How to Tell if Your Garage Door Spring Needs Adjustment or Replacement

Written by Keith Bruss on November 3, 2025. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Tell if Your Garage Door Spring Needs Adjustment or Replacement

Your garage door works hard every day, opening and closing hundreds of times over the course of a year. But behind that smooth operation is one critical component: the garage door spring.

These tightly wound metal coils do the heavy lifting, balancing the weight of the door so it moves up and down safely and easily. When a spring starts to wear out or becomes unbalanced, your entire system can suffer, leading to noisy operation, uneven movement, or even a complete failure to open.

So how can you tell whether your garage door spring simply needs a quick adjustment or if it’s time for a full replacement? Here’s a homeowner’s guide from Garage Door Doctor to help you identify the difference.

1. Understanding the Role of Garage Door Springs

Before spotting the warning signs, it helps to understand what the springs actually do.

There are two main types of garage door springs:

Torsion Springs: Mounted above the door opening, these springs twist and unwind to lift the door.
Extension Springs: Located on the sides of the door, these stretch and contract to counterbalance the door’s weight.

Both are under extreme tension, and that’s why adjusting or replacing them is never a DIY job—it requires professional tools and expertise to ensure your safety.

2. Signs Your Garage Door Spring Needs Adjustment

Sometimes, your garage door spring isn’t broken—it’s just out of balance or tension. Here are a few clues that may suggest it’s time for an adjustment:

• The door feels heavy but still opens

If you notice you’re using more force than usual to manually lift the door, your spring may have lost tension and needs recalibration.

• The door opens unevenly

If one side of the garage door rises faster or higher than the other, it could indicate an imbalance in the spring system.

• The door stops mid-way or jerks while moving

An improperly tensioned spring can cause the opener to struggle, resulting in jerky or incomplete movement.

• The cables look loose

Loose or sagging cables can be a sign that your spring tension is off, not necessarily that the spring is broken.

If you experience these issues, a trained technician from Garage Door Doctor can perform a professional spring adjustment to restore smooth, balanced movement.

3. Signs It’s Time to Replace the Garage Door Spring

Unfortunately, springs don’t last forever. On average, most are rated for 10,000 cycles, which is about 7 to 10 years for most homes. When they’re near the end of their lifespan, you’ll notice more serious symptoms:

• The door won’t open at all

A completely broken torsion or extension spring will make the door too heavy for your opener to lift. You may hear a loud snap just before it happens.

• There’s a visible gap in the spring

Inspect the torsion spring above your door—if you see a clean break or gap between the coils, it’s a clear sign the spring has snapped.

• The door slams shut suddenly

When a spring breaks, the counterbalance is lost, and the door may fall quickly when closing—a serious safety hazard.

• Loud banging noises

If you hear a sharp bang from your garage (even when you’re not using it), it could be the sound of a spring breaking under tension.

4. Adjustment vs. Replacement: How to Decide

Adjustment is appropriate when the spring is intact but slightly out of balance or has lost some tension.
Replacement is necessary when the spring is broken, rusted, or nearing the end of its life cycle.

A professional inspection is the best way to determine which one you need. Attempting to fix or tighten a spring yourself can lead to injury or damage to your garage door system.

5. Prevent Future Spring Problems

Regular garage door maintenance is the key to long-lasting performance. Here are a few preventive tips:

Schedule a yearly inspection to check spring tension, balance, and lubrication.
Avoid overusing your opener, limit unnecessary openings and closings.
Replace both springs at once if one breaks to maintain even tension.
Keep the area around your springs clean and dry to prevent rust.

Trust Garage Door Doctor for Safe, Reliable Service

Whether your spring needs a minor adjustment or a complete replacement, Garage Door Doctor is here to help. Our experienced technicians are trained to handle every type of spring safely and efficiently, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and securely.

Don’t wait until a spring snaps or your door stops working; schedule your professional inspection today with Garage Door Doctor. Visit or give us a call to book your service and restore your garage door’s performance.

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.

How Much Wind Can Your Garage Door Handle?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on March 17, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How Much Wind Can Your Garage Door Handle?

Updated October 2023

Did you know that garage doors are one of the most vulnerable parts of your home? Though they might look sturdy, they still have to be lightweight enough to raise and lower. This can lead to issues when your home encounters intense storms. If you want to avoid major damage to your home, you need to make sure your garage door has the right wind rating. The professional garage door specialists at Garage Door Doctor can help!

The Average Strength of a Garage Door

The typical garage door is usually strong enough to resist winds of at least 20 miles per hour. This means that they usually won’t get damaged by the typical thunderstorm or snowstorm. However, most garage doors won’t rip off the second the wind goes over 20 mph. Instead, they just start to weaken at this point. Extended exposure to wind over 20 mph is enough to cause problems with your garage door.

Typically, 20 mph wind resistance is the bare minimum for garage doors. It is very common for doors to be able to resist higher amounts of wind. Many doors marketed as “wind-resistant” can withstand winds over 100 mph. These doors can usually withstand up to 50 pounds per square inch of pressure from the wind. There are even specially designed impact doors that can resist winds of up to 200 mph.

How Do You Find Your Garage’s Wind Rating?

Indiana’s building codes aren’t extremely strict about wind ratings for garage doors, so there’s no guarantee that your door can withstand a certain amount of wind. To be prepared for any extreme weather, you need to take the time to check your door.

Look along the inside of your garage door for a label. This is often an orange, white, or yellow sticker somewhere along the side of the door. If you do not see a label, try looking up your door’s model number online. You can often find a user manual with details about the door’s wind resistance. Once you locate the label, you can look for the part of the label that says something like “design wind speed.” This will tell you the maximum speed of wind the door can handle.

Your garage door label will actually have a lot more information beyond just the maximum wind speed the door can handle. As you look at the label, you’ll find a spot that says “PSF” with a low number and a high number. The PSF rating will tell you the number of pounds per square foot of force that the door can handle. This helps you get a better idea of how the door handles pressure as the wind pushes against it.

There is a positive and a negative PSF number because wind can hit your door from multiple directions. The positive number refers to how much pressure your garage door can handle when the wind blows against it. The negative number refers to how well your garage door can handle wind pressure sucking the door out of the frame.

Understanding What the Different WindCode Ratings Mean

If you’re concerned about your garage door’s ability to stand up to wind, it might be helpful to learn a little about WindCode ratings. WindCode is a standard rating system developed by Clopay. It takes into account things like the garage door’s size, its maximum wind speed, and its position on the building. This rating has levels ranging from W-1 to W-9, with higher ratings meaning the door can resist higher wind speeds.

Some garage doors may mention their WindCode on them, or you can use Clopay’s WindCode calculator to find your garage door’s code. Once you have the WindCode for your door, you can see if it’s appropriate for your exposure level. The exposure rating refers to how exposed your house is to the wind. Homes surrounded by forests or other homes get less battered by wind, while homes on open plains or by oceans get intense wind forces. It is important to find a door with a WindCode rating that gives you enough coverage.

What Will Happen If Your Garage Door Encounters Extreme Wind Speeds?

If your garage encounters winds it cannot resist, it is likely to either buckle inwards or get pulled outwards. The end result is a lot of damage to your garage door. Some issues can be repaired, but it’s more common for homeowners to need to buy a brand new door. If the high winds are accompanied by other extreme weather, you can also end up with a lot of water inside your garage. This can damage any stored items or cause flooding.

A door that is pushed in or ripped off by wind does more than just expose your garage to the elements. It is also a big structural danger for the rest of the home. Modern houses are designed to work as a single cohesive unit. If a large hole appears in any of the walls, you can get uneven pressure zones throughout the home. Wind can funnel into your garage and end up knocking over walls or pushing your roof off. Ultimately, even a tiny bit of damage to your garage door can weaken your home’s structural integrity.

How to Choose the Right Wind Load Rating for Your Needs

Now that you know about all the dangers of a weak garage door, you might be rethinking your current situation. If you are in the market for a new garage door, you need to carefully consider the door’s wind resistance. Many homeowners want a wind-rated door that can withstand at least 50 mph winds. This gives you coverage from most issues like storms, tornados, and blizzards. If you live in an area with a lot of wind, you might want to select an even stronger door.

Though safety should be your priority, it’s also important to consider your budget. Typically, a higher wind rating comes with a higher cost. If you need an affordable garage door, you might want to avoid getting an unnecessarily strong door. However, keep in mind that a higher wind resistance can be good even if you don’t encounter storms. Many insurance companies will give you a discount on your premium if your garage door meets certain safety standards. Check with your insurance company to see if they adjust premiums based on garage door type. In some cases, the higher cost for a door might be offset by lower insurance.

Can You Improve Your Door’s Wind Rating?

If you aren’t happy with your door’s wind rating but don’t want a brand-new door, you do have the option of installing a bracing kit. A wind bracing kit won’t improve your door’s ability to withstand wind-flung objects. However, it does keep the individual panels from buckling when a strong wind hits. This retrofit kit is quite affordable and can help your door withstand wind speeds of over 100 mph.

Are you worried about your garage’s ability to withstand wind? Garage Door Doctor is here to help. Since 2009, we have been helping the people of Indianapolis with their garage doors. Our team is comfortable working with both residential and commercial doors, and we provide a variety of installation and repair services. To schedule a free consultation about your garage door, give us a call today.

Garage Door Cleaning in Indianapolis, IN

How to Clean Garage Door

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on August 3, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Clean Garage Door

It can be difficult to find time to clean your garage door and maintain your home. Keeping your garage door looking great, however, is important for a number of reasons. Proper cleaning not only makes the surface of the door look good but it can prevent more serious structural issues from occurring. Additionally, curb appeal, warranty, and other things that you may not even consider can also provide tremendous benefits. Here are some things you can do to keep your garage door in the best shape possible.

What You’ll Need to Give It a Thorough Wash

Over time, your garage door will collect dirt, dust, and other debris. Giving it a proper wash with the right cleaning supplies is crucial for best results. Here’s what you’ll need to get the job done the right way.

Cleaning Solution

Even for an excellent clean, fancy soaps aren’t necessary. In fact, dishwasher soap or another mild detergent is usually perfect for the job. Once you get your hands on the soap, combine one cup of it with two gallons of warm water in a bucket for an ideal solution.

Non-Abrasive Sponges and Cloths

Your garage door can be sensitive to abrasive tools, so it’s imperative that you use a more gentle cleaning utensil like a soft sponge or bath cloth. You want to avoid accidentally scratching or damaging the door at all costs. You’ll also need some dry cloths to dry the door with after the cleaning process.

Step Ladder

Finally, you’ll need a step ladder so you can reach the highest parts of the door. Being at that height will also help you thoroughly inspect the job you’ve done before drying.

Get Scrubbing!

Once your supplies are in order, you’re ready to get to work. Although the scrubbing process is fairly self-explanatory, there are some things you should keep in mind to do the best job possible.

First, since you’re using a non-abrasive cleaning utensil, don’t be afraid to scrub the surface hard. If this is the first time you’re cleaning your garage door in several years, there’s probably a good amount of grime stuck on it. It’s worth taking some extra time and doing a good job.

You might encounter a spot with dirt that’s extremely caked on the door. When some extra elbow grease can’t get the job done, you can resort to a bleach and water mixture instead. For the optimal solution, mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water. Bleach solutions should be used sparingly and carefully, as overdoing it can cause damage to the garage.

The weatherstripping and trim around the door are important to touch upon, too. In order for the door to look and function at its best, clean weatherstripping and trim are vital. Additionally, both the interior and exterior of the door should be scrubbed for the best results.

If you have a wood garage door, a thorough cleaning may result in minor erosions in your finish. If this happens, it may be necessary to give it a fresh coat of paint or stain to your existing finish or even refinish the door completely.

Things to Strictly Avoid While Washing Your Garage Door

You may be tempted to experiment with different methods of washing your garage door that is more convenient and take less time. While it’s great to think creatively, here are some practices that should be avoided.

Don’t Mix a Cleaning Solution With Bleach

As stated previously, bleach should be used solely for the toughest stains. When bleach mixes with your cleaning solution, either in the bucket or on the door itself, it can ruin the effectiveness of the solution and even diminish your door’s quality. The cleaning solution should be wiped off before bleach is applied. Furthermore, mixing bleach with other chemicals can be unsafe.

Pressure Washers Should Never Be Used

Even though grime could be stuck to the door, using a pressure washer to apply more power should never be considered. The integrity of your door should be of the utmost importance, and the process of washing it should never pose any risk of harming it. It is safe to use a hose with relatively gentle water pressure to wash off your garage door.

Don’t Call it a Day Until You’re Satisfied With the Result

When the cleaning process is complete, you should be happy with what you see. Making sure all parts of the garage door are clean, especially the bottom, is worth the necessary time. Also, take the time to use cloths to dry off the door to prevent water spots.

Waxing Your Garage Door

If your garage door is made of steel, it’s necessary to wax it as the last step in the cleaning process. A layer of wax to finish it off won’t only prevent wear and tear but will promote resistance to dirt and grime. If you live in an area that frequently experiences harsh weather, this is particularly important. You should aim to wax your steel garage door twice a year. It’s best to wax immediately after cleaning.

Only liquid waxes should be used on your door. A typical automotive wax is usually sufficient, and paste wax should never be applied. If you’re not sure how to properly apply wax, it’s worth doing some research before attempting to apply wax.

Restoring an Oxidized Garage Door

Oxidation of your garage door, which can make it rust, is caused by the build-up of dirt, salt, and moisture. Here’s how you can restore your door if oxidation has seized control.

Start by washing and drying the door by using the process described above. Dealing with oxidized parts of the door can only work when the door is free of grime and completely dried off.

Next, pour white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the rusted areas and use steel wool to scrub the area. Since steel wool is a somewhat abrasive cleaning utensil, be extra careful while scrubbing, making sure to only remove the rust without damaging the door.

You’ll now want to roughen the entire door with medium-grit sandpaper. This will prepare the door for a coat of primer.

Once the entire door is thoroughly sanded, paint it with a coat of primer that contains zinc chromate. This will help stop oxidation from happening in the future. A paint roller works well for flat parts of the door, but a paintbrush may be needed as well.

Finally, to ensure your door’s protection from future oxidation, you’ll want to apply a coat or two of rust-resistant paint. This will also help to hide the primer.

When your garage door needs cleaning, you can count on us at Garage Door Doctor to offer top-notch service in Indianapolis, IN, and the surrounding areas. We also offer garage door repair, garage door spring repair and replacement, and commercial garage door services. As members of the International Door Association, we offer 24/7 emergency services for whatever issues you may be dealing with. Being upfront with our customers about every aspect of what we do is at the heart of who we are. Give us a call today and we’ll give your garage door the makeover it’s been needing.

Garage Door Opener in Indianapolis, Indiana

How To Open Garage Door Manually

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on May 7, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How To Open Garage Door Manually

An automatic or electronic garage door provides convenience and protection. However, you need to be prepared for occasions when your door requires manual opening. For example, one morning, you may need to rush to work or get the kids to school, but there is a power outage. You then realize that the garage door won’t automatically open since you don’t have a battery backup.

Other times, you pull into the driveway near the garage after a long day at work only to realize that you can’t get your car inside because your automatic opener is faulty or you lost your remote control. Knowing how to open the garage door manually is essential in case of emergencies. Here are practical steps that you can follow.

1. Disconnect the Automatic Garage Door Opener

If you can access the garage from the inside, the first step is to unplug the automatic garage door opener. Look for the electric garage door opener at the base of the trolley track on the ceiling, and pull out the power cord.

2. Disengage the Automatic Opener From the Garage Door

Begin by locating the emergency release cord. In a closed garage, the emergency cord hangs loosely from the ceiling usually near the front part of the door. Pull down the red handle hanging from the cord until you hear a clicking sound. If you find it hard to pull the rope, there is a possibility that the garage door isn’t completely closed. Push the door to close it tightly, and then try pulling the cord once more. The main aim here is to disconnect the door from the automatic opener so that it operates manually.

If your only access to the garage is through the locked door, you will need to use a different mechanism. Prepare a long wire with a hook at the end to help you reach the emergency release rope. Climb onto a ladder and push your wire through a crack in the garage door frame. Once the wire is inside the garage, aim it a few feet below the ceiling to get the red emergency cord. Hook the wire onto the cord’s handle and then pull. Some garages have a window at the top, and this is an added advantage. You can see the handle and attach it to the wire quickly. Be very careful during this operation to avoid injuries.

3. Manually Lift the Garage Door

Now grab the lower part of the door and lift it till it fully opens. If you are having trouble lifting the door because of its heavy weight, then it’s possible that the spring is broken. Keep in mind that the automatic door opener doesn’t raise the door. Rather, it moves the springs to open or close the door. If you have a broken spring, call in a professional to repair it as soon as possible.

Be careful while operating your garage door manually. A strong wind can cause the door to slam down. Once you open the garage, observe the door for a few minutes to ensure that it stays open before driving your car in. If the door can’t stay open long enough, you can prop open it with something sturdy. Also, keep the doorway clear, and don’t allow children to play near the garage door to avoid injuries.

You shouldn’t leave your door unlocked and unattended for too long. Once you take the car in or out of the garage, gently slide the door until it firmly connects with the ground. The door’s weight is what will keep it shut. Avoid letting the door fall and slam itself. This will only weaken the track and damage the door.

4. Lock the Door Manually

Since you disconnected the automatic opener, your door’s locking mechanism is inactive. You now need to use the metallic lock on the garage door to keep it closed and secure everything stored inside. Slide the bolt to the side to lock into the door track’s rail. If the door doesn’t have a manual lock bar, you can use a C-clamp to keep it from opening.

5. Reconnect the Opener

To operate your garage electronically, you need to re-engage the automatic garage door opener. First, ensure that your door is fully closed. Pull the emergency release cord towards the entrance to compress the spring lever and allow the mechanism to reconnect. When the switch at the end of the emergency cord moves into place and re-engages, you will hear a click.

Alternatively, you can climb up using a ladder and pull the lever directly. Reconnect the door with the trolley track by raising it about 1 to 2 feet until you hear a loud click on the track. If the power issue has already been resolved, you can use the door control panel or the remote to reconnect the door with the track. Open and close the door automatically to test it. If you hear any unusual sounds or if the door seems shaky, there could be a problem with the connection, and you need to seek professional help.

6. Use the Emergency Door Kit if Your Garage Has One

If you have a newer model garage door with an emergency kit, it’s easier to open it manually. Locate the door kit, insert a key into the keyhole, and turn it. Once you see a metal node, pull it from the keyhole. This will quickly disengage the automatic mechanism to allow manual operation of the garage door. Note that this option is only possible if your door has the emergency key feature.

Contact a Professional if You Need Help With Your Garage Door

You will avoid the inconvenience of dealing with a garage door that won’t open in case of a power outage or when the electric mechanisms malfunction if you learn how to open it manually. Ensure that you close the garage as soon as you are done using it. Read your manual to guide you in locating the pull cord and understand how everything works.

If your garage won’t open even after trying out all the above methods, seek professional assistance. A technician can help diagnose the cause of the problem and fix it. It’s also a good idea to install a garage door with a backup battery feature to run the opener and the safety sensors even in case of a power outage.

Don’t also neglect maintenance for your garage door. It is best to plan for annual garage door maintenance. During servicing, have a professional inspect the garage door system and lubricate the moving parts. The technician will also thoroughly examine the nuts, bolts, and screws and tighten them to keep the garage door running smoothly. Routine maintenance will also help minimize the chances of automatic garage door opener failure.

If you need professional assistance with your garage door, you can always reach out to the Garage Door Doctor. We specialize in garage door installations, repairs, maintenance, and replacements. We also provide garage door spring repair, replacement, and commercial garage door services across Indianapolis, IN, and the nearby regions. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Different Types of Garage Door Seals

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on December 24, 2020. Posted in Garage Door Installation, Garage Door Repair Indianapolis, Garage Door Replacement Indianapolis, Garage Door Services Indianapolis, Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on Different Types of Garage Door Seals

People are generally more familiar with garage door openers, springs, tracks, and other major components, but garage door seals are important as well. They help protect your garage door, keep it clean, and maintain its function. A type of weatherstripping, these seals come in several different types. Here is an overview of what they do and the kinds available on the market.

What Is a Garage Door Seal?

A garage door seal serves as a barrier against water, rain, snow, ice, and anything else the weather can throw at it. It helps prevent air leakage and keep heat inside while preventing bugs, leaves, dust, and other debris from getting in. The seal is essentially a piece of rubber that runs along the bottom and sides of the door. Every garage door has a bottom seal, so here is where we’ll start.

Garage Door Bottom Seals

Sealing gaps between the door and concrete floors, a garage door bottom seal helps weatherproof the garage. It is also called a gasket and is important in keeping your garage clean. Since concrete floors aren’t completely level, the seal helps close up any gaps. Therefore, a variety of problems can occur if the seal breaks.

Types of bottom seals include:

Bulb seals: Long tubular seals that are rounded at the bottom with a narrow “T” shape at the top. They push upward to spread out over an uneven surface.

J-Type seals: Installed on a single channel retainer, these seals form a hook shape, like the letter “J”, on each side of the garage door.

T-type seals: Similar to the J-type seal, these form an inverted “T” when viewed from the side and are installed with single channel retainers.

Beaded seals: These are also T-shaped but designed to fit into a circular groove and prevent water from seeping under the seal. Beaded seals are used for double channel retainers.

Threshold Seal

Threshold seals attach to concrete floors. They work in conjunction with the garage door bottom seal, providing a raised entrance that keeps out rainwater and debris. The seal is very strong; it can even hold up under the weight of a car. Different sizes and strengths are available.

Brush Seal

This kind of seal looks like a brush on the bottom of the garage door. It may be installed on the sides as well. Used most often for commercial garage doors, it’s typically preferred for high friction areas and on sheet doors/rolling seal doors that bend and flex during operation. Brush seals aren’t as effective at preventing water entry, but do well at keeping out hard debris.

Reverse Angle Mount Seal

A reverse angle seal is made of a hard rubber plastic material, configured as a track where the side of the garage door fits into. It is typically used only for heavy steel doors in commercial buildings. Providing a snug fit on both sides of the door, it forms a “U” shape and is best suited for garage doors that are too thick and heavy to use screws.

Contact Garage Door Doctor

A leading Indianapolis garage door service company, we offer professional repair and installation of commercial and residential garage doors. Our contractors can provide any type of garage door repair, and if you need garage door seal repair or replacement, you can depend on us as well. We are currently providing no contact service, allowing us to stay open during the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing, sanitization procedures, and use of masks/PPE are protecting our customers and technicians. Call (317) 342-4995 or request service online for a free estimate.

Newly-Built-Upscale-Stone-Home-in-Fall-with-White-Garage-Door

What to Do When Your Garage Door Cable Breaks

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on December 17, 2020. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis, Garage Door Services Indianapolis, Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on What to Do When Your Garage Door Cable Breaks

A garage door cable is strong enough to lift and lower a garage door weighing hundreds of pounds. The cables in your garage door system provide support and balance. Despite how strong they are, they do wear out over time, lose tension, fray, and break. If a garage door cable breaks or snaps, don’t try to fix it yourself; this is not a safe DIY option. Continue reading for more information about how these cables work and what to do about a broken or damaged cable. Call our Indianapolis garage door company to speak to a specialist!

How Do Garage Door Cables Work?

Garage door cables are not one size fits all. There are different types, determined by the springs installed. The two main types of garage door cables, made of strands of galvanized wire, are:

Lift cables: Installed on garage doors with torsion springs, these cables attach to the bottom corner of the door and connect to the torsion springs above it, helping to counterbalance the system.

Retaining cables: Are used in garage doors with extension springs and run vertically along each side of the door. When garage door springs break, retaining cables prevent them from flying or falling off.

When Cables Break, Avoid Using Your Garage Door

Wear and tear is the most common cause of cable failure. However, water or moisture near the bottom or sides of the door, corrosion, damaged pulley bearings, or improper track alignment can strain or degrade the cables. If you have a snapped or frayed cable, do not use your garage door. Additional damage may occur, leading to expensive repairs.

Depending on where it is, you might not see a broken cable. Signs one has snapped include a garage door lifting unevenly or moving faster than usual. The door may appear crooked when opening or closing, seem unbalanced, or make loud squeaking or other noises. It also may be impossible to lift the door manually.

The best option in these scenarios is to call a garage door repair professional. You could be seriously injured by attempting a DIY fix on your garage door; this happens to many people every year. Fortunately, an injury can be avoided by calling a technician.

How Can You Prevent Breaking Your Garage Door Cable?

Preventative maintenance can reduce the risk of having a broken garage door cable. You can prevent such a situation by:

Inspecting cables for frays, kinks, and buildup of debris or grime.
Regularly lubricate/oil your garage door cables and springs.
Removing debris that can stop a cable from working properly.

It also helps to replace older garage door parts. Doing so allows an automatic garage door opener to run more smoothly, putting less strain on the cables. This has many other long-term benefits regarding the operation, efficiency, and longevity of your garage door.

Contact Garage Door Doctor

The safest and most practical thing to do when a garage door cable breaks is to call a professional. At Garage Door Doctor, we perform garage door cable repair when you need it, as our team is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies. Garage door cable replacement will resolve your problem, protect other components, and enable your garage door system to run reliably for a long time. We remain open during the coronavirus pandemic. All guidelines for social distancing, sanitation, and use of masks/PPE are being followed and we’re providing no contact service to protect our customers and staff.

Feel free to request Indianapolis garage door service online or call (317) 342-4995 to speak with us directly about your garage door concerns.