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.

Indiana Weather and Garage Doors in Indianapolis, IN

How to Prepare Your Garage Doors for Indiana Weather

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on February 17, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Prepare Your Garage Doors for Indiana Weather

ndiana is fortunate to enjoy a mild and temperate climate and pleasant weather for most of the year. But the Hoosier State is certainly no stranger to seasonal weather extremes, and those are the times when it’s really nice to have a garage in your home. You’re on your own when you get out on the roads, but you’ll never have to worry about bringing in groceries in the rain or spending all morning chiseling ice off your windshield! Here’s a look at how you can ensure that your garage doors remain fully functional all year long, no matter what Mother Nature might have in store for you.

Indiana Weather Conditions at a Glance

Indiana is located between USDA hardiness zones 5b and 6a, with the northern part of the state located in zone 5b and the southern part of the state located in 6a. Indiana’s temperate climate means that we get hot and muggy summers and cold winters with frequent snowfall. We do get more seasonal average rainfall than the rest of the United States, but our winter storms are comparatively milder than they are a little further north.

You won’t normally have to make any extraordinary preparations to deal with Indiana’s weather extremes, aside from running your heating and air conditioning as needed and dressing appropriately. You might need to make additional home preparations for cold conditions in certain areas of the state and will need to take certain precautions if you live near a body of water or in a floodplain area.

Preparations for the Fall and Winter

Before the cold season hits, the first thing that you want to do is to check the batteries on your garage door opener remote. It’s a pretty simple (and often overlooked) way to ensure your garage door will open each and every time that you need it. Be sure to also check the integrity of your weather stripping. Your garage door is your first line of defense against the elements, and it can help you lower your home energy costs. Even if your garage isn’t fully finished out and insulated, keeping your garage door closed can make a big impact. If you still have older garage doors without built-in insulation, you can insert foam panels for additional weatherproofing to tide you over until you’re ready to make an upgrade.

Your garage door also prevents excess humidity from entering your garage and hastening the growth of rust and oxidation. The other part of keeping rust away is properly lubricating metal parts. Garage door opener maintenance isn’t a DIY project, and you can void your manufacturer’s warranty if you attempt to perform any unauthorized repairs on your own. Fortunately, you don’t need any special training or technical skills to use a can of WD-40!

You’ll want to be sure to lubricate the track and all of your metal components such as the rollers, springs, hinges at least a couple of times a year. Lubricate these parts more frequently if you hear squeaking sounds. If you hear grinding sounds, that often means that you have a bigger problem. Your springs and your track can be particularly vulnerable to cracking and damage during the winter months, and you might need to have a part replaced or have some other professional service performed. Garage door springs are an inexpensive part to replace, but if you wait too long to get them repaired then minor issues can quickly develop into major issues.

Be sure to know where all of your snow and ice removal equipment and supplies are located and keep them convenient. If you have a snowblower, this is a great time to start it up and make sure that it will be ready when you need it. Be sure to keep your eye on the weather conditions at all times and be ready to spring into action at any time!

Preparations for the Spring and Summer

After you’ve made it through the winter months, it’s time to assess the damage. The first thing you’ll need to do is clean up all the accumulated debris from the garage door and floor. A dirty garage door will usually work just as effectively as a clean one, but you’ll want to keep the track and sensors clear at all times. You also need to be on the lookout for rust and water damage. Be sure to visually inspect the garage doors for damage.

Cleaning your track doesn’t require any special tools or equipment, but even small debris can affect its operation. Lubricating the metal parts of your garage door opener reduces routine wear and tear and delays the spread of rust.

Annual Maintenance

If you’ve ever had a car stuck in a garage before, you were probably prepared to pay almost anything to get the garage door open. You definitely need to make a call when your garage door gets stuck or when your garage door opener is completely inoperable. However, an annual maintenance call is often the “stitch in time” that you need to prevent a crisis situation in the future. Your garage doors and your garage door openers function best when you do your part, but they’re not a DIY project. Even if you’re a skilled home handyman, you owe it to yourself to schedule annual professional maintenance.

During your annual garage door maintenance visit, we’ll begin by assessing the integrity of your garage door seals and we’ll inspect your garage door opener and track. The most common problems that we encounter are damaged springs and routine wear and tear. Bolts can get loose and your track can get out of alignment when metal parts expand and contract in response to hot and cold conditions. We’ll make sure that the track and sensors are all properly aligned, and we’ll tighten everything up and lubricate all of the components.

Should I Replace My Garage Door?

It might seem a little difficult to justify the cost of a new garage door if your garage door isn’t damaged, but you’d be surprised to learn how affordable it can be to make an upgrade! A newer and more modern garage door is a great way to improve your curb appeal and lower your energy costs! If your existing garage door is malfunctioning or if you’re just interested in a new look for your home, we’re a phone call away!

Garage Door Doctor has been proud to serve The Hoosier State since 2009, and we believe in providing a customer service encounter that’s second to none! We’re always a phone call or a mouse click away when you’re ready to schedule a free no-obligation estimate, and we guarantee transparent up-front pricing with no hidden fees! We’re proud members of the International Door Association, and we have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau!

Contact Garage Door Doctor today to schedule residential, commercial, and industrial garage door services in the Bloomington or Indianapolis metropolitan areas! We provide same-day service and appointments and 24/7 emergency service when disaster strikes!

Garage Door Safety Tips in Indianapolis, IN

Top Tips for Keeping Your Garage Door Safe

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on January 12, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Top Tips for Keeping Your Garage Door Safe

According to one survey, six out of 10 American homes have a garage. When garage doors are in working condition, they can be an added convenience. But some faults can lead to accidents and even fatalities. Approximately 30,000 injuries per year happen due to garage door malfunctions. Here are some tips you ought to consider for your family’s safety.

Take Time to Learn Garage Door Features

Your garage door will come with safety features to prevent accidents. They may vary according to the model and manufacturer. But some features such as the photo-eye have been standard for garage openers for decades.

But to use safety features, you have to learn how to utilize them when there is an emergency. One of the most critical functions is mechanical release. It disengages the door when the photo eye and auto-reverse malfunction.

By learning the safety features, you won’t have to rush for the manufacturer’s manual in an emergency. And you will need to find out how it operates for routine testing of different mechanisms.

Be Cautious When the Door Is in Motion

Be cautious when the opener is closing or opening. Pay attention to pets and children running around the garage door. You ought to talk to your children about the dangers of playing when the door is in motion.

Also, avoid leaving the door open or partially closed. It can not only compromise your home’s security, but it could also be a hazard. Someone can get crushed under it when you reactive the opener.

You should watch your fingers when using the opener. As the panels are closing, your fingers can be pinched by the folds at the hinges. However, the most recent models have pinch-resistant hinges which prevent accidents.

It would help if you didn’t fiddle with the door’s mechanism. There are many parts of its mechanism that can lead to severe injuries. Consider calling Garage Door Doctor for quality repair and maintenance solutions in Indianapolis.

Keep an Eye on the Garage Door Opener

The opener to your automatic garage door can be dangerous in the hands of children. Kids can be curious, and they may pick up the remote and play with it. Always keep the remote where the little ones cannot get hold of it.

According to Pediatrics, the garage door opener is one of the devices responsible for 50,000 injuries of children. Don’t let small children play with the remote, even under supervision. The little ones can harm themselves or damage parts of the garage door mechanism.

Consider keeping the opener safe in the car away from the children’s reach. If you let them play with it, they may be tempted to use it when you are not around.

Change the Opener’s Codes

The latest models of garage door openers come with a feature that can automatically change the code. Every time you use the remote, it resets the code to prevent burglars from getting access to your home.

Unfortunately, some older models do not have the rolling code feature. You may want to change the code from time to time to keep your home safe. The changes are critical, especially if your neighbor’s garage was built around the same time. In such cases, your code may be similar to the garage opener next door.

You can check your manufacturer’s manual for instructions on how to change the code. Consider using alphanumeric characters and numbers, as you would with a regular password. Professionals from Garage Door Doctor in Indianapolis recommend changing the code at least twice a year.

If you find changing codes a chore, consider upgrading to a newer model with more convenient features. The most recent openers have Wi-Fi connectivity, vacation mode, and a guest password feature.

A garage door can last between 15 and 20 years. If your garage door is more than a decade old and showing signs of deterioration, consider getting a replacement. A newer model has fewer faults and better safety features for your home protection.

Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

The auto-reverse function has been a safety feature on garage door models for more than two decades. It prevents the door from crashing anyone or anything caught in between. If it detects even the slightest resistance, it will automatically reverse.

At Garage Door Doctor, we recommend our Indianapolis clients test the auto-reverse feature periodically. Fortunately, the process is as easy as placing a towel or paper rolls on the ground under the door. The door should reverse when it touches the object.

If your garage door doesn’t pass the test, you may want to call our professional team for troubleshooting. A faulty auto-reverse can be a hazard. It is also advisable to disconnect the door until the repairs are complete.

Perform Routine Garage Door Visual Checks

Make a point of visually inspecting your garage door every month to maintain safety. Check the fasteners, hinges, and brackets for loose connections. You can also look for signs of wear and tear, such as rusting and damage.

Inspect the door panels and handles. Are the handles away from the pinch points? If not, the door can injure your fingers. Make sure the door opens without any glitches. Check if the rollers remain within the track during its operation. Also, ensure the door opens fully and does not get stuck halfway through.

Torsion springs are amongst the most dangerous parts of the garage door. They carry the door’s weight, which could be anywhere between 130 and 400 pounds. You can visually inspect its mechanism, but don’t be tempted to fix it yourself. If the spring snaps, it can be deadly.

The torsion spring mechanism has a containment system that prevents broken components from flying dangerously into the air. You can check if the containment system is in place. The springs should be on a shaft and a cable passing through the center of the spring. If unsure, call a professional for inspections.

Schedule Routine Garage Door Maintenance

Your garage door has many intricate components that must work seamlessly for optimum efficiency and safety. But as with any other system, it can succumb to deterioration or malfunctioning parts.

Modern garage door models have multiple features to maximize safety and convenience. But these features make it even more complicated to fix. A routine visual inspection is recommended. However, always leave the repairs to an experienced technician.

It is also wise to observe routine maintenance at least once a year. You may be tempted to extend it to two years, but you risk voiding your warranty. You can confirm the terms of your warranty from the manufacturer. The conditions may vary according to the model or brand.

Routine maintenance by a technician is the best way to prevent accidents in your home. A professional can detect problems that could injure someone in your residence later. With routine maintenance, you can have peace of mind when using the garage door.

Garage Door Doctor is a family-owned and -operated company with years of experience serving residents of Indianapolis. Our team is BBB accredited, and we are also members of the International Door Association. We repair door springs, openers, and provide replacement and maintenance services for commercial and residential clients. Call us today for a 24-7 emergency service.

Fall Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Efficient

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on September 15, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Fall Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Efficient

Your garage door acts as a barrier between weather elements and the interior. In the colder months, it will be subject to moisture, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. Regular maintenance is essential to keep you and your home safe. Here are the top maintenance tasks to do in the fall.

Inspect Garage Door Mechanisms

You may start maintenance with an inspection of the door’s track mechanism. Inspect the tracks on either side of the door and ensure that there is no debris blocking its movement. You can test it by switching to manual mode. Try opening and closing the door. It should open smoothly without glitches.

Also, check that the photosensors are working. The photosensors are installed on either side of the door at no more than six inches above the ground. The safety device prevents the door from closing when there is an obstacle in between. You should ensure the sensor is secure on the side of the door.

You can check if the sensors are working by placing an object at its height. If you press the close button, the door should not close. If it does, it could be a safety hazard. In such instances, you can consult Garage Door Doctor, a top-rated service provider in Indianapolis.

Test the Garage Door Spring

Your garage door spring can continue to function efficiently for up to 10,000 cycles of closing and opening. During the summer months, the door can take a beating from all the activity in your home. Therefore, you should test the spring to ensure that it has not sustained any damage during this time.

You can start the evaluation by visually examining the condition of the spring. However, sometimes a faulty spring stretches instead of snapping. In either case, you may notice the door has an imbalance. The top half may appear to be out of alignment with the rest of the frame.

Another sign of a broken spring is when the motor is working and the door is not moving. You may also hear a sharp screeching sound as it struggles to open. It indicates that the spring is not moving with the motor, and therefore, it is faulty.

If the spring is faulty, using the opener may lead to further damage. At Garage Door Doctor, we recommend calling a technician immediately. Otherwise, the rails may bend, or gears may strip off from the opener’s mechanism.

The cables and pulley system should also be in good condition to support the weight. Look out for cords with worn-out or fraying strands. Consult a professional if you suspect an issue with the pulley mechanism. Such complications can lead to higher repair costs in the future.

Observe a Regular Cleaning and Lubrication Routine

By autumn, your garage door may have accumulated debris and dust. Before cleaning it, visually inspect the exterior of a metallic door for rusting. Wood is prone to warping because it is exposed to excess moisture. If the surface has rust or peeling paint, you should sand it and repaint it for maximum protection.

You can clean a wooden garage door with a dry cloth. For plastic, metal, or other synthetic surfaces, use a soft cloth and an appropriate cleaner.

When cleaning, make a point of lubricating every moving part. Friction on rollers and the tracks can cut down the lifespan of your garage opener. You can apply a high-quality lubricant twice a year to keep it efficient.

You can apply oil on rusty parts of the torsion springs to stop further corrosion. If the opener has a drive chain, you can also spray lubricant on it. However, you should not lubricate the belt drive.

Garage door professionals recommend lubricating with silicone or lithium-based grease. Oil products like WD-40 are degreasers, which can increase friction. Use a grease spray for an accurate application. After lubricating parts, wipe up any spills to prevent staining the opener or the garage floor.

Inspect the Weather Stripping

In the winter, the garage door’s surface will be subject to extreme cold, snow, and ice. Therefore, the door must have adequate weather-stripping at the bottom. Replace the entire stripping if it has broken down.

For wooden openers, the weather-stripping is secured in place by a nail. Metal doors will have an aluminum stripping holding up a u-shaped rubber gasket. The rubber gasket is much easier to replace than other types of weather-stripping.

The door may also have vinyl and rubber on its sides to stop rain or wind. Vinyl can warp when exposed to moisture, rain, or snow. If old or worn out, replace it and ensure that the flange is firm against the door for a perfect seal.

Test Your Garage Door Balance

During your inspection, you should also be sure that the garage door is level. When the weight balances evenly across the springs and pulleys, it exerts less stress on the system. If you continue opening an unbalanced door, it will eventually cause the spring to break prematurely.

A visual examination can tell you if it is level. A slanting door indicates that the force is not being exerted equally on the springs. In such instances, you must call a garage door technician before the door breaks.

Another balancing test is to lift the door until it is halfway open. When you release it, it should remain in place. But if it slams shut, it means that the door is out of balance.

You may also notice that it takes longer than usual to shut or close the garage. Unbalanced doors are noisy, producing strange sounds when you open or close them. After lubricating moving parts, if it still makes noises, you may want to schedule repairs.

It is also worth noting that a professional should fix defective parts such as the spring. The internal components of the opener can be dangerous for an inexperienced person. Also, do not attempt to open the door if the spring breaks. According to statistics, more than 20,000 people sustain injuries annually from garage door accidents.

Organize Your Garage and Schedule Maintenance Service

Organizing your garage can help increase the lifespan of the door. In the cold season, ventilation is essential for preventing moisture accumulation that could cause water damage. Therefore, rearranging and clearing areas of your garage prevents rust and warping.

Your maintenance routine will depend on the type and number of layers on the door. A triple-layered door offers additional protection and is quieter than a single-layered one. However, the multiple layers make it heavier and more expensive.

Ideally, you should schedule maintenance service at least once every 18 months. For busy homes or commercial establishments, once a year or more is recommended. The garage door is one of the heaviest items in your home. Ensuring that it is in working condition will prevent accidents and keep your home safe.

As a family-owned and -operated company, Garage Door Doctor has been offering unbeatable solutions since 2009 for commercial and residential garage door sales, service, and installation. We provide customized services to meet your home or business’s needs. Our team has a reputation for our honesty and professionalism. Call the Garage Door Doctor’s help desk today for an estimate of our services in Indianapolis.

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 Troubleshooting in Indianapolis, IN

Why Won’t My Garage Door Close?

Written by Jeffrey Sanford on July 26, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Why Won’t My Garage Door Close?

If you have a garage door that will not close or is not closing all the way, many factors could be causing the issue. Sometimes, these factors are simple problems that you can swiftly and smoothly fix. Other times they are more complex issues that require intensive labor, repair parts and expert knowledge about garage door repair.

Misaligned Tracks

One of the most common reasons a garage door is not closing is because of misaligned tracks. The tracks are two rails that run parallel to each other and to the garage door. The garage door itself runs vertically up and down these tracks when opening and closing.If the tracks are not exactly parallel with each other, then your garage door will have issues properly closing.

The only way to fix this issue is to identify where the tracks are not parallel. Once it is determined why and where the tracks are no longer parallel, it will require restoring the tracks to the appropriate position. The tracks may be beyond restoration and could need replacing entirely.

Damaged Tracks

Similar to misaligned tracks, damaged tracks can also keep your garage door from closing. Track damage is typical with heavy-duty garage doors. Over time, the wear and tear from opening and closing heavy garage doors takes its toll on the tracks resulting in debilitating bends, blockages and warping of the rail.

Long-term use may result in physical obstructions whose removal allows the garage door to shut completely. Like with misaligned tracks, the only way to fix track damage is to identify where the track is faulty. Repairs may be possible, but depending on the extent of the damage, replacing the track may be the only option. Not addressing track damage will only worsen the situation and potentially become a danger to you and your loved ones.

Smudged Sensor

Garage door sensors are one of the most vital components of your garage door system. These sensors are small beam emitters, typically mounted close to the ground on either side of your garage door. These sensors shoot an invisible beam of light across the opening of your garage door. A dirty sensor may be keeping your garage door from closing. When something disrupts the light beam from these sensors, they send a signal to the receiver that prevents the garage door from closing.

Take a rag or cloth and wipe off any dust or particulate buildup on the lens of your sensors. Once both lenses are completely clear of debris, your garage door should close. If it is not closing, the safety in the sensor may be faulty, or it could be an issue with another component of your garage door system, in which case our team can help find an appropriate solution.

Malfunctioning Safety Sensor

After clearing your sensor lenses of dirt and your garage door is still not closing, the issue may be that your sensors have stopped receiving power. Usually, there is a green light on both sensors that indicate they are receiving power. If the light is off on both sensors, then they are not fully powered. Loss of electricity may happen if a power cable gets unplugged, a fuse blows, or a power outage occurs.

If the sensors are fully powered, then they may be misaligned. The misaligned sensors will not display a green light, similar to a power loss. If the light is not green, readjust the sensors until they are perfectly aligned and the light turns green.

Depleted Remote Control Battery

If your garage door is not closing, the issue may be with your garage door remote control. If your garage door is not responding to your remote control, try your wall switch or control panel. If your garage door closes when you use the wall switch, the issue is most likely a dead battery in your garage door remote. Replace the dead battery with a fresh one and try your remote again. If the problem persists, but you can still close your garage door with your wall switch, then your garage door opener may need to be reprogrammed or replaced entirely.

Faulty Garage Door Remotes

Garage door openers have a relatively small effective range. After replacing your remote battery with a fresh one and syncing it with your system, make sure you are using it within a distance that should work. If you are in the appropriate range of the system and it is still not closing, the issue may be the antenna on the receiver. The antenna is on the opener itself. Make sure your opener is clear of debris and anything else that may impede the signal. If you find that the signal range of your remote is lacking, use an extension kit to boost the effective range of your remote.

If you are on the same frequency as the opener of a neighbor, then their receiver may be interrupting your signal. Alleviate this by altering the transmission frequency of your remote if you are having issues with your remote.

Adjusting Limit Switches

Invalid limit settings may be the reason your garage door is not closing. The limit switches determine how far your garage door needs to move to close or open entirely. Incorrect limit settings are the common cause of garage doors closing all the way but reopening or not closing completely.

Limit settings that are too high trigger a faulty reading and cause the door to reopen because the receiver believes the door has hit an obstacle. Adjusting these settings to the correct level could get your door to close all the way, but the adjustment process is tricky. Extreme adjustments may cause your garage door to crash down, causing damage. It’s highly recommended for your safety that this be performed by a trusted, experienced garage door technician.

Active Disconnect Switch

An activated disconnect switch may be keeping your garage door from closing. If your opener motor runs without the door closing, then your disconnect switch is probably enabled. The disconnect switch connects to the typically bright red emergency cord. The disconnect could have been pulled accidentally or not disabled after the last time in use.

Disabling your disconnect switch is a relatively simple process, but it must be done correctly; otherwise, it could be dangerous. Our technicians can safely manually lower your garage door to the down position to do this. Your garage door must be in the down position. If you leave your garage door open when deactivating the safety switch, your garage door may slam down. If your garage door is stuck open, contact us for assistance. Do not attempt to brute force the door down. Forcing the door shut could cause majorly expensive damage.

Once your garage door is in the down position, we can pull the emergency cord towards the door until the spring lever extends and slide the door manually until it attaches to the trolley. We can also use your garage door remote to automatically reattach your garage door to the trolley. When the door reattaches, you should hear an audible click, and your garage door will be moving along the tracks as usual.

Your Local Garage Door Experts

Garage Door Doctor is the most accomplished garage door installation and repair specialist in the Indianapolis and Bloomington metro areas. We have the experience, knowledge and skills to get your garage door back on track. Give us a call today or contact us online for all of your garage door service needs!

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

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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.

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