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Finally GOOD Customer Service Is Back!

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When Do I Need to Call in the Experts for Garage Door Service?

Chris Green on July 17, 2023

Garage doors are considered necessities in most homes. When they break down, finding the problem is sometimes complicated. Some homeowners attempt a DIY approach to garage door repair, but this is not always safe. Learning when to call in the professionals will help homeowners avoid injuries and damage to their homes. 

Signs a Garage Door Needs Repair

Some signs of problems are minor and can wait for repairs, while others require immediate action. Should homeowners notice the following signs, they must immediately seek professionals for overhead door repair. Waiting too long could put lives in danger and cause further damage to the doors and increase expenses. 

Sagging Sections in the Doors

Checking the balance of garage doors each year ensures they are working safely and effectively. Shut down the automatic garage door opener system, and operate the door manually. Bring the garage door about halfway down. The door should remain in a fixed position without rising or falling. If the door sags, call the professionals for repair. These signs may require a new garage door installation. 

Slowed Response Times

The response time for the garage door should be fast. It should not take more than a couple of seconds for the garage door to respond. After pressing the garage door opener, there should not be major delays or hitching. If there is a delay in operation, homeowners need to have their doors and opener checked. A full inspection will discover the problem and allow the technician to fix it correctly. 

Malfunctioning Photo-Eyes

When something is blocking the infrared beams or an object passes through the photo-eye, it will not function correctly. Garage door photo eyes are essential for preventing accidents. Photo-eyes may be overly sensitive and could prevent the garage door from closing correctly. Photo-eyes can also be covered in dirt and debris, preventing it from operating correctly. 

If homeowners clean up the eye and it still malfunctions, it is time to call the professionals. Homeowners may need to seek door replacement or component replacement for their garage doors. 

Roller Malfunctions

Roller malfunctions are also common and can prevent garage doors from operating safely and effectively. Rollers keep garage doors operating properly. The following issues can arise with rollers on residential and commercial garage doors. 

  • The rollers become worn. 
  • The rollers have become broken. 
  • The garage rollers become bent. 

Broken, bent, or worn garage door rollers can cause noisy operation. Leaving the rollers in this state can often lead to the hinges becoming warped and further causing issues. Garage repair specialists will come out and inspect the rollers and replace them if necessary. If extensive damage has occurred, new garage door systems will offer better service. 

Broken Garage Door Cables

Broken garage door cables lead to improper operation in the garage door system. Fixing the garage door cables and pulleys is a dangerous job. Without proper training, the process of repair is complicated. If the pulleys and cables break, homeowners should cease using their garage doors until repairs are carried out.

Garage Door Specialists Handle all the Work

Garage door systems are complex and have many mechanisms. Kids and pets are especially prone to becoming injured or killed by garage door problems.  Garage specialists will handle the following steps to maintain the garage door function. Maintenance keeps garage doors operating safely and efficiently. 

  • Inspect the garage door.
  • Check all the garage door hardware. 
  • Inspect the tracks to ensure there are no issues.
  • Ensure the door supports are strong and have not become bent.
  • Check the automatic garage door opener batteries. Replace them if the opener is not operating correctly. 
  • Lubricate the hardware to ensure there is no corrosion that is causing problems with the garage doors opening and closing. 

Maintenance needs to be carried out at least twice a year. Regular maintenance can prevent many problems from arising. Technicians can also find impending problems before they become major concerns. 

Do Not Take a DIY Approach to Garage Door Repair

Dealing with garage door issues is stressful. Homeowners need to be aware of the signs of problems with their garage doors. Do not ignore these warning signs because the problems can worsen. Homeowners should rely on professionals for every aspect of repair, including replacing garage door windows. 

Trying to repair garage door issues alone often leads to more problems and expenses. Relying on professionals will ensure the doors are repaired appropriately and working safely. 

We handle all types of garage door repair, maintenance, and installation at Dependable Overhead Door Co. We offer a full line of garage door options from the top names in the industry. We stand behind our work 100% and pursue the highest customer service possible. 

Garage Door Maintenance Tips

Chris Green on July 15, 2023

California residents want their homes to be secure, including their garage entrances. A good garage door with security provisions is one way to guarantee home security at that entry point. Garage doors need regular maintenance to last longer and operate dependably. Knowing who in California to call for repairs and maintenance is the first step.

Does A Garage Door Need Service or Repairs?

It is easy for busy Californians to forget about their garage doors as long as they work. Then when the neglected door stops working, the repairs are larger and cost more. A better plan is to take care of that garage door and have any problems repaired right away before they get more serious. To start a better garage door care plan, listen to the door as it opens and closes.

Problems include noises such as grating, scraping, and other sounds. Watch the door for jerky movements. A home or business owner should inspect their garage doors at least twice a year. Early spring and late fall are good times to check out garage doors and take care of maintenance or repairs. Commercial garage doors need the same treatment as residential garage doors. 

If a person notes problems with the door, they should call a good company for garage door repairs. In Northern California, one company to call is Dependable Overhead Door Company. For those who do not want to do the door inspections themselves and do not feel able to do garage door maintenance, This company offers garage door inspection and maintenance services at reasonable prices.

Some Repairs Call for Professional Services

Some problems with automatic garage doors need professional service. These include:

  • Spring replacement and repair
  • Automatic garage door opener repair or replacement
  • Garage doors that are stuck open or closed
  • Garage doors that need removing and replacing

Remember, garage doors are heavy, and their operating springs and mechanics are under a lot of pressure. The doors have to be balanced correctly to work properly. A person without experience can get injured trying to install or remove garage doors. When repairing garage doors, always replace broken parts with the correct part for the models and types of garage doors.

Maintenance Tips For Homeowners

For those who feel comfortable monitoring their garage doors, here are some tips from experts.

  • Limit the use of garage doors when not parking a vehicle inside. use a key and the front door when possible. Using the garage door exclusively wears out the springs sooner.
  • Schedule inspections twice a year if possible.
  • Clear debris and rust from door tracks and tighten the hardware such as bolts as needed.
  • The door moving parts need to be lubricated periodically. Apply spray lubricant on hinges and rollers and then wipe off any extra.
  • Test the garage door balance and call for a repair if the balance is off.
  • Test safety features such as the auto-reverse mechanism monthly for safety.
  • Check and replace the door’s weatherstripping as needed. The weatherstripping keeps out the cold, water, and debris and is located in a groove at the bottom of the door.
  • A garage door should be cleaned and repainted as needed to keep them looking new for longer. Garage doors get a lot of wear and tear from rain, wind, and the sun. Steel doors need to be sanded and primed where there are rust spots, then repainted. Fiberglass doors need to be periodically washed.

Additions To Garage Doors

If a homeowner wants to use their garage for more than parking cars, they can purchase special garage door screens and change to an insulated garage door. This way, the garage can be used for a workshop, a family play area, a man cave, or a hobby area. Companies such as Dependable Overhead Door Company sell and install these products.

Some homeowners may want to use their garages for parties or summer picnics out of the sun but in the fresh air. Others like to sit in the garage to relax while looking out onto the front yard and street. When the garage is used for multiple purposes, it is even more important to keep the overhead garage door in good condition for easy operation.

About Our Company

Dependable Overhead Door Company serves all of Northern California with new door installation and repairs of existing doors. Our garage doors come from the best manufacturers in the industry. We sell and service both residential garage doors and commercial garage doors and offer hundreds of different types and styles of garage doors.

Here’s How Garage Door Replacement Can Improve Your Home Value

Chris Green on June 3, 2023

When homeowners want to increase their property values, most opt for remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, or other indoor areas. Unfortunately, these kinds of large projects rarely provide the payoff people expert. Remodeling often projects go over budget and take longer than anticipated.

The good news is that there are other simpler, more affordable ways to raise property value that often go overlooked. This article will focus specifically on one exterior modification that can dramatically improve curb both curb appeal and functionality, raising property values and making the home look more appealing to qualified buyers: garage door replacement.

How Much Value Will a New Door Add?

In terms of value for the money, replacing garage doors is one of the best investments homeowners can make. Remodeling Magazine even ranked installing an upscale door on the garage number one on its list of remodeling projects that provide a high return on investment (ROI). 

According to its editors’ study, the ROI of new garage doors is an average of 98.3 percent, which is much higher than that of most remodeling projects. In some regions, the average ROI rose to over 130 percent, meaning that the door more than paid for itself.

Why New Garage Doors Increase Home Value

Replacing a garage door increases a home’s curb appeal, but so does just about every type of exterior remodeling project. The difference is that new garage doors improve more than just appearance. They also increase home value by:

1. Improving Safety and Security

While basic overhead door repair will make it more difficult for burglars to gain entry to the home, nothing beats installing a brand new door in the garage when it comes to improving safety. New garage doors come with all kinds of added features to improve both safety and security. Replacing the door can offer families access to advanced features such as:

  • Motion detectors that light up when trespassers approach the door in the dark.
  • Smartphone compatibility makes it possible for homeowners to operate their garage doors from anywhere with a user-friendly app.
  • Safety mechanisms that detect objects in the way of the door and stop it from closing.
  • Automatic openers, which now come standard on just about all garage doors.
  • Timers that close garage doors automatically after a certain period has passed.
  • Homeowners and their families will also benefit from advanced features until their properties sell. Add deterring burglars to the list of cost-saving benefits, and it’s clear that a new door will pay for itself.

2. Reducing Heat Transfer

Thanks to a recent shift in consumer preferences, new garage doors also tend to be insulated. Replacing an aging door with an insulated one can increase a home’s property value by up to four percent, and that’s certainly not the only way it will save homeowners money. Added insulation means reduced heat transfer.

Garages don’t need to be heated to benefit from insulated doors. Many homes have attached garages, in which case they share a wall with the rest of the living area and feature a door to access the garage. In this case, insulating the door can also help to lower energy consumption within the main house. Experts recommend looking for a minimum R-value of 11.

3. Keeping Maintenance Costs Low

Older garage doors require what can feel like constant maintenance. Newer models are far less needy. Prefinished garage doors need no repainting or refinishing, and they should maintain correct operation for years to come.

4. Reducing Noise

Older garage doors made a lot of noise, whether they featured automatic openers or had to be opened and closed by hand. Newer automatic opener assemblies feature rubber belts reinforced with metal and make very little noise. 

How to Tell It’s Worth Replacing an Overhead Door

Homeowners who aren’t quite ready to sell can benefit even more from replacing their garage doors since the whole family will be able to take advantage of the new fixture until the house is sold. It can be hard to tell when it’s time to stop making repairs and look into replacements, though. To simplify the situation, just go for a replacement whenever these issues arise:

  • Visible dents and dings
  • Rotting wood
  • Peeling paint
  • Holes and cracks
  • Lack of insulation
  • Sagging panels
  • Noisy operation
  • Shaking upon opening or closing
  • Broken cords or wires
  • Slow-to-respond openers
  • Problems raising and lowering the door

A Door Company Homeowners Can Depend On

Homeowners who want to improve their property values need reliable services, and that’s just what they’ll get when they work with Dependable Overhead Door. Whether clients are looking for a few minor repairs or a brand new door, we can help. Learn more about our products and services by browsing our website, or call (209) 484-8977 to speak with a representative about available options.

Is An Insulated Garage Door Worth it For Your House?

Chris Green on May 29, 2023

As most homeowners have already realized, energy costs are on the rise. What homeowners may not know is that there are more ways to keep heating and cooling bills low than paying for expensive air conditioner and furnace upgrades. Something as simple and affordable as insulating the garage door can make a noticeable difference.

Garage Doors Are the Weak Link

Energy efficiency experts know that garage doors are the weak link in many homes’ thermal envelopes. These doors are usually opened multiple times per day, which exposes almost an entire wall to outdoor air. If the door is uninsulated, this issue doesn’t just arise when the door is open. Even when it’s shut, unwanted heat transfer will continue almost unabated. 

The Benefits of Insulating Garage Doors

Homeowners with attached garages sometimes underestimate how much of a difference it can make to upgrade to an insulated garage door. Once they begin to learn about the benefits, though, it becomes clear that this simple home improvement project is worth the money.

Lower Monthly Bills

If the garage is attached to the home or underneath one of its rooms, any temperature changes that occur in the garage will also affect the temperatures indoors. In the heat of the summer, the garage will get hot and some of that heat will be transferred into the home, causing homeowners to run their air conditioners more often. In the winter, the opposite is true, and homeowners will find that they spend more to heat their houses.

Insulating the garage door will help to regulate temperatures inside the garage even if it isn’t climate controlled. This, in turn, will help to keep air conditioning and heater use low, helping to save families money on their monthly utility bills.

Less Strain on HVAC Systems

Keeping the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter means the home’s heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Because the equipment isn’t in operation as often, it will be under less constant strain, which can help both air conditioners and furnaces last for longer.

Reduce Stress on Cars

Even if a car starts up with no problem on the coldest winter mornings, that doesn’t mean it isn’t suffering from all those cold-temperature starts. Insulating the garage door so that the air inside stays a little warmer means it won’t be as difficult for the car to start on cold mornings.

Increased Home Value

Insulating a home’s garage door can make a surprisingly large difference when it comes time to sell the home. Future residents will appreciate all of the same benefits as the home’s current owners, which can increase the home’s value and make it easier to find qualified buyers.

Extra Useable Space

Insulating the garage door regulates temperatures but it also keeps out more noise and pollution. As a result, many families wind up using part or all of their attached garages for extra storage, home gyms, playrooms, offices, or other living spaces. Being able to make full use of the garage is a great way for growing families to coexist more peacefully under the same roof without investing in a home addition.

Improved Aesthetics

Garage doors don’t just work well, although that’s most homeowners’ primary concern. High-quality insulated garage doors also look nicer than their uninsulated counterparts. Improvements in curb appeal and interior aesthetics can go a long way when it comes to making a property look more appealing to buyers and making the current residents’ lives better in the meantime.

The Best Time to Make the Switch

The best time for homeowners to upgrade to insulated garage doors is when they’re already looking for garage door repair services. Even if the current door could feasibly be repaired, it makes more sense for homeowners who were planning on insulating their doors eventually to have the work done when the old one fails. That way, homeowners will pay only one reasonable fee instead of paying for both repairs and a new garage door installation later.

It’s Time to Upgrade

Homeowners who are ready to upgrade to an insulated door in California are in luck. Dependable Overhead Door Company offers a full range of both residential and commercial garage doors. It’s worth working with the best garage door company in Salida, CA. We can help homeowners not just with the installation but also with the difficult process of choosing the right design and style, so give us a call at (209) 484-8977 to discuss garage door replacements and upgrades today.

Reasons to Get a Lifestyle Screen for Your Garage

Chris Green on May 18, 2023

People used to consider owning a garage a luxury. Garages provided a safe place to park a vehicle when not in use and storage space for belongings. In recent years, however, California homeowners have turned to their garage space for more than storage and parking. No longer seen as just a space for a vehicle, garages have become a perfect spot for a hobby shop, family area, or gathering space for friends.

Protecting this space from the elements is essential when in use. A garage offers a spacious area to operate in, but it also has two significant issues when the garage door is left open: pests and weather. Installing lifestyle screens in a garage can resolve both of these issues quickly and affordably.

What Exactly are Garage Door Screens?

Lifestyle screens, otherwise known as garage door screens, are a layer of mesh screens that prevents unwanted elements from entering the garage, such as bugs, pests, and debris from the weather. Garage lifestyle screens are the same as a screen door installed on the front of a home; they provide extra protection to the house and convenience to the homeowners. There’s no reason to waste that garage space when homeowners can turn it into an open-air, usable living space.

Adding lifestyle screens to a home can be an affordable way to cool a garage off during the summer. An average DIY (do-it-yourself kit) ranges around several hundred dollars vs. spending several thousand for custom-fitted screens installed by a professional. Some budget kits for garage door screens cost under $100 and require manual installation, but they don’t provide the same level of quality as professionally installed garage screens.

Types of Screens for Garage Doors

The three types of garage door screens available are:

  • Lifestyle Garage Door Screens: Lifestyle screens turn a garage into an open-air living space. Lifestyle screens also provide comfort and convenience at an affordable price. These screens are a great way to cool a garage off without expensive HVAC modifications to the home. Lifestyle screens have a door built into them for convenience, removing the necessity of retracting the screen each time.
  • Sliding Garage Screens:  Sliding screens move horizontally, instead of vertically, when opening and closing. They work similarly to a patio door in a home by utilizing a sliding rail system to keep the screen in place. Being the most budget-friendly of the lifestyle screen options has its advantages; Sliding screens are popular with many homeowners on a budget.
  • Roll-down Garage Screens: Motorized screens that roll down are often the most expensive to install. They provide a significant convenience for homeowners who don’t want the hassle of manually rolling the screen up or down each time. They work similarly to the garage door system using tracks that allow the screen to move freely when in use. One added benefit of a roll-down screen is the weather stripping along the bottom; it improves energy efficiency.

Knowing the type of screen to install in a garage is just as important as knowing its uses. Once you’ve decided on a screen to install, finding a professional overhead door company in Salida, CA, will be the next step. Many overhead door companies rely on their customers for exposure, making it essential to rely on customer reviews when searching.

Many overhead door companies offer other services other than installing lifestyle screens. Most companies will provide garage door repair services also. These repairs can include track work, motor or garage door replacement, and installation of garage door assets.

Why Choose a Lifestyle Screen?

Utilizing a lifestyle screen turns a garage from a parking and storage space into a full-blow livable area for family and friends.

Some common uses for lifestyle screens in garages:

  • Mancave
  • Workshop
  • Hobbyshop
  • Office Space
  • Game Room
  • Indoor Patio Alternative
  • Outdoor Dining Area
  • Additional Bedroom or Living Space
  • Movie Theater
  • Music Area
  • Personal Gym

There are also some benefits to using lifestyle screens in a garage:

  • Easy Pest Control
  • Increased Usable Square Footage
  • Reduced Wear-and-Tear on Garage Elements
  • Better Airflow
  • Improved Energy Efficiency
  • Improved Home Security
  • Increased Protection from Weather, Dust, and Pollutants

It’s never too late to take advantage of the benefits of a lifestyle screen for a garage. A lifestyle screen can improve a home in many ways, whether it’s to create a new living space for the family to gather or add a new workshop to work out of.

Choose the Best Garage Door Service Available

Don’t let the search for a reputable garage door company disparage you. At Dependable Overhead Door Co, our skilled technicians are waiting to install and repair any garage door or screen you require. Serving Salida, California, and surrounding areas for years, we offer quality garage door services at an affordable price. Give us a call today. We’re eager to help you with any garage door needs you have!

How Can You Make Your Garage Door More Efficient?

Chris Green on May 13, 2023

People can modify their homes to make them more energy efficient, but not every homeowner thinks of doing the same with their garage. People using their garage as a workshop, a family recreation room, or as their “man cave” will have heating and cooling running to it. Making the garage energy efficient is the first step in lowering utility costs. The garage doors are often the main culprit in energy loss, but ensuring they are sealed, strong, and safely operating can make all the difference.

Old Garage Doors Leave a Lot to be Desired

Thin wood or cheap fiberglass are the most common materials in older garage doors. These uninsulated materials do little to conserve energy and often put more stress on openers than is necessary. Any homeowners who still have these doors should consider an upgrade to today’s common versions manufactured using composite materials, thicker wood, steel, or aluminum. The doors, combined with the sophistication of current opening systems, require less energy to raise or lower and help create a more stable interior environment thanks to the insulation.

A Snug Fit Helps Save Energy

Most homeowners don’t pay much attention to this factor, but garage door molding plays a significant role in the energy efficiency of a garage’s interior. Molding that is not flush to the door, is warped, cracked, or isn’t the correct size to cover the seam between the door and the frame can allow drafts inside the structure. The drafts greatly influence the garage comfort level and can cause a home’s HVAC unit to work harder than it needs to, especially if the garage is connected to the house. An inspection by professional garage door technicians will immediately reveal if the molding is installed and working correctly.

Keeping The Most Visible Seam Sealed

The weatherstripping along the bottom of the door also makes a significant difference in the indoor air temperature. The rubber seal will lose shape and effectiveness over time, allowing moisture and air to find a way inside. The experts at companies like Dependable Overhead Door have the tools and skills to install new weatherstripping without damaging the door or getting it out of alignment.

Garage Door Repairs Aren’t For The Average Handyman

There are many things that can happen to a garage door that require professional repair. From breaking a spring, rod, or cable to the denting of the panels or misalignment of the rails, mishaps that only a skilled garage door repair person can handle will occur. In some instances, a little mechanical know-how will solve the problem but, in others, the door technician will need to replace components. Dependable Overhead Door has a team thoroughly versed in a wide variety of door and opener brands. The technicians can quickly assess any problematic situation and determine if it’s financially beneficial to the homeowner to begin repairs or recommend replacements.

Recognizing When The Time For Replacement Has Come

As a garage door ages, it can lose efficiency if structural deterioration has set in, the seals are worn and no longer effective, or the door continually gets out of balance. This is the perfect time for homeowners to invest in a new door rather than pay for repair services repeatedly. New garage doors are built with the most up-to-date materials and immediately improve the comfort of the environment within the structure as well as reducing the energy required to operate the door. 

Garage Door Windows Require a Professional’s Touch 

Homes incorporating the garage into their curb appeal often contain windowed garage doors. Much like windows on a home, these can be accidentally broken or gradually grow cloudy over the years. In either case, contacting a professional to install the replacement garage door windows will ensure that everything is thoroughly sealed. Although windows let light in and add charm to a garage door’s appearance, when installed incorrectly, energy efficiency drops drastically. Our skilled staff will ensure the exact replacement window shape and cut are snugly fit into the door to eliminate the chance of gaps, drafts, and unwanted moisture.

A Trusted Name in The Garage Door Industry

For over two decades, Dependable Overhead Door Company has provided expert garage door installation, repair, and window replacement to the residents in and around Ripon, CA. The fully licensed company has a team of experts ready to assist in any way. From helping customers select a door that matches the aesthetic of the garage and home to performing repairs when significant damage has occurred, these highly trained professionals will meet each individual’s needs to the fullest.

Tackle Overhead Door Repair Without the Stress

Chris Green on May 6, 2023

Handy homeowners often enjoy taking on DIY repairs and home improvement projects. When their garage doors stop working, these enterprising folks are often tempted to try identifying and fixing the problem themselves. Unfortunately, it rarely works out well for homeowners.

Common Garage Door Issues

Modern garage doors are much safer and more convenient than their predecessors, but the trade-off is that there is a wider range of things that can go wrong. Some of the most common issues requiring garage door repairs include:

  • Broken springs
  • Damaged cables
  • Misaligned tracks
  • Broken or missing remotes
  • Worn rollers
  • Cracked or otherwise broken panels
  • Electrical issues
  • Faulty sensors

In most cases, these issues can be repaired easily by a trained technician. Homeowners shouldn’t let the speed with which experienced contractors diagnose and resolve problems fool them, though. Repairing garage doors is more difficult than most people think.

Why It’s Best to Leave Garage Door Repairs to the Pros

There are a few qualities that define the perfect DIY home improvement project. These projects are usually small in scope, require no specialized skills, are safe to perform at home, and use only readily available tools. The vast majority of garage door repairs meet none of these qualifications. Anyone considering giving DIY garage door repair a shot should check out these compelling reasons to leave these kinds of projects to the pros:

1. Voiding the Warranty

When homeowners buy an insulated garage door or otherwise upgrade from their existing garages, the products typically come with warranties. The warranties help homeowners pay for repairs or product replacements when issues come up within a specified amount of time. However, what most people don’t know is that manufacturers’ warranties can be voided when unlicensed individuals attempt to perform even simple repairs or upgrades.

Before heading out to the garage with whatever tools are available to replicate some video they saw on YouTube, homeowners should read through their warranties carefully. If there are any clauses about aftermarket modifications or requiring repairs or maintenance to be performed by a licensed contractor, they should turn right back around. It’s not worth voiding the warranty.

2. Potential for Making Problems Worse

Modern garage doors are more complex than most people think. The repair technicians that are licensed to work on them undergo substantial training before taking on any projects, but homeowners don’t have the same luxury. As a result, most DIY repair attempts only make problems worse.

When components are installed incorrectly, it can cause major damage to the entire system. Installing the door springs wrong can damage the cables, for example, which can lead to damage to garage door windows if it falls unexpectedly. These kinds of compounding problems can lead to much more substantial repair bills.

3. Potential for Injury

Arguably the most compelling reason to leave garage door repairs to the pros is that homeowners who attempt their own fixes without proper tools, knowledge, and safety gear run a serious risk of getting hurt. Modern garage doors weigh hundreds of pounds and can be dangerous. If they fall out of nowhere, it can result in serious injuries.

To make matters even worse, incorrectly performed repairs to springs, cables, or other key components can continue to pose a danger long after they are installed. Scheduling a professional installation can thus be seen as a means of protecting the safety of everyone in the household.

What to Expect From Professional Garage Door Repairs

Homeowners who want to tackle overhead door repairs without all the stress and potential negative consequences of making it a DIY job should call a licensed contractor. These professionals make getting a garage door repaired as simple as possible. Homeowners can often get a free estimate over the phone and schedule an inspection at the same time. 

The technicians will be sent to the site with everything required to diagnose the problem, and in most cases, perform repairs on the same day. If the damage is extensive, repair technicians might instead suggest replacing the door. However, in all cases, it will be the homeowner’s decision as to how to move forward with repairs or garage door replacements.

Dependable Service, Amazing Results

Property owners in Northern California can trust A Dependable Overhead Door Co. with all of their garage door and replacement needs. We work on not just residential but also commercial garage doors, so no matter what’s wrong and how large an overhead door happens to be, our techs will have the experience, equipment, and expertise to fix the problem. We also work with leading suppliers to provide new installations. Give us a call at (209) 566-2809 to discuss a project or schedule repairs today.

How Do I Know If I Can Afford a New Garage Door?

Chris Green on April 29, 2023

Every homeowner has a different set of reasons for wanting to replace their home’s garage door. Some want to improve energy efficiency, while others are more interested in curb appeal and resale value. There are also plenty of people who just get sick of looking at their old or ugly garage doors or can’t stand the thought of calling to schedule another round of repairs.

No matter why homeowners start looking into new garage doors, there’s one question that’s almost always on their minds. How much will it cost? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that question, this article will offer some insight into how to tell if a garage door replacement will fit in the family’s budget.

Average Cost of Installing Garage Doors

The reason there are no one-size-fits-all answers when it comes to overhead door pricing is that costs vary significantly from place to place, and even from project to project. The average cost of overhead door replacement is a little over $1,600. However, averages can be misleading, so homeowners shouldn’t base their decisions about how to fit new garage doors into their family budgets based on that one number.

It’s important to note that it can cost significantly more to install a brand-new overhead door on an addition or garage expansion. Depending on the style of the door and the materials used to make it, the price could range as high as $4,000. If a researcher polled 10 homeowners regarding how much they paid for their garage doors, that one person who had a brand-new, luxury door installed would throw off the average significantly.

Factors That Influence Cost

Whether a door is new or will be replacing an older model is just one of many factors that influences garage door costs. Others include:

  • The size of the door.
  • Where the home is located.
  • Whether the door is manual or automatic.
  • If the contractors will need to remove the old door.
  • Whether the door is insulated.
  • What type of material is used

Homeowners who want to customize their doors or install upgrades and accessories can also expect to pay more than those that opt for standard models.

How to Keep Costs Low

While it’s true that there are many factors influencing the cost of replacing garage doors, there are also plenty of things buyers can do to keep costs low. They include:

1. Choosing a Basic Style

Sticking to a basic design is the best way to stay within the family’s budget. It may be tempting to start adding custom elements or upgrades, but each one of them will increase the price.

2. Make a List of Must-Have Features

There are some upgrades and custom features that homeowners can do without, but others are must-haves for maintaining a certain lifestyle. Plenty of families opt to pay a little more for a keypad entry or automatic opener but skip high-end aesthetic upgrades such as luxury finishes and windows.

3. Ask About the Warranty

Spending a little extra for a door with a warranty can wind up saving families money in the long run. For one thing, manufacturer’s warranties are an industry standard, so the failure to offer one should always be seen as a red flag regarding quality and workmanship. For another, even a high-quality door can fail, and if it breaks down while it’s still under warranty, homeowners won’t need to pay for the repairs.

4. Maintain the New Door

Garage doors are relatively low-maintenance, but it’s still important to provide them with routine upkeep. Once the new door is installed, ask about recommended maintenance schedules and stick to them.

When to Replace vs. Repair an Overhead Door

If a new overhead door isn’t in the budget, don’t lose hope. It’s often possible to schedule garage door repair services that will at least get the old one operating as intended again. Of course, this solution won’t help with aesthetic concerns, but it can be a lifesaver for families that just need to hold out on home improvements until they meet current financial goals. 

That said, there are some circumstances where a new door is the only option. They include:

  • Significant damage from storms or car accidents.
  • Cracking and warping due to old age.
  • Damage that prevents the door from opening and closing easily.
  • Safety issues.

Who to Call for a New Door

When it’s time to have garage doors replaced, homeowners need to work with reputable contractors. Dependable Overhead Door Co. is a great option for anyone in Northern California. We offer a full line of high-quality doors at affordable prices and offer financing to qualified buyers. Call (209) 484-8977 to discuss any overhead door replacement, repair, or maintenance needs.

When Should I Consider Complete Garage Door Replacement?

Chris Green on April 25, 2023

Garage doors see a lot of use. Most open and close multiple times per day as drivers leave home to go to work or school, run errands, and see friends. Over time, all that use will take its toll, leaving homeowners in need of new garage doors.

The problem is that garage doors are expensive, so the average homeowner wants to get as much from their current model as possible. When doors sustain significant damage, it’s obvious that they need to be replaced as quickly as possible because potential consequences like an increased likelihood of break-ins and pest intrusions clearly outweigh the cost of garage door replacement. 

There are also less obvious issues with older doors that could cost homeowners money if they go unaddressed. This article will introduce some other common reasons to have a garage door replaced.

1. The Door Is Old

Garage doors can last for many years with appropriate maintenance and occasional repairs. When they start approaching the 10-20 year mark, even high-quality doors typically don’t look as good as they used to. The technology behind automatic garage doors is also changing fast, so safety mechanisms and convenience features that were state-of-the-art 10-15 years ago are now obsolete. Upgrading to a new model with all of the features homeowners want is a good investment.

2. There’s More Than Cosmetic Damage

Minor cosmetic damage such as peeling paint and small cracks in wood panels is usually best addressed through overhead door repair. If a door has sustained serious damage, though, its structural integrity could be compromised. At that point, it’s no longer appropriate to treat the damage in the same way. A warped, rusted, or severely cracked door won’t provide as much protection as one that is fully intact.

If the damage is serious, it could even cause a safety risk. Doors that get stuck halfway open can be dangerous to residents if they try to un-stick them, and those that only open sometimes may leave people stuck in the garage or prevent them from getting their cars back in. In some cases, even damaged panels can create dangerous situations if they are at risk of becoming detached from the door.

3. The Door Won’t Open

Sometimes, garage doors refuse to open because their hardware stops working as intended. This is often the case with automatic garage doors, which rely on not just basic machinery but also radio transmitters to work. When a garage door stops opening, the first thing to try is to have it repaired rather than replaced because if the issue is only with the hardware, that’s a cheaper fix than replacing the entire door. If the garage door is failing to open because of structural damage, that’s a different story entirely and a new garage door installation is typically the best option.

4. The Required Repairs Are Expensive

Some types of garage door repairs are more expensive than others. If the total cost of all the necessary repairs winds up being more than half the price of having the door replaced, the more cost-efficient alternative is usually to purchase a new door. This is particularly true if the existing one is getting old or has other types of minor damage.

5. The Door Just Keeps Breaking Down

While scheduling repairs once or twice to make sure a garage door stays in good shape isn’t a problem for most families, no homeowner wants to be calling the repair company every few weeks. The problem isn’t just that the repairs will add up and eat into the family’s budget. It’s also that garage door failures can be incredibly inconvenient, causing people to miss work or school and waste time they’d rather be spending elsewhere waiting for repairs. Having the door replaced will eliminate all of those hassles.

6. It’s Time to Sell

Homeowners getting ready to sell their properties often make improvements in an effort to increase home value and draw in more qualified buyers. Replacing a garage door is one of the best home improvements to make pre-sale. In fact, it tops the list for return on investment, no matter the economic climate. Installing extras like garage door screens can also be a good investment.

Request a Quote Today

Want to find out what it would cost to have a specific garage door replaced? The only way to do so is to reach out to one or more local contractors and request quotes. Working with an industry expert who can install both residential and commercial garage doors is always the best bet since it gives homeowners access to highly qualified contractors and a full range of products.

Northern California Garage Door Repair: Serving Your Residential and Commercial Needs

Chris Green on April 18, 2023

Garage doors remain in the background. Most people assume they will work when needed and don’t give them much thought otherwise. However, when the garage door fails, they want help immediately. It’s very frustrating to not be able to access the garage, particularly when there is a vehicle parked inside. 

Anyone in need of overhead door repair in Salida, CA, should contact a company specializing in these types of repairs. While a handyman might be able to fix the problem, they may miss other issues with the door. By working with a provider whose sole focus is doors and windows, a person can feel confident they won’t have other issues in the near future. Dependable Overhead Door Company is that provider. 

Common Problems Seen with Overhead Doors

In many cases, the user doesn’t realize there is a problem with the door until it won’t open or close. Numerous things could be causing this issue. There could be a problem with the remote control opener or the keypad. Changing the batteries might be enough to resolve the issue. 

If this doesn’t work, ensure the door is unlocked and the motor is plugged in. Residential garage doors, as well as commercial ones, often fail for simple reasons, and the owner can resolve the issue without calling for our help. Nevertheless, the problem could be with the photo-eye sensor or another component. That’s why a company specializing in commercial garage doors as well as residential ones is so beneficial. 

Other problems an owner might experience include a noisy garage door or one that opens too fast or too slow. Regardless of what the problem is, if simple fixes don’t resolve the problem, call us. We are happy to send someone out to help. 

Signs a Garage Door is Failing

Certain signs indicate there is a problem with the overhead door. For instance, a door that makes more noise than usual should be inspected to see what the problem is. If the door is sagging or appears to be off balance, let us know. We’ll get someone out to examine the door and find the underlying cause of the problem being experienced. 

Any noise or vibration when the door is in use is cause for concern. The same holds when the door feels heavier than normal. If the door has sustained any panel damage, call us as well. Damaged panels might not interfere with normal operation of the door, but they do detract from the property’s curb appeal. We can repair or replace the panel to restore the beauty of the property in less time than many people imagine. 

When Garage Door Replacement Serves as the Better Option

Certain situations call for a garage door replacement rather than a repair to the existing door. When the door is a safety hazard, it’s always best to replace it. Doing so ensures nobody is harmed when the door is used. Major damage to the door also serves as a sign the door needs to be replaced rather than repaired. 

If the door no longer secures the property for any reason, replace it. The expense of doing so is easily offset by the peace of mind the owner receives. Furthermore, when the door needs frequent repairs, it is time for a replacement.

Maintaining a Garage Door

Reduce the need for repairs or a replacement door by maintaining the existing door according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep the tracks free of dust and debris and operate the door once every season to ensure it moves freely. Tighten the hardware and inspect the rollers for damage.

Lubricate all moving parts when completing this inspection to reduce friction and check the auto-reverse feature. These simple steps go a long way to keeping the door in good operating condition. If help is needed, when completing any or all of these tasks, our team is available to do this maintenance for a client. 

Overhead doors are only one of several products we offer. Contact us to learn about our windows, lifestyle screens, and more. We offer a range of products to meet your needs and add value to your life. Ask and we will provide you with the information needed to determine if these items are right for your home or business. 

About Dependable Overhead Door Co.

Dependable Overhead Door Co. offers a variety of high-quality residential and commercial garage doors made by leading manufacturers. We assist clients looking to maintain, repair, replace, or install an overhead garage door, windows, and more. Thanks to the wide selection of products we offer, every customer will find an overhead door that meets their needs in every way.

Dependable Logo
Chris Green

ABOUT US

A-Dependable Overhead Door Company offers a full line of high-quality residential and commercial garage doors from some of the most dependable names in the industry. Whether replacing an existing overhead garage door or building a new garage or home, we have everything you need. With hundreds of garage door designs and styles to select from, A Dependable Overhead Door makes it easy to purchase a door matching your needs throughout Northern California.

Dependable Logo
Chris Green

ABOUT US

A Dependable Overhead Door Company offers a full line of high-quality residential and commercial garage doors from some of the most dependable names in the industry. Whether replacing an existing overhead garage door or building a new garage or home, we have everything you need.

With hundreds of garage door designs and styles to select from, A Dependable Overhead Door makes it easy to purchase a door matching your needs throughout Northern California.

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