Aegis Garage Doors LLC-Blog

Garage Door Rollers: The Unsung Heroes of Smooth Operation

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 18:33:00 GMT

Introduction to Garage Door Rollers

When it comes to maintaining a smooth, quiet, and efficient garage door, the solution is often simpler than one might initially think. Garage door rollers are the unsung heroes of your door’s seamless operation. Tucked away between the guide tracks and secured with hinges, these small components often go unnoticed, but they play a crucial role in the overall performance and longevity of your garage door system. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of garage door rollers, their applications, and how they can enhance the functionality and durability of your garage door. Garage door rollers, much like the tires on a car, are essential for stabilizing your door and ensuring it moves smoothly from point A to point B. They significantly impact the noise level during operation; the right rollers and proper maintenance can lead to virtually silent garage door operation in any setting. Moreover, high-quality rollers can reduce wear and tear on other components such as the tracks and openers, potentially extending the life of these larger and more expensive parts.

Nylon Rollers: The Residential Favorite

Detailed Explanation

Nylon rollers are among the most common types of rollers, especially in residential settings. These rollers are crafted from durable nylon material and are often equipped with ball bearings to enhance their performance. Known for their smooth and quiet operation, nylon rollers are ideal for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance solution that won't disrupt the peace of their home environment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Cons:

Best Usage

Nylon rollers are best suited for residential garage doors where quiet operation and low maintenance are priorities. They provide a smooth and efficient ride, making them a popular choice for homeowners concerned about noise levels.

Ball-Bearing Rollers: The Quietest Choice

Detailed Explanation

Ball-bearing rollers, typically made with nylon wheels, are designed to minimize friction and enhance the smoothness of door operation. The inclusion of ball bearings allows these rollers to glide along the tracks with ease, making them the quietest option available for garage doors. This reduced friction not only contributes to a quieter operation but also extends the lifespan of the rollers themselves.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Cons:

Best Usage

Ball-bearing rollers are perfect for residential settings where noise reduction is paramount. They are particularly beneficial in homes with attached garages or those located in noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

Steel Rollers: The Commercial Powerhouse

Detailed Explanation

Steel rollers are robust and designed to withstand heavy loads, making them a popular choice for commercial use or in environments with extreme weather conditions. While they are louder than their nylon counterparts, their durability and strength make them ideal for high-demand applications.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Cons:

Best Usage

Steel rollers are best suited for commercial environments where durability and load capacity are critical. They are also a great choice for extremely heavy residential doors or areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, garage door rollers are essential components that significantly impact the performance and longevity of your garage door system. Whether you opt for nylon, ball-bearing, or steel rollers, it's crucial to select the type that best fits your specific needs and environment. Regular maintenance, such as lubrication and inspection, will further ensure that your rollers and garage door operate smoothly and efficiently.

Remember, when purchasing or servicing garage door rollers, consider supporting local small businesses like Aegis Garage Doors . By doing so, you benefit from expert advice, high-quality products, and personalized service, all while contributing to the vitality of your community. Investing in the right rollers and proper maintenance not only enhances the functionality of your garage door but also extends the life of its components, providing peace of mind and reliable performance for years to come.

Quiet Operation: Nylon rollers are renowned for their noise-reducing properties, making them an excellent choice for residential.
Low Maintenance: They require minimal upkeep, making them convenient for homeowners.
Rust Resistant: Unlike metal rollers, nylon does not rust, which prolongs their lifespan.

Durability: While durable, nylon rollers may not withstand the same level of wear and tear as steel rollers in high-demand environments.
Load Capacity: They are suitable for standard residential doors but might not support heavier, commercial-grade doors.

Exceptional Quietness: Ball-bearing rollers offer the quietest operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Reduced Friction: The ball bearings significantly decrease friction, reducing wear on both the rollers and tracks.
Durability: These rollers have a longer lifespan compared to standard nylon rollers due to their design.

Cost: Ball-bearing rollers tend to be more expensive than standard nylon rollers.
Maintenance: While generally low-maintenance, the ball bearings may require occasional lubrication to maintain optimal performance.

Durability: Steel rollers are highly durable and can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for commercial doors.
Weather Resistance: They perform well in extreme weather conditions, offering reliable operation regardless of the environment.
Longevity: With proper maintenance, steel rollers can last significantly longer than other types.

Noise: Steel rollers are noisier, which may not be ideal for residential areas.
Maintenance: They require regular lubrication to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Most Common Repairs for Your Garage Door

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:42:00 GMT

Garage doors offer incredible convenience for homeowners, but over time, worn-out parts and exposure to the elements can turn your once-silent door into a noisy and faded version of itself. Fortunately, many steel door sections remain in excellent condition and can last for years with a few repairs and replacements of aged components. In this blog, we will explore the top five repairs and upgrades to rejuvenate your garage door!

Let’s begin with the two most recommended repairs for noisy doors. Just like the tires on your vehicle, rollers deteriorate due to friction and pressure as the door moves, accumulating dirt and debris that can cause screeching or grinding sounds. Upgrading to nylon rollers from old steel ones results in significantly quieter operation and increased durability, making them a top recommendation from garage door technicians. Additionally, hinges play a critical role in door functionality, bearing pressure and facilitating smooth operation. Similar to rollers, a buildup of dirt can cause binding, which puts extra strain on other parts like the sections and openers if not adequately lubricated or replaced. Replacing rollers and hinges is typically more cost-effective than other garage door repairs and can often be bundled for additional savings when contacting Aegis Garage Doors LLC.

Next, addressing weather and bottom seals is an excellent repair to enhance both the feel and functionality of your door. Proper seals help extend the lifespan of components such as hinges and rollers by preventing excess dirt and debris from entering when the door is closed. Bottom seals also deter small rodents and other animals from easily accessing your garage. In states like Colorado, which experience harsh seasonal changes, proper seals provide better insulation. New seals can also refresh the color that original seals may have lost due to exposure. While replacement seals are generally affordable, some can be found at big-box stores for DIY homeowners; however, options may be limited.

The third recommended repair for optimal garage door operation is the springs. Typically, springs begin to lose tension three to five years after installation, and adding tension can enhance the lifespan and functionality of the opener. On average, springs may break or experience significant tension loss around six to seven years, leading to noisy or ineffective operation, an unbalanced door, or broken cables. Depending on the age of your door at the time of spring replacement, you may also need new cables or a complete spring assembly. For guidance on testing spring tension, check out our tune-up blog here.

Garage door openers play a vital role in ensuring smooth operation. When spring tension is low, openers must exert more force to open and close the door smoothly, which can damage the motor or other components over time. If you’re considering replacing your garage door opener, be sure to evaluate spring tension, as poor tension can lead to loud or inconsistent opener operation. Garage door openers manufactured around 2010 and later can have parts replaced, including the motor, logic board, safety sensors, wall stations, keyless entry, and more. Generally, openers have a lifespan of about ten years, while older models may lack modern safety features, such as sensors and reverse mechanisms; for those over 15 years old, replacement parts may be unavailable. When choosing a new opener, belt and side mount models tend to operate more quietly, while chain openers are suited for high-use doors. For more details on the LiftMaster garage door openers we offer, visit our opener page.

In summary, the most common repairs to restore your garage door to optimal condition include rollers, hinges, weather and bottom seals, springs, and opener repairs. If your garage door is noisy or operates inconsistently, reach out to a professional to determine which of these repairs can help rejuvenate your door. Regular tune-ups by a qualified technician and proper lubrication can also extend the lifespan of components and prevent unexpected repairs while establishing maintenance schedules.

What is the cost of Steel Garage Doors in Northern Colorado?

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 18:32:00 GMT

Garage doors have an impact on many facets of your home such as design, cooling/heating, exterior noise control, and accessibility. When it is time to search for a new garage door the task can be daunting with so many companies and door options to choose from and having to jump through hoops to get multiple estimates and hope they are competitive honest quotes. In this blog we will share with you some base pricing for common garage door sizes including installation and a few common upgrades to help provide a foundation for you to start the search for your dream garage door.

Even base model doors still have a range of customization, base colors including white, almond, sandstone, and brown. With additional color options of black, desert tan, teratone, hunter green, dark/light woodgrain, and more depending on manufacturer. Typical sizes can range from 18x7, 18x8, 16x7, 16x8, 8x8, 8x7, other widths such as 10’ and 12’ are also somewhat common.

Steel doors are a fantastic choice for most homes with four base designs: Traditional, Long Panel, Carriage ( short bead board), Cottage (long bead board). Steel doors are the most common due to their strength, light weight, and cost; which allows room for additional upgrades giving you the option to personalize the design of your door to make your home one of a kind. The average single car garage non-insulated steel door(8’x7’) starts at $1,400. Larger one car garage doors can start at $1,700 for doors 10 ft wide. Two car non-insulated steel garage doors start at $2,200 for a 16’x7’.

Upgrading to insulated garage doors can add value to any garage allowing for better temperature control. Insulation along with steel backing adds strength to any size garage door and can be rated for high winds. Insulated garage doors also are much quieter due to less space and flex compared to non-insulated or wooden garage doors. The increased layering also prevents outside noise in your garage and home for peace and quiet when you need it most. Single car (8’x7’) insulated steel garage doors start at $1,700, and the two car (16’x7”) insulated steel garage doors start at $2,700 and can range up to $3,650 for larger 18’x8’ doors.

Light weight and durability are a staple to great insulated steel garage doors, but along with that they are versatile and have many options to choose from to make your dream garage door a reality. Windows can be added to increase the natural light in your garage space placement and size of windows can be customized to your liking. Clear, obscure, frosted, and other designs and tints are available to meet the needs of any garage. Window additions can add anywhere from $450 to $1,200+ based on your chosen design and glass thickness.

Homeowners looking to maximize space in their garage also can find options to hi-lift your garage door or even follow a pitch if necessary. Please note that in many cases the best or only option for garage door opener for doors with high lift or track modifications are side mount “jackshaft” openers. High lift and modified track can be added for an additional charge to a garage door installation.There are different options for side mount openers but they generally start around $1,200 including installation. To learn more about garage door openers visit our LiftMaster opener page .

Additional considerations when buying a new garage door are decorative hardware options, and upgrades for springs/hardware. Spring cycle upgrades can be highly beneficial for high usage garage doors. Upgraded hinges and rollers can also increase the life of your door as well as offer smooth quieter operation. Lastly vinyl weather seals are generally included with garage door estimates, you can customize your door with vinyl trim that accents your door or use matching trim to your garage door color.

Just when you thought there wasn’t any more to be said about a steel garage door it's not quite done yet. In order for some dream homes and garage doors to stand the test of time they must have some extra support; with increased layered insulation thickness and additional struts, steel garage doors can withstand extreme winds. Depending on the rating, insulation, and size of the door price and vary, additional support strut starts at $75 per strut.

If you had to consider one last thing when buying your new garage door it should be thinking about your current opener and whether or not it should be updated as well. Most garage doors with the right service and repairs when needed can last 15 years or more! The only thing left is the opener that allows for that seamless operation with a press of a button to make your dream door run like a dream. Simply put, replacing your opener with a new one to match your brand new door can lead to years of peace of mind with your dependable garage door. For pricing information on garage door openers you can visit our opener pricing page .

Garage doors can be an expensive investment for your home, but compared to other home renovations it has one of the highest return on investment. Also updating or upgrading your garage door can save you time and money in the long run through home efficiency and avoiding costly repairs to a deteriorating old garage door. For more information regarding return on investments for garage doors can be found here . Aegis Garage Doors LLC is a BBB partner and strongly suggests getting at least three estimates when updating your garage door and be sure to cover all options you may want to make sure you are getting the garage door of your dreams. If you are on the hunt for a new garage door in Loveland or Northern Colorado call Aegis Garage Doors LLC today to schedule your Free garage door consultation .

Maximizing Home Value: The ROI of Garage Door Replacement in 2024

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 18:14:00 GMT

When it comes to home improvement projects, homeowners are constantly seeking those with the highest return on investment (ROI). Among various renovation options, garage door replacements have consistently proven to be a top performer in both national and regional markets. Let’s delve into why garage door replacements are such a smart investment, focusing on national averages and specific insights for the Denver metro area.

National Overview: The Best Bang for Your Buck

According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, garage door replacements offer an outstanding ROI of 193.9% on average. This means homeowners can nearly double their investment when selling their home. The typical cost for a garage door replacement is around $4,513, with an estimated resale value of $8,751.

(Remodeling)

Several factors contribute to this high return:

Denver Metro Area: A Local Perspective

For homeowners in the Denver metro area, the ROI for garage door replacements remains strong, aligning closely with national trends. Denver’s robust housing market, characterized by high demand and rising property values, further amplifies the benefits of such improvements.

The Mountain region, which includes Denver, often mirrors the national data in terms of ROI for exterior home improvements. The key drivers in Denver include:

Architectural Digest underscores the importance of exterior enhancements in competitive housing markets, noting that these improvements not only increase property value but also improve overall home efficiency and aesthetics. This is particularly relevant in regions like Denver where homebuyers are keen on both style and functionality ( iPropertyManagement.com .)

Making the Decision: Why Invest in a New Garage Door?

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or simply want to enjoy the benefits of an upgraded exterior, investing in a new garage door is a financially savvy decision. The impressive ROI, coupled with enhanced curb appeal and functionality, makes this project a standout choice for homeowners nationwide and in the Denver metro area.

For more detailed insights and specific project considerations, refer to the comprehensive reports by Remodeling Magazine , iPropertyManagement , and Architectural Digest .

Curb Appeal: A new garage door significantly enhances the home’s exterior appearance, making a strong first impression on potential buyers.
Functionality and Security: Modern garage doors offer improved insulation, security features, and durability, which are highly valued by homebuyers.
Cost Efficiency: Compared to major renovations like kitchen or bathroom remodels, garage door replacements are relatively low-cost but provide a substantial boost in home value.

LiftMaster® Garage Door Openers: Features, Benefits, and Pricing

Sat, 11 May 2024 18:14:00 GMT

When looking into the extensive options within different garage door openers, LiftMaster stands out as a trusted brand known for its reliability, durability, and innovative features. Whether you're a homeowner looking to upgrade your garage or seeking more efficient access solutions, LiftMaster offers a range of options to suit various needs and preferences. In this blog post, we'll break down the features and benefits of LiftMaster openers and explore their associated costs.

LiftMaster Garage Door Openers: Features and Benefits

Cost of LiftMaster Garage Door Openers

When it comes to pricing, LiftMaster garage door openers vary depending on factors such as model, features, and installation requirements. Here's a general overview of the cost range you can expect including installation in Loveland, CO and surrounding areas from Aegis Garage Doors.

LiftMaster garage door openers offer a winning combination of reliability, security, convenience, and innovation, making them a top choice for homeowners and businesses alike. While the cost of LiftMaster openers may vary depending on the model and features you choose, the investment is well worth it for the peace of mind and convenience they provide. Whether you're looking for a basic opener or a feature-rich solution, LiftMaster has you covered with a diverse range of options to suit your needs and budget.

Contractor models: Entry-level LiftMaster garage door openers range from $580 to $750 including installation. These models offer essential features such as remote operation and basic security functionalities.
Premium models: Mid-range LiftMaster openers with additional features like battery backup, Wi-Fi connectivity, and motion-activated lighting range from $750 to $900 including install.
Elite models: Top of the line LiftMaster garage door openers equipped with advanced security features, smart home integration, and ultra-quiet operation range from $900 to $1400.
It's important to note that these prices are estimates and may vary based on factors such as location and any additional accessories.

Is your Garage Door Unbalanced?

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 22:20:00 GMT

What is an unbalanced garage door?

The best way to describe an unbalanced garage door is by first explaining what a balanced door is. A properly balanced garage door the tension system carries equal weight across all parts making for smooth easy operation. For example, hand operating your door should be similar to lifting a 5-10 lbs weight. Unbalanced doors can take time to present, but also can rapidly lead to sudden repairs in many cases.

What does it look like/ warning signs?

When a garage door is unbalanced it can lead to many problems such as cables snapping, springs breaking, and complete opener failure due to increased force to open or close the unbalanced door. One of the most common signs of an unbalanced garage door is uneven opening or closing of the garage door. Other signs include slow or inconsistent operation, strange noise during regular use, and if left ignored can possibly lead to a door that cannot operate without repairs.

Are you worried your garage door may be unbalanced? You can do a quick home test to find out!

Is your garage door Unbalanced?

If you feel your garage door is unbalanced you should call a professional out to take a look and review your options available to make the needed repair . Depending on what is causing the door to be unbalanced is the first thing to solve; a few main causes of unbalanced doors are incorrect or worn out springs, improper drums or cables for the tension system, improper track placement, as well as broken or improperly installed hinges and rollers. The best way to avoid sudden repairs on your garage door is to have annual or semi-annual tune-ups done by a professional to ensure proper operation year round.

What is a Garage Door Tune-up?

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 23:03:00 GMT

Simply put a garage door tune-up is an overall inspection and proper lubrication of a garage door, including proper safety test for openers when needed. Garage door lubrication is needed twice a year with at least one professional tune-up for best operation. The overall goal of a tune-up is to ensure best operation to allow proper wear across all components; along with proper lubrication to reach the maximum life of the garage door and its components.

Professional tune-ups offer a multitude of benefits to get the most out of any garage door. High quality tune-ups include cleaning of tracks, debris and sensors; along with ensuring proper operation, and making minor adjustments when necessary. Following cleaning and inspection of hardware and operation, tune-ups are completed with a full lubrication using a professional grade silicone lubricating the garage door and its components for smooth operation. Professional tune-ups should also include a report of the inspection with any notes needed as well as any upcoming repairs or replacements that may be necessary. Tune-ups should leave the homeowner confident their doors are operating safely, and give them the knowledge to know what repairs may be coming up allowing homeowners to get ahead of the upcoming repairs needed avoiding a possible trapped car.

New garage doors often will not have many upcoming repairs, but the best way to go as long as possible without components wearing out too quickly is with yearly tune-ups. New garage doors often will settle and may need minor adjustments in the first year after installation, and when not addressed can lead to components breaking earlier than expected. Some manufacturer warranties for new garage doors require professional annual tune-ups as well as updated openers when necessary. Even doors that are used infrequently are still recommended to have one tune-up a year. Besides usage other factors such as changes in temperature often affect components that may go unnoticed until its next operation causing you in most cases an avoidable inconvenience with the scheduling of your annual tune-up.

Generally tune-ups are relatively cheap compared to unexpected repairs and with consistent yearly tune-ups allows for the homeowner to have a maintenance plan in place avoiding in most cases unexpected repairs as well as ensuring you get the most out of your garage door. Sleep well at night knowing your garage door is operating correctly, safely, and on track to receive the most for your buck by scheduling your garage door tune -up now!

Tips to Winterize Your Garage Door

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 23:42:00 GMT

We all love the changing of the seasons, whether it be the changing leaves of fall or the budding flowers in spring, nature is always in motion. When winter comes so does the cold weather and snow, which can impact mechanical things such as your garage door. There are a few things you can do to ensure consistent and reliable operation of your garage door through the coming winter. Starting with a professional tune-up or a general tune-up by the homeowner checking for damage, loose bolts, and lubricating the moving parts. Checking and replacing weather seals helps keep snow and debris out of your garage as well as contributing to temperature control inside your garage. Cold temperatures also affect battery powered devices such as keyless entries, it is recommended to update batteries and test battery back-ups in preparation for winter weather.

Pre-Winter Tune-Up

Schedule Your Garage Door Tune-up Today!

Tips for Finding a Reputable Garage Door Contractor

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 19:53:00 GMT

Updating and repairing your garage door is unavoidable, so when the time comes to make repairs or updates, finding the right professionals for the job is important. The first step is research finding which companies service your area, what products they provide, and if they will be a good fit for you and your families needs. Often multiple companies offer the same or very similar products, but only a few of those companies may be the right fit for your project. Next, receiving quotes from at least three of the companies you chose from your research, while doing your best to receive quotes that are comparable to its products and service. Finally get everything in writing! Good contractors will always be happy to provide proper paperwork for warranties, policies and other important information for a job.

Research

Starting from scratch when looking for garage door professionals can feel like a daunting task, but with a few tips kept in mind it can be made simple. When researching for service providers the Better Business Bureau® also known as BBB® is a trusted source for finding businesses that follow the BBB’s set guideline for businesses and grading them to inform customers of businesses with best practices.

Be sure to keep in mind that many companies offer similar products and even at times the same products, but finding a company that is the right fit for you is important. Some companies focus on speed with quick repairs or replacements, while others may focus on details or long term options and plans. Finding the right garage door professional that fits your needs is a huge peace of mind for any homeowner.

Receive Multiple Quotes

Always be sure to receive multiple quotes for large repairs or replacements, unless you have already used a service provider you trust it is always best to receive at least three quotes. When it comes to receiving estimates from different companies it is important to try and compare products and warranties that are similar. Once you have received the quotes you can make decisions based on what is most important to you, and who is able to fulfill most if not all of your needs.

Get Everything in Writing

Most general repairs for home services have set prices depending on the contractor you choose, but custom repairs and replacements often require a walk through and quote before starting. Ask for all documentation related to the product such as warranties/guarantees, scope of the project, timeline, termination policy, licensing, proof of Insurance, and any required permit information if needed for the project. Regardless of the project you are wanting to have completed, be sure to use a reputable company that will provide the service and products that you need and meet or exceed your expectations.

Learn More About Aegis Garage Doors LLC

Are Big Box Stores the Answer to Your Garage Door Needs?

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 18:14:00 GMT

Through our advancements in technology and convenience, homeowners are feeling motivated and able to tackle more home repairs and renovations. With the addition of big box stores and their ever increasing categories of project supplies they carry, many jobs like garage door and garage door openers now seem more possible to do yourself than ever. Taking into consideration how much return on investment you can receive with updating or upgrading your current garage door it is no wonder why many homeowners have their eyes on this particular project. However unlike many other do it yourself projects garage door installation is a trickier and more dangerous project for the average homeowner to tackle and it can quickly become overwhelming when doing it yourself or having a contractor who does not specialize in the industry. Using a reputable garage door company like Aegis Garage Doors offers several benefits and a peace of mind.

When shopping for a new garage door and/or opener a big box store can be appealing at first due to the convenience of being familiar with the store and other services they offer making the project seem less intimidating. Additionally many stores have options to set you up with one of the contractors on their contractor list. However you aren’t guaranteed to get a contractor who specializes in garage doors, as well as you aren’t given the same selection that a company like Aegis Garage Doors can offer to you. Unlike a big box store, companies like Aegis Garage Doors bring the showroom to you, and are able to tailor your experience to your exact needs. Typically offering not only better quality products but also many more options to choose from with more customization available. They are willing to help guide you through your choice, being at your own home also makes envisioning the new door easier than if you were standing in the aisle of a store. You’ll have a door design specialist and specialized garage door technician working with you and installing your door who actually works for the company you’re dealing with instead of potentially a revolving door of contractor after contractor. Big box stores also don’t have the customizations that a company like Aegis can offer not only with designs but also different packages that can be specially tailored to you and your families specific needs.

Taking into consideration just how much your garage door can play into your curb appeal with it covering up to 33% of the front of your home it can seem like a daunting task to tackle at first. There are several things to consider when picking your new garage door like color, design, window options, and insulation. When using a company like Aegis Garage Doors, a technician who specializes in design will come out and give you a customization consultation as well as take exact measurements. If you decide to use a big box store you are stuck in an aisle with a sales associate who more likely than not has a limited knowledge on the intricacies of selecting the best door design and model for you. Big box stores also typically only have a few preset packages to choose from with little customization options. Unlike Aegis Garage Doors who will happily take the care and time to walk you through every aspect of the door selection perfectly tailoring your dream door to your needs and wants making sure you’re able to check all the boxes on your list. Garage door professionals like Aegis Garage Doors use far better quality products and take the time to inspect each door before it leaves the warehouse in order to assure you are getting exactly what you wanted and ordered. Many reputable garage door professionals also offer warranties on their workmanship and the manufacturer's warranty. Big box stores can be a helpful stepping stone when beginning the journey to your dream garage door but for the best experience possible using a garage door professional is strongly recommended.

Generally garage door openers have a 7-10 year lifespan, which can vary depending on how much it's used and if it was properly installed. Over the life of a garage door most openers will be replaced at least once, possibly twice before the garage door itself will reach its expected life cycle. In most cases there are warning signs for an opener as it reaches its max life cycle such as buzzing, visor remote range decrease, and increased failed openings or closes. When your opener reaches its life cycle many homeowners have turned to box stores for a quick outlet to get a new garage door opener. Common brands sold at big box stores generally include Genie® and Chamberlain® that come standard with a 7ft operator rail (extension kits are needed for 8ft doors) that generally limit you to one or two different opener options. One major reason to hesitate before purchasing a garage door opener through a box store is not only the limited options but also lack of knowledge on which openers are best for you and your door. Buying an opener from a big box store seems more convenient than it actually is because after you’ve bought it you still have to install it or find someone else to install it. Sub-contractors can be obtained through the box stores, but in most cases they only install the products and are hard or impossible to reach for follow-up service or call backs when needed. Professionals like those with Aegis Garage Doors have unmatched knowledge on garage doors and their components, and carry options that exceed those of box stores when it comes to models and accessories. One of the most common professional grade opener brands sold is LiftMaster® with base options for any home as well as premium and elite level openers that can include additional features such as battery back-up, automatic locks, LED lights and more. Most professional grade garage door openers also come with solid I-beam rails that support the door as it travels much better than the pieced together rails from box store openers. In the rare event of a call back after an installation companies like Aegis Garage Doors are available to come back out and address any issues or provide you with any other garage door services oftentimes dealing with the same team of professionals who know you and your garage door. Unlike a big box store Aegis Garage Doors is here to provide high quality products and information to our customers allowing for educated decisions on what is right for the customer and purchase directly from manufacturers eliminating the middleman and giving you their full attention and care.

Garage door professionals offer high quality products that generally include install as well as possible workmanship and product warranties for their customers. Specialized companies also often have more options to choose from with additional accessories and in-depth knowledge of how those products work, and are committed to making sure you are satisfied with your experience. While you can go to a big box store and buy a garage door or opener, you will be lacking the same expertise that you would receive with a professional garage door company like Aegis Garage Doors. Experienced DIY homeowners may be happy and able to install a door or opener from a box store, but doors especially can be dangerous. Always consult a professional when possible; it can save you time and a headache or injury.

Learn More Garage Door Installation

Learn More Garage Door Opener Installation

The Most Common Garage Door Springs

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 17:33:00 GMT

As a seasoned homeowner you’ve probably experienced going outside to open the garage door as every other day to only hit the button and your garage door doesn't open or maybe you're a new homeowner who has been fortunate enough to not experience a broken garage door spring trapping your car inside. Springs along with their assembly are a vital part in the operation of any garage door. There are two main types of garage door spring types, torsion and extension, with their own assembly options. Within the torsion assembly there is also a common style we will refer to as “tube springs” which will be explained with other variations. Regardless of the type of assembly or springs your garage door has, the springs are the “muscle” that lifts and closes your garage door smoothly. When springs are calculated for a specific garage door many things are considered such as; height, width, weight, type of assembly, and at times pitch or head room. Having proper materials and the correct setting of the assembly and springs is crucial to the balance and overall operation and life of the garage door. Having an expert install or replace your springs is the best way to ensure those critical components are operating as they should. Before talking details a quick note that springs life cycles are calculated in cycles which is a complete opening and closing of the garage door.

Extension Springs

At one time the most common assembly systems for residential garage doors were extension springs which always require a pair of springs and are located along the horizontal track of the garage door. The assembly system includes cables that run from the bottom bracket of the door and connect to the springs after passing through a secured roller near the top of the curve in the track. Extension springs retract to lift or open the garage door and extend to close it with ease. Extension springs are engineered to last approximately 10,000 cycles (5-7 years on average) with proper maintenance. While not having the longest life cycle extension springs also have become less common due to safety. When extension springs break either due to exceeding their expected lifecycle or other reasons they can become a debris hazard damaging nearby walls and belongings. Due to the safety issues extension springs create it is highly recommended to replace extension spring assemblies with torsion springs when possible.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are the most common spring assembly for residential garage doors today and have many different variations for special or custom doors. Starting with the basics, generally garage doors that are large or heavy require two springs (or more) while smaller doors or extremely light weight doors may only need one. The torsion spring assembly includes; cables that are secure within the drums under tension and before the drum is fastened to the shaft, the torsion springs are mounted by their base to a center bearing plate located above the garage door then wound to the correct amount of turns before being fastened to the shaft. When in operation torsion springs unwind lifting the door and they wind up as the door closes with ease. Torsion springs are expected to have 10,000 - 15,000 cycles (7-10 years on average) with standard sizes, but can also be upgraded to last more than 30,000 cycles including proper maintenance. Another upside to torsion springs is since they are secured to the barring plate and essentially wrapped around the shaft when they break most aspects are contained with some small debris, making them safer than extension springs in that aspect. Torsion springs have many different assembly styles to fit most situations from high lift garage doors to low head room doors. When setting up a torsion assembly for a garage door many things have to be considered such as the size of the door, weight, head room, proper support and backing to select the right spring wire and size along with the proper drums for the lifting of the garage door to operate and be balanced correctly.

Tube Springs

The last common spring assembly is generally referred to as “tube springs”. Sharing the same basic assembly as torsion springs with the exception that the springs are encased in a metal tube before being wound. When tube springs break, they are the safest for people and property due to the springs being confined within the tube, but sometimes that can also cause problems. At times even with one spring broken in a set of tube springs the opener will still be able to lift the door, while that sounds appealing it causes increased force needed to open the door as well as close it safely putting extreme wear on other components such as your garage door opener. While it is always recommended to have your door inspected and lubricated at least once annually, for tube springs it is paramount to ensure when tension is lost to replace them before causing avoidable wear on the overall door and opener.

Closing

There are many different variations of torsion and extension spring assemblies all engineered to maximize any garage door and its use. Overall torsion assemblies are the most common types on most homes today due to the flexibility to be used in many different ways along with being safer than extension spring assemblies. When a spring(s) breaks be sure to stop use of the door immediately and call a professional to make sure repairs are done correctly and safely.

If you want to check your spring tension follow these steps:

Doors that rise without any interaction of the springs may be overwound or incorrect for the door. If your springs cannot hold the door steady for more than half of the cycle they are past their use and should be replaced as soon as possible.

What is a Smart Garage Door Opener?

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 16:22:00 GMT

Year after year technology continues to move forward seemingly everything has become “Smart” including garage door openers. Simply put a smart garage door opener is any opener that has built in capabilities that communicate with an app generally on a smartphone. The truth is that a majority of garage door openers now come with smart capabilities such as WiFi connectivity used through an app on your phone. New generation openers have even more built in features such as LED lights, cameras, and improved safety systems. Many of the smartphone apps have also become more user friendly and have more options and feedback for homeowners.

Improved Apps and Features

The origin of smart garage door openers is their ability to connect with smartphones via an application, which is still a cornerstone to this day. Many manufacturers have updated and improved not only the user friendliness but also added more options to improve the homeowner experience. Along with improved home internet capabilities, setup is generally quick and easy as well as some installers such as Aegis Garage Doors LLC will offer to assist with connecting the app with your new smart opener. New features include diagnostic tabs that track the cycles and other operational information, alerts when your opener improperly operates, multiple connections for families, restricted use options, end of day scheduled settings, and more. There are settings and options to fit most homeowners' needs using today's smart openers.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Previously even some smart garage door openers had signal issues when paired with LED lights but that is now a thing of the past! Get all the benefits of LED lights without losing range for visor remotes and keyless entries. New smart garage door models come with built-in LED lights that produce up to 2,000 lumens lighting up every corner of your garage, and you can even pair them with a motion sensor wall station for quick lighting whenever you enter your garage. Security is at the front of most homeowners' minds with many decisions around their home. Cameras have become a popular way for homeowners to watch and secure their home and now you can have a camera with your garage door opener too. New smart garage door openers can come with a built in camera as well as models with 2 way radio communication.

Safety Systems

Smart garage door openers have also had updates to their safety systems to keep homeowners and their families safe. New safety reverse sensors are more accurate, compact, and have brighter indicator lights. These updates not only improve safety, but also function with the more compact form making them less likely to be bumped as well as the bright indicators more prominent for homeowners and professionals to quickly see them. Improved built in pressure sensors to prevent entrapment or damage from an opener closing a door onto someone or something. Lastly, some new models include a soft start/stop feature to help protect your door from slamming down or rising too high.

So What is a Smart Garage Door Opener?

The definition of a smart garage door opener is that it has the built in ability to communicate with a smartphone via some sort of app. In all truth today in 2023 the majority of all garage door openers you buy are more likely than not a smart garage door opener. Your options have not only improved but there are even more of them than ever before in today's garage door industry. Starting with wall to wall LED light coverage paired with motion sensor wall stations for light at a moments notice. Also with built in camera options that can include 2 way radio communication. All topped off with improved safety for every home and family. Contact us today to learn more or review your options for a new smart garage door opener.

Garage Door Spring Cleaning

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:07:00 GMT

It's that beautiful time in Colorado when winter is wrapping up and spring is moving in. Leaves begin to return as grass is getting green again and the snow is beginning to melt making it the perfect time for some spring cleaning. Garage doors can cover up to a third of the front of your home and can be the highlight of any home with a good spring cleaning. Cleaning your garage door or doors can be a simple task for a warm day just like washing your car with steps that are very similar to steel garage doors. A freshly cleaned garage door can not only make your home look amazing, but also helps protect the paint or finish on your garage door from excessive dirt, salt, and rust. Most garage door manufacturers recommend at least one cleaning of your garage door a year for any kind of door material (wood, steel, or aluminum). If you have a garage door you can clean it in 3 simple steps with common supplies you probably already have at home.

Supplies for cleaning your garage door

Getting started you have to gather the supplies needed to properly clean your garage door which includes: 5 gallon bucket, soap, brush or sponge, hose for rinsing, and wax (optional). Do not pressure wash your garage door as it can damage the paint on all types of garage doors as well as cause physical damage to your garage door. There are a few soap options suggested by manufacturers: one cup of simple green or dish/laundry detergent are common recommendations diluted with at least 2 gallons of water. When choosing a sponge or brush the material your door is made of plays a role as well as what you are cleaning. Overall it is recommended to clean any garage door gently unless needed, that being said a sponge is always a safe option. In situations that call for more attention bristle brushes can be a good option and heavier soaps. Lastly, have a hose or water source that is not a pressure washer to rinse your door. Garage doors with windows also can use standard window cleaners to clean.

How to clean your garage door

Now that you have what you need to clean your garage door it’s time to get started. If needed, open your garage door and sweep all sand, salt, dirt or debris from around where the door sits when closed. Once you have closed your garage door, rinse gently with a hose getting light dirt and debris off the door. Also be sure to properly dilute your mild detergent with at least 2 gallons of water. Get those sponges wet and gently wash your garage door similar to how you would wash a car, too much pressure can damage your garage door or the paint. Be sure to clean the edges and weather seals including bottom seal. When washing a wood garage door it is recommended to clean lightly with a sponge and water only. After washing your door, rinse again with the hose unless further touch up is needed. Clean windows if you have them and you can gently dry the door if you would like or if you plan to wax your door now would be the time. Wood garage doors do not get waxed over the life of a wood garage door; it may need to be sanded, painted, stained or refinished instead. Waxing a steel garage door is simple to do simply use the same wax you would use for your car and follow the same instructions. Benefits of waxing your door include giving an extra layer of rust and salt protection, increases the life of the paint, and keeps your garage door looking cleaner longer.

Benefits of cleaning your garage door

Cleaning your garage door is beneficial in more ways than just looking good. Removing excess dirt and debris helps keep not only the exterior clean but decrease build up on rollers and hinges. Helps keep the paint and color of your garage door looking brand new for longer and prevent uneven weathering due to dirt build up. Longer life for seals that are annually cleaned giving your garage door a better seal year round. Cleaning your garage door can be a good time to inspect for damage and rust noting problem areas for your next tune-up.

Other tips for cleaning

When you have the garage door open it is a good time to clear leaves, dirt, and other debris from your garage door seal before sweeping the area. Another tip for a full clean is clearing excess dirt and lube from the tracks while the door is open. Homes that have decorative hardware on their garage door generally don’t require specific cleaning, but if the paint is fading or damaged you can follow a few steps to refresh them. Simply remove fasteners and hardware touch up or paint as needed and re fasten to the door. Now that you are prepared to clean your garage door you’re ready to tackle that spring cleaning list.

Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 21:47:00 GMT

Garage doors create a barrier between the outside environment and your home, insulation can greatly benefit both your garage and home as a whole. Insulated garage doors have a handful of benefits from smooth operation to temperature control and more. Here in Colorado we get not only the hot dry summers but also the windy freezing winters, and insulated garage doors can help improve your home's energy efficiency all year long. Insulation also adds structure and strength to garage doors making them more durable than non-insulated options. An additional benefit is not only smooth quieter operation compared to non- insulated, but also keeps outside noise down (for example living on a busy street the insulation will decrease noise from passing cars). Lastly insulated garage doors come with a variety of insulation options which can be chosen from to get the best garage door for a homeowner's needs.

Insulation and temperature control

Garage doors are commonly insulated with polyurethane and given a rating in terms of an R-value. Standard insulation R-values start between 3 and 7.4 with higher options on most models. Simply put the higher the R-value the more insulation the garage door has. Insulated garage doors' most common benefit is temperature control. Homes with attached garages especially those with finished walls within the garage are the perfect candidate for an insulated garage door. This is ideal to effectively control temperature during all types of weather not only for the garage but also any rooms above or hallways attached to the garage. Overall insulated garage doors can improve your homes’ energy efficiency keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. According to majority of garage door manufactures homeowners can safe up to 20% on their annual energy bills by insulating and sealing their garage door properly. Many times the price of insulated garage doors is higher than a non-insulated door, but the value of insulation and its role in making a home more energy efficient will considerably pay itself off.

Increased durability with insulation

Increased durability is another key benefit to insulated garage doors. Insulation can come in two separate styles: vinyl back and steel back. Vinyl back garage doors have added structure with the insulation alone filling the space where uninsulated steel doors bend and bow. Steel back garage doors also referred to as “sandwich doors” have additional structure when compared to vinyl given that the insulation is fully wrapped by steel creating a more rigid product that is less likely to dent or warp easily. Insulated garage doors with additional struts are also great options for areas with high winds to brace the door from high pressure. If you live in an area with high winds or use your garage for common activities (workshop, gym space, kid play area) Insulated garage doors are a great option to consider.

Better Noise Control

One of the least talked about facts of an insulated garage door is that they are quieter than non-insulated doors. Everyday operation of a garage door causes vibration and friction that non-insulated doors manifest in noisy operation. Insulation seals the gaps absorbing the vibrations and decreasing noise, and at the same time providing structure preventing them from bowing. Insulation also helps absorb exterior noise such as a busy street with lots of cars or kids playing loudly outside. All in all, insulated garage doors not only operate smoother and generally quieter but also help decrease exterior noise.

In closing insulated garage doors have many benefits over generic non-insulated garage doors. Making your home more energy efficient is the first and most cost-effective benefit where homeowners can see and feel a return on their investment. In addition to climate control the insulation adds structure making insulated garage doors stronger and more durable so you can use the garage how you like and not have to worry about the garage door becoming damaged so easily. In our expert opinion Insulated garage doors are the most cost effective way to get the most out of your garage. It allows you to spend less time worrying about elevated cost in the summer and winter months, noisy busy streets, and incidental damage to your garage door and more time focusing on what really matters, enjoying your home.

Maximizing your Garage Door Life Cycle

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 16:13:00 GMT

Getting to know your garage door

Whether it is your first time owning a house with a garage or you are looking to get a new garage door installed it is important to have an idea of what to expect. Garage doors can be an amazing convenience operating at just the push of a button when all aspects are functioning properly, but what things wear out first and how does a homeowner know when to get repairs before the once convenient task becomes a hassle. You might be wondering how you can keep your garage door operating without waiting for things to go wrong? The first step is to have consistent preventative maintenance checking all aspects as well as keeping the moving parts lubricated. General repairs are sometimes missed as one broken roller or hinge may not be noticed in day to day use, but without proper inspection and repair the small things can break down more important components faster than normal. Garage door springs are a crucial role in your doors everyday operation and when broken can be a major inconvenience. Many garage doors have a garage door opener which is best defined as a guiding hand for the garage door to operate smoothly and safely including safety features that are important in keeping you and your family safe and secure.

Tune-ups and Inspections

The first step in maximizing your garage doors life cycle is to get to know your garage door. The best way to find out where your garage door is currently at in its life cycle is by having your garage door properly serviced by a trained technician. While most aspects of annual service or tune-ups can be completed by any homeowner, a trained technician has the knowledge and training to spot things most homeowners may miss that can be vital to keeping a garage door on track. Almost all manufacturers recommend tune-ups or servicing every 6 months to ensure all hardwear stays tight as well as keeping all moving parts properly lubricated, however it is strongly recommended that at least once a year a trained technician performs a proper tune-up and inspection going over the door thoroughly checking all aspects of the door. During this process a technician should review all of their findings with the homeowner providing them with any needed or upcoming repairs as well as proper information on what things may be expected in the coming year leading up to the next tune-up and inspection. Be sure to get any written information for your records to reference if needed and use these tune-ups to have a plan for your garage keeping it operating smoothly.

Hinges and Rollers

Garage doors life cycle is highly dependent on how often a garage door is operated, fully opening and closing is one cycle. On average a garage door sees 3-5 cycles a day in a family home. In the first 5 years of a garage door and openers life cycle tune-ups are a major part of extending or meeting the life of rollers and hinges that continuously move as a door operates generally being the first things needing repaired or replaced. Without proper tune-ups rollers and hinges can bind and break without showing major signs to homeowners causing increased friction and drag while a door operates. Avoiding binding hinges and broken rollers with lubrication and timely replacement can help increase the life of more critical parts such as springs and openers. High use garage doors and heavier doors, such as wooden doors, can wear down rollers and hinges quickly without proper lubrication needing to be replaced as often as every two years in some cases. Another thing that commonly breaks down rollers and hinges is increased debris which based on one location or how you use your garage can be unavoidable, which means proper service can help as well as a plan on replacing the parts before they break. Overall lubrication is key to protecting your garage doors rollers and hinges, as well as having scheduled replacement before actual failure will aid in extending the life of other aspects of your garage door.

Garage Door Springs

Even with proper service, tune-ups, and keeping rollers and hinges in good condition you cannot avoid that springs will eventually reach the end of their life cycle. That being said springs are given an estimated life cycle based on cycles (fully open then close the garage door) generally between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles. Keeping your springs properly lubricated as well as rollers, hinges, and keeping tracks clear of debris all play a role in the life of garage door springs. During annual tune-ups a technician will test the balance and tension of your garage door springs as well as clearing debris from tracks helps with meeting or exceeding the life expectancy. In most cases it is extremely hard to estimate how long a spring has till it will break but technicians do their best to assess that a spring will most likely make it to the next annual tune-up and inspection. It is a major inconvenience when springs do break as garage door openers are not intended to lift the full weight of a garage door and can leave your car trapped in the garage till the spring(s) are replaced, with that in mind when a garage door technician gives an indication a spring is nearing the end of its life it is always a good idea to prepare for a spring replacement and if possible do so before they break. There are a few positives to replacing springs before they break such as not becoming trapped in an untimely circumstance; protecting other aspects of your garage door such as hinges, rollers, and your garage door opener.

Garage Door Openers (GDO’s)

The last component you’ll want to familiarize yourself with is the garage door opener. Although replacement is at times necessary, other than the sections of a garage door your opener will generally outlast all other aspects up to and sometimes past 15 years! Keeping on top of the aspects we have covered can ensure you get the most out of your garage door opener which is the guiding hand that safely opens and closes your garage door. Ultimately the garage door opener also has all of the safety features involved with a garage door including safety sensors to keep the door from closing on obvious obstructions, as well as a safety reverse mechanism to keep from crushing or entrapping animals or children that the sensors miss, and lastly pressure control keeping the opener from operating the door with broken springs or obstructions in the track. During annual tune-ups and inspections a trained technician should be checking all of these safety features to ensure they are working properly and safely. When features fail there can be repairs but at times replacement is the best option for ongoing safety moving forward.

Overview of Maximizing Garage Door Lifecycle

Overall every garage door is different but the steps to keeping your garage door on track to a long life cycle is done with just a few easy steps. Stay on top of annual tune-ups ensuring hardwear is tight and proper lubrication is done when needed. Replace rollers and hinges as they wear down to reduce friction and strain on springs and openers. Be sure that technicians review your annual tune-up to help create future plans to replace worn out parts such as springs before they become a major inconvenience to you and your family. Finally always inspect garage door openers safety features and replace sensors or the complete opener when needed. Ideally you will want to find a trustworthy company that will complete annual tune-ups and repairs with your safety in mind as well as help provide proactive plans to reduce the chances of untimely repairs.