pros of a service door

All About Garage Service Doors

A garage service door is a very important component of a garage. One of the most important things for most garage owners is ease of access. You want to be able to come in and out of your garage as conveniently as possible and as often as you want to.

However, making use of your standard garage door can be time-consuming and stressful.

Several homeowners wonder if they need a service door in their garage and the benefits of having such a door in their garage. In this article, discover the pros and cons of a garage service door and the importance of choosing one that works for you.

What is a Garage Service Door?

Whether at home or in commercial settings, many garages are fitted with service doors that lead to other rooms at home or other facilities. Service doors are designed to grant access to your garage without having to use the central garage door.

A garage service door, also known as a wicket door, man door, or simply a pedestrian door, is usually a classic swing door placed inside a garage door. The door is usually normal human-sized and is cut inside the bigger garage door to permit easy entry into the garage. This allows you to enter your garage without having to open the whole garage door.

How Much Does it Cost to Add a Service Door to a Garage?

On average, garage doors cost about $1000, typically ranging between $500 to $1500. Standard, single garage doors range between $700 to $1200 installed. Double car garage doors cost between $800 to $1500 installed. Labour usually costs about $200 per unit, with a new garage door being between $200 to $900.

Walkthrough service garage doors usually cost between $600 to $1800. The prices often depend on the size of the doors, the materials used and the required door mechanism.

What Are the Benefits of a Service Door?

There are several benefits of a service door; they are convenient and easy to use. Some of the benefits of a service door include:

  • You only require a key to enter your garage, just like any other door in the house.
  • Due to the service door serving as both a pedestrian door and a garage door. This will help to save floor and wall space, giving you a lot more storage space.
  • If you have several things stored in your garage, passersby will not see them due to the garage door remaining closed.
  •  
  • With walk-in service doors, there is one remarkable safety feature that makes it a worth it purchase. Anyone who attempts breaking into your home or garage risks being seen in full view by neighbours or road users. One other advantage is that pedestrian doors open outwards, meaning that any force applied on the door to break it open further closes it.
  • Even in a power outage, you will still have access to your garage, and the lack of power will not be a problem anymore.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Service Door?

Although garage service doors are a great idea, they come with a few drawbacks.

Some of the pros of a service door include:

pros of a service door
pros of a service door

Conserves energy and causes less wear

Walking in and out of a service door for times where you don’t need the entire garage door to be opened can help prolong the life of your garage door remote and opener, as well as help conserve energy. A service door also allows heat to escape the garage during the cold winter months better than the standard garage door.

Added convenience

Rather than having to roll up the entire garage door whenever you need to take out the trash or grab the mail, a traditional garage service door can save you the trouble.

Saves you space

If your home is on a tight block with a small lot, the front of your garage might not be able to accommodate a standard-size garage door along with a swing door alongside. Installing your service door in your garage door is a great way to maximize space without compromising on your accessibility.

Improves privacy

Suppose you are worried about passerby’s peeking into your garage unnecessarily. Having a smaller access point can help.

Helps during power outages and increases fire safety

When you need to vacate your property quickly during an emergency, it is not very feasible to bank on an electric garage door opener. A service door ensures you can get in and out of the garage when you need to, increasing safety.

Even though there are many pros to having a garage service door, certain circumstances might not be the best option.

Some of the cons of a garage service door include:

cons of a garage service door
cons of a garage service door

Additional installation cost

Including a garage service door requires specialized safety features, and the cost of installation can add up. You can avoid this by using an affordable company that specializes in installing garage door Toronto.

Making small doors less energy efficient

Even though a service door can boost energy efficiency, small garage doors can become less efficient with installing the main door. This is because it creates more openings for the circulation of air. You can tackle this problem with proper sealing.

Increased damage potential

Some homeowners have caused serious damage to their garage doors by attempting to open them after leaving the main door ajar accidentally. You can prevent this by being extra cautious and making use of modern security technology.

Does Your Garage Door Need a Service Door?

Since a garage is not considered a habitable space and its main purpose is vehicle storage, the standard garage door that admits a vehicle is required. Another reason a service door is not a requirement is because the garage is not considered an egress path. One is not required to egress to the outdoors through the garage from the living area.

However, you must confirm with your local building department to ensure they do not require a service door.

If you’re thinking of closing up your garage doors, you can simply keep them locked and stack your shelves in front of the door. This will prevent anyone inside the garage from using the door. Also, because the door is locked, no one from outside will access the garage using that door. Keeping the door may be a great idea as the next buyer might want a service garage door in their garage.

What Are the Basics of a Service Door?

A service door is located in the main garage door. Usually, it swings on a set of hinges, and it can be locked when not in use. A major difference between a garage service door and a house door is that the service door opens outwards, unlike the doors in standard residential homes, which open inwards.

Due to the service door jamb fitting flush, the existing garage door can’t swing inwards. Although this might take a little time to get used to, most homeowners do not consider this a problem. An intruder will find it impossible to kick in the service garage door without meeting a substantial amount of resistance.

Conclusion

When you have a garage door expert, garage door installation comes easy. If you need professional assistance for your garage door Toronto, you can contact TCB Doors.

We are a reputable company specializing in garage door maintenance near me, door opener maintenance, torsion spring maintenance, etc.

Some of our services include garage door framing, garage door spring installation, garage door opener belt installation/repair, among many others.

All our technologies are insured and licensed. We also offer affordable pricing with a 90-day guarantee. We offer emergency services and are available 24/7.

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What Are The Dangers Of A Broken Garage Door?

A broken garage door can easily become a hazard. If you discover your garage door has a problem, using it before it is repaired can be dangerous. Your garage door can become run-down as a result of extreme weather, age or other physical elements. If your garage door starts to show resistance when closing or opening or becomes stuck, try to find out the problem before you attempt using it again.

Repairing a broken garage door is very risky and should only be done by professionals. In this article, discover all you need to know about broken garage doors.

What Can Cause Damage to Your Garage Door?

What Can Cause Damage to Your Garage Door
What Can Cause Damage to Your Garage Door

Most garage door owners are surprised to find out how many different parts constitute a garage door. If any of your garage door parts get worn out or stops working properly, it can damage your garage door, causing it to break down.

When you are familiar with the parts of your garage door, you can easily carry out routine maintenance and properly inspect the garage door to ensure a longer span. Here are some of the most common causes of garage door damage for you to look out for:

Broken Cables

Garage door cables help lift and lower your garage door. After being in repeated close-open cycles, they can become damaged or break. With age, these cables can also become brittle, causing them to snap.

It would help if you regularly inspected the cables for any signs of decay or damage. If you observe any damage, immediately contact a garage door expert to replace the cables before it spirals into an even bigger problem.

Broken Garage Springs

Your garage door springs bear a lot of pressure over time. The pressure they are put under is so much it can cause your garage door springs to snap and break. Once your garage door springs are broken, your garage door will no longer function properly.

If you’re lucky to be present, you can hear the garage door spring snap and break and even fall off your garage door. However, if you are not present, you need to inspect your springs to ensure they are still intact regularly. Check the area surrounding the garage door to take note of any broken springs on the ground. To replace your broken garage door spring, simply contact a garage door expert Toronto.

Worn Rollers

The rollers on your garage door help it glide smoothly up and down the track. If your rollers become worn, they may prevent your door from opening easily. Depending on the severity of the damage, the door can move in a jerky motion or become stuck, damaging other parts.

Detecting worn rollers is a lot easier for trained professionals, but it might be a roller problem if you notice difficulty in closing or opening your door. Contact your garage door company to check your rollers and determine the cause of your problem.

Worn Hardware

The hardware on your garage door, such as bolts, hinges and so on, can become rusty, making it difficult for your garage door to operate properly. Most times, all you need to do is check the hardware, apply oil-based lubricant to ensure everything glides smoothly while tightening anything loose.

If you notice your garage door closing or opening with difficulty, worn hardware may be the reason. Contact your garage door expert Toronto for inspection or necessary repair.

Misaligned Track

Due to excessive movement, your garage door can move out of place, causing it to become misaligned. A misaligned track will only worsen with time, leading to more damage as the tack continues to move out of place.

Although routine maintenance can prevent some of these garage door problems, age will always catch up with your garage door. The best thing is to remain observant so you can tell when your garage door needs a replacement or repair. This vigilance will help you nip whatever problems your door might have in the bud.

What Are The Risks Associated With Damaged Garage Doors?

What Are The Risks Associated With Damaged Garage Doors
What Are The Risks Associated With Damaged Garage Doors

If any of the garage door parts need repair, garage door repair should not be delayed. Even though a garage door provides a lot of utility, it can cause some gruesome accidents.

Personal Injury

Weak or broken torsion springs and cables can result in serious injury and even death. Your garage door may close with too much force suddenly if any of these components are faulty. If you think your garage door is closing too quickly, avoid speculations and contact a garage door expert Toronto. Seeking professional help is always a better option than encountering unanticipated events.

Car Damage

Your garage door can shut suddenly if the cable is broken. This damage can cause your garage door to come crashing down on a car while on its way out of or into a garage. Garage doors are very heavy, and the impact they will have when it comes crashing down on a car can result in major damage. It is best to get the garage door repaired before any incident occurs, costing you a fortune.

Cement Chipping

If your garage door is faulty, it can come down with a lot of force. An average garage door weighs about 500 pounds, meaning its impact on the floor may result in cement chipping or even more serious damage requiring repair.

Garage Door Replacement

If you do not replace your faulty garage door on time, it can result in damage to the door itself. At times, the damage caused might be beyond repair, making a replacement necessary. Garage doors are costly, and getting a garage door expert Toronto to fix your door early can save you from incurring extra costs.

Access to Intruders

A fault garage door may not close fully or properly. This means that an intruder can easily gain access to your home. When you do not get your garage door fixed on time, you put yourself and your family members at risk.

Is a Broken Garage Door Considered a Fire Hazard?

A broken garage door can lead to several problems. Although you might not know it, your damaged garage door can be a big fire hazard. When your garage door is broken, it limits accessibility, making it difficult for you to go in and out of your garage.

In the event of a fire breaking out in your garage, you need to be able to get in as soon as possible to control the fire. A broken garage door can prevent this, causing the fire to spread beyond control.

There might also be instances where you need to get out of the garage as fast as you can. A broken garage door can trap you inside your garage, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.

It would help if you got your broken garage door fixed as soon as possible to prevent any tragic occurrences. Contact a garage door expert Toronto and just to be double sure, you should have a fire extinguisher in your garage, as well as a smoke alarm.

Is It Safe to Repair a Garage Door Yourself?

Attempting to repair a garage door yourself isn’t always a good idea. Garage doors can be tricky to deal with and can quickly become a problem if you do not know what you are doing.

Garage doors can be lethal to anyone with no experience when it comes to their repair. The garage door can fall on you, trap your fingers, or a spring mechanism can even fly at you due to tension. It is really easy to cause injuries to yourself or a family member if you’re not a garage door expert. However, if you have the necessary knowledge, repairing a garage door yourself can save you a reasonable amount of money.

Can a Garage Door Kill You?

Not all garage doors are dangerous enough to kill someone. However, if a hefty overhead garage door falls on you due to wrong force adjustment or a broken torsion spring, it can cause serious injury or even result in death.

Also, if your garage door is old, avoid using lead-based paint on it. Lead-based paint can be dangerous in certain situations, leading to death.

Your garage door is a piece of equipment that requires regular maintenance and attention to function properly without any problems. The lack of inspection from most homeowners leads to the catastrophe, which a broken garage door can cause.

Conclusion

If you live in Toronto or the GTA and you need the services of a garage door expery, check out TBC Garage Doors  Garage Doors. We are a trustworthy company that offers professional garage door weatherstripping, installation, repair, and replacement.

We also provide emergency services with a specialized team that is available to you whenever you need their attention. Our services include garage door weatherstripping, garage door sealing, garage door opener belt installation, and so on.

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Five Styles of Garage Door

Styles of Garage Door

A garage door is one of the most important aspects of a home. Choosing the right styles of garage door can significantly increase the resale value of your home while boosting its curb appeal. However, many homeowners struggle with picking the perfect garage door.

In this article, discover everything you need to know about the styles of garage doors and which is most suitable for your home.

Five Styles of Garage Door

Five Styles of Garage Door
Five Styles of Garage Door

There are several styles of garage doors to choose from. The most common styles are:

  • Roll-up garage door
  • Sectional garage door
  • Side-hinged garage door
  • Slide to the side garage door
  • Tilt-up garage door

These different garage door styles also come with special additions such as the material they are made from, door colour, finish and other important features such as insulation, windows and hardware.

Here is a breakdown of the different styles of garage doors to make it easier for you when buying one.

1. Roll-up Garage Door

Rollup garage doors are no-frills design options that are built in areas that have limited space. They are usually for commercial use but occasionally can be found in residential buildings.

The doors are built for heavy usage, and you will often find high-performance units built without springs or enclosed to prevent corrosion, rust and freezing. Because of the heavy nature of the roll-up garage door, the upfront costs are more than a sectional garage door.

2. Sectional Garage Door

Sectional garage doors consist of panel sections that are connected using hinges. As the door closes and opens, the wheels located at the panel edges roll inside the vertical tracks at each side of the door opening.

Each panel section has hinges that are bent over a curved section of the track. This allows the doors to sit in line with the walls when closed completely or parallel to the ceiling when open.

Above the opening, a pair of high tension springs are attached to cables that hold the door from drifting down when partially opened and operate the door.

Sectional garage doors are usually low maintenance, forged from steel, and customized to include hardware and window inserts. Sectional garage doors can be insulated or uninsulated.

3. Side-Hinged Garage Door

Side-hinged garage doors swing closed and open from a hinged frame located on either side of the opening. They are shaped like large barn doors and are usually wooden. However, galvanized steel doors are also available for commercial purposes.

Side-hinged garage doors can be fit into existing openings or purchased in prehung steel frames. You can also use special conversion arms to automate these garage doors.

4. Slide to the Side Garage Door

Slide to the side garage doors operates by bending to one side and sitting parallel to the wall. Homeowners originally used these types of doors for garages with small headroom. These doors run along with flexible lower trolleys with slight slopes in the ceiling or the floor. They have built-in retractable motors for automated operation without needing a ceiling-mounted operator or balancing spring.

5. Tilt-up Garage Doors

Tilt-up garage doors are available in two models; the canopy and the retractable garage door. The tilt-up canopy garage doors are made of one solid piece, lacking sections. They also have a pivoting hinge mechanism that allows them to tilt up into the garage. This garage door style sits parallel to the ceiling, protruding past the front of the house when the door is open.

The retractable tilt-up garage doors lift into the garage when opened. They are independently suspended from the frame, preventing them from extending past the front of the house. This retractable design requires more space than canopy garage doors and is more expensive and difficult to operate.

What Materials are Garage Doors Made From?

Garage doors are made from a variety of materials such as wood, steel, aluminum and fibreglass. These materials are available to suit different climates, budgets and aesthetics.

Let’s take a look at some of the materials garage doors are made from.

Wood

Wood garage doors are often preferred for their eco-friendliness. They provide a timeless and elegant exterior. Wood garage doors are an excellent choice for homeowners who want a unique, custom look.

Wood garage doors can be expensive upfront and require a lot of maintenance to be preserved properly. If not maintained regularly, a wood door will begin to rot, fade, chip or warp.

This type of garage door is best suited for mild climates as drastic changes in temperature can cause wood to extend and wrap. If your wood garage door also comes in frequent contact with humidity, rain or snow, moisture absorption can occur, damaging your door.

Steel

Due to its durability, flexibility and overall value, steel has become a very popular garage door material. Steel garage doors are available in several design options, providing a more practical, cheaper alternative to natural wood.

When compared to wood garage doors, steel is easier to maintain and significantly lighter. Its primary disadvantage is that steel is susceptible to rust and corrosion. It is common to discover rusting along the bottom section of a steel garage door in areas where plenty of salt is used for de-icing during the winter months. To elongate the life of your garage door Toronto, we recommend washing it at least twice a year to get rid of dirt and grime.

Aluminum

Aluminum garage doors are often combined with glass and add a contemporary, eye-catching look to garage doors. Since aluminum is lighter than steel, it is less durable. Strong hail or winds can cause dents in aluminum and can be difficult to fix without the help of a specialist. Insulation can include resale value and boost thermal protection for your garage space.

Although suitable in every climate, aluminum is sensitive to extreme heat.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass closely mimics the grainy texture of authentic wood. However, unlike wood, fibreglass garage doors will not warp, shrink or crack – making them ideal for homeowners who live in humid climates. Fibreglass is a low-maintenance, economical alternative to wood. Fibreglass is also semi-transparent and, as a result, allows more light into your garage. 

This material is not recommended for windy coastal areas and is best suited for warmer climates. High winds can rattle your fibreglass garage doors, resulting in an irritating noise. High winds can also damage your garage doors. Also, you must note that you cannot repair your fibreglass door if it gets damaged, so you will need a full replacement.

What Type of Garage Door is the Cheapest?

The cheapest garage doors are steel garage doors. The downside to them is that they require more insulation  to regulate the garage temperature and dent easily. You can get a 16’x7′ steel garage door for as low as $500.

The term “cheap garage door” often refers to non-insulated steel garage doors. The steel grade and the amount of insulation greatly affect garage door pricing.

What is the Difference Between a Residential and Commercial Garage Door?

What is the Difference Between a Residential and Commercial Garage Door
What is the Difference Between a Residential and Commercial Garage Door

One way to distinguish residential and commercial garage doors is by the building it is attached to. Here are other distinguishing features between the two types of garage doors.

Appearance

One major difference between residential and commercial garage doors is that residential doors are more focused on aesthetics than commercial garage doors. Commercial building owners are more focused on function than appearance. Residential garage doors have a great impact on the resale value and overall curb appeal of a house. Due to the functionality of commercial garage doors, they tend to be more simple and plain in design. Most commercial doors are either flat design or roll-up doors.

Height and Width

Commercial garage doors tend to be bigger than residential garage doors. Usually, residential garage doors have a standard height of seven feet and vary between eight and nine feet in width. Commercial garage doors, however, do not have a standard size. Their sizing is usually dependent on its application. Commercial buildings with many large pieces of machinery will need bigger garage doors than commercial buildings that do not.

Materials

Commercial doors are usually made of galvanized steel or aluminum for durability and increased security. Most business owners require garage doors that offer longevity. Residential garage doors depend on factors such as the homeowner’s budget, curb appeal and personal preference when it comes to picking materials. Homeowners can purchase a garage door in various materials – wood, steel, fibreglass, etc.

Opening Capacity

The door opener of a commercial garage door is designed to endure being opened several times a day. The residential garage door is used only a few times a day, and as a result, its door opener is not as high duty as a commercial door opener. Also, commercial doors function a lot more efficiently and operate quicker than residential garage doors.

Value

Commercial doors are usually more expensive to install and maintain when compared to residential doors. This is because commercial doors are often larger. After all, they are built for commercial-level security. Due to the cost of commercial doors, they are hardly ever used in residential buildings.

Conclusion

If you are a new homeowner or a commercial property owner who needs an expert to install your garage door, check out TBC Garage Doors.

We handle different doors, from over/tilt-up canopy garage doors, sectional garage doors, rollup garage doors, and side-hinged garage doors.

Our services also include garage door spring installation/repair, garage door framing, new garage door installation, garage door opener belt installation/repair, among many others.

All our technicians are licensed and insured, and we offer you affordable pricing with a 90-day guarantee. We are available 24/7 and offer emergency services . Contact us for the best garage door repair/servicing experience.

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Why Should I Get a New Garage Door

Why Should You Buy a New Garage Door?

Buying a new garage door can be beneficial in many ways. Whether your current door is broken down beyond repair or you just need a new look, a new garage door is always welcome.

This article discovers why you should purchase a new garage door and what to look out for.

Why Should I Buy a New Garage Door?

Why Should I Get a New Garage Door

Some of the reasons you should get a new garage door include:

Home Value

A new garage door can greatly increase the resale value of your home. A garage door can add aesthetic appeal and functionality to your home.

Garage door installations are considered valuable and have been estimated to give a higher investment return than other major home projects. If you plan to sell your home in the coming year, getting a new garage door could be an investment that continues to pay back.

Curb Appeal

A brand new garage door can increase the curb appeal of your home beyond just a fresh coat of paint. If your garage door Toronto has been worn down, chipped and cracked after several years of use, a new garage door will make all the difference you need.

Efficiency

The energy retention of your home is greatly affected by your garage. A garage door with gaps, cracks, worn weather stripping and sealing will cool and heat in tune with the weather outside. This can put a lot of pressure on your HVAC system, causing it to work harder and shooting up your energy bills. This can result in an unstable garage which can become potentially harmful to any items and equipment you’ve stored in your garage, as well as a less comfortable home.

Security

Investing in a new garage door installation is a great way to increase your home’s security. Most keyless garage doors can be combined with smart home security systems, allowing you access from your smartphone anywhere, anytime. One-time codes can also be set for neighbours and service people and monitor the time stamp when people come and go.

Noise

A noisy garage door can be quite a pain. If you are tired of hearing your garage door creak, grind and squeal whenever you open it, you should look into purchasing a new garage door.

What Should I Look for When Buying a New Garage Door?

What Should I Look for When Buying a New Garage Door?

When you want to purchase a new garage door, there are certain things you should look out for to ensure that you have the right fit for your home. With garage doors, there is no one-size-fits-all, so you need to know what to look out for before buying one.

If you are in the market for a new garage door, you should consider the following:

1. Materials

Garage doors are usually forged from specific materials such as steel, wood, fibreglass, vinyl or aluminum. Based on the style and look you are aiming for; you might want to consider the various materials from which garage doors are made.

Wood

Wood always makes a lasting visual statement. Although wood is not as durable as other materials, it is very appealing to look at.

Steel

Steel is one of the most common and least expensive materials for garage doors. Garage doors made of steel offer an increased level of security and are also more durable.

Fibreglass

Although fibreglass is considered durable, but is prone to cracks when exposed to extremely cold temperatures.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the most preferred garage door material in areas where there are high moisture levels. This is because aluminum is corrosion resistant and does not suffer from rust that could result from excessive amounts of moisture.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a durable, affordable, and low maintenance option when choosing a garage door. However, vinyl is considered a relatively new material for making garage doors.

2. Motors

Pay attention to the horsepower listed on the motors when shopping for garage doors. A heavier garage door will require more horsepower, while with a lightweight garage door, high horsepower may not be necessary. Ensure that you find a motor that has the right amount of horsepower to suit your needs.

3. Cost

The final cost of your garage door depends on the style, type and features that your door is equipped with. If you are in the market for a new garage door, have a set budget that you are comfortable paying. A budget will help you determine what features you can afford to add or not add to your garage door.

4. Styles

Garage doors are available in different styles, such as sectionals, tilt-ups, and rollups. Every style has its advantages and disadvantages. Rollup doors are the most expensive and require a lot of maintenance to function properly. Sectional garage doors require more ceiling space, and tilt-up garage doors conserve space with their single panel, which opens and closes with a ceiling-mounted track.

What is the Average Cost of a New Garage Door?

Garage door installation costs vary based on the style and type of door you buy. Other factors, such as whether the doorway needs to be resized or if the hardware allowing the door to close and open, requires repair or replacement.

Without a warranty, garage doors can cost between $500 to $1500, depending on factors such as:

  • The material the garage door is made from
  • The size of the garage door
  • The cost of local labour
  • The workmanship involved in installing and crafting the garage doors
  • Prep work that has to be done before garage door installation

Does a New Garage Door Increase Home Value?

According to realtors, a new garage door can increase your home’s selling price by up to 5%, depending on the style. A new garage door can increase home value based on the following:

Accommodating the Style of Your Home

Choosing the best garage door for your home largely depends on its design. A modern and contemporary home, for instance, will feature garage doors with pebble, stained wood, and even powder-coated glass.

Improvements in Safety and Security

New garage doors have security features such as rotating security codes that change whenever the door is operated. This will help increase the security of your home by keeping intruders out. Modern technologies also feature photosensors that prevent the door from closing when a vehicle, person, object or pet is in the way.

Increased Energy Efficiency

When you purchase a new garage door, it is sealed, insulated and sealed for energy efficiency. Insulation maintains the temperature of your home and keeps outside air out. This is beneficial for an attached garage. Insulation can also reduce outside noise, resulting in a more private and quieter home.

Increased Return on Investment

In addition to updating your doors, replacing old windows, and taking care of the landscaping, a garage door can greatly increase your home value. The more durable the garage door material is, the longer your garage door will last.

Should I Paint or Replace My Garage Door?

Knowing whether all your garage door requires is a fresh coat of paint, or an entirely new replacement is key. First, let us look at instances where you can repaint your garage door.

Not all garage doors are made to be painted. Before you set about painting your garage door, you need to double-check that the paint will adhere to your door properly. Consider the material your garage door is made of. Materials such as steel, wood, aluminum and vinyl can all be painted. However, certain materials require more precision than others during painting.

If your garage door is already painted, simply slapping on a fresh coat of paint won’t cover existing damage. A severely peeling door, for instance, most likely requires a replacement. The type of paint and primer you use is also very important as each type of material has specific paint needs. You can contact a garage door Toronto expert if you’re not sure whether or not your garage door should be painted.

If your garage door is between 20 to 25 years old, you might want to consider getting a new door installed. A badly dented metal door, cracked aluminum models or chipped wood doors may require replacement. Minor imperfections can be concealed with paint, but paint alone won’t cut it for more serious damage. A new coat of paint can change the austen of your door, making an aesthetic difference. However, if the damage to your door goes beyond cosmetic problems, you should consider replacement options.

Conclusion

A lot of homeowners do not consider their garage door preferences before choosing one. However, a garage door is as important as the front door as they serve almost the same purpose.  Before choosing the perfect garage door, carry out some more research and choose what door will work best for you.

If you are a new homeowner, check out TBC Garage Doors for your garage door solutions. We can save you the stress of finding an excellent garage door Toronto.

We handle different doors, from over/tilt-up canopy garage doors, sectional garage doors, rollup garage doors, and side-hinged garage doors.

Our services also include garage door spring installation/repair, garage door framing, new garage door installation, garage door opener belt installation/repair, among many others.

All our technicians are licensed and insured, and we offer you affordable pricing with a 90-day guarantee. We are available 24/7 and offer emergency services. Contact us for the best garage door repair/servicing experience.

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Five-Garage-Door-Safety-Tips

Five Garage Door Safety Tips for Preventing Burglary

Keeping your home secure is very important and learning some garage door safety tips would help. As a homeowner, you need to ensure that your family and belongings are safe from intruders. One major point of entry for burglars that most people tend to overlook is the garage door.

A lot of people have experienced burglars breaking into their houses. Most times, the burglars gain entry through the garage door. If care is not taken, your garage can quickly become a hideout for criminals on the run or thieves looking for a quick buck.

In this article, discover various ways to reinforce your garage door, as well as safety tips for preventing burglary.

Five Garage Door Safety Tips

Five Garage Door Safety Tips

To ensure that your garage door remains safe, try out the following safety tips:

1. Lock-up Your Tools

If you are in your garage regularly working with tools, transporting them every time you need them might not be the most convenient option. Invest in garage cabinetry with locks to keep your tools safe.

2. Zip-tie Your Emergency Door Release

Zip-ties are one of the cheapest safety tips for your garage door. If you have an automatic door opener, you have an emergency lever with a red cord attached. This lever’s main purpose is to allow you to close or open your garage door when there is a power outage.

However, this innovation could be exploited by a burglar. By pushing the garage door’s top in and creating enough gap, they could reach for the lever or cord. Once they gain access to this emergency door release, they can gain access into your garage. This can cause garage door problems.

Use a zip-tie to secure your release cord or lever to prevent tampering. If you need to use the lever during a power outage, simply cut off the zip tie and replace it once the power comes back on.

3. Keep Your Garage Windows Covered

Thieves have been known to peer into garages through the windows for surveillance. Through your window, they can confirm no one is home if there are no parked cars. They can also take note of valuable tools or equipment that you have lying around.

You can get garage window curtains or consider frosting your windows in a bid to make the burglar’s job as difficult as possible.

4. Maintain Your Garage Door

Old garage doors with faded paint and wrapped wood do a lot more than ruin your home’s aesthetic. Worn-out garage doors are a big security liability. Openings or gaps on the run-down garage door can make it a lot easier for a burglar to gain access into your garage.

If you have garage door problems, contact garage door experts to replace it with a more modern style.

5. Keep Your Garage Door Locked

If you need to open and close your doors manually, you should ensure that they are always locked. If you are away from the house for a long time, for example, if you’re going on a vacation, you should clamp a padlock on the door tracks.

With older door openers, you can unplug the automatic opener when you are away for a long while. You should also keep the interior garage access door and exterior garage service door locked.

How Can I Make My Garage Door More Secure?

Making your garage door secure should be the priority of any homeowner. There are a few steps you can take to beef up garage door security. Some of these include:

Avoid Leaving Your Garage Door Remote in Your Car

Although it might seem convenient to toss your garage door remote in your glovebox or attach it to your sun visor, it is not advisable. One of the first places a burglar will check for your garage door remote is your car. Instead, keep your remote in your coat pocket or purse. Better still, take the remote indoors with you and place it together with your car keys.

Get a Lock For Your Garage Door

If you open your garage door manually, you should look into installing a handle that locks. Putting a lock inside the garage door can also deter burglars. Lock the garage door the moment you get in to prevent intruders from gaining access into the garage.

Install Security Cameras

Most times, burglars tend to avoid houses with security cameras. It is a lot easier to catch a burglar when you have an idea of their clothing, facial features and other physical attributes. You can purchase a motion-activated camera which starts as soon as someone approaches on foot or a car pulls up in the driveway.

Install Motion-detecting Floodlights

A lot of times, burglars operate under cover of darkness. Most times, a sudden burst of light is enough to throw them off. You can purchase motion garage door safety sensor flood lights online and send thieves running.

Frost Your Garage Windows

Many potential burglars tend to peek in windows, hoping to catch a glimpse of valuable tools. Before a thief breaks into your garage, they need to be sure that no one is home. Obscure your garage windows by frosting and make your garage door secure.

How Do I Protect My Garage Door From Burglars?

How Do I Protect My Garage Door From Burglars?

Keeping your garage safe from burglars involves protecting your garage door. You want to ensure the safety of your loved ones and valuables by keeping out thieves.

Here are a few things you can do to protect your garage door from burglars:

1. Shield Your Garage Door Lock

Many burglars can open your door lock in less than a minute using a coat hanger. You can purchase a garage shield for your garage doors emergency cord, making it impossible for a burglar to gain access via that means.

2. Inspect Your Landscaping

Ensure that passersby and neighbours can see everything going on around your garage. Clear away shrubs and large trees and keep all entry points visible from the street. You can plant small shrubs with thorns under floor garage windows to prevent burglars from breaking in.

3. Close Your Garage Door

Many homeowners are guilty of leaving their garage doors open. A garage door that is left wide open is an invitation to burglars. You can install an automatic lock as garage door safety features that deadbolts your door lock the moment you step in.

4. Keep Your Home Entry Door Secure

Make sure that the door leading from your home to your attached garage is secure. Once a burglar gains access to your house, the chances are high that you run greater risks. Remember to keep this door locked at all times.

5. Keep Your Service Door Protected

Burglars like to hope in and out of a discreet side door away from the prying eyes of neighbors. Many standard garage doors can be opened with a few simple changes or a well-placed kick. Reinforce your exterior door security with a deadbolt. The strike plate where the lock meets the door is the weakest point. Try replacing the strike plate with a more reinforced one, using a minimum of 3-inch screws to secure it in place.

What Type of Garage Door is Most Secure?

Roller doors are considered the most secure garage doors because of the nature of their design. These types of doors have compact installation, with no visible leverage points on their aluminium curtains. The lack of leverage points makes it harder for burglars to break into.

Automated roller doors particularly do not give intruders any clear entry point or much leverage to work with. When picking a roller door, go for one with strengthened top and bottom slats, high-quality side railing and a sturdy locking system. A roller door made from double-skinned metal is also a much more secure option.

Are Garage Door Keypads Secure?

Garage door keypads are very secure. Although no security feature is 100% fail-proof, garage door safety features such as keypads are convenient and with the purchase.

Unlike garage door openers, keypads cannot be lost, broken or accidentally run over. A garage door keypad is a permanent fixture, typically located at the exterior of the home. With keypads, you have the option of over 10,000 combinations. This makes it very difficult for your passcode to be guessed.

You can make the most of your keypad by doing the following:

  • Keep the door between the garage and our house locked for extra security
  • Ensure that your permanent code is kept private
  • Regularly clean the buttons on your keypad using a degreaser and a cleanser to keep the numbers clear
  • The moment you feel your code has been compromised, change it

Conclusion

If you reside in Toronto or the GTA and need a garage door expert, check out TBC Doors. We are a reputable company that offers professional garage door installation, replacement, and repair. We also provide emergency services, and our specialized team is available whenever you need help.

Some of our services include new garage door installation, garage door torsion spring maintenance, garage door sensor repair/set up, garage door opener belt installation/repair.

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Choosing Your Next New Garage Door

Maybe a garage door spring broke, glass paneling shattered, cables snapped, or you’re looking for a change. Now it’s a time of choosing your next new Garage Door. Where do you start? There are a few things to consider but the bottom line is, TBC Garage Doors is there to support you and has got you covered.

Prioritize Function

Your garage door is one of the most used parts of your home, but it’s not given much thought. People don’t pay much attention to how the garage door works; they just hope it does work. However, the garage door is a gateway into your house and must maintain its integrity for the safety and comfort of your home. When choosing your next new Garage Door, ask yourself these questions: what function do I want it to serve? What are your priorities? Do you prioritize safety? Dependability? Cost efficiency? A damaged or self-installed garage door causes safety risks.

To be dependable, it will need to be installed and maintained by experts. Luckily, TBC Garage Doors has a team of garage door installation and garage door repair experts. Moreover, for you to focus on other things, allow us to optimize a new garage door with dependable springs, cables, rollers, hinges, and panels so that once your new garage door is installed or repaired, you won’t have to think about it anymore.

Consider Appearance

TBC Garage Doors enables a very customizable garage door installation. You can prioritize function and have a new garage door you like to look at. Garage doors make up the majority of the exterior of your house and are one of the first things people see. Therefore, appearances matter and you want to choose a door that you can look at each day with lasting satisfaction. We combine inspiration with modern styling to produce a unique look just for you. Or if you’re more traditional, our wide selection of materials, colors, and designs can add character and instant charm to your home. Now, at TBC Garage Doors, we can add accessories to the exterior of the door as you see fit. We offer stylized handles, strap hinges, paneling, colors, and more.

Choose Materials

With TBC Garage Doors, you have the option between four materials that each serve a unique purpose. Choose steel if you want a solid, secure door that promotes safety as well as provides insulation to control inner temperatures. You may wish to choose aluminum if you want something lighter, a little bit less noisy that comes with a quick and small-scale new garage door installation. Choose wood and take advantage of its natural, traditional beauty while allowing it to reflect the personality of your home. Moreover, you may choose glass to let in sunlight for a more luxurious appearance.

Get Smart

Now, you want to take your decision-making to the next step with the new garage door opener. Technology is advancing in all industries of the world as well as this one. You don’t want or need to get out of the car when it’s pouring rain and with the smart opener, you don’t have to. You can have a smart garage door by installing a Wi-Fi opener. This comes with an in-built Wi-Fi radio that enables you to open your door remotely from anywhere.

We replace regular garage door openers with new smart garage door openers. Physical keys are not required with smart garage door openers. You can access an app on your smartphone! The accompanying app also allows you to open and close your new garage door and check its status. Additionally, smart garage door openers have a built-in code encryption safeguard. Therefore, the opener cannot be hacked.

Agree on Cost and Schedule

Cost is a concern of many, but we remain client-focussed and forward thinking. We provide services that range in prices and options for anyone. With a little conversation, we can offer what best suits you at a price that everyone is happy with. We even install garage doors that consider temperature maintenance and reduce operational costs. Once you’ve considered how you’d like your new garage door installed, we can come and install it for you. We’ll work with you to schedule the perfect time for a seamless installation, customization, or repair.

The last thing you want to worry about when settling in your new home is the dependability of and satisfaction with your garage door. TBC Garage Door ensures that once we’ve come and installed or repaired a garage door, you won’t have to worry about it anymore.

You can call us at (647) 929-8224 any time you need help choosing your next new Garage Door or garage door services/replacement for your home, shop, or commercial bulding. We will respond immediately and offer you the best solution.

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