How often should I have my garage door serviced?

We recommend professional maintenance at least once a year to keep your garage door operating safely and efficiently. During a maintenance visit, our technicians will inspect all components, lubricate moving parts, test safety features, and make necessary adjustments. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs by catching small problems before they become major issues. If you use your garage door frequently (more than 4-5 times per day), consider scheduling maintenance twice a year. Between professional visits, you can help maintain your door by keeping the tracks clean, listening for unusual sounds, and testing the balance and safety features monthly.

What should I do if my garage door won't open or close?

If your garage door won't operate, start with these troubleshooting steps: 1. **Check the power**: Make sure the opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. 2. **Inspect the remote**: Replace the batteries in your remote control. If you have a keypad, try it or use the wall button to see if the issue is with the remote. 3. **Check the photo-eye sensors**: These sensors near the bottom of the door tracks must be aligned and clean for the door to close. Look for a steady light on both sensors. 4. **Look for obstructions**: Check the tracks and door path for any objects that might be blocking movement. 5. **Check the emergency release**: If you or someone else pulled the emergency release, the door is disconnected from the opener. Reconnect it by running the opener until the trolley catches. If these steps don't resolve the issue, or if you hear grinding noises, see a broken spring, or notice the door is off its tracks, call us for professional service. Attempting to repair springs, cables, or major components yourself can be dangerous.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A typical garage door installation takes 4-6 hours, but the exact time depends on several factors: **Factors affecting installation time:** - Removal of the old door (if applicable) - Size and type of the new door - Whether you're also installing a new opener - Any necessary modifications to the opening or framing - Weather conditions for exterior work **What's included in installation:** - Complete removal and disposal of your old door - Installation of new tracks, springs, and hardware - Door panel assembly and mounting - Weather seal installation - Opener connection and programming - Safety testing and adjustments - Clean-up of the work area We schedule installations to minimize inconvenience and always aim to complete the work in a single visit. Our technicians will give you a more accurate time estimate when they assess your specific situation during the quote process.

Protect Your Home: Garage Door Security Tips

2024-01-01 7 min read Sarah Chen

<p>The garage is often the most vulnerable entry point into your home. A poorly secured garage door provides easy access not just to your vehicles and belongings, but potentially to your entire house through the interior door. Here's how to make your garage door a security asset rather than a liability.</p>

<h2>Upgrade Your Garage Door Opener</h2> <p>If your opener is more than 10 years old, it's time to consider an upgrade. Older openers use fixed codes that can be easily copied by tech-savvy burglars with radio-frequency grabbers.</p> <p>Modern openers use rolling code technology, which generates a new code every time you use the remote. This makes it virtually impossible for thieves to capture and duplicate your signal. Smart openers add another layer of security by letting you monitor and control your door from anywhere via smartphone.</p>

<h2>Don't Leave the Remote in Your Car</h2> <p>This is one of the most common security mistakes homeowners make. A garage door remote left in your car, especially if the car is parked in the driveway, gives thieves an easy way into your garage and home.</p> <p>Instead, use a keychain remote that stays with you, or install a smartphone app to control your door. If your vehicle has a built-in HomeLink system, disable it when parked at home or in public.</p>

<h2>Cover Your Windows</h2> <p>Garage door windows add natural light, but they also let potential burglars see inside. If they spot expensive tools, bicycles, or an empty garage indicating you're not home, your garage becomes a target.</p> <p>Consider frosting the windows or adding curtains or shades. If you're installing a new door, choose decorative glass that obscures the view while still letting in light.</p>

<h2>Secure the Emergency Release</h2> <p>Most garage doors have an emergency release that allows manual operation during power outages. Unfortunately, burglars can access this release by fishing a wire through the top of the door.</p> <p>Several products are available to prevent this, from simple zip ties that secure the release lever to aftermarket locks. Ask us about adding emergency release protection to your door.</p>

<h2>Don't Forget the Interior Door</h2> <p>The door between your garage and home is your last line of defense if someone gains access to the garage. This door should be treated like any exterior door:</p> <ul> <li>Use a solid-core door, not a hollow interior door</li> <li>Install a quality deadbolt lock</li> <li>Consider a keypad lock so you can lock it remotely</li> <li>Keep it locked at all times, even when you're home</li> </ul>

<h2>Add Motion-Sensor Lighting</h2> <p>Burglars prefer to work in darkness. Motion-activated lights around your garage are an inexpensive deterrent that make it harder for thieves to approach undetected.</p> <p>Install lights at both the front of the garage and inside. An interior light that turns on when the door opens can startle intruders and alert you to unexpected access.</p>

<h2>Use Vacation Mode</h2> <p>When you're away, disable the remote control function on your opener. Most openers have a vacation switch or button that prevents the door from being opened by remote, requiring manual operation from inside.</p> <p>Smart openers can send alerts to your phone whenever the door opens, so you'll know immediately if someone accesses your garage while you're away.</p>

<h2>Maintain Your Door</h2> <p>A well-maintained garage door is also a more secure one. A door in poor condition might not close completely or could be easily forced open. Regular maintenance ensures:</p> <ul> <li>The door closes flush with the ground</li> <li>The locking mechanism works properly</li> <li>The door can't be easily pried open</li> <li>All sensors and safety features function correctly</li> </ul>

<h2>Consider Additional Security Features</h2> <p>For maximum security, consider adding:</p> <ul> <li>A garage door monitor that shows door status from inside your home</li> <li>A security camera pointed at the garage</li> <li>An alarm system sensor on the door</li> <li>A deadbolt lock for the garage door itself</li> <li>A timer that automatically closes the door after a set period</li> </ul>

<h2>We're Here to Help</h2> <p>At Garage Door Mission Viejo, we can assess your current garage door security and recommend upgrades to protect your home and family. From installing modern openers to adding security features, we have solutions for every budget. Contact us for a free security consultation.</p>

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