Your automatic garage door is a complex system that must be treated with the proper caution and respect. The following tips can offer you some useful suggestions and advice on how to extend the longevity of your overhead door.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency release feature of your garage door
The emergency release feature, or the manual release cord as it is sometimes called, simply disconnects the opener and allows you to move your door manually. It's important to know where it is and how to use it so that should an emergency situation require that you do so, you won't be lost. Consult your owner manual to learn how to do this safely.
Choose the right door materials for you
Consider the most common weather conditions in your city before you choose the type of material your new door will be made of. Aside from weight and security, the potential curb appeal, or lack thereof should also be considered. If your new door matches the design of your house, it will make it more visually appealing, which can be great if you're planning on selling your home sometime in the future. Some materials, wood and sometimes even steel, require more frequent maintenance, so that's another thing to take into consideration before making a decision.
Consider getting an opener with motion detectors
Some new garage door opener models have integrated motion detectors, which quickly activate the opener's lights when someone gets close enough. These devices can be very important for your safety and will keep you from stumbling around in the dark. They're also a great security deterrent that can help keep burglars at bay.
Get your door ready for winter
Winter is notorious for taking a real toll on different parts of your home, especially your garage door. You should properly clean the panels, lubricate the springs and replace any worn weatherstripping material, especially the bottom seal, before the cold season sets in. This will reduce the chance of a problem occurring and help your door stay operational during the potentially stormy season.
Make sure you get the right opener for your specific needs
If you don't have an attached garage and you only use it as a parking space for your car, then a chain drive opener would be an excellent choice because it is strong, reliable and inexpensive. Its maintenance is easy and you just need to lubricate the chain. However, if your garage is attached to your home, and is near a bedroom or a living room, then we suggest that you get a belt drive opener, which is incredibly silent, albeit more expensive.