How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Garage Door?

How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Garage Door?

After years and years of use, you may find your garage door needs to be replaced. This entryway is likely one you use every day, whether to enter your home, park your cars or use your garage as a separate functional space. Over time, wear and tear and general use can lead to issues that may require you to replace the entire garage door.

Below, learn more about garage door replacement and how often you can expect to replace your garage door as a homeowner.

When Should You Replace Your Garage Door?

While your garage door may need some maintenance and a spring or roller replaced every now and then, the door itself is a sturdy and reliable feature of your home, so you shouldn’t have to replace it frequently. A garage door can last 15 to 30 years before needing replacing, with some standing strong for upwards of 50 years.

When the time does come to replace your garage door, you’ll need to know the signs, so you can get your garage door replaced quickly. Here are the top signs of damage and decay that suggest it’s time for a new garage door:

• Slow opening times: It should only take seconds for your garage door to open after pressing the button. While waiting an extra few seconds for your door to open is acceptable, it might be a sign of underlying damage, especially if the delay gets longer. There are a number of reasons for your garage door opening too slowly, like the remote, faulty rollers or broken opener cords.
• Sagging: A sagging door may be a result of the pulley being out of alignment. If your garage door snaps or slams open, it means it’s gone off-balance. A new garage door might be your best option if this keeps happening.
• Noisy operation: Squeaking means you must lubricate your door, but rattling and popping noises are signs of damage or decay. Other unusual sounds are grinding, banging and rumbling. A loud garage door can be disruptive for you and your neighbors and likely indicates that a repair is needed. Sometimes, it’s more cost-effective to replace the door than continuously pay for repairs.
• Off-track door: A garage door can dislodge itself from its tracks or rollers while moving. When this happens, it may start to malfunction or open unevenly. If this keeps happening, then your door may need replacing.
• Rising electricity bill: Garage doors lose their insulation as they age, which means they allow more cold air in and let more warm air out. If your electricity bill is higher than usual, it may be from your garage door’s worn insulation and weather sealing. Replacing the door is easier and potentially more cost-effective than reinsulating it.

If you notice any of the above signs or other indicators that may signal your garage door could need replacing, contact a professional garage door installer to start the process, so you can go back to using your garage as usual quickly.

What Are the Benefits of Replacing Your Garage Door?

Replacing your old garage door with a new one can bring multiple benefits, such as: 

• Safety and security: A new door is better for your home’s safety and security. New garage doors can have additional safety precautions like keypad locks that can only be opened with a password or smartphone.
• Curb appeal: Your garage door is a noticeable feature of your house. Upgrading your garage door can significantly impact the appearance of your property.
• Higher resale value: A new garage door might increase your home’s resale value because of the benefits it can bring.
• Less maintenance: A new garage door requires less maintenance than an old one, so you won’t have to spend money or time on frequent repairs.

How Can You Make Your Garage Door Last Longer?

The life span of your garage door depends on many factors, including the material it’s made of, its quality and how often it’s maintained. There are several steps you can take to extend the life span of your garage door:

• Prevent wear and tear: Several moving parts help your garage door function properly. Springs, cables, tracks, hinges and rollers are all susceptible to wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance of these parts can make your garage door last longer, so try not to neglect making small repairs when they’re needed.
• Balance-test your door: Ensuring your door is properly balanced is a vital part of its operation. An imbalanced garage door’s springs and opener will receive more wear and tear. Have a professional test the balance of your garage door every year.
• Use weatherstripping: Your garage door affects your home’s security, convenience and heat retention. It’s always exposed to the elements, and over time, that can lead to a lot of damage. By weatherstripping your door, you’ll keep it protected and keep it functional for longer.
• Ensure ventilation: Without proper ventilation, moisture can build up and lead to mold, rust, and mildew, which can damage your garage door and its components. Windows in your garage and vents allow for air circulation that will help prevent moisture and dampness from affecting your door.
• Hire a professional: When in doubt, it’s always best to call an expert. Hiring a professional saves you time and money, ensuring the job happens correctly the first time. A professional has the knowledge and experience to keep your garage door operating as it should, can find issues before they escalate and help you reduce the effects of wear and tear.

Halo Overhead Doors Offers Premier Garage Door Replacement Services

Your garage door adds a lot of value to your home, both functionally and visually. Taking the time to maintain your door and trusting the right supplier for a new garage door is the key to keeping your garage door at its best for decades.

Halo Overhead Doors offers reliable garage door replacement and maintenance services throughout the Houston area. Contact our team to learn more about our services and offerings.

Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors

Upgrading your garage door is an excellent home improvement project with various benefits. Deciding on a new garage door can be tricky, so we’ve compiled a complete overview of the advantages of installing an insulated garage door to help you learn if it’s a good fit for you. 

Pros and Cons of Insulated Garage Doors

Each type of garage door has unique upsides and downsides, including insulated garage doors. It’s always worth considering these before buying a new door. To effectively weigh the assets and potential liabilities, start by thinking about your wants and needs. 

Consider what aspects are non-negotiable and which features you are willing to compromise on. Do you have a specific design in mind? Do you have kids or pets that may damage your garage door? What do you store in your garage? These are all questions to get you thinking about what your ideal garage door will look like and what features it will have. 

Advantages of Insulated Garage Doors

Insulated garage doors are a popular choice among homeowners for a reason. Various benefits come with installing an insulated garage door. From energy efficiency to sound absorbency, learn more about the advantages of insulated garage doors below. 

Saves Energy

As the name suggests, an insulated garage door lets you maintain your desired temperature all year long. Attached garages are a significant culprit in heating or cooling loss. Air can escape or enter through your garage, forcing your HVAC system into overdrive to maintain your requested temperature. 

With an insulated garage door, you can avoid this constant temperature fluctuation. By keeping warm or cool air inside your garage, you can use less energy to maintain your desired temperature. Of course, you’ll also have lower energy bills. Insulated garage doors create an energy-efficient garage that keeps your home and belongings at a comfortable temperature for a fraction of the energy costs. 

Added Durability

The insulation that regulates your garage temperature also acts as a thick protective layer that increases your garage door’s durability. As a result, your garage door is more impact- and shock-resistant. An insulated garage door can easily handle the daily wear and tear of opening and closing. 

Insulation keeps the door in excellent shape, but it also helps the garage door opener function correctly by keeping it at an ideal temperature. Thanks to an insulated garage door, the motor and any moving parts can function even in extreme weather. 

Increased Home Value

Garage doors offer one of the highest returns on investment for home improvement projects. A new garage door improves your home’s curb appeal while increasing your home’s functionality. Installing a new insulated garage door lets you change or enhance your home’s exterior design. Select a modern-style insulated garage door to update your home’s look, or pick something that coordinates with your current aesthetic. Either way, a new garage door makes your home look put together. 

While potential buyers look for aesthetic value, they also value homes with highly functional appliances — garage doors included. New garage doors experience fewer issues and maintenance needs than older models. Homeowners will also appreciate that a brand-new garage door will last them a long time. An older garage door will likely need a replacement someday soon, which is a task some potential buyers may want to avoid. 

A new insulated garage door will be even more appealing because buyers will understand the energy savings they’ll benefit from. As a result, you can expect to see your home sell for a higher amount than it would have without the insulated door. 

Sound Absorbency

Insulated garage doors have a thick layer of insulation that can decrease noise. This insulation can absorb distracting or unwanted outside noise, such as traffic, barking dogs or lawnmowers. It can also minimize any noise coming from inside the garage. So, you can work with your tools, listen to music or host a gathering without worrying about bothering your neighbors.

Additionally, the added insulation will help your garage door operate more quietly. The insulation absorbs more operating noises, so you can open your garage door late at night or early in the morning without disrupting sleeping family members in your house. 

Disadvantages of Insulated Garage Doors

While insulated garage doors provide multiple advantages to homeowners, no garage door is perfect. Before installing an insulated garage door, review the following disadvantages below.

More Expensive

Since insulated garage doors have more benefits, they will cost more upfront. Even the most affordable insulated garage door will still have a higher price tag than any uninsulated option. However, while there is more of an initial investment, your insulated garage door can save you money in the long run by lowering your energy bills and increasing your home’s value.

Ineffective When Left Open

When left open, an insulated garage door is no different from an uninsulated one. An insulated garage door cannot help regulate your garage’s temperature if you leave it open for extended periods. For your garage door to be effective, you need to keep it closed. If you frequently keep your garage door open, an insulated garage door may not be the best fit for you. 

Install an Insulated Garage Door Today 

Start reaping the benefits of an insulated garage door and schedule an insulation today. At Halo Overhead Doors, we offer many garage door styles, so you can always find a door that fits your design taste and preferences. Plus, our clients also enjoy extended warranties and 0% financing options.

Our team of experts is ready and eager to help you find the perfect insulated garage door for your home. Use our online form and contact us today for a free estimate or stop by our beautiful showroom to speak to an expert in person. 

Maintenance Tips for Commercial Garage Doors in Houston

Your garage door is an essential part of your everyday routine as a business. You have to rely on a quick exit and entrance to deliver goods, offer reliable services and keep up productivity. You also trust your door to keep valuable parts, machinery, products and staff safe. 

Your garage will always need a little bit of maintenance throughout the year to keep it running. From cleaning the tracks to lubricating the rollers, you’ll need to inspect your door and make sure it’s working correctly. If you’re experiencing drafts, hear startling noises or your door is reaching the end of its lifespan, you may need to replace your door and start fresh with a new one. 

There are many common problems when it comes to garage doors. Thankfully, we have some commercial garage door maintenance tips that can help you keep your door running smoothly so you can focus on what drives your business.

Tighten the Bolts

After years of consecutive use, your bolts will show signs of wear and start to loosen. Businesses may use their garage doors multiple times a day as staff members clock in, clock out or leave for a scheduled service. All of that opening and closing takes a toll on the pieces that keep your door moving. 

You should check the bolts on your hinges, brackets and spring plates. The bolts on your hinges may have widened the holes that keep them in place after a lot of use, and if you notice this, you should replace the screws with ones that will allow for a tighter fit. When you check the screw on your brackets, you should also ensure that the tracking system is level so your door won’t become misaligned. 

Lubricate Moving Parts

Keeping your door lubricated will help it run smoothly and extend its lifetime. You’ll want first to remove any dirt or buildup that you find is in the way of moving parts. You should plan to lubricate your door about twice a year, but you may want to add more if you use your door more frequently. 

You may find rust on your springs, which you should remove as soon as possible so they don’t snap. Your torsion or extension springs need special attention because these are the parts that open and close your door. If your door is snapping shut or struggling to open, it’s probably time to get these replaced. 

You should never try to replace springs on your own because they can become projectile when they break and cause injuries to yourself or staff and damage vehicles and equipment. It’s always best to contact a professional if you think you need to replace your garage door springs.

Check for Damages

It’s always a good idea to look for damage when you perform your garage door inspections. As you examine your door, bring some cleaning supplies and give everything a good wipe down. Cleaning debris will help you spot any cracks, bends or other damages in places where there’s excessive dirt. It’s essential that you remove any buildup that you find in the tracks because this can prevent your door from opening and closing smoothly. 

Some damages will only worsen if you don’t fix them and affect other parts of your door. For instance, the rollers aid in moving your door quietly, and when these pieces are worn or broken, the rest of the unit will have to work harder to get your door to the right place. This will create a screeching sound and put a lot of strain on those other parts and pieces, leading them to break. Some pieces you may be able to replace on your own, but others could cause injury, so you should hire a professional to service those parts.

Look for Rust

Metal is prone to rust, which can make your door less attractive and cause future door problems. Rust makes metal weaker and can create holes if you don’t remove it. Additionally, rust on moving parts can cause your door to get stuck when you try to open or close it. If you don’t give your door proper maintenance, it won’t last as long as you need. Areas with humid air can cause rust to appear sooner than others, so you should check for this more often. 

While modern doors are more resistant to rust, older steel doors are especially susceptible to rust, and you should contact a professional to take care of your rust issue before a larger one develops. You may decide to replace your door instead of getting it repaired, but an experienced technician will be able to inspect your door and tell you the best course of action. 

Check the Insulation

You want to ensure that your door is energy-efficient, especially in very hot or cold weather. If your team works in the garage, it’s essential that they can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. First, you should evaluate the door’s weatherstripping to determine if it’s worn. The seals on your door should prevent dirt, air, insects and moisture from coming under the door. If it’s worn, you should replace it. 

However, if you’re still seeing high energy bills or feel a draft when the door is closed, you may want to get your door replaced. Modern doors have a layer of insulation that keeps the inside of your garage safe from the elements, and they tend to last longer with an added layer of protection. 

Using an insulated door will reduce the chances that air and energy escape and keep your team and equipment safe from the weather. Additionally, insulated doors add a layer of protection from break-ins and can keep your equipment and property safer. 

Contact HALO Overhead Doors for Garage Door Repairs

HALO Overhead Doors is a family-owned garage door business that has been operating since 1991. We believe each door is an opportunity to serve, and our team is passionate about providing you with solutions that fit your budget and preferences.

We know you want to protect your business, property and staff, and we have a large selection of doors to meet your needs. Every one of our team members has five or more years of experience in the industry and knows how to handle any problem you have. 

HALO provides tough doors and loyal service. Schedule a service or request an estimate with HALO Overhead Doors. Whether you need a new door or maintenance on your current one, we’ve got you covered. 

How Do I Fix the Rollers on My Garage Door?

Garage rollers are an essential part of your garage door. When they age or break, your garage door can become inoperable. 

Read on to learn more about the various types of garage door rollers, including how to know if your garage door rollers are bad, how to fix them and when you should replace them. 

What Are Garage Rollers?

Garage rollers are the small wheels on your garage door. The wheels fit into tracks on either side of the door, enabling it to move up and down.

These wheels often contain ball bearings to reduce friction, letting the rollers move more smoothly and quietly. The wheels attach to a shaft that fits into a steel bracket on the garage door. When they’re working correctly, these rollers move along the tracks and guide your garage door up and down. 

Types of Garage Door Rollers

Garage rollers come in a variety of materials, each with advantages and disadvantages: 

• Plastic rollers: Made of hard plastic, these basic rollers are inexpensive and often come with new garage doors. However, they typically only last a couple of years.
• Steel rollers: Durable and cost-efficient, steel rollers are a solid step up from hard plastic. However, they’re often noisier than other rollers and need regular lubrication. Rust may also be a concern if they’ll be operating in a damp environment.
• Nylon rollers: While more expensive than either plastic or steel, nylon rollers have become a popular choice. Their highly durable nylon is quieter and more weather-resistant than steel and these rollers require very little maintenance overall.

Knowing the type of garage door roller you have will be very helpful when you need to fix or replace them. You’ll be able to estimate how long your rollers will last and how frequently you’ll need to maintain them.  

How Often Should Garage Door Rollers Be Replaced?

How often you change your garage door rollers largely depends on the type of rollers you have. While basic plastic rollers usually only last a couple of years, steel rollers and nylon rollers can last a long time. 

The life of your rollers also depends on the average number of daily cycles your garage door goes through, or how many times it opens and closes on a daily basis. When buying garage door rollers, you can measure their longevity by their cycle ratings. While you’ll likely have to estimate your average daily cycles, this rating can still give you a good idea of how long the rollers should last. 

How Do I Know If I Need New Garage Door Rollers? 

Once you know what to look for, you’ll find there are a variety of other signs that can let you know it’s time to replace your rollers:

• Old age: One of the easiest ways to know if it’s time to replace your garage door rollers is to check the cycle rating. If you remember when you bought them, this rating will give you an idea of whether or not your rollers are approaching the end of their lifecycles. 
• Noisiness: If you hear a constant grinding, scraping or screeching noise, it may be a sign that you need to replace your garage door rollers. You may just need to add some lubrication if you have steel rollers, while plastic or nylon rollers may be on their last legs. 
• Shaking: Rusted garage door rollers can cause your garage door to vibrate and shake as it opens. Check the tracks for signs of rust, especially if you have steel rollers.
• Slow operations: Even the most durable materials can only last so long. General wear can make your garage door rollers less effective, making your garage door open more slowly than usual. 
• Visible signs of wear: Make sure you inspect your garage door rollers every so often for signs of damage. Check for cracking and chipping, loose parts and any broken seals on the rollers. Your garage door is made up of a lot of intricate parts — it’s important to check every once in a while to make everything is still intact. 

How to Replace Garage Door Rollers 

You’ve spotted one of the signs above, and it’s time to consider a replacement. Rather than tackling the job yourself, it’s best to contact a professional service for any significant garage door roller repairs and replacements. While you may think that a DIY approach could save you some money, there are many advantages to using a service, including:

• Safety: One of the biggest benefits of a professional service is safety. There are many moving parts on a garage door — if you’re not sure what you’re doing, you could be risking injury. Hiring a professional will help you stay protected. 
• Quality: With a professional service, you’ll be getting garage door technicians with years of experience in the industry. They’ve done countless replacement jobs and know exactly what they’re doing. You’ll be able to trust the quality of the final product. 
• Reliability: Although you may save money by doing a repair or replacement yourself, you also might lack the reliability that a professional service would give you. Invest in a service to get expertise that you can rely on for years. 

Garage doors can present multiple dangers when they’re not operating correctly, so it’s important to find someone who has the training and experience to replace your rollers safely. However, you still have several ways to determine if your rollers need repairs or a complete replacement. 

1. Examine Your Rollers 

When you’re experiencing those telling signs of garage door roller wear, get up close and inspect them. Look for any loose or chipping parts, scratch marks or signs of rust. Clear away debris, lubricate all moving parts and then test the door again.

2. Tighten Parts 

As your garage door moves up and down, the vibrations can loosen the bolts, nuts and screws that hold its parts together. Perform a thorough check to see if any have come loose.

If you do notice any loose bolts or screws, you can get a screwdriver and tighten these parts. Sometimes simple tightening can do the trick. 

3. Check Springs and Chain 

You can also inspect other parts of your garage door like the springs and chain to determine where the problem originates. While the rollers could be causing noisiness and shaking, it’s best to investigate every possibility. Improper track alignment or an old chain could be complicating your garage door operations. 

Contact Halo Overhead Doors Today 

Finding a professional service is the way to go when you need a garage door repair or replacement. When you need a company you can trust, Halo Overhead Door is there to help. We’re a family-owned company that’s been in business since 1991. We offer a wide selection of residential and commercial garage doors as well as a variety of services. 

Work with us to find a quality garage door or get your door back in working order. Contact us today! 

When It’s Time to Call in the Professionals for Garage Door Service

Professional garage door inspections and maintenance can extend your garage door’s lifespan and ensure it’s functioning properly and safely. You might be wondering how often you should have a technician come out and perform routine garage door service. Keep on reading to find out!

Standard Garage Door Maintenance Schedule

If you’re not experiencing issues with your garage door, preventative maintenance is recommended once annually for normal use. If you use your garage door frequently, you might require more frequent maintenance or servicing. Having said that, if you have any safety concerns or suspect any problems with your garage door, stop using it and have a professional come out and inspect it.

Signs you Need Garage Door Service Now

Below is a list of signs that you should schedule an appointment now versus waiting for your regularly scheduled garage door maintenance appointment.

1. Sagging Sections

Check and test your garage door’s balance at least once a year. This will involve you disconnecting the door’s opener and operating the door manually. Now, bring the garage door down about halfway and leave it like that. The door should not continue rising or falling. If it does, there’s something wrong with your door. Don’t check or attempt to repair any of the door’s components on your own, particularly if you’re inexperienced because this could be dangerous.

2. Slow Response Time

Check to see how long your garage door takes to respond to your commands. Usually, it shouldn’t take more than a second or two for it to open or close after you press the opener. Once you press the opener, your door should begin opening or closing smoothly without any delay or hitching. If you notice there’s a delay in its operation, it might indicate a problem with either the opener or the door. You should have a garage door technician come out and inspect it.

3. Malfunctioning Photo-Eye

The photo-eye is responsible for keeping your door from closing if something is blocking the infrared beams or an object is passing through. They’re essential because they reduce the risk of accidents;  however, a photo-eye can be sensitive and if not lined up quite right, it could keep your door from closing. Another way the photo-eye could be malfunctioning is if there is dirt and/or debris on the eye. If you’ve lined up the photo-eye and you’ve cleaned any dirt and debris off it and it’s still malfunctioning, call in a professional.

4. Roller Issues

The rollers keep the door running up and down its track smoothly. But, rollers can become:

• Broken
• Bent
• Worn

This can make your garage door noisy or stop it from functioning altogether. It can also cause bent hinges. You would need a roller replacement garage door repair in this case.

5. Broken Cables

The pulley and cable system of your garage door’s operation is a complex system. The cables can break off the pulleys. Fixing this yourself, even though it’s an inexpensive job, is complicated and dangerous and isn’t recommended.

Keep in mind, your garage door is the heaviest and largest moving part of your house. Any type of repair or service to it can be potentially dangerous. It’s never recommended that you try any repairs yourself. If you’re in need of any type of garage door service, contact Halo Overhead Doors today!