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Tag: Garage Door Opener Installation

How Long Do Commercial Garage Door Openers Typically Last?

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door. No Comments on How Long Do Commercial Garage Door Openers Typically Last?

Your thriving business depends upon the reliable operation of everything from floor to ceiling. This includes having dependable garage door openers. As all good things must end, your openers will eventually reach the end of their service life. It’s critical to know the expected lifespan of these valuable tools and signs that they are failing so your operations don’t come to a standstill at a peak time. Here is some information about how long you can expect your garage door opener to last and what you can do to extend or shorten its life.

How Long Do Commercial Garage Door Openers Last?

In general, commercial garage door openers last between 10 and 15 years. However, that can vary dramatically based on a number of factors, including the type of door, quality of materials and manufacture, quality of the installation and maintenance, how much use it experiences, and environmental factors.

What to Do to Extend the Life of Your Commercial Garage Door Opener

Some things that can shorten the lifespan of your commercial garage door opener may be beyond your control. These include floods, fires, and tornados. However, there is a considerable amount you can do to ensure the longest lifespan of your openers.

Garage Door Opener Maintenance

Regular maintenance may be the single most crucial factor you can control to extend the lifespan of your commercial door opener. While you should do your part to keep the area around the garage doors clear, many tasks require the expert services of our professional technicians.

A key maintenance task is lubricating the moving parts. Whatever type of opener you have, you need to keep things moving smoothly. Without lubrication, the door may not operate properly. It will also increase the wear on the moving parts, causing them to break down and need replacement earlier.

We also make sure that all safety measures are working as intended. This is critical for the welfare of your employees, clients, and the business itself. We also tighten any loose bolts or other parts. If the door has weather stripping or another sealant, we’ll check that, too, and replace it if necessary.

Prompt Repairs

Accidents happen, and occasionally things break down. Whether your forklift driver hit the track for your commercial garage door opener or the motor is making strange noises, call for repairs the moment you notice something amiss. Not attending to a small problem can allow it to grow into a major issue and could ultimately require a complete replacement. Quick action helps maintain the building’s aesthetics and the day-to-day functioning of your business.

Keep the Door Dry

Commercial garage doors are designed to withstand the rain and other elements. However, the door opener is more vulnerable. Do your best to keep these indoor parts dry. If your business uses hoses, try to use them away from the doors to prevent accidental spraying.

Types of Commercial Garage Door Openers

At [company_name], we offer a wide variety of commercial garage door openers, including hoists, trolleys, and jackshafts. It’s essential to get a door opener designed to handle the type of door and the amount of use it will see. The amount of use the door can handle is usually expressed in max cycles per hour and max cycles per day. If you regularly exceed these numbers, your door will likely wear out sooner than expected.

While the price of a standard or medium-duty opener may look enticing, the money is wasted if it fails prematurely. When you work with our installers at [company_name], they’ll evaluate the conditions and amount of use you expect it to see and recommend an opener that will serve you well for many years.

Lifting Power

Commercial doors can be extremely heavy, so you need an opener designed to lift this extra weight. While a residential garage door opener might have one or two torsion springs, openers for commercial garage doors usually have three or more extension torsion springs. These springs are larger and stronger than ones for residential garage doors. They help balance the weight of the door for smoother and safer lifting.

Because of the extra weight of commercial doors, commercial door openers also require more power than residential openers. Power is usually expressed in horsepower. Many residential garage doors are 150 pounds or less and only need an opener with 1/2 HP. Commercial doors can be 1,000 pounds or more and may require as much as 1.5 HP.

Safety Features

Because of the weight of commercial garage doors, they require more safety features than your standard home garage door opener. The following features are available on some of our doors:

  • Pull cord emergency release
  • Emergency hoist for manual operation
  • Drawbar disconnect
  • Programmable mid-stop
  • Chain hoist with electric interlock
  • Floor level disconnect
  • Fail-safe release mechanism

Warranties

Commercial garage doors and garage door openers are an investment. Many of the doors we offer come with a two-year/20,000-cycle warranty.

Types of Commercial Garage Doors

There is a huge variety of commercial garage doors. The key difference between these and residential garage doors is durability and the ability to open and close many times a day. Whether it’s a parking garage door or a fire door, selecting the right door for the task is paramount.

Design Style

Like residential doors, many commercial doors are designed as overhead doors. Compared to doors that slide to the side or swing out, overhead doors need the least amount of space. You can also have a rollup door that is comprised of multiple sections.

Materials

Commercial garage doors can be made from a variety of materials. The key consideration is that it is durable and can withstand the elements. Steel doors are highly durable and provide a high level of security. However, they also tend to be quite heavy. Wood doors are also common. These typically have a solid wood core covered in a veneer. You can also have full glass or aluminum and glass doors. Glass doors allow greater visibility when preparing to leave the garage, which is why you see full glass doors at firehouses. Fiberglass doors are another attractive and durable option and are relatively lightweight.

Other Considerations

Some commercial garage doors are designed for specific purposes. A fire door will automatically close in the event the fire alarm is triggered. In other circumstances, you may need an insulated door or a ventilated door.

Call the Experts

Specializing in top-rated brands, at Garage Door Doctor, we prioritize quality construction and durability in all our projects in the Indianapolis and Bloomington areas. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition, including the prestigious International Door Association Award and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. We know your business is important and you need your garage doors to operate as intended. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency services. We serve both residential and commercial clients. If you need installation, repairs, or maintenance for your commercial garage door or door opener, give Garage Door Doctor a call to schedule an appointment for a free estimate.

Common DIY Garage Door Installation Pitfalls

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Installation.

More and more people are diving into the DIY craze. Thanks to the internet, it’s easy to get help with DIY projects, especially those around the house. With the resources available, why wouldn’t you save money while simultaneously achieving a sense of accomplishment?
At Garage Door Doctor, we are all for DIY projects to enhance the look and functionality of your home, but here to remind you that not all projects should be tackled on your own — and that includes garage door installation.

Don’t Risk These DIY Garage Door Installation Mistakes

At the beginning of the new year, our garage door contractors shared a post on Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Try DIY Garage Door Installation. Unlike other DIY projects, rather than save you money and bringing a sense of accomplishment, trying DIY garage door installation will likely result in damage expenses and a sense of incompetence and frustration. If you do not have the proper knowledge, experience, and equipment, the mistakes made during your attempt with garage door installation can result in costing you more than having a professional garage door company install your garage door from the get-go.

Regardless, some people have larger egos and think they can accomplish the task at hand, and it’s to those DIY-ragers that we dedicate this blog to. Continue reading, as we look at some of the common garage door installation mistakes that untrained people make when attempting to install their garage door.

Not Considering The Garage Space Beforehand

More likely than not, when homeowners try the DIY route it will be their first time installing a garage door. Many make the rookie mistake of installing their garage door after finishing the interior of their garage, including all the electrical wiring outlets and fixtures. This often leads to installing lights and other fixtures in the wrong area, throwing the whole installation off. The garage door opener needs to be at the exact center of the garage door; if the light is in this spot, the light will have to be moved to ensure a proper installation. The only solution to this problem is changing all the wiring to the light fixtures or installing the garage door opener off-center (which we don’t recommend – see why below).

Improperly Alignment Of The Door And Opener

When fixtures or outlets are placed in the center of their garage ceiling, many homeowners will install their garage door opener slightly off-center believing that it will not affect the functioning of the garage door. This is a big-time mistake as automatic garage door units need to be lined up with the center of the garage door itself. Even the slightest error in alignment of cani result in the twisting of your garage door whenever opening or closing, causing damage to the garage door system itself. Fixing this problem will definitely require the services of a professional garage door contractor, so why not hire one to begin with and avoid these risks?

Using Nails To Install The Tracks

Many do-it-yourselfers will try to keep some cash in their wallet by using nails instead of screws to install the garage door tracks. This is a total waste of time and money. In order to properly install a garage door track, you should use lag screws, not nails. Garage doors simply put too much stress and strain on the track and will easily pull nails out of, surely causing some damage to whatever the tracks and door fall on. When you hire professionals for garage door installation, you won’t have to worry about them using the wrong hardware and increasing the risk of damages.

Not Adjusting The Garage Door Once Installation Is Complete

Another common DIY garage door installation mistake is failing to adjust their garage door after installation. Professional garage door experts will check your garage door system after installation to ensure everything is in working order. If needed, they will make small but critical adjustments to ensure your new garage door system functions properly. If you do not have the proper knowledge or experience of garage door installation, you will not know if adjustments are necessary nor how to properly do them, which will cause your garage door to be less efficient and can lead to expedited wear and tear on system parts and components.

Common DIY Garage Door Installation Pitfalls

Trust Our Experts For Garage Door Installation Service

Don’t be a victim to the damages, expenses, and frustration that comes with trying DIY garage door installation. Instead, let the professionals handle the job. Hiring a professional garage door company to perform the installation services will save you money in the long run and give you the extra peace of mind that your home and family are safe. If you are in need of garage door installation in Indianapolis or the surrounding area, contact Garage Door Doctor for prompt and affordable service.

Preparing For Garage Door Installation Service

Written by garagedoordoc1 on . Posted in Garage Door Installation.

Maybe you’ve noticed the signs that indicate you need a garage door replacement or maybe you just want to enhance the look and curb appeal of your home with a new, modern garage door — whatever your reasoning for garage door installation your new door will ready for installation before you know it!

Garage door installation requires a lot of planning. Our technicians need a safe working environment to ensure proper installation and to avoid any setbacks. If we can’t access the garage, objects are in the way, or we have no electrical access, the installation may be delayed.

Preparing For Your Upcoming Garage Door Installation

What can you do to help ensure a smooth professional installation? There are a few simple steps you can take that will make the garage door installation process easier for you and our crew of garage door technicians.

1. Clear Your Garage

The first thing you will want to do to prepare for garage door installation is to clear your garage. In order to properly install a new garage door system, there cannot be any vehicles or obstructions in your garage. It is helpful if you move vehicles out of the garage and to a spot far enough away that still allows us to park our work vehicle near the garage door opening and work around that area without risking any damage to your vehicle.
Additionally, you’ll want to clear any other equipment or objects in your garage that may get in the way. Lawnmowers, sporting equipment, garbage bins, and other items that are near the garage door or the garage door tracks should be moved outside of or to the rear of the garage. As a safety measure, have at least one foot on each side of the garage door track and fourteen feet back into the garage clear. This will ensure there is plenty of room for our technicians to set up a ladder, remove your existing door and opener, and set up and assemble the new door and opener system.

2. Make Sure We Have Access

In order to replace your existing garage door system with a new one, our team will need access to your garage. Therefore, it is important to be present, at least for the beginning of the installation process. Once we have access to your garage, you are free to go about your normal routine, just make sure that you remain reachable in case any questions arise.

3. Keep Your Pets Inside

If you have pets, make sure they have a safe place to stay while the installation is going on. While our garage door contractors enjoy seeing your friendly furry companions, far too often customers let their pets roam free during the installation process. This is dangerous for both your pet and the installation team. It is easy to trip over a pet or drop large objects. Your pet may even find something interesting to chew on that may in fact be dangerous. To avoid these risks, simply make sure you keep your pets inside or in a safe area away from the garage door.

4. Watch Your Kids

Children are often curious about what goes on during a garage door installation, but they need to remain a safe distance away from the garage area. It is not safe for children to be playing or hanging around the garage area during the installation process. Removal of your existing door and the installation of your new garage door includes items under spring tension, heavy items, overhead items, and power tools. This being the case, the only people that should be in the garage or the area of the installation are the trained and experienced garage door contractors.

5. Choose A Spot For Your Wall Console

Typically, wall consoles or keyless entry pads are placed next to the personnel door that enters the garage, on the garage side of the wall. Exterior keyless entry pads are normally installed on the left side exterior jamb of the garage door that is closest to the personnel door into the garage. If you would like a special location for the wall console or keyless entry pad for your garage door system, be sure the garage door contractors are aware of your preferred location

By doing your part to prepare for garage door installation service will make the process go that much more smoothly and efficiently. The garage door contractors on the job will truly appreciate that you took a few moments to follow these simple suggestions.

Request An Estimate For Garage Door Installation

If you are in need of a garage door installation service, you can count on the team at Garage Door Doctor. Our trained and experienced technicians will work promptly and efficiently to replace your existing door and opener system will a new one that will last for years to come. If you would like to receive an estimate, contact us!

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!

Signs You Need To Opt For Garage Door Replacement Service

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

Your garage door is likely to experience some issues and require professional repair from time to time. Luckily, professional garage door repair services are available to get your door back up and running. However, if you have had to dish out money for frequent garage door repairs over the last couple of years, you may want to just opt for new garage door installation.

The overall cost of a new garage door will seem minimal when compared to the repeated costs of expensive garage door repairs. In this blog, we are going to share some of the obvious signs that it is time to replace your residential garage door with a new one.

Repeated Garage Door Repairs and Persistent Noise

If your current garage door or garage door opener experience frequent breakdowns, it might be time to upgrade to a more modern garage door model. Rather than spending your money on garage door repair service calls, labor, and parts, that money can be put towards a new garage door installation. Another sign that your garage door needs replacement is if it is making more noise that it used to when opening or closing. Many of the leading garage doors today operate almost silently, so you will never have to deal with a noisy door again!

Out-Of-Date Design

Nothing can make your property look unattractive and unappealing quite like an antiquated garage door. And because of their usually large size, unsightly garage doors are hard to miss. Your garage door takes up at least 40 percent of the facade of the house, so a new garage door can have a significant impact on the curb appeal of your home. A new, modernly-designed garage door will not only be more visually appealing than an old garage door, but it will also help increase the value of your property.

Lack Of Safety and Efficiency Features

Compared to modern garage doors, older garage doors, particularly ones that require frequent repairs, do not operate as safely or efficiently. A garage door opener that is faulty or out-dated can be a significant safety threat to you and your family, and will not provide you with the security measures that you need for your garage. Installing a newer, more modern garage door and opener means that you will have a much more attractive residential garage door, as well as access to innovative safety features and energy-efficient insulation. Modern garage doors have newer, more efficient methods of insulation to ensure that air from your home’s heating or cooling system won’t escape, and your energy bills will be lower.

Your Garage Has a New Function

Garages can be used for something other than vehicle storage you know. If you have recently remodeled your garage and it now serves a different purpose other than a space to store your vehicles, it may be worth it to upgrade your garage door. Modern garage doors are available in a variety of styles and designs. If your garage is now a gym, office space, or a game room, you can find a new garage door can reflect that.

Do You Need Garage Door Replacement?

If you are in need of garage door replacement in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas, you can rely on the team at Garage Door Doctor! We have a variety of residential garage doors and garage door openers to choose from, and our team of experienced garage door contractors will handle the entire process, from the removal of your old garage door to the installation of your new one! To receive an estimate for our garage door replacement service, contact us 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.