Maintenance Tips for Commercial Garage Doors in Houston

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. 

3 Tips for a Quieter Garage Door

While a garage door can never be completely silent when it’s operating, it should never sound excessively loud or grating. If yours is frequently disturbing your entire household as you come and go, your garage door might need some TLC.

Check out these three helpful tips on how to make your garage door much quieter — and likely safer and more functional to boot.

1. Check Your Garage Door Parts

Your garage door is made up of rollers and tracks designed to make it operate as smoothly and quietly as possible. When these metal parts are loose, worn, misaligned or damaged, they can create an annoying grating sound as they move and scrape against each other. You can easily tighten any loose nuts in the track by using a socket or adjustable wrench. Just keep in mind that you never want to overtighten any of these parts.

Next, make sure all the parts are working as they should. For example, as their name suggests, rollers need to actually roll and not slide along the tracks. Replace any worn and damaged parts to reduce excessive garage door noise. Be sure to have a professional handle the rollers in the bottom brackets as well as any adjustments required for the nuts and bolts on the springs or drums — these fixes can be more involved and potentially dangerous.

2. Lubricate the Metal 

Any metal parts in your garage door should be lubricated regularly. Doing so once or twice a year will help to reduce noise. While there’s a variety of lubricants to choose from, always ensure that the one you choose is made specifically for metal use. You’ll want to focus on a few specific areas when lubricating, including the:

• Rollers
• Hinges
• Tracks
• Springs
• Panel hinges
• Chain on the chain assembly

Following the lubrication process, gently wipe all areas with a rag to remove any excess material.

3. Make a Few Simple Swaps

If after you’ve tightened, adjusted and lubricated the metal you’re still not happy with the amount of noise your garage door is making, you can try some more permanent changes to reduce noise. Consider:

• Changing steel rollers to nylon rollers: This change will reduce noise and make the entire operation smoother.
• Choosing a rubber belt reinforced with metal: Instead of the typical steel chain used in garage doors, a rubber belt will help buffer sound.
• Adding a noise isolator system: This system will cut out any vibrations that are noisily occurring between the engine and metal support found on your ceiling beams.

Let Us Know How We Can Help

If while you’re working and fixing up your garage door you find that you need some extra help, remember that Halo Overhead Doors offers free estimates and full service. Whether you need a part maintained or repaired or require some help picking out a new garage door to replace or refresh your current one, the team will work with you to create a customized solution.

5 Best Garage Heating Tips

While it may be a convenient storage space for vehicles, yard equipment and tools, your garage is probably not the warmest place in your house — especially during the winter. With the lack of insulation and concrete flooring, garages are usually not designed with warmth in mind.

As more and more garages are being transformed into workshops and even living spaces, knowing the best ways to heat your garage in the winter is key to your comfort. Here are five ways you can make your garage a toasty and welcoming environment.

1. Add a Heater

A few different heating options work effectively in garages:

• Forced air heater: Offers powerful heat and can be mounted on the ceiling
• Combustion space heater: Uses fuel like kerosene or propane to heat the space
• Infrared heater: Radiates heat quietly and evenly

2. Seal out Drafts

Garages have a few different spots where drafts are common. Before getting started, take a look throughout your garage to see if there’s any old weatherstripping. Over time, it can become worn or cracked, making it ineffective at keeping the space warm. Remove and replace any old weatherstripping, or get ready to add some new sealants.

When you’re sealing out drafts, pay close attention to three main areas: the garage door frames, gaskets and windows. First, look at your garage door frames. Frigid air can easily enter all around your garage door if it’s not sealed tightly. You can use an integrated weatherstrip seal for a simple solution. Next, move on to the gaskets. This is the area at the bottom of your garage door, and it’s crucial to check because cold air can commonly slip under the gaskets when they’re old and worn.

While not all garages have windows, if yours does, remember that adding a shrink-type film to the inside is a great way to seal out those pesky drafts.

3. Insulate the Garage Door

Your garage door takes up a significant portion of your garage, so you want it to be a strong barrier against the cold. One of the most effective and affordable ways of heating your garage in the winter is to insulate the garage door and add weatherstripping. Be sure any cracks and crannies are sealed up as well.

4. Insulate the Garage Walls

If your garage is not finished or just has some sheathing and siding covering the wall studs, adding insulation will be a great solution for your chilly space. You’ll want to make sure fiberglass batt insulation is added in each stud space. Following that, you can insulate the space further by adding drywall panels, plywood sheets or oriented strand boards (OSB).

5. Add Radiant Heat

If you’re in the process of building your home or replacing your floor, adding radiant heat, which essentially comes from tubes of hot water placed under the concrete floor, is a great permanent solution. Radiant heat is effective at heating a garage evenly by using infrared radiation.

Need More Help?

If you’re looking to replace your existing garage door or need it serviced before or during winter for maximum warmth, the team at Halo Overhead Door is ready to help. We offer a large showroom of all the leading major brands as well as customized solutions. Contact us today and let us know how we can serve you!

Six Places in Your Home Where You’re Losing Energy

Did you know your home can lose between 25 to 40 of its cooling and heating energy because of air leaks?

When homeowners think of “energy efficiency,” they often think about things like solar panels, better light bulbs and turning off the lights when they leave a room. All those things do help. In fact, reducing the amount of energy consumed in your home decreases the average monthly cost of utilities, reduces pollution and keeps your home at a more comfortable temperature.

But, there’s more to an energy-efficient home than a few lightbulbs. 

Making your home energy efficient means finding ways to help your home’s existing systems to operate efficiently during each season. Unfortunately, a homeowner’s efforts to increase their home energy efficiency can often be hampered by pesky air leaks, gaps and holes in areas of the home. These let air pass in and out of the house and negatively impact a home’s temperature.

How to Tell Where Your House is Losing Heat

One important step toward reducing the amount of energy you consume in your home is to identify air leaks. Detecting and correcting air leaks is essential for preventing heat loss and improving energy efficiency in any home. Heat loss can be a huge drain on your home’s energy efficiency because it forces your home’s systems to work harder to compensate. A homeowner could easily assume their heater isn’t working properly when, in fact, leaks are causing the temperature in the home to remain below what is desired.

There are two primary ways to identify where your house is losing heat from air leaks:

1. Visual Inspection

Visual inspection has two parts: interior and exterior. To complete a visual inspection of your home, you’ll want to make sure you thoroughly inspect both areas. 

When you inspect the exterior of your home, pay close attention to any place where two different materials meet, including corners, the areas around faucets, the convergence between the foundation and the home’s exterior walls. You’ll also want to check the place where your home’s siding and chimney comes together.

Inside, you’ll want to follow the same rule of thumb and thoroughly inspect anywhere two materials come together, including window and door frames, electrical outlets, baseboards, fireplace dampers, fans and vents, cable television outlets, phone jacks, door frames and more.

2. Building Pressurization Test

If you suspect an air leak, but you can’t identify it with a visual inspection, a building pressurization test should be your next step. When the pressure in a room isn’t balanced correctly — which is ideally what a good heating and/or cooling system should do — the temperatures in the room will be off.

For example, if the pressure in a room is too low, that means interior air is being drawn outside through a leak. If the pressure is too high, then exterior air is finding its way into your house and you are losing energy.

What Are Some Areas of Your Home Where Energy Might Be Lost?

Wondering where the air leaks are in your home? Air leaks can be in all sorts of places around your home. It can be challenging to identify them if you aren’t sure where to start, but typically there are five primary places where leaks occur. Knowing where these places are can help you quickly identify and correct a leak as soon as possible.

1. Walls

Insulation within your walls creates a barrier to air flowing in and out of your house. That means it keeps warm air inside during winter and blocks heat from coming inside during the summer months. If you don’t have proper insulation inside your walls, they won’t be able to adequately prevent air from entering spaces it doesn’t belong.

How to Fix It

If your walls don’t have insulation at all, and your walls are your typical stud walls, applying blown-in insulation can make a big difference in preventing heat loss. If you already have existing insulation, it may not be doing its job. Consider upgrading your insulation, especially in your attic space — which can have a big impact on your home’s overall temperatures. It’s the most common place for air leaks to occur.

There are three common materials for insulation you’ll find on the market today: foam, fiberglass and cellulose. On their own, none of these is necessarily better than another. However, their effectiveness comes down to how well they are installed. To ensure maximum efficiency, it’s essential to hire a contractor who is experienced in installing insulation and will use an infrared camera before and after installation to identify any empty spaces where insulation is missing or is not thick enough.

2. Outlets

Many homeowners don’t realize their electrical outlets are a potential source of leaks around their home. These items are so small and so common that it’s easy to overlook their potential to impact your home’s efficiency. Outlets are actually a significant potential source for leaks, though, because they are cut into the wall of your home. Both interior and exterior outlets have the potential to allow air through the tiniest of cuts.

Think of it this way — if you have six electrical boxes on your ceiling, each with a 1/8″ gap around it, that’s the same as having a 4″ hole in your ceiling. That’s a lot of space for air to leak through!

How to Fix It

One way to seal electrical outlets is to place a foam gasket between the outlet plate and the switch. Unfortunately, these don’t always seal as they should, and air leaks continue to happen. The best way to ensure your outlets are properly sealed and able to prevent air leaks is to seal ceiling boxes and gaps themselves. The gaps around wall-mounted boxes can be sealed with a standard caulk. For ceiling boxes, you’ll want to opt for fire-blocking foam or caulk. The fire blocking properties of this are important because, in the event of a fire, the caulk or foam will swell to maintain the seal, rather than melting and creating an air flow that can actually feed a fire.

If you have recessed wall boxes — ones set back into your drywall — you can purchase a box extender to attach to the existing box making it easier to seal.

3. Pipes/Wires

One place you might not think to inspect for air leaks is the space around your pipes and wires. Because pipes and wires come through holes that are cut in walls and flooring, however, there is always the potential for even a small gap to transfer outside air in and vice versa. This can also be a problem because these gaps can allow moisture-heavy air into your home where it can condense and create moisture issues.

How to Fix It

Ideally, the company or person who built your home should have sealed the pipes when they were installed. Some pipes are sealed inside flooring or drywall, or even behind a shower or tub. If you suspect a leak behind your drywall, you’ll want to call in a professional to evaluate the situation and help you determine a good solution. If you find a leak around exposed pipes, though — such as those under your kitchen sink — you can easily seal the gap yourself using caulk or a canned foam spray.

If you’re about to undertake a kitchen or bathroom remodel, this is the perfect time to address potential air leaks around pipes and wires.

4. Windows

Windows are a huge source of potential air leaks and energy loss in the home, especially if your home’s windows are older. Many homeowners assume that if their windows are leaking, then it must be time for replacements, but that isn’t always true. If you live in an older home with single glazed windows, then the problem may be that they just aren’t effective barriers between your home and the outdoors.

In that case, purchasing Energy Star-rated windows will give you the best return on investment. However, replacing windows can be an expensive undertaking that should only be done after you have exhausted other options.

How to Fix It

If you aren’t in the market for new windows, but they’re causing problems, then it’s time to improve the seal around them. Replacing — or adding — weatherstripping and caulking around the frame can do a lot to reduce potential sources of leaks. There are a number of products on the market designed to help homeowners correct this problem on their own.

In some cases, adding storm windows over top of single glazed windows may be an option. Storm windows are a removable glass panel that can be placed over existing windows to block extreme temperatures, especially cold. If you suspect that your single glazed windows are the source of air leaks, it’s best to consult with a contractor or a company who specializes in windows to determine the most cost-effective way to improve the efficiency of your windows.

In cases where existing windows have damage to the glass or the frame around them, repairing the damage by filling in cracks and replacing broken pieces can also help to resolve air leaks.

5. Doors

The framing around your door can be a big source of air leaks, as can your door itself. If you have a wooden door that expands when it’s hot and shrinks when it’s cold, the door itself might not fit properly into the frame. Or, the frame may have some gaps causing leaks around it. In either case, this can cause problems for homeowners.

Doors are one of the many items a homeowner can check with a building pressurization test or visual inspection. In fact, it’s easy to inspect a door frame for air leaks because you can simply hold a stick of incense up to a closed door and watch for movement in the smoke. You can also look for gaps of light that might be visible between the door and frame.

How to Fix It

In some cases, it might be time for a new door. But, in most cases, just as with windows, homeowners can take steps on their own to repair air leaks around the doorways. When you identify the places air leaks occur, you can note what kind of fix they will require. In some cases, you may need to install new weatherstripping on the door. In other cases, homeowners can use caulk or sealant to fill small gaps that have occurred.

6. Garage

Many people don’t consider their garage to be part of their home’s living space, so it is often overlooked as a potential source of air leaks. The truth is that your garage’s energy efficiency has a direct impact on the rest of your home. In fact, the more efficient your garage is, the lower your home’s overall carbon footprint will be. In other words, if you want your home to be more energy-efficient, it’s important to spend time making sure your garage lives up to that goal as well.

Many times, garages aren’t very energy efficient because contractors don’t place the right compressible foam between the concrete floor and lower framing. Or, in other cases, the walls of the garage were not insulated properly, allowing air from the outside to easily penetrate the walls — this is especially a problem for any wall that connects the garage to the rest of your home.

A lot of other potential problems you might find in the garage are similar to ones you’d find in the house itself, including leaks in the electrical outlets, windows or even doors.

Also, the condition of your garage door can make or break your home’s ability to properly regulate temperature. This typically happens for one of two reasons: Either the weatherstripping around the door is worn, damaged or missing, or if the door itself is in poor condition.

How to Fix It

If you suspect that your garage door is a source of air leaks in your home, then your first step is to have your door evaluated by a professional garage door company. Halo Overhead Doors has a team of experienced, highly trained technicians who can identify problems with your current door and help you figure out how to address them quickly and safely.

While it is possible to add insulation to the walls of your garage problem yourself, we never recommend using your garage door as your next DIY project. Because garage doors are heavy, they can quickly become dangerous. Besides that, home repairs don’t always go as planned, and you run the risk of causing more damage. In the case of garage doors, a small repair may end up costing much more than it should because of the damage that was incurred during a homeowner’s attempt to fix it on their own.

In some cases, your garage door may be old and needs to be replaced. Purchasing a new garage door is a great way to improve your garage’s energy efficiency because you can choose a door that is built for your home and the climate where you live.

Contact Halo Overhead Doors to Stop Losing Energy with a New Garage Door

Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to mean converting to cleaner fuel or installing expensive equipment. Sometimes the best thing you can do for the environment is to improve on what you already have.

Your garage is a great place to start. If your door is old or damaged, it might be time for a new one. You could shop around for weeks looking for beautiful doors. But why shop around when you can come straight to Halo Overhead Doors?

As Houston’s only Master Clopay Dealer, Halo Overhead Doors is proud to showcase a variety of the highest quality doors on the market today. Contact us to request a free estimate or drop by our showroom. You can also check out our selection online. Your home — and your family — will thank you.

Will a New Garage Door Increase the Value of Your Home?

A high-quality, well-designed garage door is a huge part of your home’s curb appeal. It can elevate your home, boosting its value and making it stand out in your neighborhood. In comparison, an old, worn, outdated garage door can have the opposite effect. If you’re planning to sell your home, a damaged garage door can deter potential buyers.

As a result, upgrading your garage door is a great place to start if you want to increase your home’s value. With a high-quality, durable door that aligns with your home’s style, you can instantly catch the eye of buyers. Read our guide below to learn how much value a new garage door can add to your home and when the best time is to replace your garage door with a new model.

How Much Value Does a New Garage Door Add? 

New garage doors can provide an average return on investment (ROI) of up to 102% as of 2023, making your garage door the second-best upgrade you can make to your home after heating and cooling improvements. With an average garage door replacement cost of $4,302, homeowners who invest in new garage doors typically recover $4,418 once they sell their homes. In addition to financial value, a new garage door will provide numerous benefits for homeowners, making the space more comfortable to live in.

Garage Door Features That Increase Home Value

Adding the most value to your garage door means upgrading several features. Your garage door is a home focal point — having an updated, stylish garage door elevates your home and makes it more desirable to buyers.

While upgrading garage door features can help boost your home value, doing them all at once can be a significant investment. Instead, update different features when you can, giving your home a fresh look while keeping your budget in mind.

Here are some garage door features you can touch up to boost your home value:

Insulation

Insulation is a great way to make your home more comfortable while boosting its value. Insulation sits between your garage door’s layers, helping to regulate the ambient temperature so the garage feels comfortable throughout the year. By limiting outdoor air from entering the space, insulation may also help you reduce your home’s energy bills.

A comfortable garage and reduced energy bills are big wins for any homeowner. When you’re ready to sell, buyers will love the extra comfort and savings the insulated garage door provides.

Windows

Windows and lighting can make a big difference when it comes to your garage door. Natural light helps your garage feel more spacious. 
You can pick from large, small and even custom window designs for your garage door, letting light into your garage and making your home stand out.

For even more lighting, consider integrated lighting. You can create custom lighting designs inside your garage, illuminating it at night and giving your home that extra touch to take it to the next level. Buyers love the additional light that windows and lighting create in a garage. 

Smart Openers

Smart technology turns your garage door into an easy-to-use, one-touch device. Whether you’re investing in Wi-Fi connectivity, remote control access or virtual assistant compatibility, you can make your garage door more convenient to operate.

Many potential buyers appreciate how easy smart technology makes their lives, and a smart opener adds an extra touch that other garage doors in the neighborhood might not have. By investing in a smart garage door opener, you can make your life easier and turn your home into a more desirable property for buyers.

High-Quality Materials

Like most house components, garage door material matters. Upgrading your garage door to one with strong, high-quality materials can give you a longer-lasting door and an increase in home value. Materials like aluminum, steel or composite wood are excellent choices for homeowners looking to refresh their garage doors. These materials are highly durable, withstanding harsh weather and bump-causing forces. 

Additionally, choosing a new garage door with upgraded materials allows you to select an eye-catching design. Having an updated garage door makes your home feel fresh, even if you only redo the garage door. Whether you’re looking to sell this year or down the road, a newer garage door made of high-quality materials will help draw buyers in and increase your home’s worth.

Security Features

Security is an important part of any home. While standard garage locks are fine for keeping the door shut against mild winds, taking your security efforts to the next level can raise your home value and your peace of mind.

Garages with sturdy locks and smart security systems help boost your home defenses. They help protect your belongings from unwanted intruders and harsh weather. Buyers looking for somewhere to live long-term will enjoy this high-tech security’s convenience and the safety it provides. 

Modern Style

Garage doors are a huge part of your home’s first impression. Having a visibly worn or outdated garage door can keep your home from reaching its true resale value potential. Investing in a modern garage door with custom options or stylish designs can be beneficial for increasing your ROI.

You can find a new garage door with a style you love that complements your home, giving your property a boost in curb appeal.

When Should You Replace Your Garage Door?

While a well-made garage door is designed to last 15 to 30 years, all garage doors need replacing eventually. Keep an eye on your garage door to make sure it’s still in good condition. Once your garage door starts to get close to its expected life span, it’s time to start looking for a replacement.

Here are some signs to watch out for so you know exactly when it’s time for an upgrade:

• Visible damage: Starting to see warping, dents or cracks on your garage door? These are signs that you need to consider replacing your garage door. Visible damage makes your garage door look old and worn. Additionally, damage can harm your door’s structural integrity, making it unsafe and hard to use.
• Lots of noise: While garage doors often make some noise during use, excessive noise can be a sign you need a replacement. If you’re hearing lots of grinding, squeaking or rattling, you might have damaged or worn-out components. Getting a new garage door can help eliminate these noise problems and keep your garage quiet. 
• Performance issues: If you’re dealing with garage door operation problems, you might need to think about replacement. Long-term performance problems might mean your garage door has underlying issues. Issues with components like openers, springs, rollers or tracks can lead to problems using the door, meaning you have to make excessive repairs. It can be more cost-effective to replace the garage door completely at that point. 
• High energy bills: Higher-than-normal energy bills might be a sign you need a new garage door. Old, outdated garage door insulation that has been damaged can cause drafts and strain on your heating and cooling system. Upgrading to a new garage door can reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable.
• Minimal safety features: Older garage doors often have minimal or outdated security features. Getting a new garage door means you get access to auto-reverse sensors, smart home security features and upgraded locks. If your garage door is missing these effective security features, replacing it with a newer option can help you keep your home and your family safe. 
• Outdated design: An outdated garage door design can make your home look less visually appealing. If you want something that complements your home’s architecture or aligns with your neighbors’ designs, you should look at new garage doors. Getting a modern, stylish garage door can elevate your entire home, making it feel like new. You’ll boost your property value and enjoy a fresh look. 

Benefits of a New Garage Door

Getting a new garage door can increase your home’s value, but it can also provide even more benefits.

1. Boosted Curb Appeal

Garage doors are large, and they’re usually at the front of your home. This makes them the first thing many people see when they pass by. As a centerpiece, they draw the eye and make up much of your home’s curb appeal.

Over time, your garage takes on wear and tear from the elements, making it look worn. A new garage door will instantly make your home exterior look better. Investing in a door with a new design, modern features and updated colors makes your whole home look refreshed. An attractive, fresh garage door will help make your home stand out on the curb, drawing eyes with its impressive design. 

2. Better Security

Garages are places to store your cars, keep your belongings and hang out. They hold valuable property while providing an entry point to your home. Older garage doors often have weak points, outdated locks or other issues that can make them a target for break-ins. 

With a new garage door, you can invest in upgraded security features that make your garage more secure. Reinforced panels, smart security systems and strong locks can help your garage door hold up against harsh weather and intrusion attempts. With a new garage door and better security, you’ll enjoy greater peace of mind.

3. Custom Designs

New garage doors also come with more customization options. From updated carriage doors to doors with sleek, minimalist lines, you can create the aesthetic you’ve always wanted with a new garage door. Pick from decorative hardware and windows to create a timeless design. Explore custom paint colors and panel designs to give your home a unique look. With a fresh, custom garage door, your home will look restored without much work.

4. Less Maintenance

Your garage door experiences daily use and exposure to the elements. Over time, these conditions will lead to wear and tear. An older garage door is going to need more maintenance, increasing your expenses. Additionally, older doors are more likely to break or have performance problems, inconveniencing your daily routine.

Newer doors with high-quality materials are durable and designed for reduced maintenance. Investing in features like weatherproof seals and rust-resistant coatings means even less maintenance. You can also enjoy a new warranty with your updated garage door, giving you extra help if something goes wrong with your door.

With a new garage door, you’ll save money on maintenance and enjoy reliable performance for years.

5. Quieter Garage

If you’re dealing with an extremely loud garage door, getting a new one can help you get your peace and quiet back. Before, you may have dealt with loud banging sounds or screeching noises, which can be especially disruptive if your garage is attached to your home. If you use your garage as a gathering space, excess noise every time you open and close the door can be a hindrance to your family and friends.

New garage doors feature advanced technology, producing minimal noise. Insulated motor compartments and belt drives on the latest models help reduce sound and vibration. Investing in a new garage door with these features can help you stop dealing with excessive garage door noises.

6. Increased Energy Efficiency

Home energy efficiency plays a big part in your comfort and energy spending. Older garage doors often have little to no insulation, making them significant energy drains. Without good insulation, outdoor air can enter your garage more easily, which can cause your heating and cooling systems to work harder than necessary to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Investing in a new garage door with sufficient insulation can help keep out drafts and prevent temperature loss. You’ll enjoy more consistent temperatures while saving on your energy expenses and keeping your heating and cooling systems in good condition.

Boost Your Home Value With Garage Doors From Halo Overhead Doors

If you want to refresh your home and increase its resale value, upgrade your garage door with help from Halo Overhead Doors. As a trusted Texas family-owned company for over 30 years, you can count on our team to provide unmatched garage door services. When you need comprehensive garage door services — installation, repair, maintenance or replacement — we’ve got you covered. 

At Halo Overhead Door, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We want to help you find the best possible garage door for your home. With our wide selection of high-quality, high-performance garage doors, you can easily find an option that suits your home and your preferences. Our expert team will work with you every step of the way, helping you select the right door and keeping it maintained for years.

Reach out to our team and let us help you find the perfect garage door solution for your home today!

8 Garage Door Security Tips to Prevent Break-Ins

When you see anti-burglary advertisements on TV, the focus is often on a shady trespasser attempting to break in through a window or the back door.

While those are essential areas to fortify, people often forget about one of the largest parts of the home: their garage. Without proper security measures, thieves might find a loophole in your garage door to exploit, which exposes your family to danger and your property to plundering.

Halo Overhead Doors cares about total customer satisfaction, which is why we place such a considerable emphasis on safety. Here is a list of eight smart security tips that might help you to protect your garage from any future incidents.

1. Use an Insulated Door

Clopay^® doors are designed with premium strength and durability, but insulation can add an extra level of security to even the most durable garage door. Many collections come with insulation options that will both increase your home’s energy efficiency and make it harder for intruders to break down your door.

2. Implement a Security System

You can extend your house’s existing security system to cover your garage door with relatively little difficulty. By arming your system, motion sensors on the inside or outside of your door will immediately trigger an alarm.

3. Secure Your Garage Door Opener

If you need to park one of your cars outside and leave the opener’s remote in it, that presents an opportunity for thieves. While it’s convenient to place your opener in the center console or overhead holster, you can connect it to a keychain to ensure it’s always on your person.

4. Institute a Garage Door Timer

Sometimes, hurrying to leave results in mistakes. Unfortunately, accidentally leaving your garage ajar just once can result in terrible consequences. To prevent this problem, you can install a LiftMaster garage door opener featuring a preprogrammed timer that will close the door after a set number of minutes or seconds of being opened.

5. Add a Lock

Locks are a tried-and-true method for securing your garage door, and they come in many different types to adapt to the style. You can install a variety of deadbolts, padlocks or automatic locks that operate either manually or through your opener or a keypad. You can also purchase a LiftMaster opener with preinstalled PosiLock^® technology.

6. Block Your Emergency Release

You can install all of these fancy tech tools, but sometimes, even that isn’t enough. As it turns out, many trespassers are intuitive. All modern garage doors include an emergency release mechanism, which people can reach through the use of a coat hanger or another jury-rigged tool. You can stymy this strategy by looping a zip tie or another kind of thread through an opening in the system, which prevents someone from fully engaging it.

7. Link Your Smartphone App

You can control every aspect of your garage door opener and its integrated security system at any time with your smartphone. The LiftMaster MyQ app allows constant access from any location, and it can send real-time alerts that show when the garage door opens. You can also use it to set schedules for lights and opening cycles.

8. Use Motion-Sensing Lights

Take your security system up to another level with motion-sensing lights, which will secure the inside and outside of the garage. Motion detector lighting in openers such as the LiftMaster 8360W instantly deters potential intruders, as it takes away their cover and gives off the impression that you’re aware of their presence.

Contact Halo Overhead Doors for Security Upgrades on Your Garage Door

If you’d like assistance with upgrading your garage door security, our staff will analyze your situation and provide potential solutions. Contact us today or give us a call at (713) 224-3667 to discuss your options in detail.

The Benefits of Investing in a Long-Lasting Garage Door in Houston

A homeowner can benefit in many ways by investing in a long-lasting garage door. Houston residents often know that a durable garage door can help a homeowner save money on repairs. When a homeowner has to call a technician several times a year to replace springs, realign the door or check the garage door chain, it can stretch the household budget. By purchasing a long-lasting garage door, a homeowner can avoid dealing with a lot of those repairs.

Here are some other benefits of purchasing a long-lasting garage door in Houston:

A Long-Lasting Garage Door Stands Up to Poor Weather Conditions 

A low-quality garage door can be damaged by hail, freezing rain, strong winds, and other harsh weather conditions. In many cases, these garage doors have to be replaced. Alternatively, a well-built garage door Houston can endure the punishment of inclement weather without sustaining damage. In short, the investment in a quality new garage door can help a homeowner to avoid replacing the door after a bad storm.

A Dependable Garage Door Operates Properly at All Times

A person who buys a long-lasting garage door is getting a high-quality product. A homeowner can depend upon the performance of the garage door whether it’s pouring rain outside or sunny. Alternatively, a person who purchases a substandard garage door may encounter malfunctions. For instance, the garage door may rise halfway and then close. Or, the door may hesitate when a user pushes the control button. The operations of a substandard garage door can be inconvenient and even dangerous.

A Long-Lasting Garage Door Provides Security

Some homeowners purchase a high-quality garage door because they want to store valuables in the garage. Stored valuables may come in the form of: a classic car, antiques, furniture, or rare books. Not surprisingly, homeowners want to feel that their items are safe in the garage at all times. A reliable garage door can only be opened with the controller or a specific code. Trespassers and intruders won’t be able to get access to a homeowner’s valuables because of the solid garage door.

A Long-Lasting Garage Door Can Add Value to a House on the Market

When someone is trying to sell a home, he or she points out every favorable quality of the property to potential buyers. A solid, well-built garage door is certainly an attractive, valuable feature when selling a home. The person purchasing the home will be getting a garage door that will last for many years. This means that the person can avoid spending money on that area of the home. Also, the person has a secure place to keep valuables. The convenience of a solid garage door that opens automatically is also an appealing feature for potential homebuyer. The person doesn’t have to get out of the warm car during a snow or rainstorm. A roomy garage with a first-rate garage door would be an enticement to anyone looking for a new home. Finally, by investing in a long-lasting garage door adds visual appeal to any Houston property. An attractive garage door is a standout feature of a home. A homeowner can be proud of his or her home with the help of a top quality garage door.

Don’t Remodel Your Kitchen; Buy a New Garage Door!

3 Ways an Automatic Garage Door Opener Can Improve the Safety of Your Home

An automatic garage door opener is not just a luxury gadget; it is a safety feature that can protect not only your home and personal belongings but you and your loved ones. The following is a look at how this helpful home gadget can help improve the safety of your home. Syncs Up with Lights to Brighten Dark Spaces No one likes to come home to a dark home. These automatic door openers can be programmed to sync up with the lights in your garage. When you arrive home and open the garage, the lights will automatically turn on and you are not left in the dark. If the door opener system that you choose does not have this feature, you may be able to use motion sensor lights. The lights can be placed in a way that will detect the motion of the garage door opening up. The detection of the motion will cause the lights to light up and create the bright space you need so you feel safer coming home at night. Securely Closes the Door if You Forget to Close It Sometimes you can be so busy and distracted that you forget the little things – like closing the garage door when you leave. Some garage door opener systems have a timer that will close the door after a certain period of time. This feature protects your personal belongings and your home, as it makes sure the garage is securely closed at all times. There are some door opening systems that do not come with a timer that you can program. However, there is a remote closure option. These door opening systems run on Wi-Fi. If you should forget to close the garage, all you have to do is use the system’s app and shut the door remotely via an Internet connection. Prevents the Garage Door from Closing Unexpectedly Garage doors that open manually can unexpectedly close without notice. If a child or car should be under it, the expected closing of the door could be disastrous. It could result in severe injury to a child or damage to a car. Automatic door opening systems can prevent the garage from closing unexpectedly. These systems have sensors that are installed at certain levels along the door. If the system detects movement or the presence of an object in the way, it will stop the door from closing and reopen the door. This prevents the garage door from smashing to the ground and causing bodily injury or damage to personal belongings. It might seem like having an automatic garage door opener installed is just a luxury, but it can prove helpful and even improve the safety of your home. Houston Overhead Garage Doors can help you find and install automatic opening systems on all types of garage doors, including wood garage doors in Houston.

5 Trends in Houston Garage Doors that Can Pay Off with Big Dividends

You might be surprised at just how much the look of Houston garage doors count toward your home’s perceived and overall value. A new garage door can recoup over 75 percent of its price on average, according to real estate experts. However, beyond just dollars and cents, in most homes, the garage door is a large part of your home’s front exterior. Is your current garage door conveying the look, feel and positive first impression you’d like to be making? These five garage door features and trends can immediately add more style, contemporary feel and instant curb appeal while also contributing to a higher market value when it comes time to sell your home: 1. The Carriage Design Carriage-style doors are a style trend in Houston garage doors; they roll up just like a standard door, yet appear to be hinged at the sides as if they can swing outward like old-style carriage house doors. They’re available in different wood grain types and can be stained or painted in custom colors to perfectly complement your home’s decor. Carriage doors are also available in steel and vinyl. 2. Designer Glass Choices Consumers looking for Houston garage doors now have a myriad of choices in designer glass panels to perfectly accent the garage door. Artfully beveled glass as well as windows that are accented with wrought-iron hardware can make your garage door a highlight of your property instead of an afterthought or eyesore. Make your garage the envy of the neighborhood by purchasing a door with designer glass panels. 3. Reinforced Storm Doors If you live in a geographic area with extreme conditions such as winds and storms, you shouldn’t settle for a thin, cheap and flimsy garage door. There are a variety of stylish heavy-duty models available in materials like steel to protect the contents of your garage as well as the door and the value of your home. 4. Can’t Decide? Commission a Custom Design If you just can’t find a garage door in Houston to meet your exact style needs and specifications, a custom door could be the perfect solution for you. A manufacturer can work with your style vision to create the ideal door for your unique garage. You’ll pay a custom charge, but having what you want can be more than worth it. 5. Contemporary Styles In a nutshell, a new door can update the look of your home to this current century. If you have a home with Asian-inspired design, consider an elegant door with chic glass and aluminum and a simplified look. If your style leans more Mediterranean, find a modern door design that emulates the look of hinged French doors. Is your current garage door doing justice to your home? Capitalize on these garage door trends when updating your garage door, and you’ll raise both its aesthetic value as well as its resale value. When you’re ready to bring the look of your garage into the 21st century, contact Houston Overhead Door.

5 Motivating Reasons to Declutter So Garage Doors in Houston Open to Organized Spaces

For most people, the hardest part of decluttering their garage is just getting started. However, once you get a bit of momentum going, you’ll be surprised and amazed at just what you can accomplish. Use this list to help motivate you to break past your resistance and procrastination. Finally, you can organize that garage so that garage doors in Houston open up to clutter-free spaces. Here are five benefits of decluttering to motivate you to get started: 1. Better Organization, Less Stress Less clutter almost invariably means being more organized, and this always leads to a less stressful, more peaceful life experience. Not having to trip on your way to your car, rummage through stacks of boxes on the floor or search for yard equipment in a sea of clutter will reduce time spent feeling agitated. You’ll also no longer have to worry about your overhead door in Houston closing on your belongings. 2.  The “Feng Shui” Effect The ancient Asian art of Feng Shui is all about optimizing the space in a room or area for the healthiest flow of “chi,” or life force energy throughout it. One of Feng Shui’s primary principles is reducing or eliminating as much clutter as possible. Since everything is energy, clutter has a “draining” effect, even in the garage. Getting rid of it can result in your having more energy while in that room/area as well as throughout your entire day. 3. The Minimalist Advantage Since the economic downturn in 2008, “minimalism” has been a growing trend. Paring down your material possessions and extraneous clutter is often extremely liberating. Doing so can help free up your time, energy and attention for more meaningful pursuits like recreational activities with the family or finally finishing that landscaping project. Make use of a self storage facility to store larger items that you want to keep; garage doors in Houston function much better with bulky items out of the way. 4. More Space = Room to Grow Having more space has a lovely, expansive effect on most people. You just seem to breathe easier, feel lighter, freer and have room to grow. With more space in your garage, you’ll likely be able to think more clearly, be more creative and become open to new ideas, projects and purchases; perhaps it’s time for that new car? Consider also shopping for garage doors in Houston to complete your garage makeover. 5. A Cleaner, Safer Space A garage free of clutter will be more sanitary and safer for both adults and chidren. While clutter tends to attract more and more of itself, a clean, clear space can often motivate you to keep it safe and organized. Garage decluttering gets easier and easier after you’ve gotten past the hurdle of just getting started. Use this list of benefits as motivation, and you’ll soon have an organized, optimized garage space that the whole family can enjoy.

Top 5 Questions About Garage Door Service in Houston

Garage door service in Houston is always available to you. For most homeowners, the garage door is not something they think about even for just a few minutes. Rather, they only have to think twice when they cannot seem to open or close the door. While getting a regular tune up and repairs on an annual basis is a good idea, you’ll also want to call out a technician when you are facing repair needs. Here are a few questions you may need answers to. Why does the garage door go up, but will not go down with the wall switch? One of the most common times to get garage door service in Houston is when you have trouble getting the door to open or close. If your problem is it will not close without holding down the wall switch, the problem is often related to the sensors on your garage door. This safety feature is in place to minimize the risk of someone getting hurt, but if they are not aligned, they can be difficult to deal with. Call a professional for alignment help, states FamilyHandyman.com. Why doesn’t the remote work to open and close the door but the wall switch does? This is often a common problem associated with the door opener. Generally, the remote may not be programmed properly or may need a new battery. This can be an easy fix if you have the coding steps and information. If not, be sure to turn to a professional. Why aren’t the panels on the garage door aligned? Alignment of the panels can be a big problem. With many Houston garage doors, this problem occurs because of a problem with the belts or the track system. Don’t try to force it. Let a professional handle the repairs instead. Why does the garage door stick when it is closing or opening? Sticking can be due to a variety of factors. Generally, this occurs when the metal rollers or the hinges are not lubricated the right way, says HomeAdvisor.com. You’ll also want to make sure the tracks are not dirty or damaged in any way. Clean them out and try to align them. If that does not work, you may want to allow a professional to check out your garage door. Forcing the process can often make it worse and that can lead to even more complications and risks for you. There is no doubt that you will need garage door service in Houston from time to time. These working systems often need repairs because they are working hard for you each day. It is essential to call a trusted, experienced professional to handle the repairs for you, though. This safeguards your investment and ensures long lasting improvements to your garage door.

5 Tips for Buying a Garage Door in Houston That Will Last

When your old garage door is no longer working or is taking away from the value of your home, it is time to upgrade. You may not have much experience buying a new garage door since most products can last many, many years when maintained properly. Nevertheless, it is important to know as much as possible about the garage door before you buy one. Consider these tips about buying a garage door in Houston. Do you need to replace it or repair it? When calling for garage door service in Houston, it is a good idea to discuss both options. In some situations, an old and worn garage door is more affordable to replace than to repair. However, this depends on the extent of the damage to the garage door including the door itself, the tracks, and the motor. What can you do to avoid repairs? A garage door tune-up is an ideal way to keep your garage door working properly. Many companies offer this service. It can provide small improvements and adjustments to ensure the system is working properly, states FamilyHandyman.com. In fact, this may be a good way to avoid costly repairs later. Is the new door insulated? When it comes to purchasing a new garage door, be sure to discuss whether or not the door is insulated. Newer products offer outstanding energy efficiency ratings. Thinking about the fact that the garage door is the largest opening to your home. With an insulated door, you can reduce some of the hot or cold air getting into your home. What are the material options available? Along with insulation, be sure to talk about the various types of garage doors available to you. When buying a garage door in Houston, some of your options may include fiberglass, vinyl, composite materials, steel, and wood. Talk about the various options that fit your home and your budget. It is a good idea to consider products from all groups to determine which offers the most advantages, says HomeTips.com. What does the door add to your home? While many people think about things like the size and functionality of the door, you also want to think about the look of it. Does it add architectural interest to the home? Going with a carriage style door, for example, can transform the exterior of your home. You may want to choose windows for adding interest. Don’t feel you can’t be creative with your door options as well. Buying a garage door in Houston can offer you a range of options. It can be an excellent investment you make in your home because it can help you to reduce energy costs, add value to your home, and make getting into and out of your home easy and safe to do.

Get Your Home Ready To Sell With a New Garage Door Opener

If you are getting your home ready to sell, then there are obviously many things on your mind, including moving your family to their new house. One of the most crucial things to remember in order to sell your home, is making any home improvements or changes to your home in order to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Things such as installing new up to date garage doors with a garage door opener, can really make a difference if your house needs a little extra something to get buyers interested. Here are a few ways you can improve your home in order to sell it. Garage Improvements The garage is an area of the home that largely goes unnoticed, however, in most cases it is one of the first things a person sees when they approach your home. For this reason it is very important that your garage make a great first impression on a potential buyer if you are attempting to sell your home. Installing a new garage door with an automatic garage door opener can create a lasting impression on your potential buyer. Not only will the buyer notice the fresh new appearance of the garage door, but when they see that it seamlessly, automatically opens it will set the stage for the rest of the home and give the impression that this home is well maintained and in good working order. Painting In the same way that a new garage and garage door opener can give the appearance of a well maintained home, a fresh coat of paint will definitely send the message that your home has been well cared for and the potential buyer needs to do little in order to move in. The last thing a potential home buyer wants to see is a laundry list of chores staring them in the face that they will need to hop on as soon as they move in. Buyers want a home that is “move in ready.” To many people that term means that the house has recently been painted. If you have vinyl, brick or some other type of outdoor siding or material that does not require painting, then focus your painting efforts on the inside of the home. Over time walls get grimy and dirty. You and your family may have become blind to the grime over time, but a potential buyer will pick up on it right away. Keeping your home well maintained over the years, is the best way to ensure that when it comes time to sell, buyers will be knocking on your door. However, if there are still a few things that could be improved, these should be addressed before you begin to show the house. Houston Overhead Garage Doors helps families and businesses address their garage door needs as well as installing commercial overhead doors in Houston.

Top 3 Picks for Houston Garage Doors

Many factors go into selecting the best Houston garage doors for your home. Perhaps your existing door is damaged, off-track, or simply just an eyesore. When this happens, it is easy to become discouraged about what to do or how to get your home looking better. While repairs are often an option for many doors, replacement can give you a fresh, like-new look and more reliable function in most cases. So when it comes time to buy a new garage door, what should you choose? What features should matter? And, even more importantly, what is worth investing in for long-term benefits? Here are a few things you need to keep in mind: #1: Steel doors are an important option. Steel doors are one of the most common options available in Houston garage doors. According to BobVila.com, you can expect these to be available primed and ready to be customized to meet your needs. The baked-on finish on these doors allows you to paint them in just about any color you desire. Of course, you can purchase them ready to go. Steel doors are one of the most common options because of their moderate prices and versatility. #2: For character, go with carriage-style. As noted by ThisOldHouse.com, wood used to be one of the most commonly selected products for garage doors. It is still high-quality, often made from hardboard panels and hemlock frames. However, wood does not have to be boring. In fact, you can add a lot of character and style to your home by investing in carriage-style doors. These are often made of insulated steel but can be wood as well. When placed on your home, you’ll get impressive results. These are a popular option in garage doors in Houston because they work well in a ranch-like style. #3: Glass and aluminum doors are still an option. Two more products to consider that can add style and function to your home are glass and aluminum doors , which are also very customizable to your specific home’s needs. When you want a door that is going to be efficient and affordable, these are some of the options to choose from. What’s nice about them is their modern look. They can also blend in well with the same design and feel your porch or deck has, creating an impressive look. For those looking for Houston garage doors that fit their budget, the good news is that affordable products are readily available. The investment in these doors can not only ensure you can get in and out of your home easily but also add value to your home. The next time visitors arrive at your home, you can remain confident that your garage door will give the right first impression if you’ve had one installed by highly skilled professionals.

5 Features to Explore in a Garage Door In Houston

When you are going to have a garage door in Houston repaired, replaced, or even updated, there are some features you want to be on the lookout for. The garage door is one of the first things people see on your home, so it should look good – and be secure enough to discourage break-ins throughout the year. Here are five top features to explore: 1. Style There are many styles of garage doors. Whether you are looking for an overhead door in Houston or one that opens like barn doors, there are possibilities to consider. If you have one style now, you may want to change to a different style when you go to remodel the house, because of how newer styles can enhance the appearance of your home – and give it a whole new personality. 2. Closure The closure of the garage door in Houston needs to be a consideration. How is the garage going to close? It can do so manually or with the help of a garage door opener. There are more openers than ever before, and they are mostly easy to use, thanks to automation. Auto-doors also add a great deal of security to your home because the door may be impossible to open without a remote. Your door should be easy for you to open and hard for anyone else. 3. Security Security is important no matter what – and garage security is no different. The garage door in Houston that you have installed needs to be able to lock quickly and easily so there are no problems with securing your home from that entry-point. Additionally, you want to make sure you have the door(s) repaired immediately, when there’s a problem with the way your garage is closing, to avoid any breach in security. A security system can even be modified to include your garage door, so that you will be alerted in the event someone opens the door without your authority. 4. Material The material of your garage door in Houston needs to be explored as well. While the majority of garage doors are manufactured from aluminum because it’s tough and weather resistant, there are other options to consider – and those include wood. You may want the material you choose to add additional protection to your home. The material chosen does also affect aesthetics, so when you’re concentrating on curb appeal, it may take making a switch in your garage door to do the trick. 5. Windows It’s possible to add garage door windows if you don’t already have them – or even fill them in if you do have them. Adding windows can add character because they’re not something you see all the time. They can be high enough up that people won’t be able to see inside your garage. If you do a lot of things in your garage, windows can also help to add natural light and avoid using electricity all the time.

6 Benefits Of A Garage Door Opener

A garage door opener is a convenience most of us could not live without. It provides an array of benefits and is an affordable solution that can be installed without a lot of hassle. Convenience There is something to be said about the convenience of a garage door opener. With the press of a button, it opens and another press sends it down again. Whether it is raining, you’re on your way to work, or any other scenario that you can think off, being able to close and open the door quickly is a benefit that cannot be forgotten. Security The security of your home or business is important and an opener to your garage door can be just what is needed. Many models have built-in locks to ensure the door cannot simply be dragged open. Whether the door is overhead or barn style, there are considerations to make and garage safety should be something that is on the forefront of your mind. Aesthetics What’s it going to look like if you have to manually open and close your doors? It’s not only a hassle, but it may interfere with the aesthetics of your home. There may be a large rope hanging out of the door that helps you with the movements and that’s not going to do anything for curb appeal. Technology There is a lot of technology that goes into how a garage door opener works. Understanding how it works can provide you with some more explanation as to the benefits. Depending upon the model, it can beep to give you the head’s up that the door has closed. Some garage openers also have a longer range, which means the door can be opened even before you turn the corner to your home or business. Ease of Use Garage doors can be heavy and when you have to manually pull the door open and closed every day, it’s a work out. Life would be easier if you could just push a button and have the garage door close and open automatically. It is easier to use and it can be installed in less than a day, allowing you to take advantage of the benefits right away. Affordable A garage door repair can be affordable and when you need it, it’s advantageous to explore an opener at the same time, if you don’t already have one – or it, too, is broken. Working with an experienced company that is known for openers can ensure you have a good variety of models to choose from and that they will provide a good price for you. Houston Overhead Door can work with you on new doors, openers, and other features and provide a free estimate.

The Benefit Of A Professionally Installed Garage Door Opener

There are many benefits to a professionally installed garage door opener. While there are plenty of makes and models that you can install on your own, it can lead to various problems if you are unaware of the process. Additionally, having experienced  and professionals help will ensure that you find the best possible opener for any type of garage door that you have for your home or business. Any time that you need a garage door repair, it can be advantageous to turn to professionals. This can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you have experts helping you every step of the way. They can diagnose problems and provide you with tips on how to make repairs as well as upgrades so that you don’t experience any problems in the future. When you have a professionally installed garage door opener, you can explore such things as affordability, security, and function. There are different types of garage doors on the market and you want to make sure that you choose an opener that works for the type of door that you have. Overhead doors can work considerably different than those that open out like barn doors. Security is something that you need to keep in mind. If there are problems with the overall installation of the garage door, it can lead to problems with the way that the door shuts in its entirety. If there are gaps, burglars can take advantage of this and break into your home or business with ease. Many of the products on the market that provide garage door automation are very difficult to install. You would need multiple people helping you because of the various chains and other features that need to be installed throughout the process. If you are not sure what you are doing, it can end up being a very time-consuming and expensive task. After trying to handle the installation on your own, you may end up having to call a professional company to help you. The rest of the way, and this can also be very expensive. It is best to try the most affordable method from the very beginning. Houston Overhead Door works with its customers in order to provide a quality garage door opener that is installed by installation teams that have the experience and education to do everything properly. This will provide you with peace of mind knowing that your garage door is capable of opening and closing and you have a guarantee on the workmanship. Your garage door is the main point of entry for your vehicles and you want to make sure that the garage door is secured at all times. Having a professional handle the installation will ensure that the security is maintained, and even improved upon completion of the installation.

Are you Looking for Garage Doors in Houston?

A garage door is a huge door on a garage. It can be opened either manually or by an electric motor. Many people prefer garage doors in Houston that we provide. They are usually huge enough to accommodate automobiles and other kind of vehicles. Smaller doors are usually made in a single piece that slants up and down across the ceiling of a garage. Larger doors are made in many interconnected pieces that usually roll up on tracks across the ceiling of a garage or into a roll above the doorway. Human effort required to open and close the door is reduced because the mechanism used to operate it is spring-loaded to balance the weight of the door. In a few cases, some garage doors swing in a horizontal way. Generally, these doors are made of fiberglass, wood or metal and are usually insulated to avoid heat loss. Choosing the accurate garage door is important since it has a huge impression on your business or homes outlook and value. It is one of the most noticeable features in your building since it is large. It can be put either on the front or back of the building. Garage doors come in four types. Garage doors in Houston that we provide are known to be the best. We offer doors like:

• Roller garage doors-they are best choice for houses or garages that do not have a lot of space. They mostly use remotes in their operation.
• Up and above garage doors- they swing first towards the driveway before moving up. They  suit garages that have extended driveways.
• Swing hung garage doors- they are hinged on the door opening side. They need space in front of the garage for easy opening of the door. They are not good for driveways that are short.
• Sectional doors –they have segments like a large subdivision along the door’s breadth. That section goes upwards into the ceiling when opened. The size of the driveway does not matter.

Basic Garage Door Materials Wood- they generally have a short warranty mostly of one year. They offer a charm that the others can’t. The downward side of a wooden garage door is has to be repainted frequently mostly by those who live in damp areas. They range in price according to the material used. Aluminum- it is a good choice for those who have double doors that are too wide. Since it is lightweight, one does not have to put too much effort in operating them. Cheap aluminum doors have been substituted by dent resistant laminated panels and extruded frames that are heavy duty. Steel- if you do not want too much maintenance, then steel is an excellent choice than wood. As much as it is cheap, it is tough. Steel doors usually have a longer warranty with the factory applied paint, hardware, insulation and lamination between the steel. Latest Trends in Houston Garage Doors Garage doors in Houston are made to meet all consumer needs. The newest garage door designs are more secure, stronger, insulated and require less maintenance. They also come in various sizes,  and with high technology openers, accessories and window treatments. They are insulated so that the owner can cut back on energy costs.

Keeping Kids Safe When a Garage Door Opener is Installed

Throughout the years, many advancements have been made in regards to safety and the use of a garage door opener. However, even with the many changes that have been made, children are still at risk of becoming injured by a garage door. The dangers associated with using an opener may include, but is not limited to, children getting stuck under a door that is being closed and/or fingers getting caught in the tracks and mechanisms of the garage door. Because of the dangers a garage door can pose, it is important to take all of the necessary safety precautions. Here are some of the top safety measures we suggest every homeowner with a garage door opener should take. Teach kids the dangers of a garage door. Explain to younger children that the garage door is not a toy to be played with and how they should never play near or under the door. Mount the opener out of the reach of any small children. We recommend to mount the control at least five feet off the ground. We also suggest to mount the opener where there is a clear view of the door to ensure nothing is in the way when closing the door. Turn off the opener and operate the garage door manually. This will reduce the changes of the opener accidentally being triggered. Have a safety cable and safety sensors installed. This will help increase the level of safety associated with using a garage door. Routinely test and inspect the garage door and the opener’s reversing mechanism. This can be done by placing a 2×4 under the door. If the door does not reverse when it strikes the board, it may be necessary to have it looked at and fixed. Keep the garage door operating efficiently and properly. This should be done monthly by visually checking the door’s system and testing it. Use a safety checklist when conducting regular inspections of the garage door. If there are any inconsistencies with the door’s operation or visual track damage, contact someone who specializes in garage door repair. He or she can help fix the door and ensure its proper and safe operation. Never alter a garage door or attempt to make any temporary repairs to it. This includes the door’s tracks, operating system, springs, cables and automatic garage door opener sensors. Set a good example. Show the kids how to be safe when it comes to the garage door. Have all adults properly use the controllers and act appropriately when in the vicinity of the door. The garage door is one of the largest moving parts within a home. That is why we suggest continually maintaining and checking its operation. If things do not look or operate right, stop using immediately and contact someone who can help repair and fix the door before anything happens. Taking proactive measures now, will help ensure the safety of the kids when they are around the garage door.

Selecting the Right Garage Doors in Houston

Many homeowners all across the country don’t take much care in selecting their garage doors, and usually this is one of the last things replaced (if at all) on a new home. But the truth is that having the right garage door for your area and climate can save greatly on your electric, heating, and air conditioning expenses. It can also enhance the overall security of your home. As for garage doors in Houston, here are a few tips to help you select the right one: Consider How Secure You Want the Door to Be The average garage door today is far more secure than those used decades ago (largely thanks to keypads and more durable materials being used), but you still have options. The actual material used for your garage door is perhaps one of the most important, as it’s not secret that metal can be harder to get through than wood. Even so, a thick or well-layered wooden door is still more secure than a thin sheet of metal. And as always, make sure you get the proper measurements for your garage door, as the better it is fitted and sealed, the harder it will be to break into. Consider Layers and Insulation Going along with what was said above, the fact is that you will have to decide A) how many layers your garage door will have, and B) whether or not you want your garage door to be insulated. While multiple layers can certainly help, insulation is often a great idea on garage doors in Houston because they help keep cool air in and hot air out. And if you don’t want the insulation showing in the back, a double-layered door is a great idea. Garage Doors in Houston Should Be Aesthetically Pleasing Texas homes in general are as much about style as they are about practicality and comfort. Therefore, your garage door(s) should coordinate with the rest of your home’s style. You will also need to decide what kind of design your garage door should have, such as standard panels vs. flush panels, windows vs. non windows, etc. If you’re unsure of what is going to look best on your home, we at Houston Overhead Door are more than happy to help you explore your options. Always Consider the Future No matter what kind of garage door you select, the truth is that it will likely need maintenance at some point. It is always wise to have a company in mind should you ever need garage door repair in Houston (even the most high-quality doors will likely need maintenance at some point). At Houston Overhead Door, we not only upgrade existing doors and install new ones, but we also provide quality repair services.

Feel Safe With A Working Garage Door Opener

You pull up to your garage late at night as you push on the garage door opener. Yet nothing happens. It isn’t the first time that this has happened as you begin to get nervous. With the recent news about break-ins and muggings, you are afraid to even step out of your car to manually open up the garage door. Yet you get out anyway. Just as you grab the handle, the bushes at the side of the house rustle, scaring you half to death as a cat jumps out. You leave the car in the driveway as you run to the house.

Keep Safe With Garage Door Maintenance

Most of the problems experienced with a garage door opener isn’t from something that may be broken. You may simply need an adjustment to the system due to constant use. Routine garage door maintenance can eliminate the usual problems so that your system can last for a long length of time. Setting up a monthly or yearly schedule will ensure the maintenance is completed when it is most convenient for you so you don’t experience a malfunctioning garage door at the worst possible time. Garage doors have multiple systems that all must work properly to open and close the door. When one system fails, it may lead you to believe that there are problems with the entire thing as you could be paying for a new system when all you may really need is simple garage door repair. Calling a reliable service such as Houston Overhead Door can ensure that you are only repairing or replacing what needs to be fixed. We will inspect your entire system, pinpoint the problem and explain the issue to you as we give you the best advice on how to repair the garage door opener.

Let You And Your Family Feel Safe With A Working Garage Door

Rules and regulations are always changing regarding the use of garage doors and garage door openers to prevent accidents and keep children safe. When the opener malfunctions, children can become trapped inside the garage or within the garage door itself as they become seriously injured. That is why it is so vital to have a working garage door at all times. Contact us here at Houston Overhead Door. We supply and repair garage door openers so you and your family feels safe whenever you pull the car into the driveway. We service all the brands you love as we can install your garage door opener, offer routine maintenance and repair the opener if there is ever a problem. Don’t scare yourself senseless on those dark and lonely nights when the garage door fails to open and close. Have a working garage door that you trust to keep your car and your family safe with repair service from Houston Overhead Door.

Security Tips With Houston Garage Doors

Security needs to be a top concern within your home regardless of where you live. Gated communities can suffer just as many break-ins as non-gated communities. Houston garage doors are commonly forgotten during the security process and it has been found that this is the first area of the home that is targeted by burglars. You may be in the habit of practicing household safety at night. You may go around and ensure that all of the doors are locked and the windows are closed. However, do you lock your garage door, too? It’s important to look at Houston garage doors to ensure you are able to lock your home as secure as you think that you are. For example, if you do not have actual locks on your door, it may be possible for people to lift the door up at night. Simply because it is closed is not enough of a deterrent for a criminal who wants to gain access to your home. Once your garage door is opened, think about all that can be obtained. You need to focus on garage security, otherwise you may be providing easy access to various things inside your garage and even inside of your home. A garage door service in Houston can help you to look over your garage and ensure you have the best system in place. This includes having a garage door opener with a panel that is close to the door of your home – or even on the inside of your home. New technology offers new locks that can secure your home better than ever before. These locks can be used to secure your garage at night as well as when you go on vacation. You want to be sure you have thought of everything when you leave your home unattended for any length of time. If you have good locks on your front door and your back door, the same should be done for your garage door simply because it is another entrance into your home. Many burglars will go for Houston garage doors before anything else because they know it is the last thing that people secure. If you have an older door that doesn’t close well, you may be giving burglars an easy in to your home. The simplest solution to focus on security is to ensure that your door closes properly, is free of defects, and has a strong lock on it. You can have a garage door opener and still have security – they are not independent of each other. This allows you security and convenience. Working with a garage door company in Houston that provides you with garage door repairs, locks, and modifications can ensure that you have the security needed to keep your home and family safe every day of the year.

Choosing the Best Garage Doors in Houston

At Houston Overhead Door, we offer high-quality garage doors for both residents and businesses. Easily find garage doors in Houston that are durable, safe and stylish. We offer a wide array of Houston garage doors to suit every function and style. Choose from a variety of materials, such as wood, steel and aluminum and glass combination garage doors. Customers can opt for one, two or three-layer steel garage doors in Houston. The two-layer doors feature both heavy-duty steel and insulation. These garage doors are molded and bonded to polyurethane or polystyrene foam for quiet operation, energy efficiency, outstanding durability and strength. Choose from six factory finish paint colors and three panel designs with optional windows to enhance the home’s curb appeal. The three-layer garage doors offer the same advantages but are three-layer insulated sandwiched steel construction. Our wood carriage doors in Houston capture the charm of yesteryear’s character. These natural wood carriage-house style garage doors feature all of the modern convenient overhead operations while hiding its gadgets underneath. Many door designs are available in fine woods like redwood, cedar and hemlock. Even choose a stain to enhance its look. These attractive garage doors in Houston are available in flush or raised panel styles for a warm and inviting look. Aluminum and glass garage doors always add a contemporary appeal. These doors also seamlessly merge with outdoor and indoor living spaces. With the press of a button, the doors are automatically lifted allowing for traffic to pass through. In addition, aluminum and glass garage doors creating an inviting wall of windows that add an open view to any living space. With many glass option, homeowners can control privacy and increased energy efficiency. With seven standard frame colors, including wood grain prints, it’s easy to select one that matches the home’s style and your personal taste. Select screw, chain or belt drive garage openers. Each one is engineered for smooth running, quiet operation and maintenance free. A nice adjunct to the drive garage opener is the DC motor jackshaft opener. It easily mounts on the wall next to the garage door and is equipped with remote 200-watt light that can be placed anywhere in the garage. With the optional standby power system, the door can be opened even if the power goes out. It’s both handy and convenient. Houston Overhead Door is also a full-service garage door company. We offer a full line of parts and services for garage door openers, pulleys, bearings, drums, cables, rollers and much more. In addition, we offer regular maintenance by experienced and trained technicians. For the best garage doors in Houston, be sure to turn to the experts at Houston Overhead Door. Get the best prices without a compromise to quality.

Quality Garage Door Opener for Your Family’s Safety

A quality garage door opener is important for your family’s convenience and safety. That is why it’s important that your equipment be routinely checked and maintained. Garage door repair should be taken seriously and treated with the same respect given to the locks on the front door of your home. The family garage is an important part of the suburban household and should be prioritized as much as the home’s security system, door locks, and safety latches. The garage is a safe storage space, meant to protect your car and valuable tools from weather and theft, and the garage door opener is its key. To make this entrance even more important, it is more often than not used as the main entrance to the home. This allows people to unload and load groceries and children with ease directly from the car into the house and back again without having to walk up stairs and across uneven stone pathways with arms filled. Since the house garage often serves as an entrance to the home, it is no wonder that it has become more susceptible to crime such as robbery. Some thieves use the moment when the garage door is lifting to strike on an unsuspecting person. This is one instance where good equipment could mean life or death. Fortunately, there are many accessories available now to deter such crimes, like light sensors and backup power for the remote, as well as safety shut offs for the holidays. Be aware that there are a number of different options when choosing the right garage door opener for your home.  Depending on your garage size and preferences, you may choose any of the following door opening systems. The chain drive, the screw drive, and the belt drive are all superior products with slight differences in their strength versus the noise that they produce, price, length of warranty, and amount of watts each use. Houston Overhead Door has the best garage door openers to choose from, has an immaculate reputation, and only carries top of the line LiftMaster equipment, famous for being one of the safest, longest lasting, and most superior brands, rated number one in customer reviews. Google+ Garages in suburban homes give people many practical benefits like providing convenient access to the home via the car, making unloading and loading kids and groceries easier. Since the garage is an entrance to the domicile, it is imperative that the garage door opener be treated with the same respect as the key to the home, which it essentially is. Since the garage door opener serves as the front door in most American homes, it is no wonder that this entrance has become susceptible to crime. That’s why it is important to only buy quality equipment as from Houston Overhead Door.

Garage Door Service In Houston Can Enhance Curb Appeal

When you pull into your driveway, you may not be happy with the look of your home. Garage door service in Houston can have a dramatic effect on curb appeal. There are various ways to enhance the look of your garage door. Sometimes it can be as simple as repairing it while other times it requires changing the style entirely. Understanding curb appeal is important as it will affect what you and others think about your home. You want people to like what they see. When you pull into your driveway after a long day at work, you want to be happy with the appearance. If your garage door is off its hinges or the door does not come all the way down to meet the ground, it may cause some upset. You may not like the appearance of your home because of this and you will need to consider a garage door repair. Once you have the repair handled, you can also look into a garage door opener. This can automate the up and down to offer you more convenience as well as security. It’s also a good idea to explore the various styles of garage doors. You may be surprised by what changing the appearance of your garage door can do. This goes beyond just changing the color. You may be able to go from a carriage door to a modern garage door, add windows, and enhance it in various ways. Since the garage door is one of the first things that people see when they look at your home, garage door service in Houston can be a very effective way to add curb appeal. This ensures that you have the proper aesthetics to feel good about coming home every night and pulling up to your home. An added benefit is that it may help add value to your home. Should you ever decide to put your house on the market, people are going to judge a book by the cover. Your garage is part of that cover and if they don’t like what they see, it’s going to be hard to attract potential homebuyers. There are all sorts of options for your garage door. Whether you need a repair, want to add windows, enhance the security, or change out the door for a completely different style, there are options for you. Taking the time to schedule a consultation with a garage door company can be an enlightening experience so you know what can be done to improve your curb appeal. Your garage door is just as important as your front door. You wouldn’t dream of letting your front door become outdated and dilapidated, so you should use a garage door service in Houston to ensure that the larger door on your home is in pristine condition as well.

An Automated Garage Door in Houston Can Be Easily Installed by Houston Overhead Door

A garage door in Houston for vehicles not only provides a far more convenient way to secure a vehicle inside and away from the elements, commercial overhead doors in Houston also improve the vehicle’s security and lowers its risk of theft or vandalism out in the open. Many commercial vehicles suffer theft or vandalism just sitting out in the open. Employees don’t worry themselves too much about the issue because it’s just a company car. And car thieves who are simply after parts know it’s far easier to take components than to steal the entire vehicle, especially one with newer anti-theft technology. As a result, a company fleet can be quite vulnerable out on the street or an open yard, which drives up the operating cost of the company constantly having to repair related damages. On the other hand, with vehicles parked behind commercial overhead doors in Houston, this preventable problem can be eliminated and the costs avoided. A number of different facilities can be equipped with a commercial garage door in Houston. Warehouses are a prime example, usually designed with a large bay door in the rear for large loading and unloading of materials. With an automated door in place, company vehicles can be parked inside the warehouse and away from curious eyes. That in turn reduces the risk of crimes of opportunity, at least when the expense will be charged to your company as the vulnerable vehicle owner. An automated garage door in Houston can also be quite difficult if not impossible to open without a pass code activator. This is because many garage door designs use what is known as a shaft drive. The garage door can’t be popped or shoved open because it simply won’t move. When the drive rod is locked, the door will not travel upward unless it is actually bent or broken. For opportunistic criminals, a shaft drive automated garage door is simply too much of a hassle to deal with on the fly. So if your company or warehouse has facilities that cars or trucks could be parked in, but they are not being used because the current garage door in Houston is too much of a pain to operate in a given location, then it’s time to call Houston Overhead Door. There’s no need to keep risking your vehicles to theft and damage, driving up your businesses costs unnecessarily. Once behind a secured parking area, your vehicles become far more difficult to mess with, reducing your maintenance and repair costs significantly.

Safety Tips from Commercial Garage Door Openers in Houston

Commercial garage door openers in Houston provide a great addition to any business. Commercial garage doors add a level of security and professionalism to workplaces that need to protect stock or other items. Houston Overhead Garage Doors is one of the premier commercial garage door company. We provide a wide range of garage door options to suit your company’s needs. In addition to offering commercial garage door openers in Houston we also offer residential garage door options for your home. Our residential garage door openers can make your home safer and more convenient. There is a level of safety you should consider when operating either commercial garage door openers in Houston or if you are simply operating your own garage door opener at your home.

• Garage door opener buttons should always be mounted out of the reach of small children. In fact garage door opener buttons should also be mounted out of the reach of larger pets, as these pets can very quickly learn how to operate any device which allows them access to the outside world.
• A few times a year you should check your garage door opener’s reverse mechanism to ensure that it is functioning properly. This can be accomplished by simply placing a board or other obstruction within the closing path of the door. When the door comes into contact with the obstruction the garage door opener should switch into reverse mode. This mechanism ensures that people or pets cannot get stuck under the garage door.
• Evaluate all components of the garage door each month to ensure that everything is in good working order. This would include any cables, springs, pulleys etc.
• Never attempt to repair cables, springs or any component of your garage door yourself. You should call a trained professional with commercial garage door openers in Houston to repair any damaged or malfunctioning parts.
• Take time to educate your children about garage door safety. A garage door is not a play thing and should be treated with caution and respect. Garage door injuries are a real threat to child safety.

Safety precautions should also be taken when you are away from home for long periods of time to ensure that the security of your garage door is not compromised.

• Keep the remote to your garage in a secure location.
• Make sure that you can trust any individuals who may have access to the garage door opener.
• Make sure the garage door is securely shut and that all interior doors have been securely locked before leaving your home for extended periods of time. Many criminals like to take advantage of families away on vacation. Before leaving for any trip take special caution.

Garage Door Houston – January 2014 Infographic

Garage Door Houston Infographic

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Garage Doors In Houston Need To Be A Top Concern

Garage doors in Houston are going to impact your home in many ways. You don’t want to take your home for granted, which means you can’t take your garage for granted, either. Security, insulation, and various other things are part of why you need them in the first place. The more you know how they can help, the more you will want to get them repaired when they are broken. If you need a garage door repair near Houston, it’s important that you make the call and get the repair scheduled. There are a lot of security issues if you don’t have garage doors in Houston that close properly. There are a few garage door security tactics to ensure that your home is sealed off to intruders. This includes using a state of the art lock on your garage door and using an automatic opener. When you have great garage doors in Houston, you don’t have to worry about someone using that as an access point to get into your home. In today’s day and age, you can never be too safe. Even if you have a great security system, you need to protect your garage – and your garage doors can help with this. Should you decide to insulate your home to prevent using too much heat in the winter and too much A/C in the winter, you need to the importance of a garage door. If your garage door cannot form a good seal, there may be a lot of hot or cold air that goes into your garage. Once this air is in the garage, it can penetrate the doors and walls and make its way into your home. You may not have had much choice on your garage doors in Houston when you bought your house. However, now that you are in your home, you have to decide if the design is still sufficient for you. Start with the aesthetics. Are you happy with the way the doors look? If you aren’t, there are plenty of doors that you can have installed that will go with the personality of your house. You then want to move into the security aspect of your garage doors. Can people get in? Do they lock? Are they easy to pull open? All of these issues need to be looked at. Your garage door may be the first place that intruders look as a way to gain entry to your home. If you pay attention to your garage door with security in mind, you can eliminate this threat. When you have the right garage doors in Houston, you won’t have to worry about a breach in security, spending too much on your electric bills from insulation problems or what your home looks like from the curb.

Getting a Garage Door in Houston

An electronic garage door in Houston is a great safety feature. They allow you to park your car in the garage without having to get out of your car. Living in a large city like Houston can be dangerous, especially when you work late into the night or have to leave early in the morning. It is vital to remain safe in these circumstances. Smaller cities might not have as much crime, but the world we live in is getting more and more dangerous every day. Many people affected by the economy have had to get different jobs or even second jobs just to continue living their current lifestyle. If you are holding a second job, more than likely it is not during traditional work hours. If you have to enter or leave your house after dark, an electronic garage door opener might be just what you need. Safety is important, but there are other reasons to invest in this equipment. Convenience might be important to you. Maybe you just want to save a few minutes by not having to climb in and out of your car to park. Houston can get really hot in the summer and you might not want to have to step out of your air conditioned vehicle in your nice clothes and get all sweaty. Some people run a business out of their home and keep stock or a small office in or near the garage. A garage door in Houston could be the front of your business. If it is electronic, you can use your garage door when you have to carry or manage your stock efficiently. You don’t have to get up and open the door for deliveries of stock or when the mailman comes to pick up packages. Owning commercial garage door openers in Houston allows you to spend more time dealing with your business and less time wrestling with a manual garage door. There are many reputable companies for garage doors in Houston. Make sure you check out Houston Overhead Doors and ask your friends and family for recommendations. Shop around to get yourself the best quality at a reasonable price. Make sure you do your research to find a reputable company. Finding some guy down the street to install it doesn’t give you any guarantees or insurance about the quality of the product or installation; nor does it grant you any liability to protect you from thieves. Also, check with your home security company to see if they have any recommendations. Some companies have standing contracts with certain companies, which can get you a fine discount. Additionally check any alumni organizations for discounts and coupons. These can allow you to purchase a higher quality garage door in Houston for a lower price. The increased safety a garage door provides will allow you to limit access to your business. You can connect it to the security system in your home and keep a log of each household member’s codes as they enter and leave your family home. If there is a break-in through your garage, the security system that can be worked into an electronic garage door will allow the police to get a timeline of the break-in. This will give you increased safety and security and thus enable you to sleep better at night. And everyone could use a better night’s sleep.

Update Your Houston Home’s Overall Look with New Garage Doors

One of the most overlooked areas of home improvement, but one that can drastically change the look of a home, is the garage door. Quiet and utilitarian, garage doors in Houston hardly ever get noticed unless they require repairs. However, the entire look of a home can be updated and changed by updating the garage door as part of an exterior home makeover. Changing a Home’s Façade with a New Garage Door Houston homeowners like their homes to stand out. They like to be noticed in their neighborhoods for beautiful homes with great curb appeal, and part of that process involves the change in a home’s façade that comes about with a new garage doors in Houston. Simply by choosing a door in a complimentary color to the home’s main color, homeowners can make an immediate statement. This statement is even more striking if the color of the garage door is a deep, rich hue combined with a subtle neutral on the house. Many homeowners choose neutral siding and highlight it with touches of color in the form of shutters and accents. A garage door can be the home’s largest accent piece and can truly highlight the beauty of the overall color scheme without overpowering the home. Style Makes a Statement Another way that a garage door can change the look of a home is by changing the style of the door. The style of the door adds greatly to the overall feel of the home, so it is important to choose a style that fits well with the existing architectural scheme. You may like the modern door styles but they do not work well on a home whose major features are Victorian. Similarly, no matter how beautiful you believe a carriage door to be, it does not work on a sleek modern home. On the other hand, tossing caution to the wind can sometimes result in beauty that is attractive simply because it is startling. Nonetheless, it is usually best to allow an expert in custom garage door design and installation to help you choose the right door for your home. Once the right door is found, it can greatly enhance the overall look of the entire building. It is amazing how much difference a new garage door can make when a boring, plain door is changed for a new and stylish one. Garage Door Options Make It Simple to Find the Right Door Choosing the right garage door is easy when you have many options. Today’s technology allows garage door choices that include retractable, solid and swinging doors in both overhead and side-mounted configurations. Choose from doors that include windows or are solid, doors that can be painted or come pre-colored, doors that operate manually or by remote, and a variety of other options. It may be a bit of a challenge to choose the right garage door when you have so many options. However, it is not difficult at all to understand how beautiful your home can look when you take the time to choose the right door and have it professional installed.

Are New Garage Doors the Final Touch Needed for Your Houston Home?

The garage doors of a home are made to be functional, but they can also be stylish. Many homeowners choose basic paneled doors for their garages without realizing that the garage door can drastically affect the appearance of their home. Homeowners who are considering buying new garage doors in Houston are impressed with the inventory and service available from the professional team at Houston Overhead Garage Doors. The Right Materials No two houses are exactly the same, and even tract housing features little differences between properties. Garage doors in Houston are another way to differentiate one house from another and ensure that properties look incredible. Different homeowners also prefer different materials. One person may want wood doors to match the gingerbread trim accenting the home, and another may want steel doors for the added security. Houston Overhead Doors carries options in wood, aluminum and steel, so every customer can find the perfect door for his or her needs. Custom Options Wood doors can be handcrafted and customized to match different architectural styles. Steel and aluminum doors can also be customized by choosing different panel configurations, decorative windows and unique accents. In addition to standard overhead doors, the company also offers attractive carriage doors. These unique doors have the charming look of traditional carriage house doors that swung open on hinges, but they still rise up overhead for modern convenience. Safety Considerations Garage doors aren’t just a cosmetic consideration. Quality doors also make the home safer. WindCode rated doors are less likely to become damaged in a storm. With the doors firmly in place, homeowners won’t have to worry about a serious storm turning the tools in their garage into dangerous projectiles that could come through an interior wall into the home. With steel fire rated doors, those people living in rustic areas will have an added layer of protection from wildfires. Finally, the heavy, quality doors are less likely to be targeted by home intruders who are searching for an easy score. Energy Efficiency Houston Overhead Garage Doors offers Energy Star options that are perfect for insulating the garage. The oppressive heat that radiates in through the garage door starts to press against the connecting walls to the home. These walls are not always heavily insulated, and that makes it harder to keep the home cool in the summer. With an insulated garage door, that radiant heat is kept out of the home. The garage stays cooler, and that helps the home interior remain cool and comfortable. Time Saving Aging garage doors require maintenance. They need to be painted if they’re made of wood or composite materials. Metal needs to be checked or rust, and all aging doors should have the tracks inspected occasionally. With a new door, this maintenance can be eliminated. The doors come with quality paint finishes that will last for years, and they’re carefully engineered to provide homeowners with years of reliable service. When it’s time to update the home exterior, remember to look closely at the garage door. An attractive door that’s built to last will add value to the home while simplifying maintenance requirements. Energy efficient doors make it easier to heat and cool the home, and property owners will appreciate how smoothly the doors operate. When looking for a fresh change around the home, consider the many benefits of investing in quality garage doors with Houston Overhead Garage Doors.

Are Your Current Houston Garage Doors Reliable?

Houston garage doors are an important feature of any Houston home, but most homeowners don’t give them much thought. As long as they are functioning, they are largely forgotten. However, when the doors start to fail, they can become a serious hazard. It is vitally important to enlist the assistance of a trained professional when installing your garage door. Malfunctioning Openers are a Hazard Houston garage doors are heavy, and they can crush items in their path when they aren’t functioning properly. Property owners can avoid tragic accidents and property damage by making sure their openers are equipped with the right safety equipment. Sensors at the floor detect items in the way of the garage door and will prevent it from closing. They are also made to stop closing and return to the open position if something blocks the door from closing completely. Test a garage door by putting an empty cardboard box in the path of the door. If the door closes and crushes the box, then service or a new garage door opener will be needed. Protection from the Weather The garage can help make a home more energy efficient when it has the right features. A garage that is equipped with insulated doors will remain warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It helps homeowners lower their energy bills by forming a valuable buffer between sections of the home and the outdoors. One way to make the garage more energy efficient is with insulated doors. To determine if doors are insulated, start by looking at them. If the braces are exposed and the front panel of the door has no covering, then the door is doing little more than blocking the wind. If the door bracing is hidden between panels, then people can tap gently on the door to see if it’s insulated. A hollow door will echo and sound hollow, but an insulated one will have a deep, dull sound when it’s tapped. If the existing door is not insulated, homeowners should consider investing in an insulated door that will help them save money in the long run. Avoiding Dents Another benefit of insulated doors is that they’re less likely to dent if a ball or something small strikes them. Hollow doors have no support inside and nothing to prevent the door from denting, but insulated doors are filled with material that provide support and help prevent denting or creasing. Smooth Service and Easy Operation Garage doors should work smoothly and easily. They should rise as one unit with both sides equal, and they should come down without shaking, shuddering or vibrating. Take a moment to raise the door and then lower it. Make sure it’s responsive to the remotes, and check for any problems with the operation. Strange noises or sluggish response should prompt a call for service to have the door adjusted. This will help the door last longer and allow homeowners to avoid costly breakdowns. Garage doors are quite often forgotten, but they’re an important part of any home. They can make a home more energy efficient when they’re insulated and properly installed. They also need regular attention and service to ensure that they will last longer and won’t turn into a hazard. People who have any concerns about the quality or safety of their doors are encouraged to call a professional door company for assistance.

Fall Is Just Around The Corner: Is Your Houston Garage Door Ready?

When it comes to the garage door, Houston homeowners often have repairs made in the late summer and fall months. For most homeowners, early fall represents a respite in the hectic travel and play schedule of summer before the busy holiday season. This makes it a good time to have a company like Houston Overhead Garage Doors examine the door for possible repair issues. Why Do I Need a Replacement Garage Door? Most homeowners put in a garage door in Houston homes and forget about it until the day comes when the door suddenly does not work. These homeowners find out the truth about garage door repairs: just like every other part of a home, a garage door needs regular maintenance and care to function at its best. Early fall is a good time to do a quick check of the garage door. Pick a quiet morning or afternoon when it is easy to hear the garage door’s operation noises. Run the door up and down a few times. Is the operation smooth and silent? A well-maintained garage door should not make a great deal of noise. Shrieks, squalls and screeches should definitely be looked into, but other noises may also merit attention. Is the operation easy? For manually opening doors, it is easy to allow lack of maintenance to creep up to the point that the door becomes almost impossible to open. Homeowners should honestly assess how difficult it is to open a garage door. If straining and pulling are necessary, it is time to get the door checked. Are there visual issues with the garage door? Obvious cracks, broken glass or sprung springs merit immediate attention. Has the door been repaired before? Unfortunately, some garage door repair companies do not perform repairs that withstand the test of time. If there has already been a problem with a garage door and the problem is recurring, it is important to have a professional such as those at Houston Overhead Garage Doors inspect the repair to ensure it is done properly. Homeowners who find that their garage doors are not performing as well as they should or who have issues or concerns about garage door problems may contact Houston Overhead Garage Doors for help. The professionals at Houston Overhead Garage Doors can perform assessments and repairs quickly, giving homeowners the peace of mind that comes with having a working garage door that is in good repair. Why Choose Houston Overhead Garage Doors? Houston Overhead Garage Doors is a leading provider of garage door services in the Houston area for very good reasons. For one thing, Houston Overhead Garage Doors provides a wide range of garage door services, including:

• Repair or replacement of broken springs, cables, drums, pulleys, hinges, struts, rollers, bearings and tracks.
• A full line of new garage doors including Clopay, Amarr, CHI, Ankmar and Windsor.
• A complete array of garage door openers to fit any size door and budget

Houston Overhead Garage Doors also provides maintenance and service on all makes and models of residential and commercial garage doors. No matter what type of door is installed, Houston Overhead Garage Door can provide the repairs and service needed to keep it operating smoothly.

What Makes Overhead Garage Doors Ideal for Houston Homes?

Overhead garage doors in Houston are some of the most common and popular garage doors. These garage doors are often considered the easiest for the average person to use and easy to install, making them ideal for the average Houston residential garage. If you are in the market for a new overhead garage doors, there are several reasons why you should consider having an overhead garage door installed. Aesthetic Appeal Overhead garage doors in Houston are about function over form, but that doesn’t mean you need to take aesthetic appearance out of the equation. With many homes, the garage door is one of the first things visitors see, so it is important that your door look appealing. Overhead garage doors come in a number of different styles, many of which can be customized to the design of your home. They are also available in a variety of different materials, including different types of wood. Wood can often be as durable as metal, in addition to adding a modern, yet rustic appeal to your home. Convenience One of the reasons why overhead garage doors are so popular throughout Houston and the surrounding areas is that they are so convenient. Most garages with overhead doors have automatic garage door openers installed, and the doors themselves are designed so that they can be lifted easily along a track on a simple pulley system at the push of a button. Even if you don’t have an automatic garage door opener with your overhead garage door, you should still find it easy to lift up the door yourself. An overhead door should move smoothly along tracks installed on the side of your garage, and even though these residential doors can weigh about 200 pounds the average adult should still be able to open it easily. As the door conveniently slides overhead and folds at its hinged segments means that it will stay safely in place once you have it opened. Low Maintenance Overhead garage doors require far less maintenance than other types of doors. This may come as a surprise to some since overhead doors are segmented and have hinged parts, but the rolling system that is used to lift and lower them moves smoothly and easily, and the segmented design helps the doors absorb impact. The fact that these doors are also protected from the elements when they are open is another benefit. If you want to avoid spending a lot of money on home repairs and maintenance, it is wise to consider an overhead door. Garage door installation is often much more difficult and complicated than many home owvers realize, and although we live in a DIY society, there is simply too much that can go wrong if you attempt this kind of project yourself. Shop around and find a contractor in your area who can install the type of garage door that you want. An experienced garage door company will ensure the overhead door you order fits the style of you home, is constructed to your exact specifications, and is installed properly.

What Makes an Overhead Door Attractive for Houston Residents?

Using the garage is a daily routine for home owners. Houston residents can quickly become disenchanted with their home if the garage door does not operate properly. An overhead door in Houston is often a solution to many home owners’ problems when it comes to the functionality of the garage. Garage doors such as these are designed to look great and function even better. Any home owner in Houston understands the premise behind having a quality overhead garage door at all times. Automated Features The old sliding function can become frustrating for home owners and can be taxing in the long-run as these designs tend to require frequent maintenance. An overhead door in Houston is designed to be fixed with an automated feature that opens the garage door on its own and operates a variety of other functions. This automatic nature of the garage door makes its use much easier for home owners. Increased Space Not only is the overhead door automatic, it creates more space for home owners. Many of the old-fashioned garage doors tend to take up more space in comparison to an overhead door. Sections of the garage door will lead to the home owner having less space to work with in addition to storage space being taken away. This is not the case with overhead doors. Minimal Maintenance The biggest concern for home owners is seeing that their garage door has suddenly stopped working. Older garage doors tend to have many of issues related to their functionality. Overhead doors are designed to require minimal maintenance in comparison to other options. This is an appealing aspect for home owners that do not want to continually address repair needs and pay the expense for excessive damage. The repair can be costly if one does not have an overhead door. Aesthetic Properties The exterior of the house is often one of the most important aspects of its beauty. As the garage door is often one of the primary focal points of the front of the house, a great deal of thought should be put into how it is designed. While they can display minimal design or ornament, garage doors should never be plain. An overhead garage door can easily be designed in order to fit the overall theme or design of the house and the desires of the home owner. This can be done by the addition of windows, the material that the door is made from, or the color it is painted. Increases Value Most home exterior projects are done with an eye towards increasing the curb appeal and property value of the house. Garage doors are often looked at by interested buyers as a sign of the house’s quality and overall appeal. Without an adequate or functional garage door, the chances of potentially selling the house are decreased. The property’s price is an essential factor to take into consideration for home owners prior to making any alterations. In order to increase the curb appeal of a home with a garage door that adds aesthetic value with minimal maintenance, Houston residents should consider investing in an overhead garage door.

How Spring and Summer Can Take a Toll on Your Houston Garage Doors

The weather in Houston can change on a dime, and it’s known for going to extremes. In the winter, ice and freezing conditions can beat on the door. In the spring and summer, the powerful rays from the sun can damage the doors and leave them looking old and worn. The fine city of Houston can be hammered by rainstorms and lightning early in the morning and then drift into a heat wave that afternoon. People in the area know that they can encounter hail, and the strong winds that come through also cause property damage. This causes Houston garage doors to become damaged and unsightly in record time. The Power of the Sun Most individuals understand that the sun can cause damage to household items. It fades paint, breaks down plastics and can cause rubber to dry rot. As the sun beats down on a garage door, the intense UV rays can cause permanent damage. The paint starts to fade, rubber stripping around the edges is baked and damaged and the entire door can start to fall apart. It’s important to choose a garage door company that offers UV protectants to help minimize damage to the door and prolong its life. This UV coating is particularly important on wooden carriage doors, but it is beneficial to most Houston garage doors for preventing the paint from fading and peeling. Hail and Wind Damage Avoided Hail is an incredibly destructive force, and it will leave a dent in weak surfaces. The best doors available have a solid core that makes the door more resistant to dents. Houston also sees high wind gusts. The garage doors must be securely installed to ensure that powerful winds do not blow them off track. The hardware must be securely mounted, and the doors should be built to withstand the strong winds that move through Houston. Rain Protection People think of sunshine when they picture Houston, but the area is also prone to rainstorms. Driven by the wind and hitting garage doors at an angle, the water can be driven between panels and around the sides if the door is not fitted perfectly in the opening. The seals must be tight and secure, and the panels should fit closely together to keep the driven water out of the garage. The Right Options A locally owned garage door company understands the extreme weather in Houston. They know that even though the city normally has nice weather, extreme conditions can roll through at any time and cause serious damage. Look for a company that offers high-quality doors and experienced installation teams. They should have steel options, UV coatings and superior hardware. With the right options, garage doors can withstand the weather and maintain their incredible looks. When it’s time to purchase a new garage door, take the time to choose a local company with the right experience. Homeowners don’t want garage doors that will dent under the impact of dime-sized hail or blow away when the high winds arrive. Take the time to choose an experienced company and enjoy a door that can withstand the extreme weather and provide homeowners with years of valuable service.

This Summer Is the Best Time to Replace Your Garage Door in Houston

The garage door is an important part of any home. Providing easy access for cars, it is usually visible from the street and an important part of the home’s overall décor. While a garage door in Houston can be replaced anytime, it is wise to handle this chore during the summer months when the weather is nice and the opening can be left uncovered for several hours. Here are some of the top reasons to replace a garage door this summer. Curb Appeal The garage is visible from the street in most cases, and it’s one of the first things visitors see when they approach the home. A new garage door in Houston is fresh, clean and welcoming. It adds to the overall look of your home and makes it more attractive. Boosting curb appeal, it can also add to the value of the property. Consistent Operation Garage doors that have seen better days do not open and close consistently. They can be troublesome to operate, and homeowners may have to hold the button in place to get the door to close. They don’t close properly, and they cannot be counted on to open properly the first time. This is aggravating, and it can become dangerous if the garage door prevents someone from leaving the home quickly in an emergency. With a new door, homeowners can trust that their door will work properly every time they need it. Less Maintenance Time When a door starts operating inconsistently, homeowners start spending more time trying to fix the door. They may adjust the opener, grease the chain, check the tracks and work on the light sensors. All of this takes time, and it can be frustrating. Additionally, older doors may need more maintenance on the exterior. They need to be painted, there may be dents to try to pull out or broken windows to replace. A new door will look fantastic and operate beautifully, so homeowners can spend less time on maintenance. More Energy Efficiency The garage can absorb the outside temperatures, or it can become a buffer between the home and the external climate. When the garage door is insulated, it keeps more of the hot and cold air out of the garage. The garage becomes another insulating space that protects the home and makes it more energy efficient. Better Protection Aging doors don’t provide the security they once did. They become easier for thieves to bypass, and pests like mice will find it easier to slip through the cracks that are starting to appear along the edges. With a new garage door, homeowners enjoy better protection. Their homes are more secure, and pests are kept out through superior weather stripping and doors that fit tightly against the opening. Ideally, the doors should be replaced before the cool winter weather arrives and starts driving the mice and other pests into homes in search of shelter. Superior Safety Finally, new garage doors are safer. They open properly, and they will automatically re-open if a child or object is in the way of a closing door. This makes homes safer and gives families greater peace of mind. There are many reasons to invest in a new garage door, and spring is the best time to make the change. The warm weather allows the opening to be left unprotected while the door is replaced, and the new door will be a welcome addition when the cool winter temperatures return.

The Importance of Maintaining Your Houston Garage Doors this Spring

Posted on May 21st, 2013 by Matt Davis]

Cold weather takes a toll on Houston garage doors by making all of the moving parts work especially hard. Preventive maintenance of the doors in the fall makes them work better in cold weather, and correcting problems as soon as winter is over is the next best step. When the springs are not properly lubricated, the wear on the bearings and the pulley wheels increases rapidly. The opener suffers from operating a door that is hard to lift, making routine maintenance an effective way to extend the life of both the door and the opener.

Signs of Trouble

Houston garage doors that do not open or close properly may have photo sensors that are out of alignment. Other problems can show up when the springs need an adjustment or a roller needs a replacement part. A sagging door is a signal to burglars who can identify it as a weak point of entry into a home. Repairs by a professional mechanic are required when any sign of malfunction occurs. Other typical problems include these:

• damage to door panels
• door fails to open completely
• grating or squeaky sounds
• door fails to close completely
• broken springs
• damaged hinges

What Can Go Wrong

A garage door is such a commonplace object in most homes that it may not get the attention that it deserves. In some homes, it the largest movable object in a house, and its weight and complex design make it worthy of regular maintenance. Easy access to garage doors encourages home owners to treat a repair as a do-it-yourself project. A lack of understanding of the working mechanisms can lead to serious injury for an inexperienced homeowner.

Springs

Torsion springs are wound tightly to make them open and close doors efficiently. A spring that loses tension needs professional attention, and it is not a job for a home owner. When a spring unwinds, it can deliver sufficient force to cause serious injuries or even death. Damaged springs are especially dangerous with metal parts that are unstable and unpredictable.

Heavy Doors

Weights of 300 pounds or more are not unusual for garage doors, and their shape makes them difficult to control when they are off the hinges. A door that is not supported by the restraints that were installed originally can slip and cause extensive damage to a person.

Falls

Repairs often require the use of a ladder to access a door’s opener or to remove components of the working mechanisms. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that a third of fatal accidents in construction projects result from falls. 

Reasons to Hire a Professional

Turning a garage door repair into a do-it-yourself project appeals to many home owners. Professional mechanics undergo extensive training to enable them to perform installations quickly and safely. By understanding which parts of a door support its weight, technicians identify components that are worn due to cold weather, excessive use or age. Repairing or replacing springs is a dangerous job that requires skill and experience, and these are two qualities that professional garage door technicians are equipped with.

Jobs that are done professionally are completed in a short time, allowing a garage door to close securely to protect a home. Attempts to save money by not hiring a professional are ill-founded. Professional repairs and replacements are available at reasonable prices, and home owners can avoid any consequences if an accident occurs during a do-it-yourself project.