25Jul

Garage Windows: How To Choose Windows For Your Garage

Garage door windowJuly 25, 2021

Windows serve a useful purpose as well as an aesthetic one. Picture a house with no windows, doesn’t seem right, yeah? While garage windows are not a necessity, they do add uniqueness and charm to your garage.

In this article, discover what to consider before buying windows for your garage and all the options for you to choose from.

Things To Consider When Buying a Garage Window

If you want windows for your garage doors, there are a few questions you need to answer first:

Do you want clear, obscure, or tinted glasses?
Where do you want the windows located?
Should you have insulated or standard glass?
Do you want standard-designed glasses such as rectangular/square windows, or would you prefer more complex designs such as arched tops, divided tiles, etc?

So, if you are looking to buy or replace your old garage windows, here are some things to consider:

1. Type of Glass

The type of glass you choose not only affects how your garage looks but can also offer you privacy. If you do not want people peeking into your garage, you can choose obscure glasses that distort any view inside. Bear in mind that opaque glasses limit the amount of natural light let into a garage space. If you want more lighting, you should consider translucent glass for a naturally lit space.

You can have acrylic, tempered, laminated or plain glass for your garage windows. Any of these materials is great as long as it does not contrast with the general design of your building’s exterior. You should also consider choices that will complement your garage door.

2. Shape and Size

There are a wide variety of windows on the market, and they can be customized to fit any design you have in mind. Although you already have windows, you need to consider your frames before purchasing newer ones.

If you are getting standard garage windows, there are limited options to choose from. However, with custom-cut windows, the possibilities are endless. You can have your windows cut into whatever size or shape of your choice, even going as far as incorporating them into the garage door if you so, please.

Some of the shapes you can have include:

Squared
Circular
Rectangular
Ellipse
Bell top
Pentagon
Eyebrow
Gothic
Octagon
Trapezoids

Various window shapes and sizes can be arranged into vertical and horizontal rows, arches, or whatever configuration you desire.

3. Position

A very important consideration is how high you would like your garage windows to be. If you intend to maximize the amount of natural light streaming into your garage, you should place your windows in the higher sections of your panels.

Higher windows also help with privacy and security as passersby will not be able to see inside your garage. However, if the goal is to optimize airflow, choosing ventilated windows and positioning them at the bottom door panel can work perfectly, especially on warm days.

Garage windows are usually placed in the third or fourth section of your building. They should be positioned to give good ventilation and light. Additionally, you should be able to see what is going on outside your garage.

Should I Get a Garage Door With Windows?

If you’ve never had a garage door fitted with windows, you might be skeptical of making the change. You might have observed several houses in your neighborhood with garage door windows and even admired the elegant touch they add.

The good news is, you may not even need to purchase a new garage door to get windows installed. Most times, adding windows to an existing garage door is a safe, inexpensive, and practical way to solve your problem.

The addition of windows to garage doors not only enhances the appearance of your home drastically but has the potential to increase the value of your home. An increase in the value of your home is an undeniable bonus if you plan to rent or sell your home shortly.

Here are some of the pros and cons of getting a garage door with windows:

1. Enjoy the Benefits of Daylight

Windows on your garage door can be especially convenient as you do not need to turn on the light switch each time you need to search for a tool. With the natural light streaming in from your windows, you do not need to raise your garage door each time to let the daylight in as the windows perform that function for you.

Therefore, garage windows can help you save money on the wear and tear your garage door would otherwise suffer while giving you free natural light in your workspace.

Garage door windows are a practical way to make life a lot more convenient for you as a homeowner.

2. Superior Aesthetics

When you add windows to your garage door, it automatically becomes more than an extension that houses a car and more like a part of your home. When the windows in your garage match the windows in your home, it can enhance the curb appeal of your property, making it stand out to both potential buyers and neighbors.

3. Does it Fit the Bill?

One thing you should consider is that a garage door with windows will cost more than one without. This is due to the workmanship costs associated with crafting a door with window inserts. Even though the price difference isn’t outrageous, it might deter you if you’re on a budget.

4. Is it a Security Threat?

A lot of people who have reservations about garage door windows believe they are a security threat. However, when you consider it, even if a burglar manages to break the glass, chances are high they won’t be able to fit in. Even if they can peek into your garage through the windows, the garage door can also be an avenue for them to spy into your garage.

Even though glass windows are not secure as a door, it is probably less security risk than you think.

5. How do I handle my privacy?

If you are a private person and are not thrilled by the idea of people peering into your garage, you can still get garage door windows. You can have laminated, tinted, satin-etched, or frosted windows, to name a few. You can even get two-way mirror glass windows to see outside while preventing people from looking into your garage.

6. What is the quality like?

There are different qualities of garage door windows. For instance, single-pane windows will be less energy efficient than double-pane, insulated windows. Acrylic windows are more likely to get scratched than real glass. You should also consider the frame material. Polypropylene, for instance, is a high-quality material and is less likely to fade.

7. Is there coherence?

If the primary goal is to make your garage match the rest of your home, ensuring the windows in your front door and those throughout your home match your garage windows. You can imbibe even small features such as matching trim colors to make it even more uniform.

8. What is your budget like?

You should establish a budget before picking windows for your garage. A budget will help you determine how much you can realistically spend and to what extent you can customize your garage. Ensure you ask for a quote as soon as you have a design in mind so that you have a good idea of how much your project will cost. Consult with a garage door expert if you need help designing a garage door to suit your budget.

9. Remember, glass is fragile

One downside to adding windows to your garage door is that windows are fragile and can break. If you can convince kids not to direct flying objects towards your garage and you are not worried about breakage, this should not be much of an issue.

What to consider when installing windows in your garage

Except you are a garage door expert yourself, it is highly unlikely that you will understand the intricate workings of a garage door. The spring system of your garage door can be impacted as a result of a window installation.

Garage door springs are very delicate in design and structure, meaning that even a tiny adjustment in weight can have adverse effects. In certain cases, an adjustment in the spring system may be required when adding windows to your garage door. This adjustment is due to the potentially dangerous disproportion caused by the addition of windows to your door.

The installation of windows in your garage is generally a complex procedure. Therefore, you should always opt for a professional garage door expert to complete the process. Avoid endangering lives and safety by cutting corners or attempting to DIY the installation of garage windows.

Conclusion

Garage windows are good, and they can be a good way to beautify your home. So, we hope the tips in this article will guide you in making the right decision. Do well to follow the tips mentioned in this article. Ask the right questions. Look for the right features. And your choice will be the best!

Nonetheless, there is no point in having beautiful garage door windows if your garage doors are not solid. TBC Garage Doors offers installation and repair services for garages.

If you reside in Toronto or the GTA and search for the best, most knowledgeable garage door experts in Toronto, check out TBC Garage Doors.

We are a reputable company that provides professional garage door installation, replacement, and repair. We also offer emergency services, and our specialized team is available whenever you need help.

Some of our services include new garage door installation, garage door spring installation/repair, garage door sensor repair/set up, garage door opener belt installation/repair. Garage door framing, among many others. We also handle different doors, from sectional garage doors to roll-up and side-hinged garage doors and over/tilt-up canopy garage doors.

24Jun

All About Garage Service Doors

Garage DoorJune 24, 2021

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:

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:

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.

What is the Best Colour for a Garage Door

24Jun

Garage Door Trends To Know

Garage DoorJune 24, 2021

The exterior of your home and garage door is very important. A great exterior improves the overall value of your home and is quite a joy to look at. However, you cannot deny that picking out the colours that work for you is pretty hard.

In this article, discover all there is to know about the garage door trends for 2021 and find what works for you.

What is the Best Colour for a Garage Door?

When choosing the best colour for your garage door, you have to consider a few things. You want to choose a colour that is welcoming and warm. The colour of your garage door is even more important if you intend to sell your home.

Some of the top colour choices for a garage door installation include beige, soft gray, brown, white and dark grey/black.

Beige

Beige is best suited for stone and brick. This colour is great for bending your garage door into the design of your home. If you want a soft colour and plan to move away from white or black blandness, beige can be a nice neutral.

Soft Gray

Grey is classy and chic, an excellent choice for a neutral design. It is as bright as white paint but is a lot easier on the eyes, escaping the focal point instead of blending with the overall look.

Brown

Brown is a sophisticated garage door colour with a tendency to make your home look warm. Brown paint will have your garage door looking polished. However, it would be best if you were careful when picking a shade of brown for your garage door. The wrong shade can have your home looking old and unwelcoming.

White

Garage doors that are white are considered a classic. It is one of the most popular colours for a garage door and improves curb appeal. You can never go wrong with a white garage door.

Dark Gray/Black – just like white, a dark garage door is considered classic. Gray or black adds a unique, hip feel to your home and is great for hiding marks. However, you should ensure that dark gray/black works well with the colour scheme for your home. If a dark garage door doesn’t suit your whole decor, it can leave your garage looking slightly too sharp.

Is a New Garage Door a Good Investment?

A new garage door can greatly increase the value of your home. A garage door greatly increases the curb appeal of your home, making it more inviting and warm. If you plan on selling your home, your garage door can help boost your prospects, making the value of your home high as much as 20% even.

Should My Garage Door Match My Shutters?

The answer is yes and no. Today, you no longer have to match your entire home. Most experts argue that painting your garage door a colour that stands out is a great idea. You should ensure that the colours blend, and the colour you choose for your garage door should not be so far from the general house theme.

However, if you are more traditional, you can work on matching your garage doors with your shutters.

Can I Match My Garage and Front Door?

Many experts in home decor agree that the garage door and front door should match, especially if they both face the street. Doors that match have a way of enhancing the home’s visual presentation by tying the exterior together. This will create a more uniform look, creating a welcoming and comfortable appearance. You want to pick a colour that works for both doors while blending nicely with the remaining exterior.

There are certain instances where using contrasts or colour variations is a more suitable alternative. Some of such instances include:

Your exterior design is unique

If you have a home with a beautiful, unusual exterior such as beautiful stone, you would like to redirect the focus from your garage door to your walls. Try picking a garage door colour that blends with the stone, such as grey or brown. Your front door colour can now be brighter, preventing it from getting lost with the rest of your home’s exterior.

Your front door is bright-coloured

If you prefer a brighter hue for your front door colour, such as yellow or red, you’ll want to keep your garage door colour subtle. Your garage door constitutes a large portion of your home, and a loud colour can be overwhelming, acting as a distraction from other features such as the trim of your home.

You want a bold statement

A garage door can be a great way to personalize the look of your home due to its size. This difference in appearance can be a welcome contrast if your home exterior is otherwise bland. If your walls are dull red, for instance, a white garage door can help brighten the appearance without changing the colour of your front door.

What Front Door Colour Sells a House?

When selling a house, first impressions are a big deal. According to research, something as little as the colour of your front door can be responsible for a significant difference to your property’s value.

When putting your house up for sale, blue remains the best colour for your front doors. Certain shades of brown are considered the worst colours, making your house appear less desirable.

Should My Detached Garage Be the Same Colour as My House?

Having a detached garage can be beautiful. It provides extra space for storage and work. A detached garage can also serve as a nice noise buffer for any activities you engage in using a power tool. However, a garage that does not match your home’s aesthetic can ruin a beautiful scene.

Your garage door doesn’t have to be the exact colour of your home. There are a few steps you can take to ensure that your garage door matches your house. These steps include:

Consider Your Structural Layout

This might be difficult to pull off if your detached garage is already built, except you want to carry out a massive renovation. If you are in the process of building your detached garage, you must factor in structural similarities during your garage door setup.

It is important when building your detached garage that the overall architectural features match. A classic farm-style house requires a garage that mirrors distinctive features. This mirroring also goes for any other overarching home design such as victorian or cape cod-style homes.

Match Your Siding

The siding of your home is one of the most glaring curb appeal features of your home. Whether you have vinyl, brick or wood siding, it is all in the spotlight. If your siding is wood, you need to ensure that you match the same type of wood. This means you need to use two primary factors: the pattern and the colour.

The layout pattern for your wood walls needs to remain the same on your detached garage door and your home. The colours also need to match to prevent the exterior from looking drastically off.

Ensure you are using the same wood style and the same quality of finish to create a uniform look.

Match Your Roofing

Believe it or not, your roof is one of the most visible features of your home’s exterior. You need to ensure that your roofing matches your home and your detached garage. To do this, you need to consider two main factors, colour and material.

If your home has shingles, you should make provision for shingles on your detached garage door. This also goes for sheet metal and older styles such as a slate roof.

The overall colour of your roof also needs to be considered, especially with metal roofs. It would help if you coloured your roofing and even your shingles in matching pigments.

Match Your Landscaping

It would be best if you tried to match the landscaping surrounding your detached garage with the one that circles your home. This means that you use the same species of plants, the colour of shrubs and flowers for both structures.

It is also important to consider the entire pattern and layout of the landscaping. If you surround your home with small trees and tall shrubs, your garage needs to mirror this, the same as flowers and undergrowth around the home.

Match The Color Scheme

For a final touch, consider the colour scheme of your garage and home. Try to match your shutters with your detached garage, as well as the front door. The key is to observe the small details and make subtle matching changes, as this will go a long way towards uniformity.

Conclusion

If you reside in Toronto or the GTA and search for the best, most knowledgeable garage door experts, check out TBC Garage Doors.

Some of our services include new garage door installation, garage door spring installation/repair, garage door sensor repair/set up, garage door opener belt installation/repair. Garage door framing, among many others. We also handle different doors, from sectional, roll up and side hinged garage doors to up and over/tilt-up canopy garage doors.

Our services are comprehensive, and all our staff is highly trained, using only the best equipment and tools available.

We are also available for emergency garage door repair services, and with us, you get a 90-day guaranty for services offered. Contact us today for a premium garage door repair/servicing experience.

03Jun

Garage Door Windows: Should I Install Windows in My Garage Door?

Garage door windowJune 3, 2021

When it comes to garage doors, homeowners are becoming even more creative. Garage door windows are becoming more popular due to their aesthetic qualities. If you are wondering whether or not to install windows in your garage door, this article is for you.

Why Are There Windows on Garage Doors?

People get windows on garage doors for various reasons. One great thing about having windows on garage doors is that it lets natural light in a while your garage doors remain closed. Many homeowners want as much natural light in their garage as they do in their homes.

A well-lit garage has several benefits. You no longer have to rely on a light switch during the daytime, and you can bid that flickering light bulb goodbye. With windows on your garage doors, you can carry out your daily tasks without worrying about your vision.

However, the most significant benefit of natural light is energy savings. With windows in your garage doors, you won’t have to turn on your garage lights as often. This will also eliminate the chances of you forgetting to turn off the lights, saving you a substantial amount of money as time goes on.

Also, if you get a properly insulated door and small enough windows, your thermal resistance should remain nominal.

Garage door windows are also a great aesthetic touch. They can elevate the appearance of your garage, giving it a more sophisticated look. Depending on the size of your windows, people can appreciate the beauty of your garage from outside without having to enter your home.

Do Garage Doors With Windows Cost More?

The short answer is yes. Glass panels are more expensive than the standard garage door panels. Also, the fancier the Glass, the more it will cost. Etched Glass usually costs more than plain Glass, and reinforced Glass is more expensive than standard Glass. However, the differences in pricing are not as much as you would expect. The aesthetic boost from the upgrades is well worth the price. Bear in mind that garage doors have a direct impact on the market value of your home. This means that an aesthetically pleasing garage door can boost the value of your home to the degree that covers the cost of the glass panels.

The workmanship costs from crafting a garage door with glass inserts will make a garage door with windows cost more. If you are on a tight budget, the price of installation might deter you a bit.

Do Garage Door Windows Break?

The short answer is yes. Garage door windows are breakable. If you have a family with active or clumsy children, your garage door windows can be vulnerable. Children often play in the driveway, putting your garage door at even greater risk. If you decide to install windows in your garage door, your children might need to find another playground where they cannot break any glasses.

Even though uncommon for garage doors, in certain instances, a sealed garage door with double pane windows, also known as thermopane windows, can break with small fractures appearing in the corners.

What Causes a Thermopane Window to Break?

A thermopane window often breaks from thermal shock caused by stress generated by temperature variations between two areas between a pane of glass. This variation can be caused by a window exposed to direct sunlight and a shaded section. Under the effects of the sun, your garage windows heat up even more with higher energy absorption.

If a portion of the window remains cold, it stops the hot section from expanding freely. This action generates compressive and tensile stress respectively in the hot and cold parts of the double-pane window. Because Glass is less resistant to traction than compression, the tensile stress generated will probably be higher than the tensile strength of the Glass, causing breakage.

This type of break is often observed at the edge of the window, at the coldest part of the frame and is marked by a perpendicular fracture at the edges of both sides of the Glass.

Some of the cases of this break include:

Thermal inertia of the frame

The frame temperature can take longer to adapt to external conditions if the thermal inertia of the frame is higher. The frame colour can also be responsible for some of the effects on the phenomenon.

Climate conditions

The difference in temperature within a double-pane unit most times depends strongly on the intensity of the solar radiation that reaches. This intensity can be based on the time of the day, the unit’s orientation, the season and the maximum difference in temperature between night and day. Double pane units which face the north have little risk of thermal breakage due to their limited exposure to the sun.

External environment

The external environment of your house, such as tree shadows, may provide extended or partial shade for your garage door windows. The interior environment inside a garage can also significantly increase the difference in temperature between cold and hot areas of the unit.

Characteristics of the double-pane unit

A glass that has reflective film affixed will absorb more heat than clear glass, making it susceptible to thermal breakage. Glass with a higher absorption factor will heat up more under the effect of sunlight.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Garage Door Windows?

Pros

There are several pros and cons of getting windows in your garage doors. Some of these pros include:

Garage door windows brighten up your garage by allowing extra light into the area. A garage with several windows might not require lights to be turned on during the DAY.
Garage door windows can also allow the entry of heat into the garage from the sun. This can be positive during the wintertime.
Windows on your garage doors can create an extra dimension to your garage by breaking up the solid panels.
Garage doors give you more options when deciding on garage door designs.
Most windows are stain-resistant and a lot easier to clean than painted panels. They rarely need repairs and require zero maintenance.
Garage door windows make the garage match other parts of the house. You can get your garage door windows customized to match the other windows in your house, thus creating a more streamlined appearance all through the home’s exterior.

After considering all the functional and aesthetic benefits of garage door windows, there are certain concerns to look out for before putting windows in your garage doors.

Cons

Some of the cons of installing a garage door with windows include:

Glass is fragile and can break. This means you have to be extra careful with your garage doors to ensure the Glass does not shatter. You have to avoid slamming your garage doors to the ground whenever you close them if they are fitted with Glass.
Garage doors with windows are susceptible to accidents or flying debris. You might want to invest in impact-resistant Glass if you choose windows on your garage doors. Glass that is vulnerable to impact will only ruin your garage door and make you incur more costs.
Windows attract thieves. If you live in an area with many burglars, they will find breaking into your home a whole lot easier with garage door windows. All they have to do to gain access into your home is break the Glass. As soon as you install Glass into your garage doors, you need to ensure that locks and other items are not accessible through the windows. It would be best if you also reinforced your garage door security.
Insurance companies may increase your insurance rates if you cannot prove that your home is secure, even with windows in the garage doors. Confirm with your insurance provider what the policy covers in the event of a break-in.

How Much Does a Garage Door With Windows Cost?

On average, a garage door can cost between $450 to $8,000 for installation. The average ranges between $500 and $2,000, with the majority of homeowners spending around $1000 to install a new sectional steel garage door. If you have a tight budget, you can buy a non-insulated steel garage door for $500 minus installation. A custom redwood garage door with glass windows and an automatic opener costs about $4,500 after installation on the high end. Including windows in your garage door usually costs $30 to $60 per installation.

Conclusion

If you reside in Toronto or the GTA and search for the best, most knowledgeable garage door experts Toronto, check out TBC Garage Doors.

Some of our services include new garage door installation, garage door spring installation/repair, garage door sensor repair/set up, garage door opener belt installation/repair. Garage door framing, among many others. We also handle different doors, from sectional, roll up and side hinged garage doors to up and over/tilt-up canopy garage doors.

What Are The Dangers Of A Broken Garage Door?

Garage door safetyJune 3, 2021

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?

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?

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.