FAQ

Please browse our frequently asked questions, and feel free to call us if your question is not answered here. We are always here to help!

Do you give Free Estimates?

Yes, we give free estimates to anyone looking to replace their door. If you are looking for an estimate on repairing your door, please call the office to schedule an appointment to get your door fixed. The Technician can give a price before he starts working on it, however, there is a minimum service call of $75.00 if any work is done on your door or operator.

I pushed the button to close my door, but it only lowers a few feet then opens.

This is a sign that the beam of your photoelectric reversal system is out of alignment. Try repositioning one of the two units. If you have a wall control panel (and not a doorbell), you will notice a flashing indicator light. By repositioning one of the two units, this light should stop flashing.

Is there anything in particular I need to do once my new garage door is installed?

Ask for the owner's manual for the door, as well as for the electric operator, if applicable. Keep them safe for future reference. Take the time to read the manuals to find out more about your new equipment and any required maintenance.

Should I buy an insulated or non-insulated garage door?

This is one of the questions asked most often by homeowners, and there are several factors to consider. If your garage is insulated and attached to the house, it is preferable to have an insulated door with an R-value (thermal resistance value) of at least R‑10. The more your garage is used for family activities, such as a workroom, gym, or playroom, the better insulated your garage door should be, such as an R‑16. We can help you choose the right insulated or non-insulated door for your needs

How should I take care of my door’s steel or aluminum surface?

Whenever you are washing your car in the driveway, go ahead and take a pass at your garage door with your car wash soap. For any stubborn marks, use an all-purpose detergent, and avoid any abrasive cleaners. If you’d like your door to keep its brand-new appearance, apply liquid car wax to it annually on a cloudy day in order to protect its luster and restore its shine.

Can anyone do preventive maintenance on my residential garage door?

Your garage door is an important component of your home, and as such, deserves time each year to ensure its long-term reliability. If you don’t have the time, contact your dealer to perform a tune-up at your home. A technician will perform an inspection of your garage door including any needed lubrication and adjustments. If any part needs to be replaced, you will be consulted before a change is made.

Can I change just one section of my garage door instead of replacing the whole thing?

Depending on the age of the door, replacement panels may no longer be available. If this is the case, you would have a choice of just changing out the sections only, or getting a new door. If a replacement section(s) is available, we will be able to order it on your behalf.

What maintenance is suggested for the tracks, hinges, rollers and springs?

Rollers, hinges, and all moving hardware should be lubricated with a metal lubricant. For the tracks, you can also use a metal lubricant, mainly where the tracks curve. The same goes for the springs. Apply a metal lubricant and wipe off the excess with a cloth, which will lengthen the lifespan of your springs. Never put grease on the tracks. It is important to remember that rollers must roll and not slide in the tracks.

How can I repaint a window frame?

Here are some helpful tips:

Use latex paint to repaint the window frames on your garage door
Cover the surface around the frame as well as the glass with masking tape
To obtain the best results, a coat of primer is needed (ex.: Benjamin Moore: STIX Bonding Primer)
Use latex paint (100% acrylic, exterior)
Start by washing the frame with trisodium phosphate (TSP)
Lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper of grade 180 or 220
Acetone does not need to be used to soften the PVC
Do not apply paint in direct sunlight
A second coat may be needed

Will having windows on my garage door really enhance its look?

Yes, and it’s proven. Your garage door is often 30 to 40% of your home’s façade. If it has decorative windows that complement your main entry door, you’ll be surprised at the “wow” factor you’ll generate. So if you are looking for a new door and want an option for windows, let us know and we can give you a price.

How do I know if my residential garage door is well balanced?

If you have an electric garage door opener, deactivate the system by pulling on the red cord attached to the trolley. You should be able to easily lift the door open with one hand, regardless of its size or the material it is made of.

If you notice the door is harder to open, this means that its dead weight is heavier than in the ideal range of 8 to 12 lbs. because the springs are no longer counterbalancing the door properly. If this is the case, they should be looked at by a professional installer.

Should I purchase a metal or wood garage door?

If you are looking for a door that brings warmth to your home's exterior, you can get that look with either a wood or a metal door.

There are various levels of quality found in both wood and metal doors, and the product ranges from the most economic style to a top-of-the-line finish that can include custom carvings. We can help select the door best suited for your needs. Wooden garage doors do require regular maintenance to keep their finish.