A garage door is an integral part of your home. It needs regular maintenance to ensure it works correctly. A malfunctioning door can be a security threat or cause damage to your vehicle and other possessions.
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A garage door left open invites burglars to enter your home. Several simple security features can be added to prevent this.
A battery backup system is one of the most important garage door security features. It ensures that your garage can be opened and closed even during a power outage and protects against other emergencies that could occur outside the garage.
Rolling code technology is another significant advancement in garage door security, as it makes hacking difficult or impossible. Conventional fixed codes can be easily guessed or duplicated, but the changing encryption used by rolling code systems renders these hacking attempts ineffective. This technology is now available in many garage door openers, making it a popular feature among modern homeowners.
Motion detection sensors are an excellent addition to a garage door, as they can illuminate the area when movement is detected. This can deter intruders and help homeowners feel safer when entering their homes after dark. Some garage door sensors can also trigger an alarm to scare off trespassers or alert the homeowner through their smartphone.
Other security features that can be added to your garage include a manual lock, a deadbolt, or an electronic keypad lock. A manual lock uses a metal arm that extends from the bottom of the door to bar entry from outside, while a deadbolt bolts into the garage floor or wall for a more secure option. An electronic keypad lock eliminates the need for a physical key and allows you to enter a code on the garage opener’s control panel to unlock the door.
Finally, an alarm can be a helpful deterrent for thieves, as it will activate when tampered with, alerting the homeowner and possibly neighbors. Some alarms can be triggered by a motion sensor or connected to a home security system, making them an excellent addition to a comprehensive garage security plan. It’s also a good idea to change your code often and to create guest codes for guests or service workers, as this will limit the chances of unwanted parties accessing your garage.
Durability
A garage door needs to be able to stand up to heavy use, harsh weather and potential intruders. A premium-quality door constructed from superior materials, including insulation and reinforced components like nylon rollers, is less prone to wear and tear and can be expected to function reliably for much longer than standard doors. The use of top-notch insulation like two-inch Intellicore(r) polyurethane also increases a garage door’s ability to hold up to the elements and helps it maintain its energy efficiency. Other durability features include brush, pile or rubber weatherstripping that create a seal against drafts and dust.
The design of a garage door can play a role in its durability as well. For example, some garage doors feature a sectional construction with individual panels that each connect to the track via hinges. This enhances reliability and offers more flexibility than monolithic panel garage doors, which only have a single track connection. Additionally, garage doors with insulated glass offer improved soundproofing and energy efficiency, while those that have a clear aluminum finish promote light transmission.
Other features that contribute to a garage door’s durability include a strong track system and a high-quality motor. The track system typically includes vertical tracks on either side of the opening, horizontal tracks overhead, and curved tracks that link them. Galvanized steel is an excellent material for tracks because it resists corrosion and rust and holds up to heavy use.
Finally, a garage door’s motor should be a durable, reliable option that’s suitable for the home’s unique layout and its power requirements. A high-quality motor is less prone to damage caused by inclement weather or wear and tear, and it’s also more likely to operate smoothly and quietly.
To ensure that a garage door is durable, it should incorporate safety features like pinch-resistant panels and sensors that prevent the garage door from closing if an object is in its path. These safety features are especially important if you have children or pets who could be injured by a moving garage door. It’s also a good idea to double-check the sensors by placing an object in their path while the garage door is closing and confirming that they stop and reverse the direction of travel.
Design
Garage doors are an essential functional component of any home, but they are also a design opportunity. When you choose yours, there are numerous ways to make it reflect your aesthetic, complement your house, and enhance your landscaping. Depending on your needs, you can find styles that match your home’s architectural design or that are more sleek and contemporary. You can even opt for a door with glass panels that let in natural light while maintaining privacy.
One of the most popular options for modern garage doors is a paneled option. This type of garage door uses flat panels and lacks ornate details for a clean look that’s ideal for minimalist homes. You can add frosted windows to your paneled garage door for a decorative touch that lets in natural light without compromising on privacy. You can further personalize your new garage door by selecting a unique color that fits your aesthetic and adding matching hardware.
Another option is a composite garage door, which combines the benefits of traditional wood with the strength and durability of modern materials. Its moisture-resistant surface is ideal for harsh weather conditions and can withstand frequent exposure to direct sunlight. It comes in various colors and designs that can match a range of architecture styles. Its insulated core helps maintain a stable interior temperature while protecting your car and other items stored in the garage.
Lastly, you can opt for a carriage-house style garage door. It mimics the appearance of traditional swing-out doors, but operates like a conventional overhead door for convenience. This type of garage door is perfect for homeowners who want to add character to their home’s exterior while enhancing its curb appeal. You can complement the look by adding a pair of iron strap hinges, handles, and decorative nails known as clavos.
If you’re looking for a bold style statement, consider a full-view glass garage door. Its large glass panels allow natural light to flood your garage, brightening your workspace and creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Choose a frame color to complement your home’s exterior trim for a seamless aesthetic, or go with a contrasting shade for a dramatic effect. You can also select the level of transparency for the windows, whether opaque, frosted, or clear, to control how much natural light enters your garage and the amount of privacy you want.
Maintenance
A garage door is a complex system with multiple moving parts. Regular inspections and lubrication can keep it operating smoothly and efficiently. This prevents problems that could cost you a lot of money in repairs down the road. It also helps extend its lifespan and improves the quality of your home’s comfort.
The first step in garage door maintenance is a visual inspection. Look for signs of wear, rust, or damage and address them immediately. This will save you a lot of money in the long run and ensure that the garage door operates safely.
Check the springs, cables, rollers, and hinges for wear, damage, or rust. If they are worn or damaged, they will require repair or replacement to prevent a break-down. You should always exercise extreme caution when handling torsion springs, which are under high tension. If you notice any loose hardware, tighten it immediately to avoid rattling noises and malfunctions.
Regularly clean your garage door to prevent debris and dirt buildup. This is especially important for the tracks and rollers, which can affect how smoothly the garage door moves. To remove significant debris, you can use a toothbrush to dislodge any dirt, grime or grease. You can then spray the track with disc brake cleaner and wipe it down.
Make sure that the garage door is well-balanced. You can test this by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door to the halfway point. If the garage door isn’t properly balanced, it will need to be professionally adjusted or replaced.
Your garage door should have a variety of safety features to protect you and your family from injuries and property damage. Check the photoelectric sensors regularly to make sure that they are functioning correctly. To test them, simply close the garage door and then pass an object in front of the sensor. If the garage door continues to close, you will need to have the photoelectric sensor adjusted or repaired. You should also test the auto-reverse feature to ensure that it is working. This will reverse the door if it hits something in its path as it is closing.