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Tag: Garage Door Maintenance

Garage Door Installation in Indianapolis, IN

How Often Should You Lubricate a Garage Door Chain?

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door. No Comments on How Often Should You Lubricate a Garage Door Chain?

Each time that you come and go from your home, you press your garage door button to move your door. Homeowners rely on their garage door opener to function each and every time they need access. However, issues can arise with this area of your home. In order to experience a quiet and smooth transition from open to closed, your garage door chain should be lubricated regularly. This is something that a garage door professional can take care of for you as part of a routine maintenance appointment. You can also take care of this maintenance yourself. Let’s talk more about the lubrication of your garage door chain and how often this process should be done.

The Benefits of Regular Garage Door Chain Lubrication

In order to fully understand why it’s important to regularly lubricate your garage door chain, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of this process.

Smooth Transition From Open to Closed

A garage door chain that is in need of lubrication can be very loud. It can also experience some resistance, making the transition from open to closed rattle. Instead of tolerating your garage door shaking and rattling while it’s in the process of moving, you can lubricate the chain to maintain a smooth movement.

Preventing a Malfunction of Your Garage Door Chain

Have you ever pressed the button for your garage door to open or close, and nothing happened? There are a few reasons why this can occur, including a broken or jammed chain. When the chain mechanism is very dry and in need of lubrication, it’s more likely to snap. You’ll need to call in a professional to replace the chain, which is far more time-consuming and expensive than a quick lubrication.

Garage Door Chain Lubrication Frequency

You should routinely lubricate your garage door chain at least twice per year. Depending on how often you open and close your garage door, the frequency may increase. The area where you live can also impact this maintenance schedule. For example, living near the beach or in another harsh environment can put a lot of wear and tear on the chain. This is because of exposure to different kinds of materials like sand, high levels of humidity, etc. Some homeowners will lubricate their garage door chain every couple of months. Ideally, you want to keep up with this maintenance rather than just waiting for your garage door to sound noisy or rattle.

Try to avoid using a product that is overly greasy or oily when lubricating your garage door chain. This type of product will end up attracting a lot of dust and particulates to the chain. If those particles accumulate in all of the cracks and crevices of the chain, it can become more prone to breaking. If you apply too much product, you can wipe the excess away. Avoid spraying lubricant on other areas of your garage door, such as the rollers or the garage door opener.

If you live somewhere that experiences very cold temperatures during certain points of the year, you should choose an all-weather lubricant. Otherwise, certain products will become very thick and gel-like when temperatures outside fall below freezing. Also, avoid anything that can be corrosive to metal.

Steps for Lubricating Your Garage Door Chain

You can ask a garage door professional to lubricate your chain as part of an upcoming maintenance or repair appointment, but this is also something you can easily do on your own. Let’s take a look at the steps you should follow to lubricate your garage door chain.

Make sure that your garage door is completely closed. Unplug the garage door opener from its power outlet. When lubricating the chain, you want to avoid having the door move.

Use an old rag to remove any dirt, residue, or grease from the garage door chain. You can also use a vacuum to remove any debris that has accumulated.

Apply a product designed specifically for lubricating a garage door chain. These products are generally silicone-based for longevity and durability. You can also use WD-40 in a pinch. Spray the top, bottom, and sides of your chain. Spray lightly, as you don’t want the product to drip off the chain and all over your garage floor.

Plug your garage door opener back into the power outlet. Open and close your garage door a few times to evenly distribute the lubricant. You may need to repeat the process if you notice the chain is shaky or loud.

Other Related Maintenance

In addition to lubricating your garage door chain, there are some other related maintenance tasks to consider completing at the same time.

Inspect the Rollers

A thorough inspection of your garage door rollers will determine if there’s a repair or replacement that needs to be made. You want to make sure that the roller doesn’t shift or wiggle at all when you touch it. You can lubricate your rollers with lithium- or silicone-based grease for optimal protection.

Inspect the Hinges

Check your garage door hinges to make sure the attached hardware is secure. You also want to inspect for rust or signs of wear and tear. Hinges can be quickly replaced, if need be, which helps secure your garage door and protect its longevity. Hinges can also be lubricated if they are squeaking when in motion.

Tighten Your Garage Door Chain

Your garage door chain can have a little bit of a sag to it, but it shouldn’t come anywhere near your garage door. You also want to prevent the chain from being tightened too much, which increases the chance of the chain snapping.
If you need to tighten the chain, loosen the nut that is closest to the garage door. The chain should drop slightly. Loosening the inner nut at this point will allow you to tighten the chain using the outer nut. Make sure both are secure when you are finished.

Listen for Odd Noises

Aside from visually inspecting your garage door chain and lubricating it, there are some other issues to listen for. The sound of your garage door chain hitting your garage door indicates that the chain needs to be tightened. A vibrating sound may mean that the bolts holding the chain in place are loose or damaged. Many people mistake roller issues for a damaged chain, so look closely at both of these areas if there are odd noises when your door is in motion.

There may be a problem with your garage door that requires the attention of a garage door professional even though you have routinely lubricated your garage door chain. Reach out to Garage Door Doctor if you live in Bloomington or the surrounding areas to schedule an appointment for garage door maintenance or repair. In addition to emergency repairs and services, Garage Door Doctor will address residential and commercial garage door maintenance, spring repair, and total garage door replacement.

Garage Door Service in Indianapolis, IN

Fall Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Efficient

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . 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 garagedoordoc1 on . 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.

Consider These Questions Before Replacing Your Garage Door

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Replacement Indianapolis.

Durable garage doors will typically last 15 to 30 years, and even longer with the proper care and maintenance. Because garage doors are a long-lasting investment, when the time comes that you need to install a new one, it is important to make sure that you choose the right one for your home.

At Garage Door Doctor, we specialize in garage door replacement and installation services. We carry a wide selection of garage doors in different materials and styles. With all of the available choices, trying to select the right one for your home can certainly become overwhelming. Fortunately, our Indianapolis garage door contractors are here to help you! Before you opt for garage door replacement, ask yourself the following questions to ensure that the new garage door you are installing is the right one.

Why Are Replacing Your Garage Door?

Before you choose your new garage door, first think about your motivation behind a garage door replacement. Maybe you noticed one of the signs that indicate the need for a garage door replacement, such as an outdated design, loud and persistent noise, or repeated garage door repairs. Knowing what caused your existing garage door to require replacement can help you find a door that will not experience the same issues.

What Do You Want In Your New Garage Door?

To make finding the right garage door easier, try basing your choice off of the following criteria: function, aesthetics, and budget. The function of garage doors can vary depending on its durability, how insulated it is, how weather-resistant it is, and how it opens and closes. The aesthetics of your garage door depends on the material you choose for your door as well as how it fits in with the architectural style of your home. Lastly, the budget for your garage door will vary from homeowner to homeowner. Luckily, if you have a tight budget, there are many ways to find an affordable garage door solution. Let’s further expand upon these criteria:

What Type of Material Do You Want?

When it comes to installing a new garage door, one decision you will have to make is the type of material you need. The most popular materials for garage doors include metal, aluminum, and wood. If a natural appearance is something you want your garage door to have, wood is the way to go. Keep in mind, wooden garage doors will require more care and maintenance, especially weather-sealing so it can withstand the elements. Metal and aluminum garage doors offer durability and a more modern look, plus they will not require as much care compared to wooden garage doors.

What Will Be Your Garage’s Main Function

Do you use your garage space for something other than storing vehicles? Garage uses extend far beyond vehicle storage. Maybe you want to turn it into a home office or a gym. Or maybe you want to convert your garage into a comfortable living space. Know the main function of your garage can help you determine whether or not your door needs special features, such as insulation.

Is Appearance Important?

If you are looking to boost the curb appeal of your home, the aesthetics of your new garage door is an important consideration. Your garage door is one of the first things that people see when driving by your home, and a good-looking garage door can improve the value of your home through curb appeal. To get the most curb appeal, your new garage door should match the style, color, and trim to your front door and perhaps the siding of any windows. Choose a material such as wood that has a charming natural look.

Considering these three criteria should make choosing the right residential garage door much easier.

Are You Using The Right Garage Door Company

If you search Google for ‘garage door replacement near me’ you are going to find a lot of options. Keep in mind, you should not just choose the first garage door contractor you find. You want to make sure that the garage door company you choose offers garage door replacement and installs products from the leading garage door manufacturers. If you follow our tips for hiring the best garage door service company, you can ensure that your garage door replacement goes smoothly and is covered by a solid warranty.

Contact Us For Garage Door Replacement

Whether your door is old and outdated or you just want an upgrade in security, safety, and technology, if you are in the need for a garage door replacement, you can rely on the experts at Garage Door Doctor. We have years of experience providing customers with garage door replacements as well as our other garage door services. To schedule a free estimate or to learn more about replacing your garage door, contact the team at Garage Door Doctor today!

Essential Questions To Consider Before Garage Door Installation

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Installation, Garage Door Services Indianapolis.

Whether you are building a new home or garage and are installing your first garage door or you are having your old and worn garage door replaced, garage door installation requires a lot of thought and consideration.

Before having a new garage door installed, be sure to ask yourself the following questions:

Did I Choose The Right Garage Door Installation Company?

Choosing a reputable, trustworthy company to install your garage door is, without a doubt, the most important part of the process. Before hiring a garage door contractor, be sure to do your research and read online reviews to get an idea of what kind of experiences other people have had with some of the local garage door companies in your area.

What Is The Best Garage Door Material For My Home?

There are a variety of garage door materials to choose from, all of them serving different purposes. The most commonly used garage door materials include steel, vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. Before choosing a material, first consider factors for each such as affordability and durability — this will make it easier to narrow down the choices and eventually choose the material that is the best fit for your home, lifestyle, and budget.

What Garage Door Style Should I Choose?

Just like materials, there are a variety of garage door styles to choose from, and selecting the right one can make all the difference to not only your garage but your home and it’s curb appeal as well. There are many different garage door styles, some that are designed to enhance your home’s curb appeal, create a focal point, or add the perfect finishing touch. Some of the most popular garage door styles include:

  • Raised Panel – This offers a classy, elegant look, typically featuring a pattern of raised square or rectangular panels. Windows are often added to the door as a simple decorative feature.
  • Recessed Panel – Closely resembling raised panel garage doors, recessed panel doors are classic and strikingly stylish, but instead of the panels being elevated, they are sunken for a contemporary flair.
  • Carriage House Overlay – Highly traditional in its design and beautiful in its appearance, an overlay carriage garage door will add character and warmth to the exterior of your home.
  • Carriage House Stamped – Adding classical charm to the exterior of your home, this style of garage door has the conventional carriage design stamped into the surface of the door.
  • Flush Panel – Flush panel garage doors are sleek and modern, often featuring clean lines and simple designs that create an effortless exterior appearance.
  • Accent Planks –  Elegant and eye-catching, accent plank style garage doors are a true asset to modern and traditional properties thanks to its beautiful wood-tone accenting.

If you want your garage door to have a more classic look, the classic carriage house style or the popular traditional raised-panel style door may be the best options to fit your needs. If you want your garage door to have more personality, you may want to choose a contemporary style or design the entire door to your liking with a custom style.

How Can My Garage Door Be Personalized?

Did you know that most garage door styles and materials can be customized to reflect your personality and match your home’s overall look and feel? When you work with the right garage door installation company, you will have the option to choose from different colors, finishes, and glazing options, or the choice to add windows to enhance the door’s appearance. Additionally, you can choose to embellish it with decorative hardware such as handles and hinges.

What Other Elements Can Be Added?

There are other elements for your garage door that you may want to consider. For example, insulation is one of the most important elements to look for when you are purchasing a new garage door. Many garage doors already come insulated, so it may be worth investing in a door with a higher R-value now so it is something you do not have to worry about in the future. Other elements to consider include the type of garage door opener you choose and any exterior design features to add.

What Warranties Are Available?

Most garage doors that are installed by a professional company will come with a warranty, or at least the option to purchase one. The contractors you work should be able to explain the available warranties, answering any questions you may have.

How Will I Keep My Garage Door Maintained?

Most garage doors follow a similar maintenance plan. Once installed, the garage door installation company should also offer routine maintenance services to make sure that everything is always in working order. Opting for routine garage door maintenance will help extend the life of your garage door while also preventing injuries and damages within your garage. The International Door Association suggests having your garage door system inspected by a professional garage door company at least once a year.

Asking yourself these questions before purchasing a new garage door will help ensure that you choose the right one for your home.

Need A Garage Door Installation Company In Indianapolis?

If you are in need of a new garage door, you can rely on the team at Garage Door Doctor to help you choose the best choice for your home. We have years of experiencing installing garage doors throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. To receive a hassle-free estimate, contact our professional garage door contractors!

Tips For Hiring The Best Garage Door Service Company

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis.

When it comes to your home, you likely already understand the importance of maintenance. However, if you are like many homeowners, one area of your home that you may overlook when it comes to maintenance is your garage door. Until something goes wrong with it, that is. A garage door that isn’t operating properly is not only a major inconvenience, it is also a safety concern.

Garages house one of your most costly and reliant possessions — your vehicle. Throughout the day, your garage door opens and closes numerous times as you travel back and forth to work and run errands. If something goes wrong with its operation, it is important to have a reliable garage door company that will be able to repair the issue in a timely manner.

Tips For Hiring The Best Garage Door Service Company

Whether you are dealing with a broken garage door or are thinking about purchasing a new garage door, one of the most important parts of the process is finding a garage door company you can trust. Here are five tips that can be used to choose a garage door company and ensure quality, dependable service.

Understand Your Needs

First things first; before you begin searching for nearby garage door companies, first determine what exactly your needs are. Are you looking to replace your old garage door with a new one? Is your garage door broken or not operating properly? Or are you just looking to have your garage door system professionally inspected?

Whatever the reasoning behind your search for professional garage door services, it will help determine how the rest of your search goes. While most garage door companies will offer complete services, some contractors choose to only focus on specific services, such as repairs.

Ask Friends and Family For Recommendations

No matter what your garage door service needs are, a great way to find a trustworthy garage door repair company is by asking friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors for their recommendations. Chances are fairly high that there is someone you know who has had work done in the past. A positive referral or warning can help you in your search for a reputable company. You may hear the same garage door company’s name come up when asking for recommendations, a sign that the said company is worth checking out.

Search For The Best Garage Door Contractors Online

A simple online search will make it easier to find nearby garage door companies. The best way to find local garage door contractors is to make your online search as specific as possible. Using your preferred search engine, search for terms like, ‘garage door companies near me’ or ‘nearby garage door repair’. Or, be specific to the area in which you live by naming the county, city, or borough. For example, homeowners in Fishers, Indiana may search, “Fishers garage door company,” to find the best contractors in their area. Searching for companies this way doesn’t just enable you to find the best garage companies, but also the companies that are within your community. This can be extremely beneficial for time-sensitive repairs or replacements.

Check The Critical Information

Once you have a few garage door companies in mind, always do your due diligence to ensure they are the best choice. This means seeking out and verifying critical information. At the very least, check the following with each company.

  • Experience. Experience is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a garage door contractor. Look for companies that have been in business for a while and have years of experience servicing garage doors.
  • Licensed and Insured. To avoid fly-by-night companies, seek out a garage door company that is licensed to practice in the area. You’ll also want to verify that they have a certificate of insurance, which covers any damages incurred during installation or repair work.
  • BBB Rating. There are many different ratings and certifications a company can receive, but the gold standard in the industry is a rating from the Better Business Bureau. Before considering a company, go to each company’s BBB page to review their ratings. Ratings scale from F to A+ and you can sift through reviews and complaints. You’ll want to think twice about working with companies that aren’t accredited or have poor ratings.
  • Website. In today’s technology-driven world, almost every reliable company will have a website. While you shouldn’t fault a company for having a poor website, you should definitely be skeptical if you are unable to find a site at all.

All of this information combined should give you a better idea of whether the company is genuine and how they’re viewed in the industry.

Ask For Estimates

Once you have a couple of companies in mind, reach out to them and ask for an estimate. Receiving estimates is beneficial for a variety of reasons. Not only will you get a first impression of the garage door company, but you will get to receive and compare quotes from each contractor. Although companies may have similar prices displayed on their websites, at the end of the day, every garage door repair or installation project is different. Take some time to review the estimates and consider your project budget.

Make Your Decision

After you have done your due diligence and requested estimates from a few contractors, you now can choose the company that you find best for the job. Remember, your decision shouldn’t revolve on cost or time alone. While these are critical factors, the value of the work holds the most importance. It may be worth paying a little extra or waiting a bit longer for a project to begin if you can trust that it’s going to be worth the quality workmanship.

Once you decide on a garage door company, give them a call and schedule a date for the work to begin!

Looking For The Best Garage Door Company Near Indianapolis?

If you are searching for a garage door company in Indianapolis, Franklin, or the surrounding areas, make sure to follow the tips above. Chances are you will likely come across Garage Door Doctor in your searches, and for good reason. Garage Door Doctor has been servicing homeowners with quality, reliable, and affordable garage door services. Whatever your needs are, trust that our team of experienced garage door contractors will be able to help! To receive a free estimate, click here.

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Try DIY Garage Door Installation

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis.

t is no secret that we have become self-sufficient thanks to the ease with which everything is available on the internet. With how-to videos for just about every task out there, people are more enabled to accomplish things right at home without needed to pay for a service. For the committed DIY crowd, garage door installation can potentially seem like a project that could be taken on without the help of a professional. Only a licensed, insured, and experienced garage door company should perform garage door installations.

If you are a homeowner considering attempting a garage door installation on your own, reviewing the following reasons will help you to see why it is best to leave this type of job to a trained garage door technician.

Complicated Job

Although you may be handy when it comes to performing minor repairs around the house, a garage door installation can be difficult and overwhelming for anyone who does not possess the proper expertise. Garage door systems are complex, to say the least. They have numerous parts involved, and this can make it easy to spend a lot of time on the job if you do not entirely understand what needs to be done.

Risk of Injury

The risk of injury is high when you attempt garage door installation without the proper training and experience. It’s important to remember that the installation process is physically strenuous and can be dangerous due to the parts that are involved. Garage doors are extremely heavy, typically weighing 700 pounds. Plus, handling the garage door springs improperly can potentially lead to serious injury. Garage door installation is by no means a do-it-yourself job, you need a professional to handle the work to prevent any injuries.

Garage Door Installation Requires Special Tools

In order to properly install a garage door, you need certain tools and equipment. And trust us when we say that you likely do not have the tools needed sitting around in your toolbox, and before you get any ideas, they can also be expensive to buy. The use of these tools also requires a great deal of mechanical ability, as it is not an easy, intuitive process. For example, most garage door installations require the use of a counterbalance spring system, which is needed to lift the garage door.

Creates a Safety Hazard

There is a very good reason why garage door installation is a job that requires intense training, education, and experience. If a garage door is not properly installed, it creates a serious safety hazard for members of your household and anyone who visits your home. If a garage door opener is faulty, it can cause the door to close on someone or fail to reverse, causing injury or death. Similarly, if the garage door is not installed correctly on the track, it can fall down without warning.

While you may feel that DIY garage door installation is a task you can achieve, it simply is not worth the risk and damages. Your garage door needs to be installed right the first time, which is why you should hire a professional garage door company to handle the work.

Helpful Tips to Prevent Winter Damages for Your Garage

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis.

Midwest winters are pretty unpredictable. It can seem to be warming up one day, then the next day we are hit with a blanket of snow. During the winter season, we take the extra precautions to rid our driveways, sidewalks, and vehicles of snow and ice, but what about our garage doors?

When the temperatures fall and the snow starts to fall, it can have an adverse effect on your garage door as its operation. At Garage Door Doctor, we have seen many cases where snow and ice lead to costly garage door repairs. Don’t let the winter conditions affect the convenience and operation of your garage door, follow the tips below to avoid garage door repairs.

How Does Snow and Ice Damage Garage Doors?

Protecting your garage from snow and ice is important, especially in Indiana, where winters are often cold and windy, as both can cause issues for your garage door system. Letting snow and ice accumulate around your garage, the following issues are more likely to happen.

  • Garage door tracks can bend and become misaligned
  • The weight of your garage door can shift and become imbalanced
  • Wooden garage doors absorb moisture
  • Rubber and vinyl may harden and crack
  • The garage door opener is forced to lift a heavier load

Tips to Avoid Winter Damages For Your Garage

There are some simple things you can do to help ensure that your garage is operating safely through the winter season. Consider trying the following this winter:

  • Avoid piling snow. Try to keep snow from piling up on your garage doors threshold. Too much snow piled up against your garage door can cause it to dent or have difficulty opening. Plus, the debris in snow can damage the integrity of your garage door threshold, which can mean a lapse in energy efficiency the risk of potential damage to the door.
  • Remove ice. Ice can cause a serious problem for a garage door. Ice often forms along the threshold of your garage door. When ice accumulates on the threshold, your garage door opener has to work extra hard to pull the door away from the ice. This can cause damage to your door or your opener, so clear away the ice first.
  • Clear before closing.  If your garage door has been opened long enough for snow or ice to develop along the threshold, clear it away before closing. If you close your door on snow and ice, the automatic reverse mechanism may kick in. Or worse, your garage door may close and be stuck.
  • Get a weather-resistant garage door. Weather-resistant garage doors can withstand the harsh winter conditions. These doors perform better over the long term and help homeowners avoid expensive repairs that come with cheaper alternatives.
  • Plow carefully. Make sure your plowing service knows to leave some space in front of your garage door. While plowing services are doing their best to do a good job, they aren’t always mindful about the fact that their work and their snow plows could damage your garage door.

Following the above tips will help you avoid garage door damage from ice and snow this winter. Keep in mind, when you need help repairing or maintaining your existing garage door, or choosing a new garage door that can withstand the harsh Midwest winters, contact Garage Door Doctor and our team of experienced technicians.

Helpful Tips For Fall Garage Door Maintenance

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis.

The Midwest is known to have some brutal cold winters, and one of the last things you will want to do when the temperatures drop and the snow starts falling is clean or fix your garage door. That’s why the fall is a great time to finish up any remaining preventive maintenance so you’re not stuck with a faulty garage door system in the winter.

Luckily, we put together four fall garage door maintenance tips to ensure be worry-free as Old Man Winter approaches.

Tip #1: Clean Up

While there is still some sunshine and temperatures are still up in the fifties, make sure to give your garage a good exterior and interior cleaning.

  • Use a power washes to get rid of any dirt, dust, and debris
  • Wash the garage floor with soap and water to get rid of any fluids, dirt and debris from the road, or stains that may be building up.

Extra Tip: Make sure that the lenses of your garage door photo eye sensors are clear, free of any dirt, dust, and debris.

Tip #2: Lubricate Moving Parts

As intricate systems of metal moving parts, garage doors need lubrication to work smoothly. The owner’s manual of garage door system should contain detailed lubrication information.

  • Make sure that the tracks and rollers operate without any issues.
  • Ensure that the torsion spring above the door is well lubricated.
  • Spray all moving parts with a lubricant to help create a quiet, reliable operation.

Tip #3: Check Seals and Weather Stripping

The corners, bottom, and sides of your garage door are most likely to let cold air in during the winter, causing your heating bills to spike when left unattended.

  • Double check to ensure that your weather stripping and seals are in-tack, not worn out, and show no signs of weathering or cracking.
  • Consider adding or replacing insulation to your garage door if it’s not already insulated — some new garage doors even come insulated.

Tip #4: Inspect The Track For Dents

It is common for garage door tracks to be damaged over time, especially after repetitive use. Before the winter season, do your due diligence to make sure that the track is in good condition.

  • Thoroughly inspect the track in search of nicks, dents, and other damages.
  • Ensure that the rack is clear and that the door is running smoothly along the rails as it should.

Get Professional Garage Door Preventive Maintenance

The tips above are just a few ways to ensure your garage door is ready for the upcoming weather, however, you cannot go wrong with professional maintenance from the experts at Garage Door Doctor. Contact us to learn more.

Businesses That Are Using Commercial Garage Doors

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Commercial Garage Doors Indianapolis.

Commercial garages can benefit a business in a variety of ways, from providing storage for inventory to providing a space to park company vehicles. Not to mention, many businesses that transport stock typically have a loading dock, which should have a commercial garage door installation for ease of unloading delivery vehicles. The reality is, a commercial garage is a great investment for various types of businesses. In this blog, we’ll explore certain businesses that are using commercial garage doors.

Commercial Garage Doors

Commercial garage doors are quite different from residential garage doors. Instead of only opening once or twice a day, commercial garage door systems are constantly operating throughout the day. This consistent use demands better hardware, a stronger opener, and stronger springs.

Businesses That Are Using Commercial Garage Doors

Many types of business are already experiencing the benefits of quality and reliable commercial garage doors. Here are five examples of the utilization of commercial garage doors:

Auto Body and Repair Shops

One of the most common commercial garage door applications is an auto repair facility. The commercial doors used in auto repair shops are most likely sectional garage doors, as they are more cost effective. Additionally, sectional doors can be insulated to keep the cold out in the winter, and inside during the summer.

Fire Stations

If you have ever driven past a fire department, you may have noticed the large commercial garage doors. The demands of needing to exit their station quickly in case of emergency demand the use of a commercial garage door.

Restaurants

More and more restaurants are adding commercial garage doors to their building to extend their dining room or allow for a nice breeze to be created during the summertime. Glass panel sectional garage doors allow the doors to close when the weather is unpleasant, and open when it is nice outside for patrons to enjoy open-air dining.

Retail Stores

Many retail stores often use loading docks to receive their times. Commercial garage doors are useful in moving goods from delivery trucks to the stock area of retail stores. Roll-up commercial garage doors are commonly used in retail loading dock locations for increased security and durability.

Commercial Garage Door Installation in Indianapolis and Central Indiana

For all of your commercial and residential garage door installation and repair needs, look to the garage door experts at Garage Door Doctor. We can install new commercial garage doors or repair your existing garage door. If you are in need of commercial garage door replacement, we have top-of-the-line doors for your application. To learn more, contact us!