garage Door To Keep Your Garage Cool in the Summer?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on June 17, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Is It a Good Idea to Crack Open Your Garage Door To Keep Your Garage Cool in the Summer?

During the summer in Indianapolis, the temperature inside your garage can rise quickly. This high heat can lead to multiple inconveniences that make it worthwhile to try and keep your garage cool. One easy and obvious way to quickly cool your garage is to open its main door. Although this method is what many homeowners turn to, it’s important to ask if this method actually makes sense. To help keep your garage more comfortable this summer, the professionals at Garage Door Doctor offer their thoughts on this heat-busting technique.

How Hot Can It Get?

As a general rule of thumb, you can expect your garage to get about 20 degrees hotter than the ambient air temperature. Although this difference isn’t as significant as the difference between the interior and exterior of a car, it is enough of a difference to cause problems. Plus, if you bring a sun-warmed car into your garage, the heat from the car will radiate into the surrounding air, increasing the temperature of the air even more. Without any breeze or ventilation, it’s easy to see why working in a garage on a hot summer day can quickly get uncomfortable.

Potential Heat-Related Problems

Beyond simply being unpleasant, a hot garage can cause other problems. The heat in an attached garage is likely to find its way inside your home even if your access door is well-insulated. Over time, this can greatly increase the utilization of your air conditioner, resulting in increased energy usage and excess wear and tear on your HVAC system. Another problem with excess heat accumulation is that it makes the environment dangerous for pets. If you need to allow your dog to stretch their legs while you’re inside, you may choose to let them run around in your garage. Unfortunately, if your garage isn’t well-ventilated, the garage may be too hot for your pet, resulting in heat-related illnesses. High heat can also damage certain items that you may have stored in your garage.

Releasing the Heat

When people consider cracking the garage door, they do it to release the heat in their garage before it has a chance to accumulate. Unfortunately, a cracked garage door will not do much to keep your garage cool. The main reason it doesn’t do much good is that the gap between the garage door and the driveway will be low to the ground. However, since heat rises, the heat in your garage largely accumulates above this level, meaning that very little heat will have a chance to escape. If the wind is blowing just right, there is a small chance that some cooler outside air could find its way inside your garage. In general, though, cracking your garage door is an ineffective way to keep it cool in the summer.

Risks of Leaving the Door Open

Since cracking the door only a little bit isn’t an effective way to ventilate your garage, you may instead opt to leave your garage door open completely. Although this approach will help your garage stay cooler, there are some drawbacks to using this option. The biggest problem is that leaving your garage door open makes it vulnerable to intruders. Someone can easily come in and steal tools or other belongings in your garage if you step away for even a moment.

If your garage is connected to your house, an intruder may also be able to gain easy access to the rest of your home if you leave your garage door open. Plus, an open garage door allows bugs and small animals to come into your garage, potentially creating a dangerous situation. Finally, if it should start to rain, water can get inside your garage, causing damage to tools and other items.

Using Ventilation

While Garage Door Doctor can’t recommend leaving your garage door open to keep your garage cool, we can recommend some alternative ventilation methods. Rather than opening the main door, you can open one or more windows in your garage to improve ventilation. To further increase ventilation, you can place a box fan in each window to help draw in cool air and expel hot air. You can also install a ceiling fan in your garage to help move the air so that it feels cooler on your skin. If your garage has roof access, you can install an attic fan to draw the hot air up and out of your garage.

Adding Air Conditioning

If you like to spend a lot of time in your garage, a great long-term solution is to add a ductless mini-split air conditioner to transform your garage into the ultimate hangout. Before you install an air conditioner, though, Garage Door Doctor highly recommends that you insulate the walls and ceiling in your garage so the cool air doesn’t immediately escape. Although this is the most expensive solution, it’s also the option that helps create new ways to use your garage. A garage with air conditioning essentially becomes an extension of your home, providing a great place for large family get-togethers or family game nights. Plus, you can use a ductless mini-split system to keep your garage warm in the winter, providing year-round comfort for you and your family.

Insulated Garage Door

Although it won’t solve all your problems, an insulated garage door from Garage Door Doctor can do a lot to help keep your garage cooler. This is especially important if your garage gets direct sunlight at any point during the day. If your garage door isn’t insulated, the sun’s thermal energy will transfer directly into your garage. However, with an insulated garage door, the inside of the door will be significantly cooler than the outside, meaning that less thermal energy will transfer to the interior of your garage. If you’re planning on adding insulation to the walls and ceiling of your garage, an insulated garage door is a must-have add-on. Otherwise, you’ll be left with what is essentially a gaping hole in your insulation coverage, meaning that it will be much more difficult to keep your garage comfortable.

If an Open Garage Door Is the Only Option

There may be circumstances when you have no choice but to leave your garage door fully open to provide ventilation. While it’s not ideal, there are some steps you can take to overcome some of the risks of an open garage door. To keep out bugs and small animals, you can install a screen over your garage door opening that you can put in place when your garage door is open. This allows you to get full ventilation without worrying about unwanted visitors getting into your garage. For unwanted visitors of the human variety, you can put a motion-activated camera in place and focus it on the garage door opening. This will alert you immediately if anyone tries to enter without your permission.

Keeping You Safe and Comfortable

At Garage Door Doctor, we work hard to keep our customers safe and comfortable. That’s why we offer garage door repair service, garage door replacement, garage door spring repair, garage door opener installation and repair, and much more. Since our founding more than 10 years ago, we’ve been working hard to exceed our customers’ expectations. That’s why we’re accredited by the Better Business Bureau and receive five-star customer reviews all the time. To learn more about improving the comfort of your garage, contact us at Garage Door Doctor today.

Garage Door Lifespan in Indianapolis, IN

What’s the Lifespan of a Typical Garage Door?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on May 19, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on What’s the Lifespan of a Typical Garage Door?

Garage doors are a vital part of everyday life. They do more than cover your garage’s entryway and inside the house. They also serve a cosmetic purpose, making your house look beautiful. With all these benefits, it is not ideal to leave your garage door to wear out before you think of replacing or repairing the damaged parts. Garage Door Doctor specializes in garage doors in Indianapolis and the surrounding area!

Always keep up with regular maintenance to avoid the general cost of getting a new one and increase the lifespan of your garage door. But how long does a garage door last?

How Long Should a Garage Door Last?

Different garage doors have different warranties. Most manufacturers offer a three-year warranty on their garage doors. The lifespan of your garage door depends on its usage. How often do you open and close it in a day?

Additionally, the garage door’s overall quality, your local climate, and how dedicated you’ve been to its maintenance are also significant contributors to the door’s lifespan. Considering standard usage, it is safe to say that a garage door should last for 15 to 30 years of continuous usage. The garage door openers should serve you up to 15 years before replacement with proper maintenance.

Factors Contributing to the Lifespan of Your Garage Door

Your garage door secures your car and other belongings, but it does not operate the same as a regular house door. There are lots of factors that contribute to its lifespan, and here are a few.

Maintenance

How you care for and maintain your garage door matters significantly. You need to do regular maintenance and servicing. Have an expert look at the openers and inspect if there are any signs of rust or breakage.

Local Climate

The location of your residence is also an essential contributor to the lifespan of your garage door. In Indianapolis, the weather can sometimes be inclement; there may be storms, high winds, and even hail, and that’s to say nothing of the cold, snowy winters and humid summers. When your garage door gets exposed to all of these elements, the damage could significantly lower its lifespan. It’s important to protect your investment and prepare your garage door for Indiana weather changes.

Usage

How often do you use your garage door? What kind of springs does it have? Remember, the working mechanism of a garage door is highly dependent on its springs. The springs determine how many open or close cycles your garage door can withstand.

Price and Quality

The durability of all garage doors always comes down to quality, which directly affects the price. If you get a high-quality garage door from a renowned and trusted retailer, you know that it will last on the high end of its lifespan. High-quality garage doors do not come cheap, however worth it the investment may be. You must be willing to spend more to get a long-lasting garage door.

Torsion and Extension Springs

Springs primarily affect the working process of your garage door. They offer the smooth opening and closing of the door. The torsion springs are located above the garage door, while the extension springs run along the horizontal tracks of the door.

Like a car’s brakes, the garage door springs are usually the first to break and thus need replacing frequently. The best part is that when you replace the door springs, the new ones could give you an additional 10,000 open and close cycles, which will prolong the lifespan.

Material

Garage doors are made of different materials, and each of these materials has a different lifespan. For instance, wood garage doors will last from 15 to 30 years. Other materials like steel, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, and wood composite can last 20 to 30 years.

Life Expectancy of a 10,000 Cycle Garage Door Spring

Considering everyday usage, we can help you determine how long your garage door will serve you with a spring of 10,000 cycles. If you use your garage door twice every day, you will get about 14 years of service.

Using the door about four times a day will reduce the number by half and give you only seven years. If you usually use your garage door about six times a day, which is quite rare, it will serve you for only five years. And finally, if you use it up to eight times a day, which is even more unlikely, you will get only three years out of your garage door.

The Importance of Garage Door Maintenance

Maintaining your garage door prolongs its lifecycle and any other related component, like the openers and the springs. Increase your garage door’s lifespan by regularly lubricating and cleaning the working parts. Also, ensure that the sensors are working correctly as they are the components responsible for the opening and closing of the garage door when there is an obstruction in the driveway.

At Garage Door Doctor, we have a garage door maintenance plan to help you stay ahead of all the damages and minimize your repair costs. After installation, we also offer regular maintenance services to our customers, especially those unfamiliar with the working mechanism of garage doors or who are uncomfortable handling the door.

Time to Replace Your Garage Door

Most people do not understand the working of their garage doors and thus cannot tell when to get a new one. At Garage Door Doctor, we deal with all things related to garage doors, from repairs and maintenance to replacements. We also recommend some factors that you can consider to help you determine if it is time to replace your garage door. If your garage door shows the following symptoms, it may be time to start shopping again.

Sagging

If you notice that the garage door is sagging and not functioning as it should, it is time to get a new one. At this point, repairing the garage door may not be worth it since sagging indicates that the structural integrity of the door has been compromised.

Damaged Wood

If the garage door is made of wood and you notice it is warping, cracked, peeling, or damaged, you should plan on getting a replacement.

Noise

If your garage door is extremely noisy when it’s opening or closing, and it also takes ages to open or close, you may need a new one. These are typically signs that your garage door has served its purpose, and it is time to move on to another one.

Damaged Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most long-lasting garage door materials. However, it also gets old over time. If it’s an aluminum door and you notice dings and dents, consider replacing it.

Constant Repairs

If recently you have been spending too much on repairs that won’t serve you long enough, it is time to let go and get a new one. You will save money in the long run.

Give Us a Call

At Garage Door Doctor, we are proud to be one of the most highly rated garage door operators in Indianapolis and the surrounding area. We offer Indianapolis garage door installation, maintenance, and service of all makes and models of garage doors, both residential and commercial garage doors. Contact us today for assistance and advice regarding your garage door.

7 Garage Door Makeovers to Inspire a Remodel

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on April 20, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Replacement Indianapolis. No Comments on 7 Garage Door Makeovers to Inspire a Remodel

Garage doors are usually left alone until they need a fix, but what about giving yours a makeover before that happens? It might be time to enhance your garage door with new aesthetics that will improve your home’s value. A garage door makeover is a big project that requires a lot of work, but the results will be worth the effort. Here are seven garage door remodeling ideas that may make you want to redo your garage.

1. Paint the Exterior of Your Door

Aside from all the components of your garage door, there are surrounding parts that may need attention. The most notable of these is the doorframe. If the frame is a lighter color than the garage, you might want to paint it. Another part of your garage door that may be overlooked is the header. It’s the part that sits on top of the frame. It’s usually made of wood, so it’s not hard to paint. You can paint it in the same color as the door for a seamless look or choose different colors for more variety. Painting these areas first will give you an instant makeover.

The bolder the color, the more you can expect it to get noticed and make an impact. There are many vibrant hues to choose from when painting your garage door. You can use a dark red and add black accents. Or you might prefer a dark blue with white accents. These are just two examples of bold garage doors that make a statement. You can also decide to paint your door a solid color like black, white, red, green, or blue.

2. Update Your Hardware

The hardware on your garage door is what operates the entire thing, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. If your door has screws, you may want to update them. If your door has bolts, you might want to replace them with new ones that are not stripped or rusted. You can also upgrade your door by updating the springs. If they’re old, you can replace them with compacted ones with a higher breaking rating, or you can simply get springs made of lighter metal. It’ll save you money, and most likely, the latter option will make your garage door quieter.

3. Replace the Whole Door

If you’re bored with your garage door and it’s also in poor condition, you might want to consider replacing it with a whole new one. You can go for a garage door with windows since it’ll allow light to enter your garage. Alternatively, you could choose one with a window just above the main door to add in a security system or an intercom system to let people outside your home easily communicate with you. If you have pets, you might want to choose a door with a window at the bottom so they can see outside. You can also select a new garage door that’s made of a different material that will be longer-lasting and more resistant to damage than the old one. Replacing your door is one of the most significant changes you can make to your garage to give it a new look. At Garage Door Doctor in Indianapolis and Bloomington, IN, we can install new garage doors to provide you with that fantastic modern look.

4. Add Panels to Your Door

If you want to give your garage door a new look while preserving the aesthetic of your home’s design, you can add panels. These are usually made from wood and metal, and they can have paintings, riddles, or other designs on them. Wooden panels can be stained in dark or bright colors, while metal panels can have painted designs. You’ll want to choose a style that you like and that complements your house. For example, panels look good with rustic, suburban, and industrial styles. Panels can be welcome additions to a garage door that seems too plain. You can have them made and installed before or after your garage door makeover is finished.

5. Add Lights

Much like panels, lights can improve the aesthetic of your garage door. You can attach lights to the top of your door. You can also attach lights to the sides so that the door will illuminate when opened. Lights at the bottom of your door would be suitable for illuminating any tools or other items that you may occasionally need. Decorative lights can add to the original look of your garage door and make it more appealing for visitors since you can easily see what’s going on inside. You can get lights made from metal and attach them to your door. These lights will be more functional than decorative, but they can still look good.

6. Add an Alarm

Many homeowners want an alarm on their garage door but don’t want to spend too much money on it. This is where a wireless garage door alarm comes in handy. This system is popular among homeowners because they no longer have to deal with cables and wires to their garage door, making it easy to install. This alarm doesn’t require any wiring. Everything you need comes in one package, including brackets that you can use to attach to your door. This alarm will give you an extra layer of security and protect you against thieves.

7. Install a Remote

The remote that you can use to control your garage door is the same type of remote you can use to control a TV or DVD player. They’re all wireless, and they operate at different frequencies. The controller can be placed anywhere inside your home, preferably near the garage door so that you will have easy access to it. The remote can also be placed on a wall in your home where you can access it easily. This type of remote will make it simple to open and close your garage door whenever you need to. The remote can also be programmed with several different codes. This way, you can open and close your door whenever someone rings your doorbell or when you ring the doorbell yourself. The remote is essential for any home with a garage door.

There are many different ways to give your garage door a new look without spending a lot of money on it. These methods will transform your garage door into a beautiful addition to your home. When you update your garage door, you may notice that it’s quieter, stronger, and more durable and that your garage is much more convenient to use. You can also enjoy the benefits of a more secure home when you decide to install a remote that’ll allow you to quickly and easily open and close your door.

At Garage Door Doctor, we offer garage door repairs and maintenance services in Indianapolis, Bloomington, and the surrounding areas of Indiana. We’d love to help you give your door that new look and make it more appealing to use. We also install garage door openers and replace old or damaged garage doors. Contact us now for more information or a free consultation.