How to Open a Locked Garage Door from the Outside Without a Key

Forgetting, losing, or misplacing your keys is never a pleasant situation. Neither is being locked out of your garage. But you can still get inside. After all, burglars have many ways to do it; some of these methods exploit the vulnerabilities of your garage door. But it just goes to show not all is lost. Here’s how to open a locked garage door from the outside without a key:

Pull the Emergency Latch

Unless you have built-in precautions against this, you can straighten out a wire hanger and insert it through the top of the garage door. Feel around until you reach the emergency latch. If you can hook the cord, slowly pull on it. Once the safety release is disengaged, you can roll the door up manually.

Create a Makeshift Key

Older garage door locks sometimes don’t use the familiar keys that have a lot of grooves. The mechanism is much simpler than in today’s locking systems. If you’re this lucky, just look for a piece of metal similarly sized to the key and jiggle it into the lock until it engages. Your garage door will be unlocked so you can use it as normal (and hopefully find your old key).

Use Your Credit Card

No, not to pay a locksmith or buy another lock. This works on an older traditional garage door with a spring-loaded locking bolt. The card presses back the bolt so the door will open. Another variation of this trick is to slide a flathead screwdriver into the gap on top of the door to push on the bolt. You should then be able to slide the door open.

Pick the Lock

If your garage door features an exterior handle, you can use a diamond pick and an L-key to open it. To do this, place the L-key at the bottom of the lock hold, and then insert the diamond pick at the top. Move it to lift the tumblers. The lock should rotate so you can open it. Similar tools can be used if you don’t have an L-key and diamond pick.

Destroy the Lock

This may lead to needing costly repairs, so should be a last resort. Depending on the lock, you can drill into the hole the key would normally go in. Drill in quick bursts. The locking pins will be destroyed. Wriggle the lock until it comes free; you can even spray some WD-40 to speed up the process. Don’t drill with too much force or the door may not open.

Contact a Professional

If you’ve secured the emergency release with a zip tie, have a deadbolt, or installed motion sensors and alarms, opening a locked garage door from the outside without a key may be fruitless. You may not be able to solve the problem yourself. But a locksmith has the tools to get your garage door open without causing much damage. It’s best not to put yourself at risk of injury or an expensive repair job later.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

Our team is available 24/7. We can provide any type of garage door repair and know how to open a locked garage door from the outside without a key. Throughout much of Southern California, we install all types of garage doors and garage door openers. Get answers to frequently asked questions, request a repair or new door estimate, or call 714-361-0451 for prompt service.

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When Do I Need a Garage Door Replacement?

It is sometimes obvious when you need a garage door replacement. However, there can be subtler signs that indicate, that even though your garage door is still operating, you would be better off with a new one. We’ll now look at a few reasons to start looking for a garage door company near you to shop around for a replacement.

Your Garage Door Has Had Many Years of Service

A garage door can be 15 years old and still be working, so you may ponder replacement for a bit. But if the garage door isn’t operating like it once was, repairs can cost more than installing a new system. Older parts are becoming scarcer and garage door openers now have different designs and technologies. Plus, newer systems are more energy efficient and run more quietly. By installing a new door, you can enjoy these benefits, improve curb appeal, and see a good return on investment.

Your Home Isn’t As Energy Efficient As It Could Be

Older garage doors can lose insulation, or may not have adequate insulation in the first place. If you have an attached garage, you may be losing heat or cooled air may be escaping. Some newer steel garage doors have a double-, triple-, or quadruple-layer construction. A new door with high-quality materials and insulation can contribute to improved comfort and lower energy bills so you see savings over the long run.

The System Is Noisy or Vibrating More Than Usual

Rattling, grinding, banging, or any sound that seems like the garage door is straining can mean major hardware is wearing out. Loose parts, damaged rollers and tracks, and faulty garage door openers can make noise and cause the door to vibrate when in motion. The longer you let these things go, the more likely there is to be enough damage to warrant replacing the door.

Door Panels Are Sagging

Sagging can hint that the structure of the door is damaged. Panels of sectional garage doors can be replaced individually, but when an older door’s panels are sagging, the unit may get stuck or become lopsided when operating it. A damaged, unbalanced door isn’t of much use and can be a danger to your family, so consider garage door replacement sooner rather than later.

The System Doesn’t Respond Properly

It shouldn’t take more than two seconds for the garage door to respond when you press the remote or opener button. If so, it may need to be replaced. Delays can mean mechanical or electrical components are worn or damaged to the point their basic functions are no longer reliable.

You Need Frequent Repairs

Garage door repairs are expensive enough. Think about when you need to keep calling a technician back to fix a door just recently repaired. After a garage door is fixed several times and needs work shortly thereafter, potentially hazardous breaks may be around the corner. If parts are broken or rusted, the door should be replaced.

Contact a Reputable Garage Door Company Near You

If you need garage door replacement, you can trust Mesa Garage Doors for high-quality service, parts, and results in Anaheim, CA. We provide all types of garage door repair but every door eventually reaches the end of its life. Depending on your home and/or preferences, our skilled installers can provide a traditional, carriage house, aluminum, wood, or contemporary garage door. Get a new door estimate by scheduling your appointment online or by calling 714-364-4987.

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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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Reasons Your Garage Door Needs to Be Properly Sealed

Reasons Your Garage Door Needs to Be Properly Sealed

The weather seal is an important part of your garage door. It is a simple strip of vinyl. Seals fit on the bottom, top, and sides of the garage door and eliminate any gaps. While strong and sturdy, the vinyl strips wear out over time and it’s a good idea to replace them when they’re not sticking, are cracked, or sagging. These are some reasons why your garage door needs proper sealing.

To Keep Cold Air Out

Without a seal, cold air will blow in through cracks around the garage door. This makes it unpleasantly cold in the garage and can cause your furnace to burn more energy to try to warm things up. The same goes for your air conditioner in the summer, as cold air will escape through any gaps, making it extremely hot inside. Garage door sealing helps control temperatures in the garage and your home and can help lower your energy bills.

To Prevent Things from Getting Inside

A weathertight seal keeps out the rain and snow. It is also effective at blocking leaves and debris that can blow or track in at any time. Squirrels, rats, mice, and other creatures that can slip through tight spaces also cannot get through weatherproofing. Bugs, whether they crawl or fly, can’t as well.

To Protect Your Garage Door

Acting as a bumper, the seal cushions the blow if the edge of the door hits something on the way down, such as a car. It also protects the door as it comes to a stop on the concrete floor. If the garage door strikes the concrete every time it’s lowered, this increases wear and tear. It won’t last as long and will need to be replaced sooner. A seal, therefore, saves quite a bit of money over the long run.

To Protect Your Valuables

Temperature extremes, dirt, and water can damage furniture, tools, storage boxes, clothes, electronics, or any other belongings you have in the garage. If water can get in or moisture can build up, mold and bacteria can grow. A garage door seal provides a controlled environment where you don’t have to worry about these things.

To Make Your Garage Livable

The garage is often used as a living space, whether as a media center, home theater, workshop, playroom, studio, home gym, or man cave. A weather seal is a must if you’re going to make the space livable. It allows for comfortable temperatures, prevents water entry, and reduces noise from outside while preventing sounds from the garage from being heard in the neighborhood.

How Do I Know My Garage Door Seal Is Working?

If you don’t have moisture or temperature problems in your garage, chances are the seal is just fine. You can also check its integrity by seeing if light is visible at the bottom of the door. Either look for sunlight from inside your garage during the day or turn an interior light on at night, go outside, and see if any light is visible from underneath the door.

Another way to test the seal is to splash water against the bottom of the garage door (when it’s closed). Go to the other side and see if any water has seeped through. After heavy rain, check for water entry as well. Drafts can also help determine if the seal needs to be repaired/replaced. With the door closed, hold a piece of paper against its perimeter; if the paper moves, a draft is getting through the seal.

Inspect the seal visually as well. If it’s discolored, the coloring is inconsistent, or the seal cracks when you push on it, feels stiff or is higher or lower in places, it should be replaced. Fortunately, removing an old seal and installing a new one is simple, but you should call a professional because installation mistakes can throw the door out of alignment.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We provide installation and repair of garage doors in Los Angeles and Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. Customers have trusted us for superior quality service since 1989. Whether you need a new garage door seal or a garage door replaced, you can count on us. Request your free estimate online or call 714-989-7421 to schedule a visit.

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Should I Build a Detached Garage?

If you’re remodeling your home, adding to it, or constructing a new residence, “Should I build a detached garage?” may be among the most pressing questions. Depending on your needs, a detached garage can have many advantages over an attached one. But there can also be downsides. We’ll explore both and the potential cost of building a detached unit.

Benefits of a Detached Garage

Attaching a garage structure to the home became a widespread phenomenon by the late 1940s. By the 2000s, about 80% of all homes had attached garages.1 But more and more homeowners are rediscovering the beauty and convenience of having a detached garage and seeing benefits such as:

Design Flexibility

The façade of most homes, especially in suburban areas, is dominated by the garage. Building a detached garage can avoid overwhelming a small house. It can also be arranged any way you like. The garage can be set back, designed like its own little house, or placed at an angle. You can even hide it somewhere in the backyard.

As far as design options, there’s much to consider. You can choose different styles of doors and windows. There’s practically a limitless choice of colors and sizes. Insulation, ventilation, electricity, lighting, plumbing, and other amenities can be added if necessary.

Free Up Space

Not only does a detached garage give you more room for living and vehicle/tool storage. It also frees up room outside your home. A usable area can be created that can accommodate a deck or patio. Perhaps you might want to expand your landscaping, plant a garden, add a pool or pond, or install a gazebo or pergola to boost the charm of your outdoor space.

Safety and Security

If you store fuel, oil, paints, cleaners, insecticides, weed killers, and other flammable and/or chemical-based products in the garage, these can emit fumes that can reach living areas. Storing these items in a separate building eliminates such risks.

In addition, access points to your home are limited. Once an intruder finds their way into an attached garage, they can break into or simply step through an unlocked interior door. With a detached garage, even if the door is left unlocked, the security of your home isn’t compromised.

Less Noise

Sounds from a detached garage won’t disrupt people in the house, whether a car is leaving or entering, you’re operating power tools, or playing an instrument. Some people use a detached garage as a getaway. In that case, they’re cut off from noise from the house.

Privacy

Not everyone uses a garage to store cars and tools. If you choose to use it as a man cave or retreat for kids to play, there’s a high degree of privacy. You can use a detached garage to practice playing instruments. Or, you can use it for woodworking or other projects that require power tools. It’s also an ideal space for a home office away from home where you can get work done without being interrupted.

Disadvantages of a Detached Garage

Detached garages aren’t as convenient for everybody. Installing one can be a burden if:

  • Winter in your area is harsh and walking to the unit requires bundling up and being uncomfortable.
  • You forget a tool or other item you need and must walk back to the house to get it.
  • There’s limited yard space and you enjoy having an open area for kids and pets.
  • Building an entirely new structure is more work than you bargained for.
  • The cost of installing/using extra utilities will strain your budget.

How Much Does It Cost to Build?

When many homeowners ask, “Should I build a detached garage?” the first consideration is often cost. HomeAdvisor puts the typical price range in 2022 at anywhere from $19,200 to $45,000. However, a 3-car detached garage can cost up to $65,700 to build, but you could spend as little as $12,600 for a 1-car, 12- x 24-foot unit. On average, a detached garage costs from $40 to $70 per square foot. Materials account for half the total cost and labor accounts for the other half. Generally, you’ll spend up to 15% more to build a detached unit than an attached garage.

The cost factors during the project include building a concrete foundation, hiring an electrician, and installing siding and roofing. Insulation, painting, and installing a driveway add to the cost too. The longer a driveway, the more you’ll spend for it. Then the cost of garage door installation is a factor, so there’s more to think about than initial construction.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We offer numerous collections and styles of garage doors. These include our steel frame Bronze Series, insulated Gold Series, and three-layer, low-profile Platinum Series as well as our carriage house, modern aluminum, and wood doors. Request a new door estimate or book an appointment online. For immediate assistance, call us at < href="tel:7148445741">714-844-5741 today.

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How to Storm-Proof Your Garage Door

Strong storms can take a toll on garage doors. Homeowners must often purchase and install a new door to ensure it can withstand extreme weather. Hurricane-proof doors that meet the latest code requirements in storm-prone areas are an example. But it may be possible to retrofit an existing door depending on its age, condition, and wind load rating. Here are some options you might want to consider, so your garage door is ready to weather the next storm.

Install Temporary Bracing

You can purchase garage door braces that reinforce it from the inside. If a storm is predicted, place them before high winds arrive. This is a relatively inexpensive option. Bracing retrofit kits are also available and include the braces and hardware you need for your type of garage door.
Typically, the garage door track should be at least 14 gauge; its rating can be found via markings on the track or in the owner’s manual. It usually takes just some screws and a drill to secure the bracing. According to Bobvila.com, installing a bracing kit for double-door costs about a third of the price of installing a new door of a similar size. A kit for single-door costs even less.

Protect the Door with Hurricane Panels

Hurricane panels protect older garage doors from impacts. Heavy objects can be tossed about in high winds, which can easily break and penetrate a weaker door. The panels mount to the exterior of the garage door. Usually made of steel or aluminum, they are screwed or clipped onto the door from the outside, depending on the product you buy.

Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door

The condition of your garage door can determine whether it can handle the next storm. In addition to storm-proofing it with our helpful suggestions, don’t forget maintenance. Routine checks and minor fixes can keep it in peak condition, so you’ll want to:

  • Look for holes or tears in the seal and weatherstripping.
  • Use a silicone sealant to repair any damaged seals.
  • Replace any worn gaskets along the edge of the garage door opening.
  • Check for worn hinges, locks, and other hardware and replace them before the next storm.
  • Inspect the track and, if necessary, remove obstructions or align it properly.

Is It Time for a New Garage Door?

If you have an older door or one that’s not in the best condition, investing in a storm-ready door is a good idea. It can save time as you won’t need braces or panels. Just make sure the garage door you select has a wind load rating that complies with local city codes. Different regions have different requirements; a garage door installer should be able to identify the proper rating.

If your garage door is damaged in any way, looks battered, or struggles to open and close, it’s time to replace it. Hurricane-rated garage doors feature heavy-duty construction and a reinforced design that includes hurricane posts. Adding strength to the door, these posts are anchored to the header on top (using heavy-duty galvanized hardware), while the middle of the door is strapped to the post. This makes it harder for wind forces to pull it outward. Galvanized hardware also pins the bottom of the post to the floor.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We supply and install high-quality, durable garage doors in Southern California. Numerous styles are available to complement your home, in sizes to accommodate single-car and multi-car garages. Doors can also be customized with the color, stain, or finish you choose. For more information on our garage doors and garage door openers, and to learn more about how to protect yours as if it were a hurricane-proof door, call 714-989-7421. You can also receive your new door estimate online.

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11 Ways to Boost Garage Security

The garage door is often the most prominent feature of a home’s front façade. Depending on many factors, it may also be the most vulnerable. It’s a common entry point for burglars. And garages hold many valuables, from cars to power tools, to lawnmowers and other items we don’t often think thieves are looking for. You can avoid theft with these effective ways to boost garage door security and protect your garage.

  1. Close the Door : It’s not uncommon to see garage doors left open in residential neighborhoods. Even if you briefly leave the area unattended when, for example, taking out the garbage or doing yard work, a thief can quickly do their dirty work. Simply leaving the garage door closed can avoid trouble.
  2. Add a Garage Door Lock : A handle is like an open invitation to a burglary. Many handles don’t lock on their own, but you can install a locking handle for protection. Also put a slide lock on the inside of the door, which manually slides into place from the inside. A padlock attached to a door track is also effective.
  3. Lock the Entry to Your House : If you have an attached garage, lock the door between the garage and your house. An unlocked door allows easy entry when your garage has already been compromised. Installing a steel security door with a deadbolt provides even more protection.
  4. Cover/Frost the Windows : An effective precaution is to cover the windows to your garage. Blinds or curtains work well, or you can add a translucent film that will let in some sunlight. Frosted glass will too, while hiding whatever a would-be thief may be looking for.
  5. Secure Your Garage Door Opener Remote : Never leave the remote unattended in the car. Some people leave it in the glovebox; others let it dangle from the sun visor. Instead, keep the garage door opener remote in a pocket or your purse, link it to a keychain, and always store it in your house.
  6. Cover the Emergency Release Cord : Using a coat hanger, a garage door can be opened from the outside in under a minute. To prevent this, cover the emergency release cord so a thief can’t reach it. Securing the cord with a zip tie can also boost garage door security.
  7. Add Motion Sensing Floodlights : Thieves prefer to work in darkness. A burst of bright light usually sends them running, which is why motion-detecting floodlights are an effective deterrent, especially for detached garages that might not be illuminated as well. There are solar-powered lights that don’t require electrical connections.
  8. Install Security Cameras : Place the camera in a visible location. No burglar want’s their face, physical appearance, or clothing recorded. Some security cameras are motion-activated, and start recording when you leave or someone approaches, while other models have night vision. Others sync to smart home systems so you can monitor your garage door from a smartphone.
  9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight : High-value items should not be near windows or where they can be seen from outside. Instead, place them in closed cabinets or a separate storage room. Also, store your tools in a specialized cabinet with locks; if necessary, add locks to your tool storage.
  10. Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener : The newest garage door openers can be operated using a smartphone app. Some of these, like MyQ from Liftmaster, shows you whether the door is open or closed and, if someone tries to break in, you’ll get an alert on your phone. You can even tap the screen to close the door or open it to let someone in.
  11. Update Your Garage Door : A secure garage door lock isn’t enough. Your garage door should be in good condition. Warping, poor seals, and damaged/run-down garage doors are a security risk. Outdated units should be replaced with secure options like steel garage doors. A fresh new door will also improve curb appeal and likely energy efficiency.

Schedule New Garage Door Installation or Repair Today

Mesa Garage Doors installs garage doors, garage door openers, and wood gates for clients across Southern California. We are the nation’s largest garage door installation company. Our factory trained installers and repair technicians provide high-quality service every time for our Bronze Series, Gold Series, and Platinum Series doors. To get a new door or receive a repair estimate, contact us online or call 714-975-5951.

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How to Open a Garage Door Without Power

how to open a garage door without power

Electric garage door openers make life a bit easier. But when there’s a power outage, your garage door cannot open automatically. Unless you have a battery backup the only way to open it is manually. You can do this from the inside or the outside; we will explain how to open a garage door without power in both situations. First, make sure your door is down and fully closed.

How to Open a Garage Door Without Power in 5 Steps

If you are stuck inside your garage:

  1. Unlock the Garage Door: Locks or latches near the outside of the door should be opened. Otherwise, they can prevent you from lifting it.
  2. Unplug the Garage Door Opener: Disconnect the opener’s power cord to avoid electrical shock or other injury if the power suddenly turns on.
  3. Use the Emergency Release Cord: The release cord hangs from the track’s center rail near the front of the door and has a red handle. It’s attached directly to the trolley. Pull on the cord to disconnect the trolley from the garage door opener carriage.
  4. Pull the Door Up: Lift the garage door straight up from the bottom. It should lift with relative ease; if not, a spring may be broken. The door should also stay in place once it stops moving and you let go. Call a garage door technician if you have difficulty with this step.
  5. Close the Door by Hand: Once you back your car out of the garage, you can get out and pull the door down manually. If a lock bar is installed, slide it to secure the garage door.

 When stuck outside your garage:

  • Find the emergency release kit near the top center of the door, and its respective lock.
  • Using the right key, unlock the emergency release cord to reveal the cable, which can be accessed via the lock tumbler.
  • Unlock the door with the key and turn the handle to a vertical position.
  • Pull the door straight up and make sure it remains open and stable.
  • Once you’re inside, pull the door down until it is fully closed.

How to Reconnect the Opener

If you have an automatic garage door opener, shut the door, plug in the opener, and activate the remote. The system should reconnect by itself and the chain should start moving the trolley. Open and close the door a couple times to make sure it’s working properly.

For doors without an automatic trolley, shut the door and move the emergency release cord towards it. A switch should engage with an audible click. Manually move the garage door arm until it connects with the trolley; you need to raise the door by a foot or two for it to click into place.

Next, plug the opener back in and open the door with the remote. Check for buckling sounds or jerky movement; if all seems okay, close the door and leave it.

Safety Tips for Opening a Garage Door by Hand

In addition to unplugging the opener as previously mentioned:

  • Never Pull the Emergency Release When the Door Is Open: If the door is open when you pull the cord, it could crash down. It’s best to wait until power is restored or call a technician to address the problem.
  • Don’t Leave an Open Garage Door: If it’s disengaged from the automatic opener, the door can suddenly slam shut from any type of movement, even a gust of wind. Children, pets, and objects below the door can be struck by several hundred pounds of force. The garage door should be attended until power returns, a technician arrives, or you can close it successfully.
  • Call a Technician If Necessary: Any difficulty disengaging the trolley can indicate a spring problem. Never attempt to work on garage door springs yourself; they are dangerous and a sudden failure can cause severe injury or damage. Call a professional.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We hope our tips for how to open a garage door without power help. However, you can always trust Mesa Garage Doors to troubleshoot and fix any problem. Available 24/7, we address emergencies and repair needs for homeowners in Los Angeles and Southern California. Book your visit online or call 800-893-1107 today!

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How Much Should a Garage Extension Cost?

garage extension cost

You may consider a garage extension if you purchased a larger vehicle than your previous one. A garage extension can also turn your garage into a home office, dining room, entertainment center, home gym, kitchen, bedroom, or play room. Bear in mind this is not a low-budget project. We’ll detail some of the basic expenses below, in addition to various factors that can impact your garage extension cost.

Total Cost of a Garage Extension

According to HomeAdvisor, it costs $27,984 on average to build a garage (with a general range of $16,994 to $39,308). This equates to about $40 to $70 per square foot. But, it can cost $50,000 or more to build or expand your garage, depending on many variables. It can pay off to have a larger, more functional garage, both in terms of your experience and the impression it can have on potential home buyers down the road.

Factors to Consider

  • Size: Construction contractors often bid on garage projects based on size. A one-car garage is usually at least 12×20 feet. A two-car garage is at least 20×20 feet. The larger the garage, the higher the basic cost of building an extension, and many people choose larger dimensions such as a 24×24-foot garage. But keep in mind size is just a starting point in determining the ultimate cost.
  • Attached/Detached Garage: Complexity will certainly add to the cost. An attached garage is well-suited for small lots and homeowners who want direct access to their homes (especially when adding living space). Detached garages can be expanded as well, and you may have more choices in terms of layout, style, and size. They often require more materials and labor to modify. But here’s another garage extension cost factor—engineering help, as hiring a professional can cost a few hundred to up to $5,000 or more.
  • Structural Elements: If you’re starting from scratch, a foundation can cost from $1,600 to $2,000, for a 20 x 20-foot garage. Excavation work will add to the cost. But you can lower the cost if the new garage is built on the same site as the old one, or little demolition work is required. And location is a factor here; you can build or keep an on-grade concrete slab if the ground doesn’t freeze, but if it does, you’ll need a footer below the frost line.
  • Materials: All the materials used will add to the garage extension cost, and can include:
    • Siding: Aluminum siding ranges up to $7, brick up to $15, Hardie board up to $5, and natural stone up to $50 per square foot. Vinyl siding averages roughly $4 per square foot as does cedar siding, a visually appealing and environmentally sustainable option. Durable fiber-cement siding averages about $10 per square foot. If you want to refurbish the side of your garage with brick, it can cost up to $9 per square foot.
    • Flooring: Expect to spend $0.15 to $25 per square foot on flooring, depending on the material. Laminate flooring is about $2 to $5, but in the mid-range, vinyl flooring costs $2.50 to $5.50, engineered wood from $3.50 to $7, and Oak from $8 to $15 per square foot. Natural tile flooring ranges from $10 to $25 per square foot on average.
    • Roofing: If you have beams and columns in the middle, they can interfere with the finished space’s functionality. Removing these involves labor and potentially redoing the roof, and new roof trusses and beams vary in cost depending on lumber prices. Roofing ranges from $1 To $15 per square foot; asphalt shingles run up to $3.50, wood shingles up to $5.50, metal up to $6, and slate up to $15.

Framing is another factor. It can run, with materials and labor, from $15 to $30 per square foot if your garage frame needs to be expanded. Lumbar generally starts at $250 per 1,000 board feet; however, costs do fluctuate. Wood averages $1 to $5 per square foot and a steel frame averages around $2 to $6 per square foot in 2022.

  • Project-Related Costs: The garage extension cost can increase with various fees, which can include:
    • Architect Fees: An architect can charge from $2 to $25 per square foot, or from $125 to $250 per hour.
    • Architectural Plans: Custom planning can take a lot of time and effort. However, you can save with premade plans (cost between $500 to $1,000).
    • Permits: You’ll need a garage building permit, which can range from $1,200 to $1,500. However, permitting costs vary by location; according to the National Association of Homebuilders, permit fees typically account for 1.7% of the total project cost.

Other Garage Extension Costs

In addition to materials and labor, other costs you may incur include those for materials delivery, debris removal and disposal, and for protecting existing structures on your property. Modifications to your electrical and plumbing system add to the final cost as do HVAC, insulation, lighting, and security elements. Project management is another factor. Your project can cost 15% to 23% more to have someone supervise construction. And don’t forget the sales tax on materials and supplies in your state.

Schedule Your Consultation and Estimate with Mesa Garage Doors

We install high-quality garage doors throughout Southern California. Specializing in leading-brand garage doors and garage door openers, our factory trained installers and repair technicians do all it takes to ensure your satisfaction. Call 800-893-1107 to schedule an estimate on work related to your existing garage or an extension.

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