R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc Solano & Napa County

The Psychology Of Garage Organization

Opening the door to a cluttered garage can often feel as overwhelming as tackling one’s own mind, mess, disarray, and confusion reign. Like our minds, garages harbor forgotten items, latent potential, and precious memories all stacked together in a haphazard tableau of life’s journey. But what if we could declutter and organize this chaos with the same principle psychology uses to parse the human mind? Welcome to a voyage into our storage spaces seen through the lens of cognitive science. Prepare yourselves for an enlightening experience as we delve into the psychology of garage organization, transforming not just your garage space but potentially your mental realm too. Garages can easily become disorganized, cluttered spaces due to a variety of psychological factors such as habitual disorganization and difficulty letting go of belongings. By understanding these underlying issues, homeowners can develop effective organizational habits and utilize proper storage solutions to create a clean and efficient garage space. Psychological Drivers Fueling Garage Organization Garage organization goes beyond the physical act of decluttering and arranging items in an orderly manner. It is influenced by various psychological drivers that motivate individuals to tackle this often overwhelming task. Understanding these drivers can provide insights into why people feel compelled to organize their garages and help uncover strategies for effective storage and decluttering. One primary psychological driver is the desire for control. The garage is often seen as a symbol of chaos and disorder, and regaining control over this space can be empowering. By organizing the garage, individuals regain a sense of mastery over their environment, creating a tranquil space that aligns with their vision of an ideal living space. Another driver is the aspiration for efficiency and productivity. Many people use their garages for multiple purposes such as storage, parking, and even DIY projects or home workshops. An organized garage allows for easy access to tools, equipment, and supplies, reducing time wasted searching for items and increasing overall productivity. This efficiency-oriented mindset drives individuals to establish streamlined systems within their garages, enabling them to maximize the use of this valuable space. In addition to control and efficiency, another psychological driver fueling garage organization is the need for mental clarity. A cluttered and disorganized garage can contribute to feelings of overwhelm and stress. When the mind is constantly bombarded by visual chaos in the living environment, it becomes challenging to focus on the tasks at hand or maintain a clear train of thought. By organizing the garage, individuals create a calming atmosphere that promotes mental clarity and reduces stress levels. Moreover, there is also an element of personal satisfaction associated with garage organization. Accomplishing a challenging task like decluttering and organizing can bring a sense of achievement and pride. Seeing tangible results and being able to enjoy a clean and organized space can boost self-esteem and foster a positive mindset. Now that we have explored some of the psychological drivers fueling garage organization, let’s dive deeper into the role of discontent in clutter management. Understanding the psychological drivers behind garage organization, such as the desire for control, efficiency, mental clarity, and personal satisfaction can provide insights into effective storage and decluttering strategies. A cluttered and disorganized garage can contribute to feelings of overwhelm, and stress and reduce productivity. On the other hand, an organized garage creates a calming atmosphere that promotes mental clarity and reduces stress levels while fostering a positive mindset. By recognizing these drivers, individuals can establish streamlined systems within their garages to maximize the use of this valuable space. The Role Of Discontent In Clutter Management Discontent plays a pivotal role in the decision to tackle clutter and embark on the journey of garage organization. It arises from various sources, such as feeling overwhelmed by the chaotic state of the garage or being dissatisfied with the inability to find and access items easily. Discontent acts as a catalyst for change, propelling individuals to act and seek solutions for their clutter woes. Discontent can stem from frustration when trying to navigate through a cluttered garage. The constant search for specific items amidst piles of belongings can lead to annoyance and a desire for a more organized space. Additionally, encountering obstacles like tripping hazards or not being able to fully utilize the garage for its intended purpose due to excessive clutter can fuel discontent and create a strong motivation for change. Consider the case of John, an enthusiast woodworker who has collected an array of tools over the years. However, due to the disorganized state of his garage, he often struggles to locate specific tools when needed. This leads to frustration and impacts his productivity in pursuing his hobby. As he becomes increasingly dissatisfied with this situation, John’s discontent drives him to embark on a decluttering journey and implement effective storage systems that will streamline his woodworking activities. Understanding the role of discontent is essential in developing an effective clutter management strategy. By harnessing this dissatisfaction and channeling it towards organizing efforts, individuals can transform their garages into functional and harmonious spaces fit for their needs. Psychological Advantages Of An Organized Garage An organized garage offers numerous psychological advantages that can positively impact our daily lives. When we enter a clutter-free and well-organized space, our minds feel a sense of ease and calmness. Let’s explore some of the key psychological advantages that come with an organized garage. Stress-Relief And Efficiency Gains A cluttered and disorganized garage can contribute to heightened stress levels. Clutter creates visual noise and mental chaos, leading to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. On the other hand, an organized garage provides a serene environment that promotes relaxation and peace of mind. When we walk into a clean and neatly arranged space, it becomes easier to find items, move around freely, and engage in activities without the frustration of searching for misplaced belongings or stumbling upon obstacles. Imagine coming home after a long day at work, knowing that everything in your garage has its designated place. You unlock the door, step inside, and

What R-Value for a Garage Door Do You Need?

what r value for garage door

  Garage doors add significant value and functionality to a home. They provide quick access to storage spaces and secure space to park cars. However, a garage door with a low R-value can increase your bills and make your living spaces uncomfortable.  What R-value for a garage door do you need? At R&S Erection of Vallejo, we assist customers with this and other questions during professional garage door installation services. You’ll find our recommendations and other in-depth information below.  What Does R-Value Mean? R-value refers to how well your garage door insulates your home when closed. Manufacturers and installers use the R-value to determine the thermal resistance in garage doors and their materials. They calculate this measurement by determining how moving outdoor air will affect the still air inside a closed door.  The R-value for insulated garage doors designed for residential properties typically reaches R-14. The R-value you need depends on factors like average regional temperature throughout the year and your garage door’s location. A professional installer can help you determine which insulation level works best for your home.  What Types of Insulation Do Garage Doors Use? Choosing the best garage door insulation is half the battle. Most doors contain one of two types of insulating materials. Learn more about these materials below.  Polystyrene You might know this substance better as “Styrofoam.” However, Styrofoam is simply one brand of polystyrene commonly used as packing materials or disposable eating ware. Garage door manufacturers also use this substance to insulate their products.  Polystyrene typically costs less than its polyurethane alternative. However, it has half the insulating efficiency. You might use it for garage doors in unattached garages or storage buildings.  Polyurethane When a garage door manufacturer starts insulating your garage door with polyurethane, they’ll fill the hollow frame with a foamy chemical compound. This substance hardens into polyurethane. Once injected, it expands to fill the space.  Polyurethane may cost more than polystyrene. However, its impressive insulating abilities may save you money in the long run.  Should You Aim for a Higher Rating? When garage door installers consult with you, they’ll recommend an R-value based on: Home connection: If you can access your garage directly from inside your home, you’ll need an R-value between R-7 and R-14 to maintain indoor temperatures.  Local temperature patterns: Localities with more extreme temperature fluctuations can significantly influence residential heating and cooling costs. If you live in such areas, aim for a higher R-value to protect your energy efficiency.  Function: Some homeowners use their garages as offices, extended living spaces, and gyms. Using your garage for such a purpose will justify effective insulation to maintain comfort.  Other garage door features: R-value isn’t the only efficiency influence. Features like weather stripping and weather sealing also affect your garage door’s ability to retain temperature-controlled air. Low-efficiency features require a higher R-value.  So, what R-value for a garage door do you need? Is higher always better? Consider the reasons why you might prefer a high-value garage door.  Better Temperature Control As a homeowner, you want to enjoy cool, refreshing air in the summer and cozy, warm air in the winter. If you have a garage attached to your home, you should consider a garage door with a minimum value of 11 or more. The energy efficiency in your garage door materials will impact your ability to stay comfortable throughout the year.  Do you have an unattached garage? Shop for R-10 garage doors. This value will protect your stored belongings and vehicles from cold winter temperatures.  Better Lifespan and Quality A garage door with little to no insulation may not last as long as a well-insulated one. Hollow products are especially prone to denting, cracking, and other types of damage. You might need more maintenance services to ensure your door protects your home and belongings. Garage door maintenance plays an essential role in garage safety. When the door becomes compromised, it can affect the mechanisms responsible for safely pulling it up and letting it down. If you want less hassle with maintenance and repairs, remember that higher values may require fewer services.  Flexible Functionality Low R-values limit your garage’s functionality. No one wants to spend time in a hot, stuffy garage in the summer. During frigid winters, you want shelter from frigid temperatures and chilled humidity.  An uninsulated garage door will prevent you from utilizing the space. Even if you don’t currently use your garage for hobbies or other purposes, you might want to transform it in the future. A door with a high R-value of 14 or higher offers seamless, lasting flexibility.  Less Energy Usage Finally, think about how energy efficiency in garage door materials will affect you. A hollow or uninsulated door might work for an unattached garage with no temperature-sensitive valuables inside. However, your garage loses functionality and storage abilities at that point.  Even if you only need space for a vehicle, you’ll still benefit from a weather-resistant, well-insulated door. Vehicles exposed to frigid or hot temperatures for long periods can gradually incur damage over time. Choose an R-value between seven and nine for improved efficiency and protection of stored belongings.  What R-Value for a Garage Door Do You Need? When choosing the right R-value for your needs, you might feel tempted to select a less expensive option. However, up-front expenses don’t always mean less money spent in the long term. You might save more money by purchasing a higher R-value.  Plus, you’ll enjoy more flexibility and functionality from your garage regardless of temperature changes. Speak with a reputable garage installation service about what works best for your needs. Your technician will pinpoint the perfect efficiency value for your garage.  Ask R&S Erection of Vallejo About the Best R-Value for Your Home What R-value for a garage door do you need? The answer ultimately depends on how you use your garage, what you store inside it, and whether your house connects to it. R&S Erection of Vallejo can inform you about finding an appropriate R-value, how to insulate a garage door for winter, and other topics.

Home Automation And Garage Doors

Imagine stepping out of your vehicle in the pouring rain, drenched to the bone, and then realizing you left your garage remote inside. Now imagine a world where one simple voice command or just a touch on your smartphone saves you from this soaking disaster. Welcome to 2023! This is not science fiction anymore; it’s home automation two steps ahead. In today’s blog post, we delve into the realm of smart technology and explore how it’s redefining security and convenience for one often neglected area of our homes – the humble garage door. Wave goodbye to damp disasters and say hello to comfort and peace of mind. Garage doors play a critical role in home automation and can be integrated into smart home systems for added convenience, improved security, and increased energy efficiency. With automated garage doors, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of remote access, automatic lighting, sensor-based safety features, and lower utility bills. In addition, the installation of automated garage doors can elevate the overall value and curb appeal of homes, offering a significant return on investment. Enhancing Home Security With Smart Garage Doors Our homes are our sanctuaries, and keeping them safe and secure is a top priority for homeowners. With the advent of smart technology, we now have the ability to enhance our home security through the integration of smart garage doors. These advanced systems not only provide convenience but also offer robust security features that can significantly bolster the overall safety of our homes. One key aspect of smart garage doors that enhances security is the ability to remotely monitor and control your garage door. With a smart garage door opener connected to your smartphone, you can easily check if your garage door is closed or open it from anywhere using a mobile app. This eliminates the worry of leaving your garage door accidentally open, which can be an invitation for burglars. Furthermore, smart garage door openers often come equipped with advanced security features such as rolling codes and lock mode. Rolling codes change the access code each time the garage door is opened or closed, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain entry. Lock mode allows you to disable remote access entirely, ensuring that no one can open your garage door without physical access. Imagine being out of town and suddenly remembering that you forgot to close your garage door. Instead of panicking about leaving it vulnerable to potential theft, you can simply pull out your smartphone, open the mobile app connected to your smart garage door opener, and close it with a tap of your finger. The peace of mind that comes with this level of control and convenience is invaluable. In addition to remote monitoring and sophisticated security features, many smart garage door openers also integrate with other smart home devices such as security cameras and motion sensors. These components work together to create a comprehensive home security system. For example, if someone approaches your garage door when motion sensors are activated, you can receive instant alerts on your smartphone, enabling you to take appropriate action or notify authorities if necessary. Now that we understand how smart garage doors enhance home security, let’s explore the various features offered by automated garage doors. Features Of Automated Garage Doors Automated garage doors offer an array of features that seamlessly blend convenience and functionality. Beyond the standard functionality of opening and closing your garage door with a remote, these advanced systems incorporate cutting-edge technology to streamline the entire process and provide added convenience to homeowners. One notable feature of automated garage doors is their ability to connect with your home’s Wi-Fi network. This integration allows you to operate your garage door through a smartphone app from anywhere, providing you with the flexibility and convenience of controlling your garage door even if you’re not physically present in your home. Another important feature often found in automated garage doors is the presence of wireless keypads. These keypads enable multiple family members or authorized individuals to have easy access to your garage without needing traditional keys or remotes. They can simply enter a unique code on the keypad to open or close the garage door, adding convenience while maintaining security. Moreover, some automated garage doors come equipped with battery backup systems that ensure functionality during power outages. This feature eliminates concerns about being locked out of your home or experiencing inconvenience due to a power failure. Think about how convenient it would be if you could give a trusted neighbor temporary access to your garage while you’re away on vacation. Instead of having to hand over a physical key, you can simply provide them with a unique code for the wireless keypad, granting them access for the designated duration. In addition to these features, other options available include LED lighting for better visibility inside the garage and compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for seamless integration into your smart home ecosystem. Automated garage doors with advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, wireless keypads, battery backup systems, and compatibility with voice assistants provide homeowners with convenience and flexibility while maintaining security. These systems offer the ability to control your garage door remotely via smartphone apps or give temporary access to trusted individuals through unique codes for the wireless keypad. Furthermore, incorporating LED lighting into these systems enhances visibility inside the garage. Security Aspects Of Smart Garage Systems When it comes to home security, the garage is an often overlooked area. However, with smart technology advancements, smart garage systems have emerged as a powerful tool to enhance security measures for homes. These systems provide a range of features that not only secure your vehicle and belongings but also contribute to overall home safety. A fundamental security aspect of smart garage systems is remote monitoring and control. With the integration of smartphone apps or smart home hubs, homeowners can monitor their garage remotely and receive real-time notifications about any unauthorized access or suspicious activities. This allows

How To Insulate a Garage Door for Winter

how to insulate a garage door for winter

  Whether you have an old, drafty house or want to improve your energy savings, you know how important it is to have a well-insulated home during the winter. To make sure you are not overpaying for heat, your entire home needs to be insulated, and that includes your garage. When insulating your home, you might not think of the garage, but the truth is that if you don’t seal all the gaps around your garage door, street noise, air infiltration, and heat loss can make your garage a chilly, energy-inefficient place during cold weather. Our professional garage door installation experts at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. know how to insulate a garage door for winter and explain what you need to know in this guide. Why Does My Garage Door Need Insulation? Cracks, gaps, holes, or even subpar insulation around your garage door can all create problems with energy efficiency in your home. Insulating garage doors might be an afterthought; your garage is where you park your cars, so why should you insulate it like the inside of your home? Insulating the garage walls, doors, and ceiling provides an even climate in the adjacent rooms and helps lower your heating bills.  Garage doors are often one of the main points of entry to a house, and they are also the largest. In the winter, heat escapes through the large uninsulated opening, leaving the inside of your home cold and losing you money. Since attached garages often connect to the high-traffic areas in your home, it’s easy for cold air to get in and travel throughout the house. Garage door insulation can greatly improve the comfort of your home and keep your garage warm without a unit heater. Garage Door Insulation Kits: What You Need There are a few important factors to consider when deciding how to assemble a good garage door insulation kit. While you can add insulation yourself, the process can be complicated and labor-intensive if you don’t know what you’re doing. Partnering with a professional who understands insulation R-value and can select the right type of insulation may be the better choice.  R-Value The measurement of an insulation’s ability to resist heat is known as the R-value or thermal resistance. The higher this number, the more insulating the material. When rating different insulation materials, the R-value considers the density, thickness, and type of insulation it is. Garage doors have an R-value; by adding insulation to the existing door, your garage door’s R-value increases.  The best R-value for your insulation project depends on what kind of garage you have, the climate where you live, and where the garage door is. R-Value 6 and Below Insulation materials with these ratings are best for an unattached garage that doesn’t impact your home’s energy efficiency. R-Value 7 to 9 Materials in this R-value range are best for attached, unheated garages because you want to minimize and regulate any heat loss through the garage. This will lower your energy bill and keep your home and garage at a comfortable temperature.  R-Value 10 to 13 This R-value is best for a heated, attached garage. Heated garages have a greater possibility of heat loss through the door, so you need a sturdier insulation material to make the garage energy efficient.  R-Value 14 and Above Any garage that doubles as living space needs insulation with an R-value of 14 or above. Types of Insulation Now that you know what the ratings for different kinds of insulations mean, let’s talk about what materials you can expect to find while assembling your insulation kit: Blanket Insulation: You can find blanket insulation made of fiberglass, minerals, natural fibers, or plastic. This type of flexible insulation comes in batts and rolls and is the most flexible material available. You can mold it around beams, horizontal rails, and joists and studs. Because of this, batt insulation is great for DIY projects. Foam Board: Rigid foam is made of polyisocyanurate, polystyrene, or polyurethane. These rigid panels provide a high R-value with very little width. However, the precise nature of getting a snug fit of all the rigid boards with a utility knife and a tape measure makes it a bit more difficult to use. Reflective Insulation: This insulation is made of materials like cardboard, polyethylene bubbles, foil-faced kraft paper, or plastic film. This malleable insulation has a lower R-value works best when you pair it with another type of insulation, like fiberglass batt insulation. DIY or Professional Installation for Garage Doors? Now that you know how to insulate a garage door for winter and why it’s important, you’ll have to decide whether or not you want to take on that project by yourself. This type of project is a bit more complicated than organizing your garage, and time is of the essence; you need to insulate your garage door properly before the end of fall so you can start saving heat and money during the chilly winter season. Professional fiberglass insulation installation experts get the job done quickly and correctly, so your energy bills will start shrinking right away! The experts can help you choose the right type of insulation and install it on each door panel and the exterior walls to keep heat in. Detached garages only require a low R-value, and attached, heated garages with living spaces above them need the highest. Call Us for Any Garage Door Insulation Questions You Have Before Winter Hits! Whether you would like additional advice on how to insulate a garage door for winter or want to discuss options for getting a new insulated garage door installed, we are here to answer your questions! We can help walk you through the entire job and take you from assessment to the installation process to relaxing in your energy-efficient garage in no time. Our experienced team will install insulation along all the panels of your steel doors and add a vinyl seal of weather stripping so you can enjoy the benefits of an insulated garage door. Call R&S Erection of Vallejo,

Garage Doors And Property Value

garage doors and property value

Every year, the real estate industry faces an evolution in market trends and homebuyer preferences. In 2023, there’s a surprising buzzword echoing through homes—from home improvement forums to blueprints of new construction properties: Garage Doors. Yes, you heard it right. Garage doors now play a pivotal role in accelerating property values and shaping buyer decisions. As the portal into the home, they not only add aesthetic value but also enhance security. Dive into this blog post to explore our insights on how a simple garage door can be your secret weapon in boosting your home’s resale value and attracting potential buyers. A well-designed and aesthetically pleasing garage door can increase the resale price of a home by up to 4%. This is because it gives the impression of a high-end home and can be a deciding factor for homebuyers. Additionally, survey results show that realtors believe new garage doors help sell homes faster and can positively impact a home’s value. The Role Of Garage Doors And Property Value When it comes to assessing the value of a property, one might not immediately consider the impact of the garage door. However, studies and surveys have shown that garage doors play a significant role in influencing homebuyers’ decisions and can contribute to the overall value of a property. Aesthetics and security are just two aspects that highlight the importance of garage doors in this regard. Let’s explore how garage door aesthetics can impact property value. Garage door aesthetics and property value The visual appeal of a home is crucial in attracting potential buyers, and the garage door is an integral factor in shaping the overall aesthetic impression. Aesthetically pleasing garage doors tend to sell for more at resale, as they give the impression of a high-end home. In fact, studies conducted by Clopay and independent research firms have shown that a newly replaced garage door can increase the listing price at resale. This highlights that when it comes to property value, it’s not just about the functionality of the garage door but also its visual impact. An old, worn-out door can make a negative first impression on potential buyers, as they associate it with neglect or lack of maintenance. On the other hand, modern and stylish garage doors can enhance curb appeal, making a positive statement about the overall quality and care put into the property. For instance, imagine two houses side by side; House A has an outdated and worn-out garage door while House B has a brand new contemporary design. When buyers come to visit these properties, House B is likely to catch their attention and leave a lasting impression due to its appealing aesthetics. This could potentially result in House B having a higher perceived value compared to House A. Furthermore, according to surveys among realtors, 70% believed that a new garage door helps a home sell faster, while 80% believed that it can impact a home’s value. The survey also found that a new garage door can increase the resale price of a home by up to 4%. This percentage could translate into a difference of anywhere from $8,000 to $14,000 in terms of property value, underscoring the direct correlation between garage door aesthetics and overall property worth. While aesthetics are paramount, another crucial aspect is the role of garage door security in influencing homebuyers’ decisions. Importance of garage door security to homebuyers When it comes to making one of the most significant purchases in their lives, homebuyers are understandably concerned about security. A garage door plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and protection of both vehicles and the property itself. Prospective homeowners highly value its ability to provide a secure barrier against potential intruders. Picture this: a homebuyer is walking around a neighborhood, exploring different houses on the market. As they approach a property with an outdated or poorly maintained garage door, doubts start to creep in regarding the overall security of the house. On the other hand, when they come across a house with a modern and robust garage door, equipped with advanced security features such as rolling code technology or automatic locks, it immediately instills confidence. In addition to providing physical security, garage doors also contribute to deterring potential break-ins. Criminals often target homes that appear vulnerable, and an old or damaged garage door can indicate neglect or a lack of concern for security measures. Therefore, installing a sturdy and visually appealing garage door can act as a deterrent itself, potentially reducing the risk of burglaries. A study conducted by Clopay, a prominent Garage door manufacturer, in collaboration with an independent research firm, demonstrated that an attractive, new garage door could potentially increase the resale price of a home by up to 4%. In real terms, this could mean a difference of $8,000 to $14,000. A significant 70% of realtors surveyed believed that a new garage door could expedite the sale of a property, affirming the idea that the aesthetic appeal of a garage door significantly influences potential buyers. Despite some contradicting opinions about the investment in garage renovations, replacements specifically targeting garage doors were identified as exceptions. These changes were found to positively impact raising home value, proving them worthwhile despite the lack of heated or directly livable space. Factors that influence garage door value When it comes to evaluating the value of a property, various factors play a role in determining how much weight is given to the garage door. To fully understand its influence on homebuyers’ decisions, it’s essential to consider these key factors: Curb Appeal: The appearance of a house’s exterior significantly impacts its overall appeal. A beautiful and well-maintained garage door can instantly enhance the curb appeal and create positive first impressions for potential buyers. On the other hand, an unattractive or dilapidated garage door can detract from the overall aesthetic appeal, potentially lowering the value in buyers’ eyes. Material and Design: The choice of material for a garage door contributes to its durability, energy efficiency, and

Unlocking Peace of Mind: Why Every Homeowner Needs a Garage Security Door Installation

garage security door

  Most homeowners probably don’t think too hard about their garage doors until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, garage doors can create something of a security risk for thieves and burglars, so you want to make sure your garage door security is up to par. With that in mind, the team at R&S Erection Vallejo created this post to talk about the incredible garage security door options homeowners can choose from.  Contact us today for professional garage door installation in Vallejo and the surrounding areas! Are Garage Door Break-Ins Common? Garage doors prove relatively easy to get inside with the right tools and a bit of patience. With older doors, burglars can often just force their way in due to poor locking or closing mechanisms. Sources estimate that over 200,000 home break-ins in the U.S. annually happen through the garage entry door—nearly 10% of all home break-ins.  Fortunately, you can significantly reduce the chances of a break-in occurring through your garage by investing in modern garage security door features. Features like the door material, type of door, and the presence of additional locking bolts can deter theft and keep your possessions and home safe.  Garage Door Security Features Continue reading for some common types of garage door security features.  Multi-Point Locks Garage doors that lock at one single point can become vulnerable because the thief can get in if they just overcome the lock at that one point. Multi-point garage door locks lock at various points, so bypassing one lock will not immediately grant access. Thieves usually give up if they get through one lock but find they still can’t open the door.  Keypad Locks Keypads provide another kind of electronic security system that has become very popular in recent years. With a keypad, you can open, close, and lock the garage door using a numerical code on an indoor or outdoor keypad. Keypads prevent intruders from manually opening your door, and you can give the code to anyone allowed in your house.  Motion Sensing Lights Although they don’t secure the door itself, motion sensor lights on a garage door can deter thieves. These types of lights turn on in reaction to movement, so if someone messs around with your garage door, they won’t be able to hide in the shadows. Even the simple presence of a flood light can cause criminals to get nervous and pass your home by.  Garage Door Type The specific type and material of garage doors also matter for security purposes.  Roller doors work particularly effectively because they have a smooth facade and no obvious leverage points the thief can use to force the door open. Roller doors also often consist of tough materials, like aluminum and steel, which are hard to break down without significant time and effort.  Side-hinge doors not only give you access but also provide good security. The main reason stems from it being harder for thieves to get leverage side to side than from the ground like they would with a typical overhead garage door. Similarly, thieves often find it harder to get a grip on sectional garage doors to force them open. Sectional doors are also heavy and tough to lift by yourself.  Automated Garage Doors Provide More Security If you want to update your garage security, many professionals recommend installing an automated garage door system. These systems work well because they limit how you and others can open the door. For example, with garage door opener key fobs, you can’t open the door manually, and the openers only operate using a handful of frequencies. Automated doors also contain special features, like a vacation mode that lets you keep the door shut and locked while away from home. You can also choose a garage door with a keycode that frequently changes to keep security up to date. Smart Technology Smart garage doors include the newest advancements in the industry and allow you to integrate garage door operations with your cell phone or tablet. Smart versions of fridges, TVs, and lights already exist, so why not smart garage doors too? Smart garage doors connect to a cell phone app that can keep track of the door’s current state.  For example, a smart garage door can send you a notification every time it opens. It might keep a record of all the times it opened so you can review door usage. Most smart garage door openers let you program automatic opens/closes depending on the time, and you can also activate smart garage door openers remotely to let guests in when you are not home.  How To Keep Your Garage Door Safe Aside from garage security door features, homeowners can do several small things to boost security and ensure their garage door’s integrity.  Consider tinting garage door windows if you have them. Reducing visibility in your garage can deter theft. It also makes it harder for someone to break through glass windows.  Change your keypad security code once every few months. That way, someone can’t find your code and use it to get in your garage without you knowing.  Thieves can get into garages by slipping a coat hanger through the door and pulling the emergency release cord. Manufacturers sell devices to cover emergency pull cords so thieves can’t access them.  If you have a programmable opener, program it to automatically close shortly before you leave for work each day. That way, it will shut the door if you accidentally forget to close it when you leave.  Don’t keep valuables out in the open in your garage. Thieves will often do a quick visual inspection to see if anything is out and ready to take. If they can’t see anything out, they will more than likely move on.  Read our blog to learn about the benefits of an access control system. If you would like to discuss garage security door installation, contact R&S Erection of Vallejo online or call today at (707) 644-5537 to schedule an appointment! 

Does Garage Door Torsion Spring Length Matter?

Garage Door Torsion Spring

Few elements of your garage door are more important than the torsion spring. It plays an essential role in operations and allows you to open and close your door with minimal effort. However, many homeowners don’t know what a torsion spring is and wonder, “Does a garage door torsion spring’s length matter?” That’s why R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. is here to explain everything you need to know about a torsion spring’s size to help you determine the perfect length for your garage door. R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. is Northern California’s go-to choice for garage door installation, repair, and maintenance services. If you need professional garage door installation services in Northern California, contact R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. What Is A Torsion Spring? A torsion spring is a subtle yet vital part of your garage door. It makes opening and closing your door nearly effortless despite weighing over 100 pounds.  As you close the door, the torsion spring constricts. Conversely, when you lower the door, the spring reduces tension and helps you open the door. Torsion springs also keep your garage door in place if you open or close it halfway. It prevents the door from crashing down or falling on you as you enter or exit your garage. Without a torsion spring, you can’t open and close your garage door safely or effectively, making it an essential part of your garage’s assembly. Most torsion springs last around 10,000 cycles before breaking down. However, a properly installed and maintained torsion spring can last much longer. But does the garage door torsion spring’s length matter? Does The Torsion Spring’s Size Matter? Most torsion springs measure between 23 to 46 inches in length. However, every garage door has different demands and requires specific torsion spring sizes.  Incorrectly sized torsion springs can cause several issues for your garage door system and make it dangerous to open and close it. You must purchase and install a torsion spring that correlates with your garage door to ensure optimal and safe operations. The Dangers Of An Incorrect Torsion Spring Length Many home and business owners underestimate the dangers of ill-fitting torsion springs. An improperly sized torsion spring jeopardizes your garage door system as well as your well-being. Below are a few reasons you must have a correctly sized torsion spring in your Northern California garage. Oversized torsion spring length can damage your garage door system An oversized torsion spring will generate too much force when opening and closing your garage door. It will roll the door up too fast, causing significant damage to the system. Conversely, when you close the door, the spring will slam into the ground and damage the door and floor. If you or a loved one walks under the door as it closes, it will smash into your head or body, potentially causing significant injuries.  Undersized torsion spring length can’t support garage doors Undersized torsion springs won’t hold the door in place or move it up or down and could collapse under the tremendous weight. For example, if you try to open the garage door, it will fall back down and harm anything underneath it. If you have small children, the door could fall and trap them between the door and the floor if they try to open it manually. How To Find The Correct Torsion Spring Length For Your Garage Door System If your torsion spring gives out, you can measure it to determine the replacement’s size. Follow the steps below to measure your garage door torsion spring. Step One: Figure out the spring’s wind direction Every torsion spring winds either left or right. To determine your torsion spring’s wind direction, look at the end of the spring. If its end points clockwise, it’s a left-wound spring. However, if it points counter-clockwise, it is a right-wound variation.  Some springs have color-coated ends that tell you their wind direction. Red typically indicates a right-wound spring and a black end signifies a left-wound variety. Step Two: Measure the wire Next, measure 10 spring coils using inches to determine the wire size. After that, use the chart below to determine the correct size: 1 15/16 inches: .1920 wire size 2 inches: .2000 wire size 2 1/16 inches: .2070 wire size 2 3/16 inches: .2187 wire size 2 1/4 inches: .2253 wire size 2 7/16 inches: .2437 wire size 2 1/2 inches: .2500 wire size 2 5/8 inches: .2625 wire size 2 3/4 inches: .2730 wire size Keep in mind that this chart only features the length of 10 coils. Some springs have 20 coils and require you to double the measurements of the chart above to find the correct wire size. Step Three: Measure the spring’s interior diameter and total length Once you have the correct wire size, measure the torsion spring’s interior diameter to 1/16th of an inch. After that, measure the spring’s overall length to the nearest quarter inch, completing the process. Once you have all the necessary measurements, you can find the perfect torsion spring for your property’s garage door. However, installing a torsion spring is extremely taxing and requires a professional to ensure a safe and effective process. If you need professional torsion spring installation in Northern California, contact the experts at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. Contact R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. For Top-Quality Garage Door Services In Northern California If your garage door experiences a problem and leaves you wondering, “Does garage door torsion spring length matter?” contact R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. Our team will determine the best size for your torsion spring and install it without delay. Whether you need torsion spring installation or want to know the dangers of DIY garage door repair, R&S Erection of Vallejo Inc. is here to help. Contact R&S Erection of Vallejo Inc. at (707) 644-5537 and or complete our online form via the “Contact Us” page and receive first-class torsion spring installation in Northern California today! We’re ready to help with your needs.

Understanding Custom Garage Door Sizes: What Are Your Options?

custom garage door sizes

Whether you’re building a new garage or ready to improve your home’s exterior and security with a new garage door, you might wonder about which door size you’d need. Standard sizes for garage doors vary, and they might not be suitable for your property. Yet, custom garage door sizes can be tricky to determine if you don’t know how to properly measure your garage to fit a new door. R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. offers professional garage door installation in Vallejo, CA. We understand the complex nature of determining the best garage door size for a home. Continue reading our guide below to learn about garage door sizes and custom options.  Common Garage Door Sizes When looking into a new garage door, you must do more than measure the height and width of the space between the walls. Precise measurements also account for the tracks or lifts inside the garage that facilitate its opening and closing functions.  You must consider other factors, like how you intend to use your garage and the types of vehicles you want to park inside. The size of the garage has little effect on the size of the door. It’s possible to have different door sizes for garages with the same square footage.  Still, you can determine which garage door type suits your property by learning about the most common door sizes.  Single-car garage doors If you plan to park one car inside your garage, you’ll likely consider a single-car garage door. The door size for such a setup ranges from seven to ten feet wide. Anything over eight feet wide allows for comfortable parking, so eight-foot by seven-foot doors are common for single-car garages. Garage doors for large vehicles Doors nine feet high with seven-foot-wide clearance are ideal for trucks or large SUVs, while 14-foot by 16-foot doors are best for RVs. Though a single-car garage with a wide door will accommodate a truck or SUV, you typically need a spacious garage with an exceptionally wide door to fit a recreational vehicle.  Two-car garage doors A two-car household needs enough width to accommodate both cars. Yet, the height can be the same as a single-car garage. For example, you can install seven-foot-tall, 16-foot-wide double garage doors. Two-car garage door widths can go up to 20 feet, depending on your vehicle and garage size. Small garage doors Not everyone uses garage doors for garages. They’re also suitable for sheds. The width of a shed door ranges from four to six feet, and the height is usually six to seven feet. Custom Garage Door Options Custom garage door sizes are an option if you need to tailor a garage door’s size to accommodate your property. For example, you might need to order a custom door size to park a massive vehicle inside a garage or to fit a garage with unusual dimensions. Consider installing a ten-foot by eight-foot garage door for your truck or SUV. Though it’s the best measurement for parking a truck or SUV in a garage, it’s a custom size that doesn’t come standard for new home constructions. Ten-foot-wide garage doors are necessary for vehicles larger than a standard pickup truck or van. The extra space makes parking utility vehicles, cars or trucks with racks on the roof, and RVs easier and safer.  Three-car garages aren’t as common as the two-car variety, so they require custom garage door sizes. The most popular option is the 36-to-40-foot by eight-foot door. Eight feet is usually tall enough for a three-car garage, but the widths vary.  How To Measure For A New Garage Door When taking garage door measurements, you must account for the door’s dimensions, not including a frame. It’s always best to leave extra room for the frame to avoid unintentionally ordering an oversized door.  Here are the general steps to getting precise garage door measurements: Step 1: Use a tape measure to find the rough opening dimensions of the garage door by measuring the door opening’s height and width. Step 2: Measure the areas to the left and right of the door opening where you’ll install the vertical tracks. You need at least 3 3/4 inches of clearance on both sides.  Step 3: Calculate the distance between the top of the door opening and the garage ceiling, which is the headroom. There should be a minimum headroom space of ten inches. Step 4: Measure the backroom, which is the distance from the door opening to the garage’s back wall. The minimum backroom space will be the door’s height plus 18 inches.  Having the proper measurements for custom garage door sizes is a must. After taking the tentative measurements, consult with a professional garage door installation company to ensure the accuracy of your figures. These garage door experts can also help you measure garage door openings with unique dimensions.  Garage Door Thickness People often neglect garage door thickness when measuring for a new door, but thickness is a major factor in determining the correct size. Thick garage doors usually have extra insulation.  How much insulation your door needs depends on the materials you use for your door and how you intend to use the garage. For example, a standard-size garage with a metal door and one parked car won’t need much insulation. If you’re organizing your garage to be a living space, it’ll need more insulation, resulting in a garage door that’s a quarter-inch to 1 1/2 inches thick. Get The Perfect Garage Door For Your Home  R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. is an independently owned and operated gate and door company serving Vallejo, CA, and the surrounding communities. With our 50 years of dedicated service and experience, we offer a wide range of options from leading brands that use high-quality garage door materials. Our impressive inventory includes LiftMaster garage door openers and doors from Clopay and C.H.I. We also specialize in custom garage door sizes, so contact R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. at (707) 644-5537 to schedule an appointment.

How To Seal The Uneven Gap At The Bottom Of Your Garage Door

how to seal the uneven gap at the bottom of your garage door

Are you dealing with an uneven gap at the bottom of your garage door and unsure what to do? A poor installation process of your garage door or concrete flooring could cause gaps. From cracks over time to a worn weatherstrip, several reasons can contribute to your garage door’s uneven gap. Fortunately, though, you have several solutions to resolve this common issue. What To Do With The Uneven Gap At The Bottom Of Your Garage Door In this guide, we’ll explore several helpful solutions, such as installing a new threshold or weatherstrip seal and fixing your garage flooring’s uneven surface. Keep reading to learn more, then contact R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. to explore your options for Vallejo’s residential garage doors. Solutions For The Uneven Gap At The Bottom Of Your Garage Door Garage doors need regular maintenance to stay in top condition. Addressing a gap at the bottom of your garage door provides one major way to avoid future problems and damage to your home. Below we list five essential tips for resolving the gap and enjoying a safe and secure garage door: Replace or upgrade your garage door weatherstripping Bottom weatherstripping offers a great way to resolve an uneven gap, and the type you choose often depends on your garage door model. The bottom weatherstrip should help any water that gets into the garage drain through an outward slope. It helps keep cold temperatures and water out and protects your garage. If your bottom weatherstrip is old, worn, and unable to protect the floor, working with a garage door specialist could make replacement easier. They can also recommend which bottom weatherstripping works best for your type of garage door and the condition of your flooring. U-shaped weatherstrips typically provide a universal fit for most floors and doors. Remember to make lubricating your weatherstripping part of your garage door maintenance routine once in the fall season and once in the spring. Using one that works well with PVC parts will make the weatherstrip more durable and last longer. Check and upgrade your garage floor The condition of your garage’s concrete floor can impact the gap in the door. You might have hairline cracks that seem barely noticeable or have larger slopes. When the contractors mixed the concrete before installation, some parts of the mixture could have hardened before others, leading to uneven surfaces. A floor could also have cracks from the foundation settling. Either way, an uneven floor can cause water to pool and damage your garage. You can fix concrete cracks or cold joints with epoxy, tiles, paint, or a roll-out mat. A stable floor with an outward slope can help avoid gaps in the door. Increase the depth of your weather seal When it’s time to successfully replace the bottom weatherstrip, you might need to increase its depth. Deeper bottom weatherstripping can add the extra space necessary to seal gaps from the door to the floor. While you can keep some cold air out with 2-to-3-inch bottom weatherstripping, 3.5 inches or more can help truly resolve the troublesome uneven gap at the bottom of your garage door. If you don’t know which product to add to your garage door, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted professional in your area. Add a threshold seal to your garage floor A garage door threshold works perfectly alongside garage door seal strips to prevent gaps. The flexible rubber makes installing a garage door threshold quick and easy. Having this seal can make a big difference for your door, and you only need to cut it to the appropriate size and glue it to a chosen surface. Make adjustments to your garage door opener Ensuring garage doors have no uneven gaps involves a final test with an automatic opener. The weatherstrip seal must touch the floor without becoming damaged. Remember to check your system’s adjustment settings to see how you can safely open and close the door with these new changes. Being able to put your fingers through the even gap indicates everything is going smoothly, and your area is in top condition. If the Safety Reversal System and Protector System work properly, you know you successfully resolved the issue, and your opener works without an issue. You can always contact your local team at R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. if you still have trouble and don’t know what to do next. Why Neglecting The Gap At The Bottom Of Your Garage Door Is Harmful You might not think a minor gap in your garage door is a big deal but think again! It only takes a small opening for unwanted pests, cold winds, melted snow, and bad weather to get inside your home and wreak havoc. You also could have a higher-than-normal electricity bill that causes you to shell out more money. Instead of keeping warm air inside during the winter, you’ll bring more of the cold in and send valuable warmth outside. Resolving a garage door’s gaps is easier with the help of trusted door experts. You can try popular retail products to fix the gap or contact your favorite Vallejo team of professionals. Regardless, you’ll save time and money in the long run and can use and organize your garage without worrying about damage from the outdoors. Experience A Beautiful New Garage Door Today We hope you now understand five effective ways to address the uneven gap at the bottom of a garage door and can apply these measures to your own property. If you’d like the guidance and support of a professional garage door specialist, R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. can assist you in Vallejo, CA. We can help you find the best seals for your garage door and encourage you to avoid DIY garage door repair or install a new system if it’s finally time. R&S Erection of Vallejo, Inc. proudly serves the good people of Vallejo, CA, and the nearby areas. We offer residential and commercial services and automatic gates. Call us today at (707) 644-5537

How To Size A Garage Door Opener: 5 Measuring Tips

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