What to Look for in a Credible Garage Door Company

Written by jsanford on January 20, 2023. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on What to Look for in a Credible Garage Door Company

Before you lock in a contract with a garage door company, you’ll need to do some research to make sure you’re getting the proper treatment and the most high-quality service. There are some tips and tricks to determine what to look for in a credible garage door that we’ll be going over in this article. We’ll also cover how to avoid fraudulent garage door companies.

What kind of issues warrant a visit from a garage door company? There are some pretty obvious problems, such as your garage door not opening or closing correctly, your door opening slower than usual or unevenly, or your garage becoming noisier over time. You can also run into issues with your garage door remote and its connection to the actual door or even the pin pad on the inside of your garage.

Your garage is a safe space for your cars and excess storage. It’s crucial to maintain the effectiveness of your garage door so that you can get in and out quickly, keep your belongings protected, and prevent theft. One of the most common entry points for burglary is actually through the garage door because oftentimes homeowners forget to lock the door that leads inside. If your garage door is broken or half open, this leaves you more susceptible to theft. This is why it’s so important to get in touch with a credible garage door company ASAP!

5 Signs of a Credible Garage Door Company

The main determining factors that determine a garage door company is legitimate are: proof of certifications, positive online presence, price comparisons, guarantees/manufacturer warranties, and services offered. Taking these factors into consideration can help you decide which garage door company you should sign off with. Let’s break down these five essential factors to consider when researching garage door companies.

1. Proof of Certifications

When searching for a garage door company, see if you can find proof of their certifications and/or memberships. These act as credible verification of their quality of services. There are several certifications and associations that you can look out for when researching a contractor. The IDA (International Door Association) is a prime example of this.

The IDA is a prestigious organization for the door and access system industry. Credible garage door contractors join this group. Garage door companies that belong to the IDA are committed to responsible business practices. Members of the IDA follow the IDA Code of Business Conduct. They practice honesty and fairness in the industry. This is just one example of certification you can look out for when choosing a contractor.

2. Price Comparisons

We might not need to tell you this, but comparing quotes between companies for the same service can be a determining factor of a credible garage door company. By comparing quotes, you can get insight into the average cost of a particular service and see if any of these companies are overcharging to make an extra buck or under-charging to get away with quick and cheap service.

Consider these questions as you shop around for a garage door company:

Does this company ask discovery questions before coming up with a quote?
Does this company offer free quotes and allow you to compare quotes between products or services?
Do they explain the differences between products so that you’re making the most educated choice?

If you said yes to these, then you may have found a credible garage company to work with! After getting price quotes from the garage contractors you’ve called, you’ll be able to make a much more informed decision about who to go with.

3. Guarantees and Manufacturer Warranties

The most legitimate and trustworthy garage door companies stand behind their work. Making sure you’re working with a manufacturer-approved garage door contractor is a sign of credibility. You can also take advantage of a manufacturer’s warranty on any garage door or garage door part installations. To really know you’ve chosen a good garage door contractor, you’ll see that this company will go above and beyond their warranty with a customer satisfaction guarantee. Be sure you can tell the difference between a credible guarantee and an empty promise.

4. Positive Online Presence

A garage door company’s online presence can be very telling. This can range from a number of positive community reviews to how quickly they respond to questions on their social media accounts. The more involved a company is with its community, and the more responsive they are can show its transparency and credibility. Take some time to reach out to a company if you’re considering them for service and read through their customer reviews. The honest opinions of your community can give you a lot of insight into this garage door company’s quality.

Remember, a company doesn’t need to have 100% positive reviews to be credible. It should just be the overwhelming majority. A company with few reviews and only positive ones is probably not credible, and the reviews are most likely fake.

5. Services Offered

What kind of services does this garage door company offer? Do they offer emergency services should you not be able to open your garage door? Consider if this company pushes cheap prices over quality work- while everyone wants to save money, it quickly becomes a waste of money if you don’t receive high-quality work. See if this company provides services on the particular model of garage door you own. Not every garage door company is created equal, so make sure you’re working with a team that has more to offer.

How to Avoid Fraudulent Garage Door Companies

No one deserves to get scammed. When searching for a garage door company to work with, you want to separate the potentially fraudulent companies from the most legitimate ones. When you call the garage door company, there are things to make note of during the conversation. Here are some of the most common things to avoid when deciding on a credible garage door company.

Say No When They Don’t Have a Legit Location

A major clue that may reveal if they are a scam company is by asking for their address. If their address isn’t a place you can see on google maps, or the place they tell you doesn’t match their Google My Business profile, it’s probably a good idea to skip them. We’d also advise skipping on companies that operate out of what appears to be someone’s house. If you sense any lack of confidence in their answer, don’t bother continuing the conversation.

Additionally, take note of all their contact information and branding when researching a garage door company. Check to see if their website, business cards, email addresses, and phone numbers match, or if they lead to subcontractors or other shady results.

Avoid Payment Up Front

Does this company require you to pay up front? It’s not uncommon for scammers to ask for half of the cost they charge up front before completing a job. They intend to convince you it’s necessary by only asking for half up front- then taking your money and never showing up. A credible garage door company or any home services contractor will ask for payment after the job is completed to account for materials, labor, and so forth. This is different from receiving a quote up front. All companies can quote you based on the service, but they won’t charge you before the work is done.

Pass on Companies with Extremely Low Prices

We all want the best deal when it comes to any home service job. But choosing the company with the lowest prices is actually not a good idea. Companies that give you a rate far lower than their competitors have a tendency to provide lousy work or worse- have surprise fees added to your total after the job is done. The total for your service should never greatly exceed the agreed upon price. All fees should be laid out before you sign anything.

Know How to Identify the “Rebuilding Scam”

An honest garage door company will never push you to replace all the parts of your garage door when only one issue is present. The rebuild scam starts innocently enough, but then the technician will suggest that you replace every piece of your garage door. They’ll try to convince you, no matter how minor the problem is with the garage door, that you replace everything from the torsion springs, rollers, cables, bearing brackets, and even the motor. Then they try to sell the replacement parts at triple the price! These fees are usually buried somewhere in the contract in fine print so it’s easy to miss.

The thing to remember is that It’s very unlikely for every piece of your garage door to wear out all at once. Most garage door parts last from 10 to 15 years, so if this technician tries to convince you that you need a complete garage door makeover, you need a second opinion. Never let any garage door contractor upsell you into a complete replacement without doing your research first.

Choose Garage Door Doctor for Credible Garage Door Service!

If you’re looking for a credible garage door company in the Indianapolis, Lafayette, Columbus, or Fishers & Carmel area, look no further than Garage Door Doctor! We’ve been serving homeowners with reliable and legendary garage door service since 2009 and have no plans for slowing down! We offer 24/7 emergency service for those times when your garage door problems cannot wait. Customer service is our number one priority and the reviews speak for themselves! We’re a family owned and operated garage door contractor associated with the IDA and BBB accredited. We never upsell you on parts you don’t need or hide fees from you until the last second. We’re upfront with our customers and provide quality service every time.

Need a quote for garage door service? Get in touch with our team at Garage Door Doctor today!

Signs Your Garage Door Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

Written by jsanford on January 10, 2023. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Signs Your Garage Door Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

A quality garage door may often last for many years. However, you may be debating whether to replace or repair your door if its best days are behind it. You should take into account a number of considerations before deciding whether to repair it or replace it with a new one. This practical guide may help you decide whether repair or replacement is your best course of action.

When to Replace Your Garage Door

It may be time to replace your garage door if you observe any of the signs below.

Weather Damage

Garage doors can sustain a lot of damage from the elements, including snow, rain, wind, and even the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Over time, dirt, leaves, and other junk can become stuck within the garage door’s track, producing friction and leading to track misalignment problems. It’s time for a new garage door if your current one has sustained significant weather damage, such as rusting, warping, or discoloration.

Your Safety Is Jeopardized

A faulty garage door is not just inconvenient; it is also dangerous. It might fall on someone, causing serious harm or worse. A broken garage door also raises the likelihood of a home invasion by allowing vandals easy access to your house. It is likely that since your previous installation, garage door tech has advanced significantly, and modern doors have safety features such as voice controls, improved illumination, and more.

Need a Makeover

Your door may still function well, but if it is outdated and you want to improve your home’s aesthetic appeal, a garage door replacement may be best. Similarly, if you want to convert your garage space into a living area or workspace, you’ll need a door with superior insulation. Whatever the cause, your home’s outside mirrors the interior, and an improved curb appeal will give you greater satisfaction. In addition, a garage door replacement may also increase the value of your property. A new door will increase your home’s appeal to buyers and alleviate their concerns about having to replace it after buying the house.

Your Door Lacks Safety Features

Older garage doors lack the safety measures that contemporary garage doors provide. One of the best features of current garage doors is the presence of safety sensors that prevent the door from opening or closing if it senses children, pets, or anything beneath it. Modern sensors can help avoid unfortunate accidents from happening. Sensors can also prevent damage to your property, like your car, by signaling the door to stop before a collision occurs. While aftermarket add-on sensors for outdated garage doors are available, they are not necessarily the most effective option.

Rotten Wood

In damp situations, wooden garage doors are prone to deterioration. If your garage door has wood rot, it is best to exchange it with a modern model. Contemporary garage doors are constructed of more robust and weather-resistant components than their wooden predecessors.

Increasing Energy Costs

You may have noticed that your utility bill has been increasing. Your door could be the culprit if your garage is attached to your house. In the winter, an older door with poor insulation and damage may let a lot of cold air into your house and warm air out, causing your HVAC system to work harder. In the summer, the opposite may be true. Installing a new, modern door can improve your home’s overall energy efficiency and lower your energy bills.

When to Repair a Garage Door

There are times when you don’t need garage replacement. Minor problems may be fixed, saving you money. Here are some of the most frequent garage door problems and how to remedy them.

Sagging Garage Door

Your garage door’s opening and closing system is most likely malfunctioning if you have a sagging garage door. Garage doors are powered by balanced springs, which lower the power required to raise them off the floor. When your garage door is unbalanced, the lifting system has to work more to raise and lower the door. This deterioration might eventually lead to worn or damaged springs and drooping doors. In most cases, an expert garage door technician can resolve this problem by adjusting the system or replacing worn-out parts.

Noisy Garage Door

A fully functional and optimal garage door should be quiet. A loud garage door is a warning sign that something is amiss with the overall mechanics. Sound and appearance are closely linked, just like a shaking garage door would indicate something wrong with one or several components that make your door move; a noisy garage door is indicative of a problem with one or more parts that make up the door itself.

If your garage door becomes extremely loud, it might be a sign that something is going to break. In other terms, today’s noise might lead to failure or collapse tomorrow. If you hear weird, unpleasant noises in your garage door’s operation, call the Garage Door Doctor for garage door repair before any of these possibilities play out.

Opening or Closing Problems

When your garage door fails to close and open correctly, you have a faulty garage door. The door may be reacting to control cues in an erratic manner. Or its movements may be jerky or stuttering. In the worst-case situation, it may have stopped working altogether. No matter what is occurring, you have noticed that your garage door is not operating as smoothly as it used to when opening and closing.

Once you’ve clicked the activation button, the door should react in less than a second. If it doesn’t, it is probably time to call a professional to have it fixed.

Shaking Garage Door

A garage door should operate steadily and smoothly, with no tremors or unusual movements. If your garage door is wobbly, it’s most likely due to a problem with the tracks, belt, rollers, or lubricant. In any event, a shaky garage door should be serviced as soon as possible before the ailment worsens. If the problem is not addressed quickly, an unstable garage door may eventually become a damaged garage door. That is why, if your garage door begins to wobble, you must act quickly and contact the Garage Door Doctor for repairs.

Chipped or Broken Sections On Your Garage Door

The garage door receives the most harm from the outside world of any component of a house’s exterior, behind only the roof. Though your garage door is not directly affected by hail, snow, rain, or falling debris, it may receive a lot of objects thrown at it, owing to the playground role that driveways frequently provide for children.

As a result of this damage, your garage door’s panels, bottom-rubber lining, and edges can chip away and progressively come undone. No matter what is chipped or cracked, these little defects do not constitute a faulty garage door. However, left unattended to, these little problems tend to get worse. Avoid having to replace a garage door by having a repair specialist touch it up every few years.

Rely on the Professionals at Garage Door Doctor

We can assist you if you have difficulty deciding if your garage door should be repaired or replaced. Our skilled staff can evaluate your door and advise you on the best option.

At Garage Door Doctor, we’re proud to be an experienced, trusted, and highly rated garage door company in Indianapolis, IN. Our family-owned and -operated company has been offering commercial and residential garage door service since 2009. Contact the Garage Door Doctor today to make an appointment.

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

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

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

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

Add Insulation and Ventilation

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

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

Organize Your Space With Storage Containers

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

Add Lighting to Your Garage Interior and Exterior

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

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

Finish the Floor With High-Quality Epoxy

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

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

Increase the Number of Electrical Outlets

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

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

Add a Side Door

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

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

Opt for a Deep Cleaning and Repairs

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

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

Choose an Attractive New Garage Door

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

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

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

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

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

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

8 Amazing Ways to Modernize Your Garage

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

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

1. Build on Top of Your Garage

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

2. Establish a Multi-Layered Lighting Plan

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

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

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

4. Take Your Garage Door to the Next Level

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

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

5. Go Vertical With Your Organizational Strategy

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

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

6. Install a Ductless Mini-Split

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

7. Consider Having a Solar Roof Installed

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

8. Paint the Walls

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

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

How much does a typical garage door replacement cost

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

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

Assess the Situation

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

Is Your Garage Door Repairable?

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

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

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

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

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Garage Door Replacement?

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

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

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

What Does the Installation Process Entail?

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

How Much Does a Garage Door Replacement Cost?

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

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

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

Tips for Choosing the Right Garage Door for Your Home

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

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

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

Can You Replace Your Garage Door by Yourself?

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

Benefits of Hiring a Professional to Install Your Garage Door

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

Final Thoughts

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

Can Sunlight Exposure Affect Garage Door Sensors?

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

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

How the Sensors Work

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

Light Interference

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

Additional Complications

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

A Source of Heat

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

Do-it-Yourself Solution

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

Professional Option

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

Other Workarounds

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

Safety Is Vital

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

Taking Care of Garage Doors and Sensors

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

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

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

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

How Hot Can It Get?

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

Potential Heat-Related Problems

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

Releasing the Heat

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

Risks of Leaving the Door Open

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

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

Using Ventilation

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

Adding Air Conditioning

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

Insulated Garage Door

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

If an Open Garage Door Is the Only Option

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

Keeping You Safe and Comfortable

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

Garage Door Lifespan in Indianapolis, IN

What’s the Lifespan of a Typical Garage Door?

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

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

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

How Long Should a Garage Door Last?

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

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

Factors Contributing to the Lifespan of Your Garage Door

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

Maintenance

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

Local Climate

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

Usage

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

Price and Quality

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

Torsion and Extension Springs

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

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

Material

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

Life Expectancy of a 10,000 Cycle Garage Door Spring

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

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

The Importance of Garage Door Maintenance

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

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

Time to Replace Your Garage Door

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

Sagging

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

Damaged Wood

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

Noise

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

Damaged Aluminum

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

Constant Repairs

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

Give Us a Call

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

How Much Wind Can Your Garage Door Handle?

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

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Updated October 2023

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

The Average Strength of a Garage Door

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

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

How Do You Find Your Garage’s Wind Rating?

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

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

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

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

Understanding What the Different WindCode Ratings Mean

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose the Right Wind Load Rating for Your Needs

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

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

Can You Improve Your Door’s Wind Rating?

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

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

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Indiana Weather and Garage Doors in Indianapolis, IN

How to Prepare Your Garage Doors for Indiana Weather

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

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

Indiana Weather Conditions at a Glance

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

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

Preparations for the Fall and Winter

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

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

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

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

Preparations for the Spring and Summer

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

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

Annual Maintenance

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

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

Should I Replace My Garage Door?

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

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

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