by Adam | Jan 19, 2023 | GarageDoor
The process of buying a new garage door opener can seem overwhelming and intimidating due to the sheer number of options available. At AAA Garage door, we want to make the search for the perfect garage door opener easier for you. From basic openers to smart openers, comparing horsepower, sound, features, and most importantly security options, we can help you sift through the choices and find the one that’s just right for your need. hopefully, this guide will help you find the best opener for your garage. Let’s first explore the different types of garage door openers and what is the difference between them.
Types of garage door openers
Chain Driven Openers
A chain opener is considered one of the most reliable types of openers, as it basically depends mechanically on a chain that pulls the garage door to the top, and this reduces the occurrence of damage inside the motor of the opener, in addition to that the chain opener is more affordable than other garage door openers. A chain opener is the oldest type of garage door opener, so one of its drawbacks is that it is noisy and causes noise as a result of the friction of its metal parts. So if you are looking to open your garage door quietly or if your garage door is above a bedroom, Chain Driven Openers will not be a suitable opener for your garage door.
Belt Driven Openers
Unlike the chain opener, the belt opener is quieter, but has a shorter life span, because it depends inside it on a belt made of rubber that has metal wires running through it. So over time, this belt loses its durability and the rubber starts to wear out. finally, belt openers are not an affordable choice if you looking at costs.
However, this does not mean to forget it is characterized by its ease of installation, maintenance needs, and calmness during operation. This makes Belt Driven Opener the ideal choice when it comes to comfort and convenience.
Direct Drive Openers
The direct drive opener is not much different from the belt opener, and this is because it also depends on a belt made of rubber that works to raise the garage door, but the direct drive opener differs in the way it is hung instead of in the ceiling of the garage, It is on the wall next to the garage door. The direct drive opener is also characterized by being quiet during operation and practical because it works by moving one gear, which reduces damage to the internal parts and thus reduces the required maintenance. The cons to The Direct Drive Openers are that its limited availability and is more expensive than other types of garage door openers.
AAA Garage Door INC Is Your Local Authorized Dealer Near You
You are lost among the different types. AAA Garage Door INC. your local Liftmaster authorized dealer, serving Miami Dade and Broward counties since 2009. Call us now for a consultation about your garage door openers at 305-702-0113.
Garage Door Opener Features
After we understand the different types, we need to look deeply at all the features that are common between Openers brands.
There are several features that are common between different opener brands.
- Security Light: Most openers have a built-in light that illuminates the garage door when it is dark outside or when you operate the system.
- Auto-Close: Many openers also have a timer that can be programmed to automatically close the door after a certain period of time.
- Keypads: Other common features include a keypad for entering a code to open the door and a remote control that can be used to open the door from a distance. Read our list of the Best keypad for your opener.
- Built-In Wifi: There are many reasons why built-in WiFi is an important feature of your garage door opener. one, it can be extremely convenient, allowing you to open and close your garage door without ever having to get up from your comfortable spot on the couch. Additionally, it can be a great security measure, allowing you to keep an eye on who is coming and going from your home at all times. Finally, if you have a smart home setup, adding a garage door opener with built-in WiFi can help to make your home even more efficient and automated.
- Smart Device Compatibility: Smart feature is important for every homeowner it makes everything easier so having smart features in your garage door opener like operating and monitoring your garage through your smartphone or Compatibility with other opener accessories like Smart Camera.
- Opener Backup Battery: Most garage door openers have a backup battery to help you in a power outage.
Garage Door Opener Horsepower
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a garage door opener. One of the most important is the horsepower of the unit. The higher the horsepower, the more powerful the opener will be.
This is important if you have a heavy garage door or if you live in an area with high winds. A higher horsepower unit will be able to open and close your door more easily and will be less likely to be damaged by wind or heavy use. Every garage door service companies have to first examine the garage door in terms of length, width, and weight in order to know the appropriate garage door opener for it.
Garage door openers range between 1/2 horsepower to 1-1/2 horsepower for residential models. Read the topic Choose the best garage door for your home To know more about garage door types.
Safety and Security
Your garage door must have all the safety features in order to protect yourself from burglaries and also from some mistakes that can occur while using the garage door. In modern openers, there are many important safety and protection features, Such as:
- Safety Sensor: it’s one of the major safety features that help you not get injured when mistakenly your garage door goes down by installing a sensor that hit infrared beams while the door goes down and if it any object passes through the LED beam of light and automatically reverses the closing garage door.
- Rolling-Code: It’s a security technology to prevent hacker attacks and ensure no other unauthorized remote control opens your garage.
Garage door openers brands and comparison between them
There are many different brands of garage door openers on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some are more reliable than others, and some offer features that make them more convenient to use. When you’re looking for a new garage door opener, it’s important to consider what features are most important to you and to compare different brands to see which one offers the best combination of features and value.
The most popular garage door opener brands are Chamberlain, LiftMaster, and Genie.
LiftMaster
LiftMaster is the most popular garage door openers company in the US, They have the most high-quality garage door openers and Over 4,000 Dealers and installers nationwide.
LiftMaster Introduces a lot of important technologies like Photo Eye Safety Sensors and it’s used to detect if something or someone is on the door closing path and it’s useful To protect you or your family members.
Another Good technology is Security+ 2.0 Which is important to protect your garage door from being hacked by code hackers. LiftMaster RailSystem is what makes LiftMaster One of the most powerful openers in the market because it counts on the T-rail system which is capable of lifting heavier garage doors with the same horsepower as other openers.
Based on Customer’s Ratings
4.1 out of 5 stars +190 LiftMaster Offical Website Ratings
4.6 out of 5 stars +900 Amazon Ratings
This rating is from the time the article was created and is not updated
Opener Type
Direct Drive ( Wall-Mount )
Horsepower
LiftMaster 8500 Opener Has a 1/2-horsepower motor that lifts residential doors of all sizes, even tall doors that other openers can’t lift, as long as they have torsion springs.
Features
Wall mount design frees up ceiling space in your garage, and reduces noise and vibration.
Add myQ® smartphone control.
Features a DC motor for ultra-quiet operation.
Automatic Garage Door Lock deadbolts your door after closing.
Safety and Security
Secure Code
Confidently know that every click sends a secure code to the garage door opener.
Safety Sensors
Protect people and vehicles with safety sensors that stop the door from closing on obstructions.
Chamberlain
Chamberlain is known for its reliable products, and its garage door openers are no exception for every homeowner that wants the best value compared to price. Chamberlain is the parent company of Liftmaster, and this means that you will find the same quality of products and the smart properties that characterize it, what distinguishes Chamberlain is the diversity of its products because it wants to target all groups of people and aimed at do-it-yourselfers.
From the mechanical perspective, Chamberlain is different then LiftMaster in the Rail System as we previous mention LiftMaster has the T-Rail Systems, and Chamberlain openers have a multi-piece system which is ideal for standard garage doors or garage doors that are not daily used.
Chamberlain B4643T
Based on Customer’s Ratings
4.6 out of 5 stars +100 Official Chamberlain Website Opener Ratings
4.6 out of 5 stars +700 Amazon Ratings
This rating is from the time the article was created and is not updated
Opener Type
Belt Drive
Horsepower
Lifting Force 3/4HP
Features
Integrated 140-degree wide-angle security camera capture HD-Quality Video. You can connect your garage door opener to the myQ app to monitor the camera from anywhere at any time.
2-Way Audio
LED Lights
Battery backup
Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery
Safety and Security
Safety Sensors
Genie Garage Door Openers
Genie garage door openers are known for their ease of use, and durability.
According to Statista, Genie is one of the top 4 most used garage door openers in the U.S.
Sometimes you just need a garage door opener to get the job done and focus on durability Genie Openers are a great example of that they have a lot of openers choices with the most affordable prices in the market, Genie Opener else has all the Security & Smart Features you could need.
Chain Drive 500
4.5 out of 5 stars +750 amazon ratings
This rating is from the time the article was created and is not updated
Opener Type
Chain Drive
Horsepower
1/2 HP
Features
T Beam system Helps you from an accident of crossing the door while closing by opening the door back.
Technologies
Intellicore Security Technology
Dual Frequency Technology
GenieSense Monitoring & Diagnostic Technology
by Adam | Jan 16, 2023 | GarageDoor
Technology is very important to our lives, so with the advancement of technology in our home, our garage system must contain accessories of this technology that provides us with safety and protection standards. And the beginning of these important accessories that you must choose carefully for your garage is the keypad. New keypads add for your garage door another layer of security and convenience so let us see first, the real benefits of garage door keypads.
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Benefits of garage door keypad
A garage door keypad offers a lot of convenience and safety benefits to any homeowner. It allows you to open and close your garage door without the need for a physical key or a remote control.
This means you don’t have to worry about carrying a key around or losing it. You can also set up a code that only you know, so you can be sure that your garage door is secure. The keypad also allows you to set different codes for different people. For example, if you want to give your family members access to your garage, you can set up individual codes for each of them.
This way, you can control who has access to your garage and when. Another great benefit of a garage door keypad is myQ Smart Keypad you can open and close your garage door from anywhere in the world and securely monitor your garage door. This is especially useful if you are away from home and want to make sure your garage is secure.
You can also use the keypad to set up timed access, so you can make sure the garage door is always closed at a certain time. Overall, a garage door keypad offers a lot of convenience and security benefits to the homeowner.
It eliminates the need for a physical key or a remote control and allows you to control who has access to your garage. It also allows you to open and close your garage door from anywhere in the world, making it a great security feature.
1- Increased Security: One of the most important features of garage door keypads is Security+ 2.0. Which is a technology to communicate with multiple frequencies and uses a unique code each time you press a key on your keypad from 100 billion encrypted rolling codes. This makes the keyboard for your garage door enjoy the required protection from the interference of signals sent by devices such as security systems or Bluetooth and even the remote control. In addition to the “Rolling Code” feature, which is available in many Keyless Entry Keypads, which gives you protection from “replay attacks” and it’s to minimize the chance of burglars copying it. This means only keypads that you have programmed can open your garage door.
2- Increased Accessibility: Your garage door system should be convenient to compile your needs so with a garage door keypad, you can unlock your garage without having to take out your keys. This makes it easier for you to access your home quickly and easily, and count on it as a Backup Plan if you lost your keys and don’t have to fumble around for a set of keys.
3- Allowing Temporary Access: With myQ internet Gateway in LiftMaster Openers And Access Accessories your can simply allow one-time or daily access for anyone of your family, friends, amazon delivery, or servicemen. This smart feature is so important to homeowners because it saves a lot of time and effort on using your garage door while you are at work or having a good time out.
How to Choose the Right Garage Door Keypad
Security Features: We just talked about some of the security features that are available, we wish that there was only a keypad that has all the security technologies but that will ruin the competition, who knows maybe in the future we will find one for all. So as a garage door services company, we really recommend that you search for the best keypad with the most security features as your first concern.
Compatibility: Make sure that the keypad you choose is compatible with your existing garage door opener, so make sure to check with the manufacturer before purchasing. The universal keypad will work with the most significant openers brands .
Ease of Installation: As mentioned earlier, most keypads are easy to install, but some may require additional wiring. However, if you had the wireless keypad (which is recommended), you have only to worry about programming your keypad. If you’re not comfortable with doing the installation yourself, make sure to choose a keypad that comes with installation instructions or that can be installed by a professional. Don’t forget AAA Garage Door inc Is your local garage door, and garage door opener Authorized Dealer for most top manufactures LiftMaster, Raynor & Genie.
Additional Features: The garage door keypad should provide convenience. Backlit buttons, Weather-Resistant Cover, number of doors it can operate, and supported smartphone interface. these are additional features your should search for to complete your list of needs with your garage door keypad.
Price: Many keypads are relatively affordable, but make sure to compare prices before making a purchase. Some keypads may have additional features that may be worth the extra cost, while others may be more cost-effective with the same feature.
The Top 5 Best Garage Door Keypads Replacement for Home Security
Now that you know the benefits of a garage keypad and how to choose the right one, let’s take a look at the top 5 best garage door keypads for home security.
1- Genie GUK-R Keypad
Maybe it’s time for keypad replacement after a hard time fixing your keypad that isn’t working anymore so Genie Universal Garage Door Opener Keypad is the best replacement as a keyless entry wireless keypad system and one of the easiest keypads to install. GUK-R Keypad is else a Universal keypad that would be a good pick if you choose it as a garage door keypad replacement.
In addition, Genie GUK-R Keypad is having all the important security features like Security+, and Temporary PINs and can operate up to 3 garage doors at once.
Features
Wireless Or wired: Wireless
Universal: Yes, The Genie universal garage door opener wireless keypad is compatible with all major garage door opener brands.
Back-Lit Buttons: Yes, Genie GUK-R Has back-lit buttons that make entering your PIN quick and easy.
Temporary PIN: Yes, the ability to set a temporary PIN for your family, friends or service workers that can easily be removed.
Rolling Code Support: Yes, Compatible with rolling code and fixed code dip switch products manufactured since 1993 with working safety sensors.
How many doors operate: Genie GUK-R Keypad operates up to 3 garage door openers.
PIN Access: Enter your garage without needing to carry a key or remote with the Genie Universal wireless garage door opener keypad.
Genie Universal Wireless Keypad Programming Instructions
2- LiftMaster 878MAX Security+ Garage Door Keypad
4.8 out of 5 stars +1,862 Amazon Ratings
878MAX Wireless Keyless Entry System
878Max is Universal Keypad & supported with Security+ Feature Confidently know that every click sends a secure code to your garage door opener. Works with all LiftMaster garage or door openers from 1993 to the present that has safety sensors. This keyless entry system also features a temporary password option to grant visitors or delivery and service personnel access without giving out your code. However, this feature only works on garage door openers with a built-in radio receiver and will not work with external receivers. Installing the keypad is simple and takes only minutes, and no extra wiring is necessary due to its wireless design. 878Max keypad is known for its ease of installation and programming because of its clear instruction manual.
Features
Security Features: Security+, Temporary PIN, 1-Touch Close
Wireless Or wired: Wireless
Universal: Yes
Learn Button Color Compatibility (Learn Button Color ): Green, Orange/Red, Purple, Yellow Circle
LiftMaster 878MAX Programming Instructions
3- myQ Chamberlain Smart Garage Control
4.4 out of 5 stars +86,863 ratings
821LMC-S LiftMaster Smart Garage Control
Smart Garage Control is the most convenient replacement for your garage door keypad. MyQ Smart functions are what make these smart garage control keypads important for security and accessibility. Chamberlain Smart Garage Control has all the recommended security features in addition, to the ability to securely monitor and control all garage door openers manufactured after 1993 that use photoelectric sensors that do not shut off. You can receive alerts as emails or pop-up notifications on your smartphone device to let you know of any movement of your garage door. Else Works perfectly with Amazon Key, Home Kit & Google& iPhone assistance.
Features
Smart Features: Compatible with all Smartphone Assistant voices, Key by amazon, Android & IOS Homekit, Monitor & Control garage door, Receive Alerts & Bluetooth Low Energy integration.
How many doors to operate: Can Operate 2 Doors
Other Features
Scheduling: it allows you to securely close your garage door at your designated times
Sharing Access: You can share access with the smart myQ Guest feature for your trusted guests.
Compatible Accessories
MYQ-SGC1WLM Smart Garage Camera
825LM Remote Light Control
827LM myQ Remote LED Light
823LM Remote Light Switch
Openers Compatibility
Works with all major brands of garage door openers made after 1993 with safety sensors:
– LiftMaster, Chamberlain, Craftsman, and Raynor: 310, 315, 390, 433.30, 433.92, 434.54 MHz.
– Linear: MegaCode 318 MHz.
– Genie: Intellicode 315, 390 MHz.
– Overhead Door: CodeDodger 315, 390 MHz.
– Wayne Dalton: KeeLoq 372.5 MHz.
– Stanley: SecureCode 310 MHz.
– Xtreme Garage 303 MHz.
– Sommer: KeeLoq 310 MHz.
4- OKP-BX Overhead door garage door Wireless keypad
4.6 out of 5 stars +6,000 Amazon Ratings
Overhead door garage door keypad this keypad is wireless as the name says it’s good for all weather conditions, it has a flip cover from strong plastic which can even protect against strong UV radiation. Keypad Buttons are easy to read, and the device has led backlit buttons which ensures greater visibility. product requires 2 AAA batteries, There is an alert showing that the battery is running out and the time to change the keypad stays programmed even during a battery change. The product weighs 8 ounces and the dimensions are 7 into 1 into 3 inches
Features
Security features: Works with CodeDodger technology CodeDoger (Rolling code), auto-seek dual frequency (315/390 MHz)
How many doors it can operate: 3
Backlit buttons: Yes
Weather-Resistant Cover: Yes
Universal Keypad: Yes
OKP-BX Overhead door garage door Wireless keypad Programming Instructions
5- Marantec Wireless Keyless Entry System
4.7 out of 5 stars +22,000 Amazon ratings
Marantec Wireless Keyless Entry System is one of the best keyless keypads mainly because of its ability to operate up to 4 garage doors, in addition to all the essential security features. It’s easy to install simply by mounting it to your metal surface or wall without any wires. It comes with a spacer kit for mounting onto metal surfaces, mounting screws, 2 AAA batteries, and programming instructions for convenient access outside of the garage. Lastly, it has high durability because of its strong plastic cover which makes it a weather-resist keypad and backlit buttons for more clear visualization.
Features
Wireless keyless entry system
Keypad controls up to 4 separate garage door operators
315 MHz operating frequency with multi-bit code technology
One-button-to-close: Yes With a single button
Temporary PIN: Yes
Energy saving mode: Yes
Weather resistant
Marantec Wireless Keyless Entry System Programming Instructions
by Adam | Jan 5, 2023 | GarageDoor
Buying a new garage door is one of the choices that will last with you for years to come, providing you with all the requirements you wanted at the beginning of your choice of this garage door. You certainly heard about many types of insulated residential garage doors characterized by different insulation properties that provide you with more safety and reliability for your garage door. it’s important first to know the different types of insulation materials, which is the most effective factor that will make you buy an insulated garage door, and finally question yourself Why you should have an insulated garage door.?
Why you should have an insulated garage door?
- Energy Efficiency
- Noise Reduction
- Durability
- Security
These are the top four qualities that make you consider having an insulated residential garage door. if you live in Florida you are already familiar with their hot weather and high humidity and the insulated garage door is really beneficial at making your garage temperature control much more efficient and indeed that will be reflected in your energy consumption. We previously discussed the benefits of insulated garage doors and what materials that used in insulation and the difference each material makes in insulation quality. This information can save you the trouble of searching for them we really recommend you to read it. Here comes the role of your choice to the best of these garage doors in terms of manufacture, insulation materials, and finally, Garage Door R-Value.
R-Value is the number that reflects your garage door insulation efficiency, the higher the number, the better the garage door at insulation.
What is the R-Value
Clopay Insulated Residential Garage Doors
Clopay garage doors are one of the most popular and well-known garage door manufacturers on the market. They offer a wide variety of styles and options to choose from, so you can find the perfect door for your home. Clopay garage doors are made from high-quality materials and are built to last. They also offer a variety of features, such as energy-efficient insulated garage doors, and what really makes them special in the field is Intellicore Insulation Technology. Injecting the insulation material foam inside your garage door to expand to fill the entire structure of your garage door with multiple layers of insulation that are twice stronger and even more durable than polystyrene door sections of the same thickness results in better insulation quality up to 20.4 R-Value Which Makes Clopay garage doors one of the highest R-values in the market.
AAA Garage Door inc Is A Clopay Authorized Dealer & Full-Service Garage doors, gates, and Openers Shop in Miami-Dade & Broward County, FL.
Canyon Ridge 5-Layers
Styles: Carriage House – Plantation Shutter – Plantation Shutter – Contemporary
R-Value: 6.3 – 20.4
Layers: 5-layer steel carriage house garage doors with faux wood overlay.
Canyon Ridge 5-Layers
Coachman Collection
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: 18.4
Layers: Steel carriage house doors with 4-layer construction.
Coachman Collection Garage Door
Gallery Steel Garage Door
Gallery Garage Door-ultra-grain-oak-dark-long-panel
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: 12.9 – 18.4
Layers: Available in 3, 2 or 1-layer construction options.
Gallery Collection Garage Door Overview
Modern Steel Garage Door
Modern-Steel-Black-Garage-Door-Side-Window
Styles: Modern Flush – Modern Grooved
R-Value: 12.9 – 18.4
Layers: Available in 3, 2 or 1-layer steel and insulation construction options.
Modern Steel Overview
Classic Steel Garage Door
Premium Classic Garage Door Model 9203
Styles: Traditional
R-Value: 6.3 – 18.4
Layers: Durable steel garage doors available in 3, 2 or 1-layer construction.
Classic Steel Garage Door Overview
Raynor Insulated Residential Garage Doors
Raynor Manufacturing was established in 1944, which gave it sufficient experience to manufacture many types, models, and customization of garage doors, as well as openers and the OptiFinish program which gives the ability to choose one of 1,800 colors for their garage door, giving you the freedom to customize their garage doors to match the look of your home. Therefore, Raynor’s distinction is in the multiplicity of Series that will be important for choosing the appropriate insulated garage door for your home.
AAA Garage Door inc Is A Raynor Authorized Dealer & Full-Service Garage doors, gates, and Openers Shop in Miami-Dade & Broward County, FL. Request Estimate Now (305) 702-0113
Eden Coast Garage Door
Raynor Eden Coast Residential Garage Door
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: 18.3
Layers: 5-Layer (Steel – Insulation – Steel – Cladding – Overlay) “ polyurethane is sprayed into the door” By NeuFoam™. ( Polyurethane Insulation + Thermal Protection)
Eden Coast Garage Door
Aspen™ AP200
Aspen™ AP200LV LuxeVue
Styles: Modern
R-Value: 18
Layers: 3-Layer (Steel – Insulation – Steel) “ Polyurethane is sprayed into the door” By NeuFoam™. ( Polyurethane Insulation + Thermal Protection)
Aspen AP200 Garage Door
RockCreeke™ Carriage House Residential Garage Door
Raynor RockCreeke Carriage House Garage door
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: 13
Layers: 4-Layer (Steel – Insulation – Steel – Overlay Trim) “ polyurethane is sprayed into the door” By NeuFoam™. ( Polyurethane Insulation + Thermal Protection)
Rockcreeke Garage Door Overview
Amarr Insulated Residential Garage Doors
If you’re looking for a high-quality, insulated garage door, the Amarr brand is a great option to consider. Amarr doors are designed to provide superior energy efficiency and low-maintenance steel. They also offer excellent noise reduction properties, making them ideal for homes located near busy streets or other high-traffic areas. In addition, Amarr doors come in a variety of styles and colors to suit any home’s aesthetic.
AAA Garage Door inc Is A Amarr Authorized Dealer & Full-Service Garage doors, gates, and Openers Shop in Miami-Dade & Broward County, FL.
Olympus
Styles: Modern
R-Value: Available in Triple-layer construction with 1-3/8″ or 2″ polyurethane insulation for door R-values of 13.35 – 19.40.
Classica
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: Optional polystyrene or polyurethane insulation. R-values range from 6.64 to 13.35
Heritage Carriage House
Styles: Carriage House
R-Value: Optional 2″ polystyrene insulation. R-values range from 6.64 to 9.05
Conclusion
After we got familiar with the best that provide you with the best insulated residential garage doors in the market, we recommend the following to you.
If you want a garage door of the highest quality and the most isolated of them, start by buying Clopay garage doors.
But if you want the most economical and average insulation in terms of R-value, then Amarr is the garage door manufacturer that adds to you the possibility of budget saving and the average quality together.
Finally, if you want strong insulation, but at a moderate cost, Raynor is the perfect choice for you. Do not forget also that Raynor is not only a garage door manufacturer, but it also manufactures garage door openers. that makes you reassured about all-in-one warranty and after-sales service.
by Adam | Dec 25, 2022 | GarageDoor
As winter approaches, it’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare your garage door for cold temperatures and potential snow and ice storms. A garage door that is not properly maintained can stick in the cold weather, making it difficult to open and close. This can be a major inconvenience, especially if you need to access your garage frequently. In this blog post, we will share tips to help you winterize your garage door and avoid it sticking in cold weather.
Why Does a Garage Door Stick in Cold Weather?
When temperatures start to drop, the metal tracks and rollers on your garage door can become cold and brittle. This can cause the metal parts to become stuck together, making it difficult to open and close the garage door. Additionally, cold temperatures can cause the rubber seals around the door to become brittle, resulting in an airtight seal that makes it difficult to open the door.
Another issue that can cause a garage door to stick in cold weather is a lack of lubrication. In cold temperatures, the metal parts of the garage door can become dry and brittle, making them more likely to stick. Without proper lubrication, the parts of the garage door can freeze together, making it difficult to open and close the door.
Finally, the springs on your garage door can become tighter in cold weather, leading to a door that is difficult to open. This is because the cold weather causes the metal to contract, resulting in a tighter fit on the springs.
Check the Garage Door Temperature in Winter
To help prevent your garage door from sticking in cold weather, it’s important to check the temperature of your garage door before winter arrives. To do this, you can use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of the garage door. If the temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, then your garage door could be at risk of sticking in cold weather.
Caulking and Sealing Around the Garage Door
To help prevent the cold air from entering your garage, it’s important to inspect the caulking and sealing around the garage door. If there are any gaps or cracks in the caulking or seal, then it’s important to repair them before winter arrives. This will help ensure that cold air doesn’t enter the garage, which can cause the garage door to have more issues in cold weather.
Lubricating the Tracks and Rollers
It’s important to lubricate the tracks and rollers on your garage door to help prevent them from sticking in cold weather. The best way to do this is to use a silicone-based lubricant, as this will help to reduce friction and keep the parts of the garage door from sticking together.
Additionally, it’s important to inspect the tracks and rollers for any signs of wear or damage. If there are any signs of wear or damage, then it’s important to replace the parts before winter arrives.
Adjusting the Garage Door Springs
The springs on your garage door can become tighter in cold weather, leading the door difficult to open. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to adjust the tension on the springs before winter arrives. This will help to ensure that the springs are not too tight, which can make it difficult to open the door in cold weather. We recommend you read this blog post it will explain in detail How to adjust your garage door springs
Be careful Adjusting garage door springs requires a professional technician because springs are under high tension and releasing this tension could harm you. This step is just an informational point and Should not be done on your own. Choose AAA Garage door inc to help you adjust your garage door springs and rest at ease with our expert technicians. AAA Garage door Are A Full-Service Garage Doors & Openers Shop Serving Miami-Dade & Broward Counties for more than 12 Years.
Insulating the Garage Door
Insulating your garage door is an important step in preventing it from sticking in cold weather. Insulating the garage door will help to keep the temperature inside the garage stable, which can help to prevent the metal parts from becoming cold and brittle. Additionally, one of the biggest garage door insulation benefits is that will help to reduce the amount of cold air that enters the garage and indeed lower your electricity bills.
Cleaning and Inspecting the Weather Stripping
It’s also important to inspect the weather stripping on your garage door to make sure it is in good condition. If the weather stripping is cracked or torn, then it’s important to replace it before winter arrives. In addition, it’s important to clean the weather stripping on a regular basis to ensure that it is free of dirt and debris, which can make it more likely to stick in cold weather.
Replacing the Bottom Seal
The bottom seal on your garage door is an important part of keeping the cold air out. If the bottom seal is cracked or damaged, then it’s important to replace it before winter arrives. Additionally, it’s important to inspect the bottom seal on a regular basis to make sure it is in good condition.
Maintenance Is the Key
We always advise our customers to keep their maintenance annual schedule on time because maintenance of your garage door system is the only way to prevent any upcoming problems with your garage door or opener and prepare for weather conditions like Storms, hurricanes, or extreme cold. Some Maintenance steps are required by professional technicians for example Door Alignment, and Springs Condition but in general garage door manufacturers like Clopay Is giving their own maintenance & Care Manual to let you get familiar with the required steps you should take when performing maintenance for your garage door. Ask About Our Garage Door Maintenance Plans, While it might seem like a small issue now, little problems with your Garage opener Gear Sprocket or Opener Capacitor can cause damage to other components of your garage door unit and can lead to a breakdown later. Our Garage Door maintenance members receive regular tune–up services helping to avoid issues down the line.
Conclusion
Preparing your garage door for winter is an important step in preventing it from sticking in cold weather. By following these 10 tips, you can ensure that your garage door is properly maintained and ready for the cold winter months ahead. AAA Garage doors inc Company values your experience. They are client-oriented and care about your satisfaction. Whether you need a full installation, replacement, emergency repair or preventative maintenance. AAA Garage doors Company can help.
by Adam | Dec 20, 2022 | GarageDoor
Garage door springs are an essential part of your garage door system. They are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door and providing the force needed to open and close it. Unfortunately, they are also prone to wear and tear, and they require periodic adjustments. In this blog, we will explain how to adjust garage door springs safely and easily.
What are garage door springs?
Garage door springs are what make it possible for you to open and close your garage door with ease. They are found on both manual and automatic garage doors, and they come in two basic types: torsion and side-mounted.
Torsion springs
are a single coiled piece of metal that is mounted above the garage door on a metal shaft
Side-mounted / Extension
springs are two separate pieces of metal that are mounted to the sides of the door.
Why Adjust Garage door springs?
The purpose of garage door springs is to counterbalance the weight of the door and provide the force needed to open and close it. Unfortunately, they are prone to wear and tear and can become loose over time, which can cause the door to open or close unevenly or to become difficult for the garage door opener to open your garage door. This is why it is important to periodically adjust the springs to ensure that they are working properly and not making your garage door slam on its way down.
How do I know if my garage door springs need to be adjusted?
There are several signs that may indicate that your garage door springs need to be adjusted:
Difficulty opening or closing the door: This is one of the most common signs. If you notice that your garage door is becoming harder than before to open or close, it could be a sign that the springs need adjustment. This is because the springs help to counterbalance the weight of the door, and if they are not adjusted properly, the door may become too heavy to operate easily.
Uneven movement: If your garage door is moving unevenly, such as jerking or hesitating, this could be another indication also that the springs need adjustment. When the springs are not properly balanced, one side of the door may be heavier than the other, causing the door to move unevenly.
Rumbling noises: If you hear loud creaking, popping or banging noises when you open or close your garage door, this could be a sign that the springs need tension adjustment. These noises may be caused by loosened springs or even a totally broken springs struggling to support the weight of the door.
Misaligned door: it’s rarely to happen but sometimes your door spring is too tension and unbalanced that it could push your door out of the door track which you will notice that your garage door is sagging or misaligned. Misaligned door & Adjusting your springs is a hard job to do for average homeowner experience and may vary on how to do it right. We reccomend when you find your door out of track to what ever reason, you have to call your local garage door company because it could be from a lot of other reasons combined.
Types of Garage Door Springs – Torsion and Side Mounted/extension
As we mentioned above, there are two basic types of garage door springs: torsion and side-mounted. Torsion springs are a single coiled piece of metal that is mounted above the garage door on a metal shaft, while side-mounted springs are two separate pieces of metal that are mounted to the sides of the door.
Torsion springs are more common and can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the spring. Side-mounted springs, on the other hand, require more complicated adjustments, as they must be adjusted in pairs.
Installing, replacing, and adjusting garage door springs is a dangerous task that is best left to the experts. At garage door spring adjustment service in Miami-dade & Broward Counties, our AAA Garage doors inc team of experienced and certified professionals will be able to safely and effectively install or replace your garage door springs, ensuring that your door is properly functioning and safe to use.
How to Adjust Torsion Springs
Garage door springs are the most Adjusting torsion springs is fairly straightforward.
Tools Needed
2 Vice grips
2 Winding Bars 16 – 18 Inch Long
8 Inch Wrench
Hammer
How Many Turns to Put on Your Garage Door Springs
Before you do any adjustments to your garage door spring tension it needs first to know how many turns to put on your garage door springs. start by opening the door and observing the movement. If the door moves smoothly, the springs are likely in good condition. If the door moves erratically or seems to be stuck, the springs may be too tight or too loose, But it’s all based on your garage door height and the diameter of your drums which is a standard of 4 inches if your door is a residential garage door.
basically, The 6.6-foot garage door will require 7 turns.
The 7-foot garage door will require 7.8 turns on your springs.
The 7.6-foot Garage door will require 8 Turns on your springs.
The 8-foot garage door will require 8.8 turns on your springs.
You have to know that each turn counts when your Winding bar turns to the upper direction of the other Winding bar as the following picture explains.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to adjust your garage door springs, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions. First, make sure that the power is turned off to the garage door opener. wear safety glasses and gloves when adjusting the springs to protect your eyes and hands.
1- Open your garage door
Torsion Springs should never be adjusted with the door down. If you need to adjust your torsion springs, always do so with the door up and there is zero tension on the spring. Trying to adjust torsion springs with the door down can be extremely dangerous, and can result in serious injury or even death.
2- Use a Vice grip on the drum and the door track
Use one of the vice grip in the shaft and lean it against the wall to keep the cable from loosening while you adjust the springs. The other Vice grip on the door track under the bottom door roller locks in place and prevent your door from flying up suddenly after you adjust the springs.
Image Credit: familyhandyman
3- Use your winding bar.
Adjusting your garage door springs to increase its tension if your garage door slams too quickly or decrease its tension if not fully closing.
to know how much tension your springs needs, try to lift off your garage door a foot and a half and let it down to see if it slams that means you need to increase its tension and if it’s not closing completely that means you need to decrease its tension. keep your body away from these bars and don’t stand in front of the winding bars.
To increase spring tension put your winding bar in the winding cone and hold.
4- back off your set screws but not completely off.
5- push up one time then put your other winding bars in the winding cone and hold.
6- Repeat one more time which means you did 3 turns.
Image Credit: homedepot
7- Tap the winding bar with the Hammer to stretch the spring out from the center about 1/4 in.
Image Credit: familyhandyman
To Decrease spring tension Reverse The process of pushing up to pushing down and keep following the rest.
8- After your finish Tighten the set screws until they touch the torsion tube, Remove the Vice grip from the drum and door track.
9- Test your door the same way we tested it earlier if it works properly replug your garage door opener and lubricate the springs. ( Best Springs Lubricate is a Silicone-based lubricant).
How to Adjust Side-Mount Springs
Tools Needed
- Sturdy ladder
- C-clamp
- Adjustable wrench
- Masking tape or marker
1- Open your garage door completely
As we mentioned before never adjust your garage door springs while your door is closed because that puts a lot of tension on your garage door spring so keep your garage door completely open.
2- Put your C-clamp
Put the C-clamp under the garage door bottom roller to ensure the garage door is in place.
3- Deattach the spring Hook
The spring hook is that it is responsible for keeping the tension in the spring. After you have taken it out, you will be able to move it to a higher or lower hole to raise or lower the tension. When attempting to take out the spring hook, you will observe that a bigger hook is securing it to the track hanger. This larger hook, in turn, is held in its spot with a nut. Use the adjustable wrench to remove the nut and the spring hook.
4- Adjust the spring tension
Adjust the tension of your springs by moving the hook to a different hole on the track hanger. If your door isn’t closing fully, is difficult to close, or opens too quickly, you can try fixing it by hooking the spring onto a lower hole on the track hanger. This will reduce the length of the spring and the tension as well.
If your door isn’t closing properly, is difficult to close, or opens too quickly, you can try adjusting the tension on the door by hooking the spring onto a lower hole on the track hanger. This will reduce the length of the spring and the tension on it, which may fix the problem.
If your door is difficult to open or closes too quickly, you can try increasing the tension by hooking the spring onto a higher hole on the track hanger. This will stretch the spring and increase the tension on it, which may fix the problem.
If your door isn’t closing evenly, you can try adjusting the spring only on the side where there is a gap. This may fix the problem.
5- After you finish Test your door if it’s balanced and springs correctly adjusted.
6- Lubricate the springs. ( Best Springs Lubricate is a Silicone-based lubricant).
Inspecting Your Garage Door Springs
Inspecting your garage door springs and garage door, in general, is an important part of ensuring that they are in good working order. Make sure to inspect & Maintenance them periodically for signs of wear and tear, such as corrosion or fraying. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, it is important to replace or repair the springs as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs. You may want to read some of our tips on how maintenance your garage door
For expertise that works for your absolute convenience, just give AAA Garage Door a call. Our team provides comprehensive garage door solutions all over Miami-Dade County, FL. From new residential garage door installations to replacements and repairs, we apply the most innovative technologies and unparalleled skill to ensure your garage doors are properly handled. When your garage door springs require replacing or you need a low-cost answer for jammed garage openers, AAA Garage Door will serve with excellence and deliver outstanding results you can certainly rely on. We carry A huge variety of approved Hurricane garage doors.
Conclusion
Adjust garage door springs are an important part of ensuring that your garage door is in good working order. Torsion springs are fairly easy to adjust, while side-mounted springs require more complicated adjustments. Before attempting to adjust your garage door springs, but most importantly, make sure to take the necessary safety precautions. Additionally, it is important to inspect the springs periodically for signs of wear and tear, and to make sure that they are properly lubricated. Finally, if you are unsure of how to adjust the springs, it is best to call a professional for assistance. You can call AAA Garage Doors professionals at any time of the day and get the high qualitative garage door spring adjustment with our garage door repair services in Miami-Dade & Broward Counties or Call Us Anytime (305) 702-0113.
