Pro’s and Con’s of a Roll-Up Garage Door

Nowadays, there are many options to pick from when you need a new garage door. One of them is a roll-up garage door. It’s made of small, thin slats that fold one by one into a roll at the top of the opening. Often used in commercial settings, it can be modified for use in a home and serves the same purpose as a traditional garage door.

We’ll now explain the pro’s and con’s to help decide if a roll-up garage door is right for you:

Roll-Up Garage Door Pro’s

  • Ideal for Homes with Limited Space: Roll-up doors essentially fold out of the way when they open. Little clearance is needed and the door doesn’t take up ceiling space. Cars can be parked inside closer to the wall and there’s more room for storage.
  • Feature a Durable Design: Resistant to wear and tear, roll-up doors tolerate heavy rainfall, hail, wind, and ice. Most are wind load certified and can be installed in hurricane-prone areas, while fewer parts mean less maintenance.
  • Improved Home Security: Roll-up garage doors are strong and don’t have exterior handles. Therefore, intruders have more difficulty trying to open them. The motor also functions as a durable lock, which helps improve security.
  • A Wide Range of Options: Manual and automatic versions are available, while you can choose from a range of colors, finishes, and materials including steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. Manufacturers also offer models with built-in foam insulation.
  • Increased Efficiency: By installing an insulated garage door, you can limit heat loss, outside noise, and air leakage. This can reduce heating and cooling costs as well as reduce the load on your HVAC system.

Roll-Up Garage Door Con’s

  • They Often Appear Industrial: Many homeowners don’t prefer the aesthetics, and the options for design changes are limited. Any painting or finishing must be completed before the garage door is installed.
  • Installation Isn’t Easy: It can take a team of experienced professionals to install a roll-up garage door. Roll-up doors come in various sizes, which dictate the installation process. This is not a DIY project.
  • Initial Costs Can Be High: Roll-ups can be complex and expensive to install compared to other types of garage doors. Costs vary depending on the construction material.
  • Fewer Customization Options: There isn’t much variability from one roll-up door to another. Each has horizontal lines created by the slats. Roll-ups don’t provide much space for windows and don’t come in patterns.
  • A Heavier Construction: Another downside to roll-up garage doors is their weight. They’re heavier compared to other garage doors, especially when insulated, creating challenges during installation and repair.

Discover Your Options with Mesa Garage Doors

We offer numerous residential garage door types, styles, and options in Southern California. Repair services are available as well. To learn about our products, services, and 714-989-7421.

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7 Signs to Replace Your Garage Door Weather Stripping

7 Signs to Replace Your Garage Door Weather Stripping

While it usually won’t affect how your garage door operates, the weatherstrip is important. People tend to overlook it and miss signs it should be replaced. A bad weather strip can affect the comfort, cleanliness, and efficiency of your garage. Here are seven signs it’s time to replace your garage door weather stripping, so you know when to take action.

1. The Weatherstrip Looks Worn Out

A worn weatherstrip may be dried out or more rigid than you’d expect of a rubber seal.Discoloration is a sign of wear as well. If sections of the strip start to droop, that’s also a sign it should be replaced as soon as possible.

2. The Seal Is Cracked or Otherwise Damaged

Install new weather stripping if the old one is brittle, cracked, flaking, or broken, which is often caused by exposure to UV light from the sun. A significant problem is a missing section of a seal. If you see any of these signs of damage, the strip is not providing the seal needed to insulate and protect your garage.

3. Water Is Leaking Into Your Garage

A solid weather strip will block water from seeping under the garage door. If there are streams of water or puddles inside after it rains or you use a garden hose, and the door is closed, the weather seal is likely compromised. Water leaks risk mold, pests, and water damage. If it freezes, the door can stick when you try to open it, potentially damaging the garage door and the opener.

4. You Feel a Draft When the Garage Door Is Closed

Many garages are draftier because they’re less insulated. If you notice an increase in the draft and it’s cooler than usual, the garage door weather stripping is probably wearing out. Air intrusion and leakage can reduce efficiency and lead to increased heating or cooling costs.

5. Light Can Be Seen Through the Edges of the Door

Periodically inspect the edges of the garage door to see if any light is coming through. A tight seal will block any sunlight. If you see pinholes or strips of light when the door is closed, there are breaks in the weather stripping.

6. Mice, Rats, and Other Animals Are Getting Inside

Rodents and other small animals are adept at finding and squeezing through small spaces. They can get into your garage unseen. Once they do, these creatures will find shelter, feed, and reproduce, potentially leading to an infestation. Only by replacing your weather stripping can you prevent such a misfortune.

7. The Garage Door Is Blocked On One or Both Sides

Perimeter weather stripping can wear out from the door opening and closing. If the seal becomes loose or damaged, the sides of the garage door may not align properly. This can affect performance and eventually damage the door.

Tips on Maintaining Garage Door Weather Stripping

To help weather stripping last longer:

  • Check and clean it at least twice a year.
  • Inspect the door regularly for damage and get it fixed quickly.
  • Protect the weather seal with a silicone-based spray.
  • Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants and oils.
  • Use an all-purpose cleaner for vinyl parts.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

If your garage door weather stripping is damaged or there are any other issues with your garage door system, our experienced professionals can help. We provide award-winning service throughout Southern California. Our technicians are factory trained to repair or replace any type of garage door. Schedule your free repair estimate online or call 714-975-5951 today.

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