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Broken Garage Door: Could It Be Your Sensors?
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Douglasville Garage Doors
Are you having problems with your garage door? It could be dirty or misaligned sensors.
Garage door sensors are an important safety feature. They make sure the garage door will not crush an object (or person!) in the path of the door when it closes. One sensor sends a beam of light, and the other sensor detects it. If something is in the way of the door, it blocks the beam of light and the sensor prevents the garage door from closing.
Sensor Issues
If you are experiencing any of the following, it could be an issue with your sensors:
- Door will not open or close at all.
- Door closes part of the way, then reverses direction and opens again.
- Door closes part of the way and stops.
- Lights on your garage door opener flash and the door does not close.
Common causes of sensor problems include:
- Dirty lenses
- Misaligned sensors
- Wiring or power issues
You can perform some simple troubleshooting on your sensors yourself. If you suspect the sensors are the problem, try these tips:
- Carefully clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth.
- Look for small LED lights on the sides of your sensors. Most units have green lights that illuminate steadily when the sensors are properly aligned. If the light is flashing, this usually means your sensors are out of alignment.
- If your sensor is out of alignment, try gently adjusting the sensor and moving it back to the correct location. (On most units, you’ll know you’re successful if the green light stops flashing and glows steadily.)
- Visually inspect the wiring for any loose connections. If you see disconnected or frayed wires, or the lights on your sensor don’t illuminate at all, call us for help.
Contact Metro Garage Doors
If your garage door is not working properly, contact us today. We can get your garage door up and running again quickly.
Read MoreSingle vs Double Door Garages: How to Choose
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Choosing the right garage door revolves around more than just materials and garage door styles. Functionality is the number one priority for most of us, which is why it’s important to understand how different garage doors handle various situations. We’ve laid out our top pros and cons at Larry Myers to give some insight into one double garage door vs. two single garage doors.
Double-size, usually 14 to 16 feet wide
Pros of Double Door Garages
Less Routine Maintenance: One door means only one set of tracks and one automatic system to care for, while two garage doors will require twice the garage door maintenance and upkeep. For those who prioritize simplicity, one double door is a great option.
Lower Installation Costs: One double door may cost less to install depending on the material, effectively driving initial costs down. Although the acquisition cost is an important factor in the decision, don’t forget to consider long-term costs as well.
Cons of Double Garage Doors
Less Flexibility: If a double garage door breaks down, both vehicles could be unreachable until the garage door is repaired. For people on tight schedules or who rely solely on their vehicle, a single door can be a risk.
Higher Maintenance Costs: The increased weight of the double door can cause expensive problems, likely leading to higher maintenance costs in the long run. Even though single door owners only have to worry about one set of tracks and one system, the larger size leads to more prominent issues.
Two single doors, each around 8 to 10 feet wide
Pros of Single Garage Doors
More Flexibility: Two single garage doors are ideal for two-vehicle families with different work hours or for those who prefer to use half of the garage for storage. Additionally, if one single door malfunctions you’ll still have access to the other vehicle.
Better Temperature Control: If you live in an extreme climate and have trouble maintaining the temperature inside the garage, having the ability to open only one door will allow less hot or cold air in.
Cons of Single Garage Doors
Higher Electrical Costs: The daily operation of two separate garage doors can use more electricity than one double-sized door, therefore increasing electrical costs. While this is this is a less-obvious factor to consider in your total cost of ownership, if energy efficiency is important to you, it might be a deciding factor.
More Garage Maintenance: Garage doors require upkeep every few years, and two doors means two separate systems that will need to be maintained. This can potentially increase overall costs, especially if you use both doors regularly.
While garage functionality is key, it’s also important to consider your aesthetic preferences. What would a large single garage door look like on your house? What do other houses in the neighborhood have? Do you want your house to stand out or blend in? Browse our custom-made specialty garage doors or contact us today to help find the perfect garage door for your specific needs.
Read MoreSingle vs Double Door Garages: How to Choose
rssmasher 0 Comments Garage News
Choosing the right garage door revolves around more than just materials and garage door styles. Functionality is the number one priority for most of us, which is why it’s important to understand how different garage doors handle various situations. We’ve laid out our top pros and cons at Larry Myers to give some insight into one double garage door vs. two single garage doors.
Double-size, usually 14 to 16 feet wide
Pros of Double Door Garages
Less Routine Maintenance: One door means only one set of tracks and one automatic system to care for, while two garage doors will require twice the garage door maintenance and upkeep. For those who prioritize simplicity, one double door is a great option.
Lower Installation Costs: One double door may cost less to install depending on the material, effectively driving initial costs down. Although the acquisition cost is an important factor in the decision, don’t forget to consider long-term costs as well.
Cons of Double Garage Doors
Less Flexibility: If a double garage door breaks down, both vehicles could be unreachable until the garage door is repaired. For people on tight schedules or who rely solely on their vehicle, a single door can be a risk.
Higher Maintenance Costs: The increased weight of the double door can cause expensive problems, likely leading to higher maintenance costs in the long run. Even though single door owners only have to worry about one set of tracks and one system, the larger size leads to more prominent issues.
Two single doors, each around 8 to 10 feet wide
Pros of Single Garage Doors
More Flexibility: Two single garage doors are ideal for two-vehicle families with different work hours or for those who prefer to use half of the garage for storage. Additionally, if one single door malfunctions you’ll still have access to the other vehicle.
Better Temperature Control: If you live in an extreme climate and have trouble maintaining the temperature inside the garage, having the ability to open only one door will allow less hot or cold air in.
Cons of Single Garage Doors
Higher Electrical Costs: The daily operation of two separate garage doors can use more electricity than one double-sized door, therefore increasing electrical costs. While this is this is a less-obvious factor to consider in your total cost of ownership, if energy efficiency is important to you, it might be a deciding factor.
More Garage Maintenance: Garage doors require upkeep every few years, and two doors means two separate systems that will need to be maintained. This can potentially increase overall costs, especially if you use both doors regularly.
While garage functionality is key, it’s also important to consider your aesthetic preferences. What would a large single garage door look like on your house? What do other houses in the neighborhood have? Do you want your house to stand out or blend in? Browse our custom-made specialty garage doors or contact us today to help find the perfect garage door for your specific needs.
Read MoreHow Much Does a Garage Door Cost?
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Because residential garage doors don’t need to be replaced very often, you may be totally lost when it comes to the cost of a new garage door. As a major provider of garage doors in Oregon and Washington, Larry Myers can help you estimate the average cost of purchasing and installing a new garage door.
Depending on the material, size, and style you select, the cost can range from as low as $750 to as high as $6,000. That said, we’ve outlined the general cost of some of the different materials available for your new garage door.
The pricing examples provided below assume that you are purchasing a 16-by-7-foot double door, which is a common garage door size on many houses in Oregon and Washington.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel garage doors comes in a wide range of colors and styles and are more durable and better insulated than aluminum. To improve garage door insulation you can add up to two additional layers or a 2-inch polyurethane layer, which will increase the upfront cost. Because of this level of customization, steel doors can range in cost from anywhere between $750 and $6,000.
Wood Garage Doors
Wood garage doors offer an undeniably rustic and organic look to any house. Often made from redwood, cedar, or cypress, wooden doors are moisture-resistant and can be painted in any color. However, they tend to require more garage door maintenance annually than other materials, so you may factor the long-term cost into your purchasing decision. The price can vary between $1,200 and +$10,000 depending on the type of wood.
Simulated Wood Garage Doors
Made from composite elements, simulated wood has the look and feel of real wood but is much more durable and requires far less maintenance. It provides decent insulation and can be painted like real wood, but it won’t rot, shrink, expand, split, or crack due to moisture. The average cost for simulated wood doors can be anywhere between $1,200 and +$10,000.
Customized Specialty Garage Doors
Larry Myers Garage Doors can also build custom doors in a variety of exotic and non-standard materials, sizes, and designs. Let us know what you have in mind and we can give you a detailed price quote on production and installation.
To learn more about popular garage door styles , the pros and cons of each garage door material, and to get a detailed price estimate, contact one of our friendly representatives at Larry Myers today.
Read MoreHow Much Does a Garage Door Cost?
rssmasher 0 Comments Garage News
Because residential garage doors don’t need to be replaced very often, you may be totally lost when it comes to the cost of a new garage door. As a major provider of garage doors in Oregon and Washington, Larry Myers can help you estimate the average cost of purchasing and installing a new garage door.
Depending on the material, size, and style you select, the cost can range from as low as $750 to as high as $6,000. That said, we’ve outlined the general cost of some of the different materials available for your new garage door.
The pricing examples provided below assume that you are purchasing a 16-by-7-foot double door, which is a common garage door size on many houses in Oregon and Washington.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel garage doors comes in a wide range of colors and styles and are more durable and better insulated than aluminum. To improve garage door insulation you can add up to two additional layers or a 2-inch polyurethane layer, which will increase the upfront cost. Because of this level of customization, steel doors can range in cost from anywhere between $750 and $6,000.
Wood Garage Doors
Wood garage doors offer an undeniably rustic and organic look to any house. Often made from redwood, cedar, or cypress, wooden doors are moisture-resistant and can be painted in any color. However, they tend to require more garage door maintenance annually than other materials, so you may factor the long-term cost into your purchasing decision. The price can vary between $1,200 and +$10,000 depending on the type of wood.
Simulated Wood Garage Doors
Made from composite elements, simulated wood has the look and feel of real wood but is much more durable and requires far less maintenance. It provides decent insulation and can be painted like real wood, but it won’t rot, shrink, expand, split, or crack due to moisture. The average cost for simulated wood doors can be anywhere between $1,200 and +$10,000.
Customized Specialty Garage Doors
Larry Myers Garage Doors can also build custom doors in a variety of exotic and non-standard materials, sizes, and designs. Let us know what you have in mind and we can give you a detailed price quote on production and installation.
To learn more about popular garage door styles , the pros and cons of each garage door material, and to get a detailed price estimate, contact one of our friendly representatives at Larry Myers today.
Read MoreGarage Door Materials: Pros and Cons of Wood, Steel, and Specialty Doors
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At Larry Myers Garage Doors, we understand how important it is to find a garage door that fits your unique needs. From traditional steel or stylish wood to modern specialty garage doors, we carry a wide range of materials for Northwest homes. To help you select the best material for your garage door, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of these popular materials:
Wood Garage Doors
Striking and durable, wooden garage doors have been a staple for homes in the Pacific Northwest for decades. Wooden doors can withstand harsh winters and dents better than most other garage door materials, while also blending into nearly any residential setting.
That said, wood garage doors do require significantly more routine maintenance and have a lower R-value than synthetic materials. Still wood and wood composite garage doors have proven to be a great option for traditional homes away from the ocean.
Steel Garage Doors
Known for varying designs, varied price points, and low maintenance requirements, steel garage doors are a cost-effective and durable option. Not only do they offer some of the best value for your money, but you can find stylish steel garage doors with fun windows and designs.
Because they come in different thicknesses, however, insulation can be problematic for the less expensive models. There are steps you can take to improve the insulation of your steel door, but it’s something to consider in the cost and maintenance measures. Although lacking the distinguished look of traditional wood doors, steel garage doors are a solid choice for most residential settings and there are plenty of stylish options available.
Specialty Garage Doors
For homeowners wanting a unique look, the varied materials and design of specialty garage doors could be the best option. Although the custom construction and installation typically drives a higher cost than more basic models, specialty garage doors will instantly transform any home and boost your curb appeal. You’ll have a wide range of custom options including a combination of material types, unique designs, diverse applications, and sizes so you can customize a garage door that suits your distinct style and needs.
It’s not just about looks. Choosing the right garage door material is an important part of choosing the right garage door, and it’s important to take the pros and cons of each material into account. Browse some of our favorite garage door styles, or contact the garage door professionals at Larry Myers for a personalized consultation.
Read MoreGarage Door Materials: Pros and Cons of Wood, Steel, and Specialty Doors
rssmasher 0 Comments Garage News
At Larry Myers Garage Doors, we understand how important it is to find a garage door that fits your unique needs. From traditional steel or stylish wood to modern specialty garage doors, we carry a wide range of materials for Northwest homes. To help you select the best material for your garage door, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of these popular materials:
Wood Garage Doors
Striking and durable, wooden garage doors have been a staple for homes in the Pacific Northwest for decades. Wooden doors can withstand harsh winters and dents better than most other garage door materials, while also blending into nearly any residential setting.
That said, wood garage doors do require significantly more routine maintenance and have a lower R-value than synthetic materials. Still wood and wood composite garage doors have proven to be a great option for traditional homes away from the ocean.
Steel Garage Doors
Known for varying designs, varied price points, and low maintenance requirements, steel garage doors are a cost-effective and durable option. Not only do they offer some of the best value for your money, but you can find stylish steel garage doors with fun windows and designs.
Because they come in different thicknesses, however, insulation can be problematic for the less expensive models. There are steps you can take to improve the insulation of your steel door, but it’s something to consider in the cost and maintenance measures. Although lacking the distinguished look of traditional wood doors, steel garage doors are a solid choice for most residential settings and there are plenty of stylish options available.
Specialty Garage Doors
For homeowners wanting a unique look, the varied materials and design of specialty garage doors could be the best option. Although the custom construction and installation typically drives a higher cost than more basic models, specialty garage doors will instantly transform any home and boost your curb appeal. You’ll have a wide range of custom options including a combination of material types, unique designs, diverse applications, and sizes so you can customize a garage door that suits your distinct style and needs.
It’s not just about looks. Choosing the right garage door material is an important part of choosing the right garage door, and it’s important to take the pros and cons of each material into account. Browse some of our favorite garage door styles, or contact the garage door professionals at Larry Myers for a personalized consultation.
Read MoreGarage Door Maintenance Advice
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Garage Door Repair – Douglasville
A broken garage door is one problem best left to the experts. Yet once Metro’s garage door technician has gotten your door working again, there is plenty you can do to keep it in tip-top shape. If you would like to learn more about preventing breakdowns through basic maintenance, read on. This article will introduce you to two simple yet effective things you can do.
Ensure that your rollers are lubricated.
Garage doors are equipped with several sets of rollers. These keep the door correctly oriented inside of its roller tracks while opening and closing. Unfortunately, over time the rollers tend to acquire a nasty layer of gunk and build up. When severe enough, such buildup can restrict the rollers’ movement, thus causing all manner of whining and squealing and screeching when the door moves up and down.
The good news is that you can eliminate these annoying sounds and get your door moving smoothly again with little more than a can of silicone spray lubricant. Yet before you apply the lube, you will have to clean the roller as thoroughly as you can. By leaving the gunk in place, you will only ensure that the problem recurs down the line. When spraying your lubricant, do your best not to get any of it on the roller tracks; if you do, wipe it off carefully so that it does not cause dangerous slippage as the door moves up and down. But, it’s probably best to hire Metro Garage Door to ensure the cleaning is done properly.
Keep your hinge bolts good and tight.
The rollers are attached to the door by means of metal hinges. These are fastened to the door with hex-head bolts. While lubricating your rollers, it is always a good idea to check that these bolts are as tight as possible. They have a tendency to loosen up from the vibration of the door.
Contact Metro Garage Doors – Your Douglasville Garage Door Repair Experts
If your garage door is in need of more serious upkeep or repair, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Metro Garage Doors.
Read MoreDIY Garage Parking Aids You Should Be Using
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We get it, parking aids are expensive. But parking mishaps can cause costly damage to your car, your garage door, and whatever you’re storing there. If you’re looking for a cheap way to solve this expensive problem, it’s easy enough to transform everyday items into effective homemade garage parking aids. Here’s a list of DIY garage parking aids we’ve curated especially for you. These ideas will help solve a common problem: how to know where to stop car in your garage.
DIY Garage Door Parking Aid #1: Floor Stoppers
Do you have a woodblock or old carpet lying around? If so, place it on the floor of your garage at the location that you’d like your car to be stopped. If you end up getting too close to where you want your car to park, your tires will stop from the safety barrier. If you don’t have these items, you can buy cheap wood at your local hardware store or carpets at a thrift shop.
DIY Garage Door Parking Aid #2: Wall Protectors
Got an old couch that could be thrown away? Better yet, a dusty blanket hiding somewhere in the attic? You can turn these old items into repurposed wall bumpers to keep both your vehicle and garage from getting damaged. If your garage is on the narrow side, these bumpers will be useful in preventing any damage between your car and garage.
DIY Garage Door Parking Aid #3: Placeholders
Maybe it’s one of your old posters, your favorite bobblehead, or where your cabinet ends. Try thinking of a practical item that’s already in your garage. You can set these placeholders at eye-level on the driver’s side of your garage wall. You’ll know when it’s the right time to park when you see your new garage car stop indicator as you drive in.
DIY Garage Door Parking Aid #4: Mirrors
Place a mirror near the wall of your choosing. This allows easy access to the exact position of your vehicle. It doesn’t need to be a huge bathroom mirror, just big enough for you to see.
DIY Garage Door Parking Aid #5: Ceiling String
Try hanging an item on a string from your garage ceiling. It could be anything: a tennis ball, a small rag, even a tie can do the trick! Attach it to the part of the ceiling where you want your vehicle to stop. This is effective and affordable at the same time!
We hope that you’ve found these homemade garage parking aid ideas useful. For more garage door tips, check out our blog where we cover everything from what color to paint your garage door to everything you need to know about garage fire safety. You can also contact Larry Myers Garage Doors for all of your garage door installation and repair needs.
Read MoreBlower Door Testing: Your Questions Answered
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At Metro Garage Doors, we are pleased to offer free visual home energy audits. For these audits, we perform a series of tests to reveal underlying air infiltration and efficiency issues in your home. We also offer recommendations for improvement through a detailed, prioritized plan of action.
We also offer a scientific home energy audit that includes blower door testing. What is blower door testing, and why would you need it?
What Is Blower Door Testing?
A blower door is a powerful fan that mounts into the frame of an exterior door. We install the fan and a temporary door cover inside the doorway. Then, we close all the windows in the house, open all the internal doors, and turn on the fan. The fan pulls air out of the house, lowering the air pressure inside. The higher outside air pressure then flows in through all unsealed cracks and openings.
What Does Blower Door Testing Do?
Blower door testing allows us to quickly:
- Determine the quantity and location of air leakage throughout your home.
- Identify air leaks, areas of high moisture and airflow within walls.
- Examine the interior and exterior of your home for air sealing and insulation needs.
Why Do I Need It?
According to the Energy Department, the average home has enough air leakage to add up to a two-foot-square hole. This is like leaving a medium-sized window open 24 hours a day! You wouldn’t leave a window open all day year-round, so you want to locate and seal any air leaks in your home.
As part of your scientific home energy audit, we provide you with a comprehensive home energy report that shows which energy efficiency upgrades are best for your home and your potential energy savings. Many homeowners find the testing pays for itself in lower energy bills.
Contact Metro Garage Doors Douglasville GA
If you’re interested in scheduling a visual or scientific energy audit, contact us today.
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