How To Size A Garage Door Opener: 5 Measuring Tips

When installing a new garage door, the first step is to ensure the garage door opener is just the right size. If it’s too big, it might be inefficient or cumbersome. And if it’s too small, it might not support the full weight of the garage door itself, which spells bad news for safety and your wallet.

With that in mind, the team at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. shares the guide below on how to size a garage door opener correctly. You can also call us if you want to chat with specialists in residential garage doors in Vallejo, California!

What Does A Garage Door Opener Do?

An electric garage door opener has a motor that automatically opens and closes your garage door when you activate the unit. The motor provides power to a metal carriage that moves along a track. The opener works with the torsion spring system to raise and keep the door open.

Residential garage door openers are popular because of the convenience they provide. Most of these openers include a wall button and remote control options for opening and closing the doors. You can also typically plug openers into a regular electrical outlet, thanks to their added safety features to prevent damage and injuries.

Manufacturers also include the ability to activate manual release if the opener is broken. That way, you have the option to open the door manually.

Types Of Garage Door Openers

The basic function of garage door openers is simple. But there are several types of garage door openers to choose from that differ according to their drive type. For example, a smart door opener option may add app compatibility, programmable routines, or door activity monitoring.

Chain drive

Chain drive systems commonly underpin an electric door opener. They feature a single metal chain that connects to and pulls the door trolley.

Chain drives are affordable and reliable, even for heavier double doors, but they make a lot of noise because of the many moving parts. These systems also require slightly more maintenance.

Belt drive

Belt drives are similar to chain-based systems but use a durable rubber belt instead of chains. Belt drive types are a quieter option since the belts consist of polymers and reinforced rubbers. It’s a good choice if you use your garage as a living space or want to minimize the noise produced when opening and closing the doors.

Screw drive

A screw drive system has a threaded steel rod that rotates around the motor as it moves. As it spins, it pulls the carriage back and forth.

Even residential openers of this type have a lot of lifting power, making them suitable for double-door systems and heavier doors. However, extreme temperatures can cause the threads to expand, which may affect smooth functioning.

Sizing For A Garage Door Opener

A garage opener’s size is basically shorthand for how much horsepower and Newton force the unit can produce. The size of garage door opener you need depends on

various features of your garage door itself, including the following:

The door’s size affects the power

The main factor determining the size garage door opener you need is the size of the garage doors. All other things being equal, one-piece doors can use smaller motor sizes than double doors. A single-door garage door size is about ten feet wide by eight feet tall (larger than that counts as a double garage door when installing openers).

Door material weight changes the requirements

Garage door materials have different weights, which influence the type of electric opener required. Wood doors are usually the heaviest garage doors. They will need stronger openers with better safety features than lighter metal or fiberglass doors.

Motor type and power offer some flexibility

Your new garage door opener will have one of two types of motors: AC or DC.

AC motors use alternating current, with transformers to reverse current to allow for door opening and closing functions. AC motors are powerful and durable. However, they don’t allow much control compared to DC motors.

DC motors use direct current to draw power from a static DC power source, such as a battery backup. A DC motor is usually smaller, allowing more precise control over the garage door opening process. You can also modify speed, torque, and door height to your preferred settings and program them to a handy button press.

As far as motor power, the average single-unit residential garage opener produces about 1/2 HP (~500 newtons). A double garage door will probably need at least 3/4 HP (700 newtons).

Door depth must match the room’s dimensions

The garage’s depth refers to how much space lies between the garage doors and the back wall. A door that is ten feet wide by eight feet tall will typically need at least 11 feet of space. If not, the doors won’t have enough space to completely open when the motor moves.

The highest point needs careful measurement

Is there enough space between the highest point of the doors when the motor raises them? Minimum clearance is at least two and a half inches. Anything less means the top of the doors will hit the ceiling when the motor raises that section for opening.

Does A Smart Garage Door Opener Work With Any Type Of Door?

Smart and regular garage door openers should work with any type of door, provided they are powerful enough to hold the doors’ weight. However, some motors suit different types better. For example, wood doors need a heavier-duty AC belt-drive or chain-drive opener.

The best garage door opener for the job is one that exactly balances the torque with the power consumption. So, your doors will be easily managed by an opener that is sized correctly for the material and weight.

We’re Here For All Your Garage Door Needs

Do you want modern garage door styles or more detailed answers on how to size a garage door opener? Call R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. at (707) 644-5537 or send a message online today!

Does A New Garage Door Increase Your Home’s Value?

Savvy homeowners don’t do maintenance for the sake of it. They prioritize maintenance work that will add value to their home. Is a new garage door one such maintenance project? Does a new garage door increase home value?

As Vallejo’s residential garage door experts, we can tell you that the answer to that question is a resounding yes; we see how garage doors change homes across the city every day.

How A New Garage Door Can Increase Your Home’s Value?

A new garage door can increase your home’s value by improving its curb appeal and making it more attractive to prospective buyers.

How much value can a new garage door add?

Research data supports the evidence that garage doors can greatly increase a home’s value. One of the most widely quoted reports is the Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling magazine following a survey by an independent research firm. It found that replacing the garage door netted a 98% return on investment for homeowners across the country, making it the most beneficial among the top 20 mid and upscale remodeling projects. Thus, changing your garage door can help your home’s resale value to go up more compared to paying for a minor kitchen remodel or wood deck additions.

How much value will a garage door add to your home? It depends on how much investment you put into the project. The only consistent fact is that you can expect your home’s listing price to increase by up to 98% of the cost of the new door. So, newer garage doors with all the whistles and bells will invariably add more value to your home than plain doors.

Why New Garage Doors Increase The Value Of Homes

A garage door upgrade has an outsized impact on a home’s value for the following reasons.

Improved curb appeal

A garage door takes up a significant chunk of your home’s exterior. It has earned the name “second front door” for good reasons. Thus, a good-looking, high-quality second front door will instantly elevate the home’s curb appeal. This is especially true when you choose a garage door that matches the home’s architectural style.

Better energy efficiency

New garage doors are generally more energy efficient than older ones. Many of them feature weatherstripping and high thermal resistance (R-value).

An insulated garage door keeps conditioned air inside. Thus, it can have a significant impact on your heating and cooling costs. It can also keep out noise.

Improved safety and security

A garage door with features that help keep the family safe is highly valuable to potential homeowners. Some safety features you can find on modern garage doors include rotating security codes that change with every use, obstruction sensors, and more.

These safety features are more important for homeowners that will likely use the door as a primary entrance.

Reduction in maintenance costs

An old garage door that’s creaky when opening it is a concern that needs addressing. A new door is one less maintenance cost for the potential homeowner to worry about. Thus, a new garage door can make potential buyers more open to seeing the rest of the property.

What Are The Alternatives To Garage Door Replacement?

Seeing how a garage door helps sell a home, it’s natural to weigh your options for replacing your garage door.

However, garage door replacement is costly. Thus, it may be best to explore other ways to transform your current door and save money on a replacement. Here are a few things you can do:

Painting your existing garage door can increase your home’s value

Panting your garage door in a new color that matches the home’s exterior is one of the best home improvement projects you can undertake if you want to make your property more attractive. Similarly, don’t ignore the attached garage door if you’re already repainting your home’s exterior.

Lubricate the moving parts

All the components that help move garage doors can get noisy over time. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to lubricate older garage doors if you’re about to put the property on the market. A prospective buyer will likely love a door that opens seamlessly, especially if it doesn’t look physically worn.

Replace the garage door springs and rollers

Lubrication can only do so much if the garage door springs and rollers are already shot. If opening your door is more difficult than it should be, it’s probably time to replace the springs and rollers.

Install an electric garage door opener

You can deck out your existing door with an electric opener to give it a modern touch. Most potential buyers will appreciate it. Similarly, you can add automatic reverse systems, decorative hardware, and security features that can give the old door a more modern feel.

Install a new garage door skin

Garage door skins can give your door a newer outer shell. With the skins, you hide peeling paint on an aluminum door with a faux wood shell. You can find these for all garage door styles but single-door skins are the most affordable.

Add more insulation to the current garage door

Insulated garage doors add value to your home because solid insulation means less drain on the home’s HVAC system.

Important Tips To Keep In Mind When Replacing Your Garage Door

A garage door adds value to a property, but installing a new one is a home improvement project that requires serious consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Choose a door that matches your home’s façade. A steel door won’t look great on rustic architecture. Always go with options that match your home’s style.

Don’t ignore practicality. Remember, you will use the door frequently.

Get Expert Advice From Our Experienced Professionals

Does a new garage door increase home value? Yes, but only high-quality, energy-efficient garage doors that are a perfect fit.

At R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc., we are committed to helping homeowners make the right decision. Call us today at (707) 644-5537 for a consultation and a free estimate on your garage door replacement or repairs.

What To Know About Energy-Efficient Garage Doors

what to know about energy-efficient garage doors

If you’re constantly looking for ways to lower the energy costs to heat or cool your house, you may have wondered about investing in energy-efficient garage doors.

An energy-efficient garage door can help you and your family achieve a comfortable temperature, but you might wonder if installing new residential garage doors in Vallejo, CA, and surrounding areas, is worth the trouble.

This blog explores the benefits of new energy-efficient garage doors and what types to install.

The Top Reasons Why Homeowners Decide to Install an Energy-Efficient Garage Door

For house owners thinking about installing new energy-efficient garage doors, here are four reasons why it’s a good idea.

You Want to Keep Your Vehicle Warm

A Vallejo, CA, winter can get chilly, and stepping into a cold car can be frustrating, especially if you’re commuting to the office every day. A well-insulated garage can eliminate the need to warm your car in the morning, letting you catch up on more sleep.

Winter temperatures can also lead to thick motor oil and stressed-out car parts. Both issues can prevent your car from starting and reduce its lifespan.

You Spend a Lot of Time in Your Garage

Many house owners treat their garage as another room versus just a place for storage. Whether you use your garage for projects or to hang out with friends, a new garage door that’s insulated can make this area more comfortable during winter or that summer heat.

There’s a Living Space Sitting Above Your Garage

Cold air leakage rises up from your garage’s floor, eventually making its way into any spaces above. If you have difficulty keeping a space above your garage comfortable, it might be time to invest in energy-efficient garage doors.

You Want to Lower Your Energy Bills

An attached garage can be a significant factor influencing your energy bills. Garage insulation and new residential garage doors can lower those monthly utility costs and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

You Want to Enhance Curb Appeal

Many garage door manufacturers today prioritize providing an energy-efficient garage door. If your garage doors are already outdated, opt for energy-efficient building materials.

How Can You Determine an Insulated Garage Door’s Energy Efficiency?

Better insulation means less monthly energy loss, and for determining an energy-efficient garage door, two main values exist:

R-value: R-value determines a garage door’s insulation ability to prevent any heat loss.

U-value: Unlike the R-value, U-values determine an entire door assembly set’s ability to prevent heat loss.

Both the U-values and R-values can help determine an insulated garage door’s thermal efficiency. While U-values are typically more precise, most manufacturers use an R-value rating.

Essentially, a higher R-value means more energy-efficient garage doors. Meanwhile, a lower U-value means more energy-efficient garage doors.

Another factor when determining if a garage door is energy-efficient is to determine its leakiness. You want an entire system with adequate perimeter seals, which can prevent air infiltration and keep out dirt, debris, and dust.

What Are the Best Energy-Efficient Garage Door to Install?

For your professional installation, you can choose between single-, double-, or triple-layer doors. Of course, a single-layer garage door provides the least benefits, while a triple-layered door — using polyurethane insulation —provides the best insulation advantages.

Double-layer doors utilize polystyrene insulation that, while providing excellent R-values, can’t compete with polyurethane foam. However, you don’t necessarily need an insulated or with the highest R-value.

Factors like the insulation of your garage walls and your area’s climate can help determine whether you need a double or triple-layered garage door. The type of material you use to install your garage door can also play a factor.

The common materials homeowners use for their overhead insulated doors include:

Steel
Vinyl
Fiberglass
Aluminum
Wood

While materials like steel, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum are sturdy, they actually don’t provide natural insulation like wood does. Most experts still recommend overlaying a wood garage door with steel to prevent warping and rotting from excess moisture.

Besides a warmer garage, a well-insulated steel or vinyl door also means quieter operation versus a non-insulated door.

How Will My Insulated Overhead Door Construction Look?

Contractors can install your thermal efficiency garage door to match the style of your home. These doors can also feature the same thickness as their materials.

What Are Some Signs That I Need a New Garage Door?

You may have no problems with your garage door openers but have been noticing noisy operations, or your utility bills continue rising. Poor indoor air quality can be another sign that you need better insulation.

Rising utility costs can stem from various issues, but the right team can inspect your garage door to determine if it’s causing any energy loss. Operations like weather stripping or adding low emissivity coatings to your door’s windows can be enough.

Other times, it’s better to replace your wood or steel garage door with updated technology that has features like a thermal break.

How Long Do Insulated Garage Doors Last?

How long your garage door and its insulation lasts will depend on factors like:

Your door’s material, such as steel, vinyl, or wood
Your area’s climate
How much you use your garage doors
Whether or not you regularly maintain and clean your garage doors

Generally, you can expect your energy-efficient garage door to last as long or longer than traditional garage doors.

Are Energy-Efficient Garage Doors Expensive?

It costs more to install energy-efficient garage doors for your space than uninsulated ones. However, homeowners quickly save money in the long run after this initial investment. Besides reducing utility bills, your garage doors can also last longer.

Get Your Energy-Efficient Garage Door Today

Residential and commercial properties can benefit from installing new energy-efficient doors for their garages. At R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc., we bring over 50 years of experience. Whether you want to achieve your dream home, insulate a garage door for winter, or lower your business’s energy costs, our company can assist.

Vallejo, CA, residents can get matching front doors and garage doors that are as attractive as they are energy-efficient by calling our crew members at (707) 644-5537.

Should My Front Door And Garage Door Match?

should my front door and garage door match

Have you considered having a matching front and garage door? It’s a great way to increase a home’s curb appeal and showcase a flawless exterior style. Both garage and entry doors are some of the first features people look at in your home, so why not have them match?

Consider Vallejo’s residential garage doors, as we carry many garage door styles that work perfectly with your front door. Change the appearance of your house by implementing this smart and stylish exterior design technique. Contact us today to choose a garage door!

Tips For Matching Your Front Door and Garage Door

Many homeowners strive to make their garage doors match their front entry doors. While you have endless possibilities for door styles, you can follow our helpful tips to have a matching front door and garage door.

Make your garage and front entry door the same materials

If you use wood for your entry door, it is a good idea to also use it for your garage door. Keeping the materials the same (such as steel or decorative glass) are excellent ways to create cohesiveness. Your front and garage doors should look like they belong together.

Your home’s exterior can reflect your style when you choose the right materials. You can add creativity and beauty to your entry and garage doors with steel, wood, or frosted glass options.

Use different yet similar materials

You don’t have to match materials to make your front and garage doors look good. However, pairing materials that work well together is essential. For example, if you have glass panes in your entry door, it might not make sense to use faux wood for your garage door.

Find different materials that match and work well with the rest of your house, such as the siding and windows. They shouldn’t clash with your home’s exterior colors and style (modern, farmhouse, etc.). You can save money by purchasing an energy-saving entry door that looks good and minimizes energy losses, pairing it with a similar style garage door.

Compliment your home’s style with your doors

When you match your doors, they should maintain the same style as the rest of your exterior. Do you have a contemporary-style home with a large center window that lets in natural light? You might benefit from a contemporary garage door and front door!

Consider how your surroundings impact your color choices, such as your landscape, location, and decor. Many homeowners want their garage and entry doors’ paint colors to converse with the trim.

Another way you can boost curb appeal is by including a similarly shaped window style. Your new garage door and entry door should pull you in and look intentional.

Consider the color scheme & tones

You can use contrasting color choices for your garage and entry door so long as they fit. However, you don’t want parts of your exterior to seem like they’re from different eras. Be wary of clashing colors and search for hues that operate in harmony with one another.

Deciding on a bold color might be a superb choice for your doors, but make sure they don’t appear awkward against your home’s facade and trim. Once you have painted your garage door and entry door, you can always change them later, but it might be more difficult. Paint can make a big impact on whether or not a door’s face is attractive.

Stick to the same color and style of hardware

Hardware selections offer room for creativity and fun. Just like with your windows, hardware can also elevate the look of your doors and comes in many colors and finishes. It’s much easier to swap out hardware than it is if you’ve used the wrong paint color.

Popular Entry And Garage Door Materials

The options might seem overwhelming but don’t sweat it. Our team can help you find the right materials for your doors that reflect your aesthetic. Some common types include:

Aluminum

Fiberglass

Wood

Wood Composite

Steel

Vinyl

We can recommend which of these choices will work well with your windows and siding and stand against the test of time. Whether you have a modern or old-world style, our team is ready to take your home to the next level. We’ll find the best options for your front door and garage door.

Why Matching Garage And Front Doors Are A Good Idea

Why should you match your garage and front doors?

You’ll reflect your home’s style and show your design skills

Matching your garage and entry doors is a fantastic way to show that you care about your home’s exterior. Following a gorgeous exterior color scheme can increase your property’s value and curb appeal. Your garage door and front door allow you to have fun with your personal style.

Your home’s garage and entry door will impress

Guests will arrive at your house and enter through your entry door, so you want to make a good impression on them. You can make your entry area more inviting by including glass-style doors and having an attractive fresh coat of paint. Another example of elevating the space includes adding plants, fun lighting, and stylish hardware.

You’ll Inspire Your Local Community and Rock Your Block

Neighbors may use your house to get ideas for their garage and entry doors, and you might have the best property on the street. Combining smart window styles, decorative elements, and matching front and garage doors can make your property show-stopping and appealing.

Choose From Our Selection Of Top-Quality Garage Doors

Now that you’ve decided to have a matching front and garage door check out our selection of garage doors. We have custom-built options for your home or business with wood, glass, vinyl, and everything in between. If you’re ready for a professional garage door, remodel, we can help!

At R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc., we proudly offer Vallejo, CA, and the surrounding areas beautiful residential and commercial door selections. We can find you an affordable matching front door and garage door. Call us today at (707) 644-5537 to schedule a consultation.

Can You Install A New Garage Door On Old Garage Door Tracks?

can you install a new garage door on old garage door tracks

One of the decisions you’ll have to make when you need to replace your garage door is whether to mount the new garage door on the old tracks. For many homeowners, retaining the tracks on their garage doors seems like an excellent way to save money during a garage door replacement project. Or is it?

Wondering if you can install a new garage door on old garage door tracks? You can, technically. However, as Vallejo’s residential garage doors expert, we can tell you right away that you shouldn’t. In this post, we’ll cover the top reasons why you should only install new garage doors on new tracks.

What Are Garage Door Tracks?

Also known as a roller assembly, garage door tracks refer to the systems that interact with the rollers on your garage door as it slides up and down.

You’ll find garage door tracks suspended from the ceiling of your garage. These galvanized steel components have enough strength to hold the weight of your garage door.

However, if the tracks are not working correctly, they can damage your garage door.

Why A New Garage Door On Old Garage Door Tracks Is A Bad Idea

Continue reading to learn a few reasons why you shouldn’t install a new garage door on old tracks:

Tracks are for specific garage doors

In the garage door industry, manufacturers design the default pre-sets on the garage door to work with a specific track. They connect the tracks using a special rivet intended to open and close at a certain distance from the side post.

The operator size and headroom requirements for the garage door can also make using the tracks impractical if you try to match a track from one brand to a garage door from another brand.

Even if you can adjust the tracks during the garage door installation project, you always risk misalignment, as you’ll end up with an improperly spaced door. When the tracks misalign, your garage door will sustain some damage every time you open it. After a while, it will stop opening.

Can you install a new garage door on old tracks from another manufacturer? Yes, but the arrangement won’t work for long. You’ll lose the garage door tracks, the new garage door, or both. It doesn’t matter if you install an electric garage door opener on the new door or a manual one.

Make the right cost-effective decision to install new tracks during a fresh garage door installation project.

Old garage door tracks are a huge safety risk for your family

When considering garage door replacement, you also need to replace your tracks. The tracks warp, bend, and rust over time, making any new door you mount on it a significant safety risk.

All parts of the door can become a safety threat in this scenario, including the bottom section.

Thus, you should replace old tracks to avoid accidents.

Worn-out garage door tracks will cause property damage

If you try to reuse bent, rusted, or warped garage door tracks, your new garage door system may suddenly slide off from the hinges one day.

Apart from damage to the new door itself, you may be left with a broken floor and wall or a severely damaged car. If you’ve ever seen a garage door fall on a vehicle, you’ll be more reluctant to take this risk.

The expenses will be far greater than what you spent just replacing the garage door tracks in the first place.

New garage door tracks prevent wear and noise

The tracks and rollers on garage doors work together. If one suddenly turns bad, it will affect the other quickly.

If you use old rusty tracks, your new garage door’s rollers will wear out quickly. Moving your garage door will also become noisy, even from day one.

Why would you install a new garage door only to face the same problems that made you ditch the old garage door?

Old garage door tracks can make your springs work harder

Any garage installation expert will tell you that an old track greatly affects your garage door springs. The old tracks distort the balance of your door, making it harder for it to stay in an open position, and over time, you’ll end up with a broken spring.

Old tracks can ruin curb appeal

Combining rusty tracks with a new door will ruin the overall curb appeal. Think of it like a splash of mud over newly painted walls. In the case of the mud, though, it’s easier to wash it off and repaint the spot with any leftover paint.

With the tracks, you’ll have to bring down the door and go through the hassle of installing it all over again. If you paid an installer for the job before, you’d have to pay again. That means paying twice for the same service when you could have just paid once!

So, can you install a new garage door on old tracks with all the above information? We’ll leave the answer to you.

However, if you want to replace your garage door, you should go all out to protect your investment. Trying to save a few bucks by reusing the old garage door tracks is a bad idea. If you want maximum performance from your system, the only parts you should reuse include standalone units like the garage door opener.

Expert Garage Door Replacement Service In Vallejo, CA

Replacing tracks or garage doors is not a DIY task for the inexperienced. Consider the many reasons to hire a pro for your garage door installation, but perhaps the most important is that they will help you avoid decisions like reusing old tracks.

An expert will help you see how reusing tracks on new doors put you at a disadvantage instead of saving you money.

Is it time to replace your old tracks or garage door? Don’t jeopardize your family’s safety. Call R&S Erection of Vallejo, CA, today at (707) 644 5537 to find the perfect door and a matching track for your home. You can trust us for regular maintenance, repairs, and new installation.

Noisy Garage Door: 14 Common Causes And How To Fix Them

noisy garage door 14 common causes and how to fix them

Not many garage-based doors operate silently, but a very noisy garage door spells trouble. When your system sounds louder than usual, it might be a sign of a problem—especially for a new garage door. Unfortunately, there are many different reasons for a noisy door, which makes troubleshooting a challenge.

As the leading provider of garage door repair services in Vacaville and the surrounding areas, we know all the possible ways to make a garage door quieter. This article covers some of the solutions you need to keep your garage door running smoothly.

14 Common Causes Of A Noisy Garage Door

Here are different types of garage door noises and their possible causes.

Straining. A straining door mechanism often comes with a broken motor in the garage door opener. It could also signify an inadequate power supply to the door.

Banging. A banging sound often means a faulty garage door panel or a door in the garage that has dislodged from its track.

Scraping. An unbalanced garage door will emit a loud scraping sound as some part of the door scrapes against your house walls, ceiling, or floor.

Rattling. A garage door rattles when loose bolts, nuts, or metal parts need lubrication. A door may also have a loose chain or support rails.

Squeaking. A loose roller or hinge will cause a squeaking sound as you open and close your garage door.

Rumbling. A rumbling sound from your garage door signifies a loosened spring or coil tension issue.

Clinking. If rust builds up, you will hear clinks as it forces spring coils to rub together while the garage door moves. Excessive rust buildup is also a safety hazard.

Excessively loud noises. Is the garage door very loud during operation? Are there no obvious signs of malfunction? You likely have poor insulation or soundproofing issues.

Rubbing. Your garage door will rub when the tracks are bent, too tight, or need realignment.

Popping. If you hear popping sounds, it may indicate snapped torsion springs on your garage door.

Grinding. A garage door grinding noise often indicates a loose roller or hinge. A stripped-out or improperly installed trolley may also cause grinding sounds.

Squealing. Squeals from a garage door often signify a lack of lubrication in moving parts. However, an off-track door may also sound similar.

Vibrating. A vibrating sound typically signifies loose bolts and nuts around the track. Damaged or poorly lubricated rollers will also vibrate.

Slapping. Have you heard that distinct slapping sound from noisy garage doors? It often comes from a loose garage door opener chain, as the door’s chain hits the chain drive system enclosure.

Home-Based Solutions To A Loud Garage Door

As you can see, there are many reasons homeowners might hear loud sounds while a garage door opens or closes. If the problem does not require technical proficiency, you could attempt to deal with the noisy garage door in several ways. However, be sure to adhere to safety precautions, including the following:

Disengage the automatic setting before you disconnect the garage door from a power source.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from scratches and bruises.

Some DIY solutions to try for the noises the garage door makes include the following:

Tighten loose nuts and bolts

Did you know that you can correct vibrating, squealing, or squeaking garage door sounds by tightening the nuts and bolts along the track? Use a wrench and a screwdriver. Don’t make them too tight if you want to avoid stripping the lag screw holes.

Lubricate the garage door rollers

Garage door noise includes vibrating sounds that occur when operating your garage door on rusted metal garage door rollers. Lubricating the rollers and the garage door hinges around them can eliminate these issues. Use garage door lube from a local hardware store or manufacturer.

If you live in a high-humidity environment, consider switching from metal rollers to nylon rollers. Nylon rollers are less likely to cause jerky door movements even as they start to age. However, the replacement process needs professional expertise.

Lubricate the extension and torsion springs

Does your garage’s doors have broken torsion and extension springs? Clear the area around the garage door immediately and call a professional.

Springs in need of lubrication are common causes of noise for many garage doors. If the springs are intact, you could use any garage door lube to eliminate noise. However, be careful while touching the springs to avoid accidents.

Check the garage door opener

The garage door opener may be at fault if you can’t find any noise source on the door itself. For example, a loose chain or belt in the opener causes slapping or rattling sounds. In this case, call a professional—the chain will eventually wear out, leading to more noise and a complete system breakdown.

When To Call The Professionals

We recommend leaving serious garage door damage to professionals, including misalignment, torsion spring breaks, and so on. You might have to do more than tighten nuts and lubricate joints to repair or replace worn rollers, fix a damaged belt drive or garage door opener chain, and correct bent tracks. You will also need professional help if the loud noise is due to improper installation.

Our technician will evaluate the source of the strange noises and might do the following:

Remove hinges
Check for metal filings in key areas
Change the socket set
Realign the top and bottom bracket and more

A professional garage door technician will repair these components safely, whereas attempting it yourself may lead to serious injury or other damage.

Schedule A Garage Door Tune-Up Today

Is your garage door still noisy despite your best efforts? Our team can help, including having to repair or replace the belt drive and worn rollers, tighten all the nuts around loose parts, and more.

Why risk serious injury or property damage? Ask us about our convenient garage door maintenance schedule or learn how to lubricate your garage door to keep it working as quietly as possible.

Say goodbye to that noisy garage door—call R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. at (707) 644-5537 today for your garage door tune-up in Napa and Solano County, CA.

Garage Door Panel Replacement Or Repair: Factors To Consider

garage door panel replacement or repair factors to consider

Accidents can happen, causing damage to one or more of your garage door panels. When this occurs, you need to repair the damaged panels of your whole garage door as soon as possible. Besides offering less efficiency and security, a damaged garage door panel can lower curb appeal.

Many homeowners wonder if they should repair or replace whole garage door sections. To save money, many homeowners prefer repairing garage doors and their panels. However, sometimes replacing panels provides a more cost-effective option over trying to repair them.

This guide will explore when you can repair a garage door panel and when it’s better to replace one. For top-notch assistance, request help from our garage door repair specialists.

Two Main Factors Determine Whether You Should Repair or Replace Your Garage Door Panels

Whether you should repair or replace your garage door panel depends on several factors, including cost. Depending on the materials, replacing garage door panels can become expensive.

Furthermore, the materials can determine whether repairs are enough or if you should start shopping for a new panel. For example, peeling paint and cracking wood usually means you need a garage door panel replacement.

The two main factors that influence if you need new panels to include:

The age of the garage door panel
The extent of its damage

How old is your garage door?

With suitable materials and professional installation, garage doors can last a long time. However, even the most durable garage doors with regular maintenance start to wear and tear.

If your garage door is over 20 years old, you might consider searching for replacement panels. In fact, in this situation, you might be better off replacing your entire garage door.

Deciding to install a whole new garage door can be an unpleasant thought. However, you’ll discover more garage door panel breaks as time passes. Additionally, the entire garage door may become unable to function correctly.

If the entire door panel is ten years or younger, you probably can get away with repairing the panel. At the very least, you may only need to replace the damaged panel instead of the whole door.

The extent of your garage door panel damage

The exact damage to a garage door panel also has a vast impact. You can quickly repair damage caused by light brushes with debris or impacts. In fact, the project may only call for a coat of paint and some filler.

However, it can cost far less to replace doors following extensive damage. Homeowners often need to replace garage door panels after the following scenarios:

A severe weather event like a storm left considerable dents in your garage door panel
You accidentally backed your car into the garage, or someone accidentally drove into the garage door
Heavy objects or debris hit your garage doors, resulting in massive dents or holes

When these situations arise, the first thing you should do is investigate the extent of the damage to your garage door and its panels. While it can cost less to replace the panels initially, substantial damage can render them non-functional.

Particular opening and closing mechanisms or other parts might be broken, including sensors, torsion springs, and hinges. Depending upon costs, these will either need to be repaired or replaced.

Other Considerations Affecting Your Garage Door Replacement Panels

Let’s explore some other considerations when installing or replacing your garage door panel:

Making sure the doors and panels match

Once you’ve decided to repair or replace your garage door panel, you’ll need to know its manufacturer. Your professional repair company can see if your garage door’s producer has spare parts. Sometimes a service can provide an exact match for your garage door panel.

One issue you may notice is a specific panel being out of style. While this happens the most with older garage doors, even panels within the last decade can go out of style. When this happens, you might need help finding the right replacement match.

This can prompt some to replace their entire garage door. However, it’s possible to save money with an easy fix. You or a professional can paint over the new garage door panel, matching your existing garage doors.

Knowing the costs of different garage doors

Sometimes, a garage door repair simply won’t get the job done. You might want to replace your garage doors with a replica of what you had before. However, this can be an excellent opportunity to explore other options.

The cost of a garage door can vary, with many factors influencing its price. These factors can include the following:

The materials
The size of the garage door
The team you hire
If the garage door is customized (such as using a particular type of wood)
How the door fits with your garage and house aesthetics
Its operating and safety features

You need to consider a garage door’s cost in the long run. For example, while wooden garage door panels cost less to install than steel, they become more susceptible to damage and cost more to replace.

Knowing how many door panels you need to replace

A garage door repair job can involve multiple panels. In fact, a specialist can fix or replace several panels at once.

However, when you need to replace more than one panel, this usually indicates it’s time to replace your entire garage door. First, of course, compare prices to see which option is cheaper.

Deciding if you can repair or replace your panels yourself

For minor scuffs, you might have no problems repairing the panel yourself. However, when it comes to severe dents or needing to replace panels, contact a professional to prevent:

Wasted time
Wasted money
Further damage and plenty of frustration

Call R&S Erection Of Vallejo

Deciding between repairing or replacing your garage door panels can be tricky. However, our team can help you select and provide top-notch services. Let a licensed and professional contractor help today.

Replacing garage doors or fixing a garage door opener after a storm is a breeze when residents of Napa and Solano County, CA, call R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc at (707) 644-5537!

Garage Door Remodel: 5 Essential Factors To Consider

garage door remodel 5 essential factors to consider

Garage doors make up a significant part of your home’s curb appeal. An old garage door can be an eyesore and detract from your home’s aesthetic style while also being a safety and security hazard.

Our team at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc., knows that either a garage door remodel or a new garage door can be the perfect solution for upgrading your home’s exterior as well as your garage interior. Whether you want a completely new door or an update to your existing one, we’re here to help you get the most out of your next garage door renovation.

Garage Door Remodel: Replacement vs Repair

Many homeowners find that a well-chosen garage door makeover improves their home’s curb appeal or helps it fit in better with the neighborhood style. But while an upgrade is an appealing option to enhance your home’s value, it does entail a relatively high upfront cost.

Another option is a garage door remodel with a new coat of paint and repair of minor issues. A garage door makeover may not generate the same excitement as a complete replacement, but it’s better for the budget.

Call us at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. for garage door repair in Vacaville, which is the best option for most owners. However, if your garage door was installed 30 years ago, replacing it with a new panel and opening system can change how the entire house looks and feels and is worth the added expense and time.

Existing Garage Door Makeover

Sometimes, a makeover is as simple as painting your garage door to match your home’s exterior. It’s a relatively simple project that can have a big impact.

Clean and prepare

The first step in any makeover project is to prepare the garage door for a new coat of paint. This includes cleaning the door with suitable cleaning materials to remove grime, then removing old coats of paint and masking off the trim to prevent painting accidents.

Choose your color

Since a garage door takes up more visual space than the front door, your color choice will have a massive impact on the personality and appeal of your home.

General tips for garage door color choices include:

Stick with a neutral color if you want to sell your house soon.
If your home is generally neutral in style, consider a bright color to add interest to your home’s exterior.
Paint the trim and details in a muted, complimentary color.
Consider your landscaping and how the garage door’s color will look against a more natural backdrop.

Paint your door

Once you’ve chosen your paint color, the hard work begins. Start by priming the door with a paint primer. Ensure that your door material needs a different primer than a wood one. Priming seals the door and gives the paint something to stick to, helping the paint look better for longer.

Optimizing Your New Garage Door Installation

If your garage doors and mechanisms are showing their age, a simple makeover may not be enough. A new garage door offers a great opportunity to transform your house into a dream home, complete with a convenient garage that does more than provide a safe spot for your car.

Garage door remodel inspiration

The internet is a great place for ideas, and many door manufacturers will provide a virtual planning space that let you superimpose various options onto a picture of your house. Don’t forget to ask friends for brand recommendations and check out the neighborhood to see what styles are popular.

Speak to a professional installer

We recommend a professional garage door installation for many reasons. Installers can guide the homeowner through the selection process and have the expertise and contacts to provide high-quality materials at more affordable prices.

Which Steel Garage Door Is Best?

While wood remains one of the most popular materials for garage doors, modern steel doors can replicate the beauty of natural materials while also offering better insulation. They also allow for windows.

Single-layer

A painted, single-layer steel door is the most affordable option, but it compromises on insulation and durability. While galvanized steel doors won’t rust, they are susceptible to dents and scratches and require frequent maintenance.

Three-layer

These doors contain an insulated core and two steel or vinyl exterior layers. These doors are more robust and offer similar insulation capacity as wood. They are durable and the ideal middle ground between price and functionality.

Five-layer

Five-layer doors contain a low-maintenance exterior skin that can mimic wood, a three-layer insulation core, and a painted, interior-facing layer. While the most expensive option, a five-layer garage door will make your home feel warm and welcoming while requiring minimal maintenance.

Useful Upgrades

While the door is the most important consideration during a garage makeover, a smart owner will consider upgrading other aspects simultaneously. These can improve the functionality of the area or simply make opening and closing the door more convenient. Even installing a heater in the garage can make it feel more welcoming when you come home.

High-cycle torsion spring

Torsion springs are one of the first components to require maintenance. Standard springs have a lifespan of around 10,000 cycles of closing and opening the door, but higher-end options can last for up to 25,000 cycles, resulting in less maintenance.

Better rollers

Rollers impact how smoothly your door opens and how much noise it makes. While it may feel like a small change, you’ll quickly notice how much of a difference these high-quality rollers can make.

Windows in new garage doors

If you use your garage as a workshop, you’ll appreciate having some natural light. Garage windows can lighten up the room, and since the windows often come in frosted versions, you don’t need to worry about sacrificing your privacy.

Work With The Best

If you’ve read about the most common garage door problems and have the same issues, consider calling us at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. We have decades of experience installing and maintaining garage doors for California residents, and we’d love to help you have a hassle-free garage door remodel. Call us at (707) 644-5537 for a free consultation today!

6 Common Garage Door Problems

6 common garage door problems

If your garage door won’t open, won’t close, or is not operating safely, several components could be the cause. You can fix some issues, like an unplugged component or dead batteries, while others are more complex. Don’t risk damage to your garage door, personal injury, or voiding the warranty of your garage door by trying to fix something if you don’t have experience with garage door repair.

A professional garage door repair technician can solve common garage door opener problems. R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc., the garage door repair professionals in Vacaville, are ready to help you with repairs, maintenance, or an upgrade to a newer garage door opener.

The Most Common Garage Door Problems

Before you call us to schedule service, note how your garage door behaves. The technician will use your description of the problem and their garage door inspection to root out the problem and develop a repair plan.

A faulty motor

The most straightforward problem with the motor is that someone has unplugged it. Another possibility is that it has burned out. It could also fail to move the garage door if the gears wore out or the motor disengages from the door.

If the motor runs without moving the door, your garage door repair technician might have to replace it or reattach it to the motor’s drive system.

If the motor is faulty, it might have an electrical issue. If your home electrical grid powers your garage door, check your electrical panel to determine whether the motor tripped the circuit breaker.

Do not try to fix the electrical system yourself if you lack extensive training in electrical work. If the motor tripped the circuit breaker, call a professional electrician or garage door maintenance technician.

Faulty remote control or keypad

If you suspect there might be a problem with the remote control or keypad, the first solution you can try is checking that the door is locked. Many homeowners don’t notice the lock feature on the control and occasionally lock the garage door by accident. Press the lock button and try again.

A remote or keypad that needs batteries is one of the most common garage door opener problems. If you have trouble getting your garage door to open remotely, check the battery in both the keypad and the remote control. If the keypad normally lights up or the remote usually beeps or flashes, a dead battery would cause those features to stop working.

Broken springs

Many garage doors rely on torsion springs to support and balance the door so the motor can lift it. If the torsion springs break, the motor will not be able to lift the door. The garage door will remain in the down position when you try to raise it using the controls.

You can open the door by hand if the torsion spring breaks, but it will be heavy and dangerous. Do not try to lift the door if the torsion spring breaks. Without the support of the torsion springs, the door is prone to fall.

Some garage doors have side-mounted garage door springs. They run alongside the tracks on the left and support the garage door. If they are broken or out of alignment, the garage door might not run smoothly.

Damaged safety sensors

Some common garage door opener problems arise because safety sensors detect a genuine maintenance issue, such as a short circuit. Safety sensors trigger sometimes even if the garage door opener works well. For example, your garage door might fail to open or close properly if the safety features detect an obstruction, even if there isn’t one.

The photo eye sensor system sends a beam of light across the width of the garage door opening. If anything crosses the beam’s path, the light will not reach the detector. Typically, this would indicate an obstruction, so the garage door will not close.

However, dirt on the safety sensors, a failure of the light, or a faulty sensor could prevent the photo eye sensor from sending the signal that allows the door to close.

A broken track or faulty rollers

If the door opens slowly or fails to open, something might be blocking the track, or the track might be out of shape. If you suspect a problem with the track, examine it for bent or corroded rails.

Bad rollers could cause problems with the garage door track, and sometimes they can be a bit stiff during the winter. If the rollers are sticky, broken, or dirty, they might fail to roll when you try to lower the garage door. If the track is not visibly damaged and the rollers stick, try oiling them and see if it improves the motion of the garage door.

Incorrect switch settings

A garage door that closes too quickly or forcefully presents a safety hazard. If the close-force setting of the garage door opener needs adjustment, the garage door might reverse without warning.

Other switches, such as the close-limit and up-limit switches, control the behavior of the garage door opener. Your technician can recalibrate the sensors to that your garage door will work normally again.

Let Us Help Keep Your Garage Door Working Smoothly

Is your garage remote not working? Garage door issues can be a pain, but a qualified and efficient garage door repair technician can fix common garage door opener problems. Even if the issue with your garage door opener is uncommon or complex, we can handle it.

R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc.’s experience with older and modern garage door openers puts us ahead of the pack. We service commercial and residential garage doors. We can repair and troubleshoot advanced smart garage door opener technology, giving us an advantage over other inexperienced garage door repair companies.

Don’t get locked out of your garage or risk the safety of your pets and family. Trust the leading garage door repair and installation specialists in Napa and Solano counties. Call (707) 644-5537 for a free estimate and a consultation to find a solution to your common garage door opener problems.

Garage Door Opener Not Working After Storm: Causes & Fixes

garage door opener not working after storm causes fixes

Your garage door protects your garage, vehicles, and other property inside from the elements. With years of wear and tear, however, your garage door becomes less reliable and requires maintenance or repairs. A garage door not working after storms is an issue best addressed quickly.

What To Do If Your Garage Door Is Not Working After A Storm

Garage door failures can result in expensive repair costs. Luckily, this problematic issue has some DIY fixes you can try before turning to professionals for a reliable garage door repair in Napa, CA.

Familiarizing yourself with the steps to take can help you successfully repair your garage door if it fails due to storm damage. Your garage door can work like new again in no time, even better, with professional help.

How Do Storms Affect Your Garage Door?

If your garage door is not working after a storm, this could be for multiple reasons. Firstly, a power outage could be the culprit, so you should check your breakers. Your garage door opener connects to your home’s primary power source, putting those without backup batteries at the mercy of your home’s electrical supply. A power outage keeps the unit’s remote control from connecting to the opener.

Circuit damage

A lightning storm can easily damage your garage door opener’s circuitry. It doesn’t necessarily have to strike your garage, garage door, or the opener to fail. Electricity can travel through the nearby ground and into your garage’s electrical system, damaging the garage door opener’s electrical circuit without direct contact.

You likely have a damaged internal garage door electrical system if your home and garage still receive power, but the door won’t open or close. You can also check for unresponsive opener lights and remote controls. These elements may act sporadically or stop working altogether.

Mechanical damage

Lightning can also contribute to mechanical difficulties. You’ll notice mechanical damage when you try to open your garage door manually.

If the door won’t open or makes a grinding sound upon manual operation, this indicates a problem. You could have a broken spring or another faulty component if your unit doesn’t open before or after restoring the power. If so, contact a garage door service immediately to fix everything safely.

How To Restore Garage Door Operation After A Storm

You can take various steps to troubleshoot a garage door not working after storms. Several practical repair methods include:

Attempting manual operation
Resetting the motor
Disconnecting the opener from its power source
Reconnecting the opener to the door

If one of these options doesn’t work, move to the next fix or contact professionals for expert servicing.

Open the door manually

During a power outage, you can still open your garage door manually. Garage door openers have a special cord that disconnects the door from the carriage, allowing manual operation. If your entry doesn’t open with this method, you likely have mechanical issues and should contact professional garage door technicians immediately.

You’ll need to enter the garage through an additional entrance. Locate the emergency release cord from the door’s trolley and pull it down. This action releases the door.

After the power outage, you can reconnect the door to the opening system.

Unplug the unit

Sometimes a simple fix resolves the issue. Your unit may need a power reset after an outage. If you have an older garage door opener, this may repair it without the need to install new components. Here’s how to reset the power:

Unplug the garage door opener and leave it unplugged for a few minutes.
Plug it back in and check if lights appear on the opener.
Cycle through different outlets in your garage to ensure it’s not a problem with the outlet.
Alternatively, unplug and reconnect the sensor wires to see if the sensors are preventing the unit from operating.

Reconnect the opener to the door

After the power returns, you can reconnect the garage door to the opening component. To reconnect the opener, close the garage door and press the garage door’s opener control. If your opener has a “close” option, select this button.

As the garage door operates, the disconnected trolley and carriage will reconnect with the door to allow proper operation again. Some homeowners will need to pull the emergency release cable to facilitate the reconnection.

Reset the motor

Some garage door openers’ motors have a reset button allowing you to reset the system after a power overload. Depending on the opener’s design, you may have to remove a panel to uncover the reset button. Once you’ve found it, press and hold down the button to reset the system.

Contact the professionals

If none of the above solutions fixes your garage door not working after storms, circuit board damage is likely. So, you should contact professionals for repairs. A skilled garage door repair technician can replace the unit’s circuit board and restore door operation.

Professional garage door repair technicians know how to successfully examine, diagnose, and repair a failed garage door. They have the high-quality parts you need to replace your garage door opener’s circuit board and other damaged components. They can also install a surge protector to prevent future electric garage door opener issues.

Call Us To Resolve Your Garage Door’s Outage

If you notice your garage door not working and none of the DIY fixes resolve its power failure, you’re not out of luck in Napa, CA. The R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc team is ready to assist at any time. We’re always happy to share vital information on preventing garage door outages and other related issues.

Contact our team for fast, friendly, expert service when your garage door stops working. We arrive with fully-stocked trucks to help repair your electric garage door. Whatever the issue, we’ll identify the problem and fix it for a fair price. We know the importance of garage door safety sensors and take them seriously.

Don’t let a power outage keep your garage door inoperable. Call the garage door professionals at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. for help with a garage door not working after storms in Napa, CA, at 707-644-5537.