Archive for Garage Doors – Page 3

Why Did My Garage Door Brackets Break?

Gargae door Jamb Bracket

A typical 16 x 7 residential garage door weighs around 150 pounds. Add insulation to that
equation it pushes the weight up to around 200 pounds or more. Garage door brackets are small but
play a vital part in the function of your garage door. These heavy garage doors are joined to
the door mechanism by door brackets. When your garage door opens and closes the brackets
hold your garage door in place by connecting the door to the sliding mechanism. Brackets
allow the door to bend at each section as it is opening or closing. There are many reasons
brackets break and neglecting the condition of your garage door brackets is not a good idea. It
only takes one malfunctioning garage door bracket to create a situation that causes your garage
door inoperable. A defective garage door bracket can cause your garage door not to open or
close at all.
Reasons Garage Door Brackets Break
Let’s look at some of the reasons why garage door brackets break.
Lack of Maintenance – Noise and squeaky garage door brackets are one of the most common
problems. The noise comes from the friction caused by brackets due to lack of lubrication.
Occasionally you will need to oil your garage door brackets so they are resistant to rust. To fix
the problem use a silicon-based spray.
Poor Quality Brackets – Garage door brackets that are made with low quality materials are
naturally prone to break sooner than brackets made from high quality material. Garage door
hinges are very affordable. Buying the best brackets upfront will save money down the road.
Mismatched Garage Door Brackets – When replacing a single garage door bracket make sure
the replacement bracket or hinge is the same type as the rest of the brackets. Mismatched
brackets could unbalance the door by distributing the weight of the garage door unevenly.
Conclusion: Call A1 Affordable Garage Door Services today if you suspect your garage door
brackets are wearing out or need to be replaced. Our skilled garage door professionals can help
keep your garage door functioning properly. A1Garage door repair serves Plano and surrounding areas like Flower Mound, Frisco, Colleyville, Lewisville and more.

Broken Garage Door Cables and How to Fix it

Broken garage door cable

Garage door cables are located on the sides to lift and lower the garage door easily.  Eventually over time wear and tear can cause the cables to snap or lose tension by fraying.  Upon inspection if you identify a slack in the cable that wasn’t there before or a snapped cable, it’s crucial to take steps to ensure the safety of you and your family.  Read on to discover what steps to take to replace your garage door cable yourself. 

Garage Door Cables and What They Do

Garage door cables connect your garage door to pulleys and springs by running from the bottom and up along the sides.  The cables wrap around the pulleys when the garage door is opening and unwind when the garage door is closing.  This action turns the pulleys and causes the springs to stretch.  

Cables serve as a key function in your garage door system.  Cables along with springs are considered the most important parts of the garage door system.  With malfunctioning cables and springs an automatic garage door opener would not have the ability to lift the door. 

Signs of a Snapped or Damaged Garage Door Cable

Strange Noises – Listen for grinding, squeaking, other noises that are not normal. 

Garage Door is Stuck – When you attempt to open or close the garage door, nothing works.  Best to call a garage door professional immediately. 

Garage Door is Shaking – An unstable garage door is a sign of instability and can be deadly if it comes crashing down.  A professional garage door specialist should be notified.

How to Open Your Garage Door with a Broken Cable

Garage doors are extremely heavy and can cause serious injury.  Keep in mind at any time the cable can completely break causing damage to anyone close by. 

It is possible to open your garage door with a snapped cable, but it is not recommended but only in case of an emergency.  Only in case of an emergency take the following steps.

  1.  Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect your garage door from the opener.
  2. Manually open the door using the handle located at bottom of door.
  3. Using a clamp or vice hold the door open in place.

Remember only in case of an emergency are you to attempt to open your garage door.  Call A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair for any repairs or replacement necessary for your cables and all other garage door needs. We Service Plano and Surrounding areas like Anna, Flower Mound, Lewisville, Rockwall and more.

How To Align Garage Door Sensors

Garage door photo eyes sensors ISBs

Garage door sensors may be small but are components that are essential to your garage door performing efficiently.  Sensors that are out of alignment will cause your garage door to malfunction.  Garage door sensor alignment does not require a professional and with the correct tools you can correct the problem in no time.

Necessary Tools and Materials

First gather the necessary tools and materials needed to align sensors.  You will need a screwdriver, electrical protective gloves, cotton string, and beam level.

Disconnect the Power Supply to Your Garage: Disconnect power to your sensors by either unplugging them if they are manually plugged into a wall outlet or tripping the fuse from your home’s breaker box for the entire garage.  Make sure to wear electricity-resistant gloves although the wires should not be live, don’t take any chances. 

Loosen Sensor Screws: Loosen screws on the mounting brackets of your garage door sensors.  Only loosen them, do not take them all the way out.  Loosen the screws by placing the screwdriver into the screws and turn it anticlockwise. 

Attach String and Tie Knots: Attach the end of the string to one of the sensors and its mounting bracket.  Make sure to tie the knot firmly.  Next, stretch the other end of the string across the opening of the garage to the second sensor and mounting bracket by a firm knot.  The string should look straight as possible. 

Check String Level:  Using a level, place it underneath the thread ensuring it runs level across the garage door opening.  You will need to check the entire length of the string to ensure the string is level before proceeding to the next step.  If sensors need to be adjusted, you can adjust them by sliding their mounting brackets. 

Tighten the Screws:  Once the level shows that both sensors are level to each other, you can begin tightening the screws.  Once tightened use the level again to ensure the sensors are aligned properly. 

Test the Sensors:  Once the strings are removed and you have ensured that the sensors are aligned with each other, turn the electricity back on.   Test the sensors.  If your garage door still malfunctions, contact a professional garage door repair company. 

A1 Affordable Garage Door Services are experts in any kind of garage door repair or installation.  Give us a call today. Or get directions to our our garage door showroom in Plano where you can see different types of garage doors, garage door openrs and more. Serving Anna, Princeton, Wylie and surrounding areas.

What To Do If Your Garage Door Spring Breaks

Broken spring - garage door repair

First, what exactly is a garage door spring?  Springs play a significant role in keeping your garage door together.  Springs play a major part in the operation of your garage door, unlike some other components, you’ll need to replace them if it breaks.  Springs are responsible for lifting your garage door which weighs hundreds of pounds.  It’s best to leave your garage door closed If the spring is broken.

Reasons Why Garage Door Springs Break

Here are some of the reasons garage door springs eventually break:

Wear and Tear – Garage door springs eventually break due to daily wear and tear.  The lifespan for a spring is commonly around 10,000 cycles.  A garage door going up and back down to close is considered one complete cycle.  Although 10,000 cycles seem like a lot, the daily cycles can quickly add up.

Rust – When rust develops on garage door springs, its lifespan is reduced dramatically.  Rain and humidity can cause rust to form on garage door springs and even the garage door itself.  Rust corrosion will cause your spring to break overtime. 

Lack of Proper Maintenance – Eventually your garage door springs will fail but you can still prolong their lifespan with proper maintenance.  Lubricating springs one or two times annually will help maintain your garage door spring.  Use wither white lithium or silicon spray which can be found at a local hardware store.

Which Garage Door Springs Do I Have?

Torsion Springs and Extension Springs are two types of springs you’ll encounter on a garage door.

Torsion Springs – Torsion springs are typically located above the garage door and end in metal fixtures called cones.  Torsion springs are coils made with large gauge steel wire. 

Extension Springs – Extension springs are extending springs attached to cables that retract as the garage door is being opened that counters the door’s weight.

Installation of Garage Door Springs Garage door springs can be tricky and without proper installation and maintenance it can be quite dangerous to handle on your own.  A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services are experts in installation and garage door repairs of any kind.  Give us a call today.  We are ready to get your garage door back in working order.  Serving Dallas and surrounding areas like Princeton, Prosper, Sachse.

Garage Door Track Repair

Garage door off track frisco

Garage door tracks are the unseen workhorse that is one of the most vital parts to your garage door system.  Garage door tracks are generally the same for most residential homes using overhead systems.  Garage door tracks are generally installed on the right and left sides of the garage door and must be perfectly aligned for your garage door to function correctly.  Over time your garage door tracks can wear out from constant use and the slightest break or bend in the track can spell trouble.  The most apparent indicator of a track problem is when your garage door will not open completely.  Most likely this generally points to the door slipping off the tracks.  If this happens call a professional immediately.  This creates a hazardous scenario which only a qualified garage door specialist should address.  A1 Affordable Garage Door Services has the expertise to repair or replace your garage door track.  Garage door track repairs is one of our top priorities when it comes to garage door repairs. 

Signs of Damaged Garage Door Tracks

Often do a quick inspection of your garage door looking for signs of repairs needed.  Such as:

Loose Rollers – Loose rollers point to problems with the track.  Call a professional to repair the issue. 

Loose Screws – If your garage door is lopsided or shaking when opening, check the garage door tracks for any loose screws or bolts and tighten them if needed. 

Rust Spots – Check your garage door tracks for rust or corrosion.  Overtime tracks can become damaged from exposure to moisture or other natural elements.  This can prove to be dangerous causing the door to become unstable.  Reach out for professional repair or replacement. 

Other Repairs A1 Affordable Garage Door Services Offers

A1 Affordable Garage Door Services also repairs garage door openers, springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and lots more.  Give us a call today for any garage door repair, installation, or maintenance.  We have the expertise to work on any issue with your garage door.  Serving Plano and surrounding areas like Addison, Celina, Prosper, Princeton.

Garage Door Opener Repair

Black powder on garage door opener needs repair

Garage Door openers play a critical role in opening and closing your garage door.  It is one of several moving parts that make up your garage door mechanism and there’s several reasons why it may break.  At A1 Affordable Garage Door Services, we service and repair all garage door brands.  When you need your garage door opener repair, installed, or maintained, give us a call.  Our technicians are trained and should be able to diagnose the issue promptly.  Call us right away if there’s anything wrong with your garage door opener.  Our technicians will determine the issue and recommend a solution to fix the problem. 

Garage Door Parts We Repair

A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services also repair and replace the following and more:

Cables:  Don’t attempt to move your garage door if it has a broken cable.  A broken cable can be dangerous to attempt to open and close the garage door and can lead to serious injury.  Call a garage door professional immediately.

Springs:  Garage doors springs are made of high-tension steel and lose their effectiveness over time to balance the weight of a garage door.  The spring enables easy movement when opening and closing.  Let the pro’s take care of garage door spring repair. 

Rollers:  Garage door rollers are a key component of your garage door system.  The rollers are hard at work every time you operate your garage door.  Over a period of time rollers need to be replaced due to gradual wear and tear.  Give A1 Affordable Garage Door Services a call today to replace any worn or broken rollers.

Tracks:  Garage door tracks partially support the weight of the door and ensure steady movement when opening and closing the door.  Call A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services today to repair or service your garage door tracks.

What To Do If Your Garage Door Opener Stops Working

If your garage door opener stops working, check the remote battery.  It that’s working, look for any visible issues like no electricity to motor, broken cable or runners that could be off track.  To open the door manually, pull the red-handle emergency release cord to disconnect the garage door from the opener.  This will allow you to open the door manually.  Call A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services for any garage door opener repair or replacement you may need. We Service Plano and Surrounding areas like Frisco Tx., Murphy Tx., Prosper Tx. and more.

Garage Door Cable Repair and Replacement

Broken garage door cable
Garage Door Cable Broken

One of the most important components of a garage door system is the cables.  Although they are often overlooked, the cables play an important role in the safety of the operation of your garage door.  The garage door cables ensure the safe operation of high-tension springs, however there are other uses for garage door cables such as supporting the weight of the garage door during its opening and closing cycles.  The cable system attaches the garage door to the torsion springs.  This helps to keep the garage door balanced.  Properly functioning garage door cables are essential for preventing misalignment.  A1 Affordable Garage Door Services are equipped to handle any cable repair or replacement job you may need on your garage door. 

Signs of Wear or Needs Replacement

There are warning signs you need to pay close attention to concerning your garage door cables.  This could make a difference between a simple cable repair or a complete cable replacement.  It is crucial to identify signs of wear and tear in your garage door cables.  Check cables for rust, loosening, or fraying which can all lead to cable breakage.  Depending on the location, you may not see a broken cable.  If you do have a frayed or snapped cable, additional damage may occur if you try to use your garage door leading to expensive repairs. 

A1 Affordable Garage Door Services and Repairs

When a garage door cable breaks, the most practical and saftest step to take is to call a professional.  A1 Affordable Garage Door Services performs garage door cable repairs when you need it.  Our team is available 24/7 for emergencies.  Any repair and installation of garage door cables should always be handled by garage door professionals.  Our technicians have the expertise to efficiently perform cable repairs and installations. Call us today to set up an appointment.  Serving Plano an surrounding areas like Fairview, Frisco, Murphy, Prosper and more.

Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors

Amarr Carriage Court Garage door

Modern garages are considered an extension of your home and used not only to park your car and for storage, but some are used for workshops, home offices and gyms.  Upgrading your garage door to an insulated one has its advantages.

Advantages of Insulated Garage Doors

Save Money – Saving money is one of the biggest benefits to having an insulated door installed.  It pays to be energy-efficient and having an insulated garage door can make a difference in your monthly energy bill.  An insulated garage door helps maintain your desired temperature throughout the year and can avoid constant temperature changes.

More Durable – Insulated garage doors last longer than their non-insulated counterparts.  They stand up well to dents and dings due to the extra layers of insulation materials.  As a result, they require less maintenance and are less likely to get damaged and require frequent repairs.

Increase Value to Your Home – Most home upgrades increase your home’s value including a new insulated garage door.  The exterior is the first thing prospective buyers will see and first impressions matter.  Garage doors not only increase your home’s curb appeal but a new insulated one will be more appealing to buyers because of the energy savings.  This can affect the value of your home in a positive way.

Less Noise – Insulated garage doors keep the inside quieter by cutting down on disturbing noises such as barking dogs, road noise and other disturbing sounds.  Insulated garage doors absorb sounds produced by the door when opening and closing resulting in the operation of the door being much quieter than a non-insulated garage door.

Disadvantages of Insulated Garage Doors

More Expensive – As with most things, the more insulation, the higher the price.  These garage doors cost more than non-insulated doors depending on the size and material of the door that is used.  Although your insulated garage door can save you money in the long run it will cost you more up front.

A1 Affordable Garage Door Services Installation and Repairs is the most trusted garage door service in Dallas.  Give us a call today at 972-877-5774. We serve Plano and Surrounding areas like Addison, Carrollton, Mckinney, and more.

How Long Does a Garage Door Last?

Amarr Carriage Court Garage door

If you live in your home long enough, you’ll likely need to replace your garage door.  There are many factors that contribute to its lifespan but a typical garage door that has been maintained should last between 15 to 30 years.  To work correctly and last as long as possible, your garage door requires regular maintenance.  To extend your garage doors lifespan and prevent malfunctioning make it a rule to inspect and maintain your garage door at least twice a year. 

How To Tell If You Need a New Garage Door

Lacking Curb Appeal – Garage doors play a key role in curb appeal on homes.  Not only does it give your home a face lift, but it contributes to the value of your home.  Since a garage door makes up a large part of your home, a new, updated garage door can completely transform your home, making a lasting impression. 

Sagging Garage Door – Sagging can occur from uneven door issues but that’s not always the case.  Old age of the equipment can cause sagging such as warping.  A sagging door from warping will need to be replaced and upgraded.

Noise and Vibrations – Springs and other essential components can cause unusually loud noise or vibrations when operating your garage door.  It’s best to call a  professional to check out your torsion spring and other components.

Increased Repair Frequency – Purchasing a new garage door can be more cost effective if you are constantly having to service your garage door.

Garage Door Opens Slowly – Old age could be one of the causes of your door opening slowly.  Old and worn torsion springs or other components that are wearing out may not be functioning as effectively as before. 

Reduced Energy Efficiency – Overtime installation can wear down or become brittle allowing cold air and moisture to enter in which can waste energy.  A new, more insulated garage door can increase energy efficiency.  New garage doors are designed to seal tightly and provide the highest level of energy efficiency. 

A1 Affordable Garage Door Services can Repair or Install a new Garage Door for you. We Service Plano and surrounding areas like Addison, Colleyville, Carrollton and more.

How to Update Your Garage Door

Would you like your home to have a contemporary sleek look and have it stand out?  Updating your garage door can make your home exterior more welcoming and beautiful.  Whether your home is craftsman, contemporary, mid-century, farm-house, modern garage door styles can add beauty to your home and plenty of curb appeal. 

Ammar Modern Glass garage door

What is a Modern-Style Garage Door?  Simple details along with clean lines are the hallmark of a contemporary or modern garage door.  Modern garage doors have become a popular choice and are available in a wide range of material options such as glass, aluminum, steel, and wood.  Modern garage doors have an endless array of options when it comes to customizing including window configurations, types of panels and color. 

Garage Door Custom

Benefits of Installing a Modern Garage Door:

Increases Home Valve – Whether you are in the market to sale immediately or in the future, a new garage door adds valve to your home.  Modern doors are so popular along with making your home more attractive, allowing the price of your home to be higher. 

Improves Curb Appeal – Beautiful landscaping and exterior decorations can be detracted from an unsightly garage door.  Unpleasant sounds, rusty chains and chipping paint can affect curb appeal and the valve of your home.  Upgrading your garage door is a great way to boost curb appeal since a garage door makes up a large part of your home facade.  Not only does it add to the wow factor but elevates your home’s overall look. 

Durability – Modern garage doors are built to withstand the test of time.  Modern garage doors require low maintenance and are constructed to resist harsh weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, strong winds and heavy rain.  Constructed with advanced weather insulation and seals, modern garage doors are built to be durable and long lasting. 

A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair and Services offers beautiful garage doors that will bring a modern look to your home.  Contact us today to learn more.  Serving Plano and Surrounding areas like Addison, Carrollton, Celina, Colleyville and more.

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