Benefits of Installing a New Garage Door
For most San Antonio residents, there is no better way to improve curb appeal, add property value, and reduce downtime than to purchase a new garage door. This project can also help increase the safety and security of your home. The annual Cost vs. Value Report indicates that garage door replacement is an easy upgrade that yields big returns as well. This year’s report reveals that an upscale garage door replacement, costing approximately $3,500 delivered an estimated $3,502 when the house sold. That’s a 98.6% return on investment (ROI)!
Choosing a Garage Door, Opener, and Springs
Modern Materials
Many stylish options are available when you’re looking to replace a battered or weathered garage door. While materials like steel and wood remain popular, glass and aluminum are becoming more and more appealing to homeowners. Be sure the material you choose will withstand your local weather. Another important consideration is maintenance. Some materials require additional upkeep than others. For example, wood may need to be sealed or refinished every couple of years.
Thermal Efficiency
Homeowners are increasingly choosing insulated garage doors. Apart from mitigating heat loss, insulation can contribute to overall home comfort, and increased door strength and durability. Polystyrene and polyurethane are both appropriate materials. R-values and U-factors greatly influence the performance of insulation. Look for high R-values and low U-factors. Equally, weatherstripping provides an effective barrier against moisture, insects/critters, and debris.
Innovative Technology
Is there anything technology can’t do? Smart automatic openers allow you to easily monitor and control your garage door. You can also automate your entire home using an IFTTT applet (a fee may be required). For example, you can set your lights to turn as the door is opening or set the door to open/close automatically when you’re within certain perimeters. To take advantage of these features, after the opener is installed, simply download and program the LiftMaster MyQ® app.
High-Cycle Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are one of, if not the most, important parts of the garage door. By creating, storing and releasing an excessive amount of mechanical energy, their job is to counterbalance the weight of the door each time it opens and closes. Standard torsion springs are rated for 10,000-cycles, whereas, high-cycle springs are rated for 25,000-cycles. Converting cycles to years is dependent on daily usage. For busy households, with two or more drivers, high-cycle torsion springs are the only way to go.
DIY or Professional Installation?
Installing a garage door is not for the faint of heart. Not only can its weight, a minimum of 150 pounds, make maneuvering it difficult but there are lots of moving parts that must either be installed or adjusted to ensure it functions properly. DIYers are strongly cautioned against installing a new garage door. Hiring a licensed and professional service company is best. Professionals are also a good source of information both during and after installation.
Helotes Overhead Doors serves the entire San Antonio and Bexar County metro area, providing a broad range of services, from installation and garage door repair to replacement of broken torsion springs. We haven’t met a garage door or automatic opener that we won’t service. Get installation and repair projects done right with the help of Helotes Overhead Garage Doors by contacting us today at (210) 695-8983.
