Redwood City Garage Door Installation & Service Blog

Planning to Sell Your Home? 4 Garage Updates to Consider

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 16:00:00 GMT

If you're planning to place your Bay Area home for sale anytime soon, you're in luck. San Jose, San Francisco, and Oakland represent the three most competitive housing markets in the country, as the number of potential buyers is greater than the number of sellers.

However, an increase in demand doesn't mean you don't have to make your home stand out from the other options on the market, especially if you want to yield the biggest return from the sale. Learn what money-making garage updates you can perform.

1. Install Storage

Buyers want a home that looks nice but more important, a house in which they can live comfortably. In fact, buyers specifically search for properties with extra storage features like pantries, separate laundry rooms, and linen closets. A home with ample storage can surely spark their interests.

If you have a large and spacious garage, consider adding built-in storage shelves along the walls. If floor space is limited, you can alternatively install hanging racks on the ceiling. Whichever option you choose, just make sure you consult a professional to ensure you install the shelves correctly and leave enough clearance for vehicles.

2. Update the Garage Door

If you aren't excited about your garage door, you can't exactly expect potential buyers to be excited either. A new garage door is a great way to boost a home's curb appeal and give it a facelift. For an older home, a new door is even a great way to shave a few years off your home’s age.

Once you've attracted new buyers to the property, the new door will also allow you to negotiate a higher asking price. With the increase in security, updated look, and increased energy savings, a new door can increase the value of your home by as much as 4 percent.

Don't think you have to upgrade to a door similar to your existing one; it's OK to experiment with different materials and colors.

3. Perform a Technology Upgrade

Smart-home technology isn’t restricted to living spaces. You can also implement this technology in your garage. With so many buyers looking for functionality and efficiency, updating the technology in your garage is a great way to satisfy their needs.

Start by upgrading to an opener system that offers real-time connectivity. With these units, you can use any internet-enabled device to monitor and control the garage door, no matter where you are.

You can even find systems that will send you an alert anytime your garage door is opened or closed. If you have children that come home from school on their own, this level of access can give you greater peace of mind.

4. Install Floor Mats

In many households, the garage is a multifunctional space — not just a place to store vehicles. These days, people use their garages as playrooms, man caves, beauty rooms, and even home gyms. For a potential buyer who doesn't intend to use the garage for vehicle storage, installing floor mats is a great way to help them recognize the potential of the space.

Floor mats are available in a range of materials, but polyvinyl plastic and rubber are great options, as they are durable enough to withstand vehicle traffic while still serving as a standard floor. Best of all, mats are easily removable and don't leave behind damage to the floor.

When placing your home on the market, your goal is to sell the property as quickly as you can for the best price. All of these garage updates can help you move in this direction. Whether you're selling your home or you just want to perform some upgrades to your garage, Garage Door Factory is here to help.

Garage Door Acting Strange? 4 Malfunctions That Are Often Repairable

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Many people never realize just how important a garage door is until it fails. If your garage door has been engaging in somewhat questionable behavior, you don’t need to panic. A malfunction with the door doesn't necessarily mean that a complete replacement is necessary.

Learn just some of the scenarios in which you may be able to avoid a replacement and find the solution you need in the form of a repair.

Door Vibrates When Moving

If your garage door vibrates or shakes as it moves along the track, this could be the result of damaged or worn lifting cables. Lifting cables are basically support devices that help with the process of lowering and raising the door along the track.

However, a garage door will not move as smoothly along the track when these cables are worn, which is the cause of the vibration you notice. Lifting cables are just one of the many components of a door that tend to wear from everyday use; however, corrosion may also be the culprit.

To ensure your safety, it's best to stop operating the door until you determine if the lift cables need to be replaced.

Door Won't Close

You're rushing out the door to get to work, and just before the door closes all the way, it stops and reopens. All modern garage door systems are designed with heightened safety measures that come in the form of photo eyes, the small devices located on each side of your garage door track.

Whenever the laser-like signal transmitted between these two lights is not aligned or not transmitting correctly, the door will not close. If one of the sensors is turned, realigning them will typically resolve the problem. However, if it's a wiring problem, you will need to contact a professional for assistance.

Door Makes Unusual Sounds

Silent isn't usually a word used to describe the operation of a garage door. However, although a door will make some level of noise, loud sounds aren't always normal. Particularly if you have an older door, the source of the problem could be damage to the tracks and not the door itself.

Like problems with lifting cables, if there are any imperfections along the course of the track, the garage door can't glide smoothly along the track. So each time it meets an imperfection like a dent or bend, you may hear a banging noise.

Door tracks can be damaged from a collision with a car or from pressure caused by storing heavy items directly on the top of the door tracks.

Door Closes and Opens Slowly

Another common yet typical repairable problem is slow operation. A leading reason for this issue are failed springs. Garage doors can easily weigh hundreds of pounds. Door springs balance this weight and lighten the load on the automatic door opener system.

When even one of the springs has failed, this will put more pressure on the automatic opener, which will result in a slower than normal operation. However, it will also increase the rate of wear on the opener system and introduce safety concerns.

The average door spring lasts somewhere between 7 and 12 years, so if your door is older than this, a spring could be to blame. Replacing the door spring is often the resolution. Most problems with garage doors are progressive. Sure, you might have a problem on your hands that you can repair today, but if you aren't proactive in your efforts to have the door repaired, a replacement may become your only option.

At Garage Door Factory, we are committed to meeting your repair needs as soon as possible. Call us at the first sign of a problem to determine if a repair or replacement is best for you.

The Benefits of Wooden Garage Doors

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 16:00:00 GMT

When it comes to your garage doors, you have a lot of different options that you can choose from. One of the major choices that you will have to make, however, is the actual material that your garage doors are crafted from. While there are several different possibilities to choose from, one of the best options for many people is wood. Here’s a look at the various reasons wood garages are always a good choice.

A Wealth of Choices

To start off with, perhaps one of the very best things about wood garage doors is the fact that they come in so many different styles and varieties.

You can choose from all different types of colors and finishes of wood according to your preference and to what complements your home. Furthermore, wood is easily painted if you prefer a non-natural color for your garage doors.

Wooden garage doors can even be made in custom sizes and styles for a truly unique looking garage. If you want garage doors that perfectly suit your style, wood is typically your best choice for getting exactly what you want with ease.

Wood Garage Doors Fit Any Budget

Something else to appreciate about wooden garage doors is that they are available at many different prices, allowing them to be suitable for just about any budget.

If you're hoping to save money, for example, you can choose a lightweight, and therefore less expensive, wood. If you have a larger budget, however, you can go for a tougher or more polished wood, such as mahogany.

How much you spend on your wooden garage doors is really up to you. Whether you choose affordable or high-end, however, you're sure to get durable garage doors that will last for many years. That's because even the cheaper wood options are typically very durable and well-made.

Wood Garage Doors Won’t Get Dented

Something else to appreciate about wooden garage doors is the fact that, unlike many other materials, wood doesn't easily suffer from dents, dings, scuffs or other common indications of wear and tear.

In fact, as long as you take steps to protect your wooden doors against weather and moisture, they should hold up very well and still look brand new for a very long time.

Wood Garage Doors Are Ecologically Friendly

Another very nice thing about wooden garage doors is the fact that they are a very eco-friendly choice. After all, they are made from wood, which is a naturally occurring and renewable material.

Thus, when you choose wooden garage doors, you are choosing a material that won't have a negative impact on the planet. That's something you can feel great about, especially if you are actively trying to reduce the size of your carbon footprint.

Wood Garage Doors Are Highly Insulated

You will also be glad to know that wooden garage doors tend to be insulated. Not only does wood provide natural insulation, but most manufacturers of wooden garage doors also add additional insulation of their own.

All of this insulation means that your garage doors will be very effective guards against heat and cold, depending on the season. This means you can enjoy a warmer car on those frosty winter mornings and that any temperature-sensitive items stored in your garage should fare well.

In short, there are a lot of great advantages of having wooden garage doors. If you think that wood could be the right material for you and your garage door, then don't hesitate to contact Garage Door Factory to explore your options. Even if you ultimately decide to go with a different material, Garage Door Factory should be able to help you to find the perfect match for your wants, needs and budget.

Wood, Aluminum or Steel? Finding the Right Garage Door for Your Home

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Your garage doors add curb appeal to your property and can be beneficial in allowing you to park your car safely in an enclosed space. And like many other home design decisions, buying a garage door isn't as simple as just wanting one installed; you really need to put some creative thought into the process.

You want to consider price, durability, longevity and beauty when buying a garage door, and the materials used to create garage doors have a lot to do with all these factors. So, should you choose wood, aluminum or steel? This guide will help you decide which garage door is best for your needs using information about each type of door and the above factors.

Price

If price is the biggest motivator in your purchasing decision, then you may want to go with steel. Steel doors typically begin at a cost of around $750 , but expect to pay more for insulated steel that drowns out noise and makes your garage more energy efficient by controlling temperature changes. Steel is popular and can be cost effective in the long run due to its low maintenance requirements, its resistance to rust and dents and the low cost of installation.

Another option is aluminum, which isn't as durable as steel but does come with a low impact on your budget. Single-piece doors that are of the thinnest aluminum material can be as cheap as $400. However, aluminum can dent, tear or scratch easily, especially if you plan on using your garage doors often. Talk to your garage door install specialist to see whether basic steel or aluminum doors are better for your budget and needs.

Durability

If durability is your biggest concern, then you will again want to opt for steel or aluminum. The reason for this is simple: neither material is prone to rust or corrosion. With steel or aluminum, repainting your doors may be your main form of maintenance.

Steel is less susceptible to denting than aluminum, but aluminum can be easier to repair, so the choice between the two is a toss-up. Don't forget about wood, either: it is highly durable and won't dent. However, wood will require frequent refinishing to maintain its allure, so a wood door would require more maintenance than its metal competitors.

Longevity

The average garage door, regardless of what material it's made out of, lasts between 15 and 30 years. Regular inspections of your garage door will help extend your door’s regular life, and how often you use the door will affect how long the springs last.

No matter what type of garage door you choose, you need a professional garage door technician to inspect your garage door and make replacements or repairs as needed if you want to get the most life out of your purchase.

Beauty

Wood garage doors offer a rustic, welcoming appeal to the garages they adorn and can be customized to fit any home's style. Steel and aluminum doors, on the other hand, can vary in color but may be limited in design.

If you want garage doors that really take peoples' breath away and add amazing curb appeal, then wood may be your best option. Be prepared to pay for the luxury of wood garage doors, as they start at around $800 for a basic style and can cost upwards of $2,500 if you get a custom design.

Garage doors can benefit your home greatly, no matter what material you prefer. Talk to your garage door technician about the options available to you based on your needs and budget. At Garage Door Factory, we can help you find the best garage door for your home.

Why a Classic Aluminum Garage Door Is All You Need

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 16:00:00 GMT

When updating the curb appeal of your home, investing in a new garage door is a simple and cost-effective way to achieve that wow factor you're looking for. You may think you need to spend a lot of money on a steel or wooden door, but in reality a classic aluminum garage door can meet all your upgrade needs while saving you money at the same time.

Here are reasons why you should give aluminum garage doors a second look. You just may find that a classic door is all you need to make your property look amazing.

Aluminum Garage Doors Are Versatile

The average minimum cost for a traditional aluminum garage door is just over $800, leaving you plenty of room to spend your budget on other exterior improvements. The versatility of a basic aluminum garage door is impressive: you can paint the door nearly any color you wish to make it more unique if its original style doesn't appeal to you, or you can invest a bit more money and buy an aluminum door that has a glass insert.

Aluminum can also be purchased in a texture that mimics wood or stamped steel so you can achieve the appeal of pricier garage doors without the cost. Classic aluminum garage doors can be customized to fit your current home's style.

You can choose to upgrade to a thicker aluminum garage door that has greater insulation for sound control or stick to a basic style that has simple lines for a streamlined appeal. Your garage door installer can help you choose the best aluminum garage door for your budget.

Aluminum Garage Doors Are Long Lasting

The average garage door, including aluminum, lasts around 20 years maximum. The number of times you use your garage door in a day and how you maintain your door greatly determine how long you can expect yours to last. If you are simply getting a garage door on your property to enclose your garage and keep storage safe, then aluminum is a wise investment as the material lasts as long as steel or wooden doors do without the additional costs.

Aluminum Garage Doors Are Easy to Care For

Invest in rust-resistant aluminum garage doors for a low-maintenance upgrade. While aluminum is more likely to dent than steel, it is a durable material that bends well so it may not break as easily as other materials. You simply need to keep the tracks lubricated and wash the aluminum doors now and then to keep them looking and functioning like new.

If aluminum doors get stained or begin to fade, you can simply have your garage doors repainted with a fresh, new hue. Easy maintenance allows you to enjoy your garage doors more wholly, knowing you will not have to invest a lot more money to keep them looking attractive and operating as they should.

Whether you are installing garage doors for the first time or thinking of replacing your current doors for something more modern and attractive, consider basic aluminum doors when shopping. You'd be surprised the many ways an aluminum garage door can look and operate as beautifully as more expensive wood or steel doors do. Your garage door specialist will work with your budget to help you choose the style and material that works best for your needs.

If you are unsure whether you want aluminum garage doors or another style, allow your specialist to show you the pros and cons of different materials on the market. Our team of garage door specialists can show you a trending collection of garage doors in various materials to help you choose the best one for your home and budget. Call us at Garage Door Service today.

How to Choose the Right Garage Door

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Choosing the right garage door is important because it will likely be the first thing a person sees when they come to your home. To make a good first impression, choose a garage door that complements your home’s unique style.

Works With Your Home’s Style

If your home is in an older neighborhood, it will likely not benefit from a modernized garage door style. Choosing a garage door that works well with your existing home exterior will increase the value and overall aesthetic of your home.

Find a Material That You Can Maintain

Not all garage doors are created equally. Some people may prefer the look of a steel garage door more than a vinyl or aluminum door. Choosing a sturdy and durable material is as important as picking a door material that provides adequate insulation from the elements outside of your home. If you live in a climate that gets chillier in the winter, a garage door with ample insulation will help keep your heating and cooling costs down.

Choose a Style That Provides Safety

Although a motorized garage door can be a blessing, it doesn’t come without its downfalls. If your garage door is equipped with safety features, you will likely have to worry a lot less about any potential accidents.

Choosing the right garage door can be a difficult task if you aren’t sure what you should be looking for. For more information on how to choose the right garage door, contact Garage Door Factory today.