Benefits of Custom Wood Garage Door Installation

Wooden garage doors can be customized specifically to your needs. That’s one of the reasons they are so appealing. No material is quite as customizable as wood while maximizing form and function. If you’re considering a replacement or update, here’s a look at the perks of custom wood garage door installation.

Lots of Stylistic Options to Choose From

You can keep a natural wood color if you prefer, or use a light stain to create the shade you want. The door can also be painted in any color. Wood is the easiest garage door material to paint. Numerous types of finishes are available as well. You can therefore match the exterior of your home or spruce up your facade to improve curb appeal.

Flexibility in Size and Shape

A custom wood garage door suits a garage with a non-standard size or shape. It can be easily crafted to perfectly fit the dimensions. If you need extra storage space or have a recreational vehicle, a wood garage door is a good choice. Custom sizing any other type of door is much more difficult and costly.

Different Types of Wood to Pick From

Plywood, while the least expensive type of wood door, can be made to look more upscale with a hardwood veneer. Other common types of wood garage doors include cedar, which is highly resistant to decay, and redwood, which resists rot and warping when built in thinner layers. Composite wood (which is recycled) is often as solid as steel and resistant to rotting and cracking.

Wood Garage Doors Are Well-Insulated

Wood is a natural insulator so helps protect your home against heat or cold. It can contribute to greater energy efficiency as well. Manufacturers can add more insulating layers and materials if necessary, depending on the needs of your home, further adding to the value that wood provides.

A Custom Garage Door Can Fit Any Budget

Custom wood garage door installation is budget-friendly. If you’re looking to save, a lighter-weight door can be installed. You can go for a simpler design as well. But if you have the budget, custom wood garage doors can feature a toughened design, polished wood, and a range of functional and decorative features to meet your wants and needs. Either way, your garage door will be high-quality and extremely durable.

Installation and Labor Warranty

Custom garage door manufacturers and dealers usually provide a generous warranty and guarantee on their labor and workmanship. You can save significantly if repairs are needed later. Oftentimes, you’ll receive years of protection, although every warranty differs in terms of what is covered. Always read the fine print.

Wood Garage Doors Are Durable

When protected against weather and moisture, wooden doors hold up well. It’s not easy to dent a wood garage door. Also, scratches, dings, and scuffs are not as common as with other materials. You can reduce wear and tear by taking the right steps early on and by keeping up with regular maintenance.

Wood Is a Renewable Material

Wood is a natural, renewable material. Therefore, customizing and owning a garage door made of wood can have a positive impact on the environment. Your carbon footprint is reduced by having a wood garage door built and installed in your home.

Schedule Custom Wood Garage Door Installation Today

Mesa Garage Doors is an experienced builder of custom wood garage doors and can meet any design criteria. We provide wood sectional garage doors that look like older swing doors, so there’s no compromise in style vs. functionality. Each product is expertly crafted, beautiful, and low-maintenance. To request assistance in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, or Ventura County, or receive a new wood garage door estimate, contact us online or call 714-989-7421.

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Best Features and Options for Custom Garage Doors in Los Angeles

When installing a garage door, homeowners often select custom features and options. The garage door is a prominent element of a home’s exterior. Customizing it can improve visual appeal, durability, and security. There are many choices for custom garage doors in Los Angeles, so we’ll break down some of the options and important decisions to make.

Style/Design of the Garage Door

First, you need to pick a style that you prefer. Styles can be selected based on your home’s architecture, and include:

  • Victorian/Georgian/Colonial: Provides a stable or farmhouse look, with decorative hardware and windows that match those of your home.
  • 1950s Ranch Style: Doors with a plain finish and banding, wood slats, or other horizontal features; no hardware provides a streamlined look.
  • Edwardian: Raised panels or sections with arch-top or divided-light windows.
  • Modern/Contemporary: Often making a statement, this style uses an aluminum frame, stained wood, frosted or pebbled glass, and/or a horizontal or V-ribbed banded design.

You’ll also find common designs to customize your garage door, such as:

  • Raised-Panel: A popular choice among homeowners, a raised-panel design can be achieved with different materials; it suits most home styles and provides a high insulating value.
  • Roll-Up: Doors that roll up are more compact, which is beneficial for smaller garages and homes.
  • Sectional: Sectional doors are well-insulated against wind and water and are suited for a homeowner who prefers more garage space.
  • Sliding: Horizontally moving garage doors are quieter and easier to maintain. They can be operated remotely or manually.
  • Swing: Swing garage doors have one or two steel panels. They have a classic design and will fit so long as there’s enough horizontal space. Our Carriage House Style garage doors simulate the look of a swing-style model.

Materials

  • Wood: While wood requires more maintenance than other materials, many people prefer its classic look. Wood is easy to customize with overlays, painting, or staining.
  • Aluminum: Aluminum is rustproof, durable, and requires little or no maintenance. Its low weight reduces the stress on the garage door opener. Many custom options are available.
  • Steel: A stronger option than aluminum, steel can accommodate a wide range of styles, finishes, and colors.

Windows

Windows are popular for garage doors because of their aesthetic appeal. They come in all shapes and sizes too. Adding windows can make a garage look fresh and your home seem larger. Letting in natural light, garage door windows can also increase visibility and efficiency inside your garage (the brightness and warmth reduce the need for electric lighting and heating). To boost privacy and security, windows can be tinted or frosted.

Colors

You can choose from practically any color or combination of colors. It’s generally advised to complement the color of your home. Tan or beige is more visually pleasing when the siding is made of red brick. Some suggest matching the garage door color with that of the front door; others say to match it with the window trim. But if you plan on selling your home soon, a neutral color is the safest choice.

Decorative Elements

There’s a nearly infinite range of possibilities when it comes to hinges and handles. Hardware can be showcased out in the open or hidden, depending on the garage door’s overall style and your preferences. The size, shape, and material of these elements are also up to you. Wrought iron hardware is popular, especially for rustic homes. Decorative strapping in an “X” or “Z” shape is another option.

Insulation

Not all options for custom garage doors in Los Angeles are about the look. For example, you can often choose the type of insulating core that’s built-in. It can make your garage more comfortable, your home more energy efficient, and contribute to lower energy bills. Insulation shields against hot and cold as well as noise. The higher the R-value of an insulating material, the more effective it is.

Security

Garage door security features have gotten more diverse and smarter. You can often select from keyless entry, remotes that easily switch frequencies, and garage door openers that provide each user with a unique access code. Proximity sensors, which detect when someone is using an app to operate the garage door, are available as well.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We are a leading installer of custom garage doors in Los Angeles and Southern California. Our catalog consists of numerous styles, from traditional to contemporary, and our specialists can provide any type of garage door repair. Browse our inventory and brochure and choose from a selection of garage doors, garage door openers, decorative hardware, and window designs. For award-winning service and a free new door estimate, book an appointment online or call 714-844-5741.

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Is There a Garage Locksmith?

Locksmiths can offer a wide range of services. While these come at a cost ($158 on average in 2022, according to HomeAdvisor)1, a locksmith can have different types of specialties. A garage door locksmith can help when your garage door opener won’t work. Now that we’ve answered the question, here’s a look at what a garage locksmith can do.

There are ways you can open a locked door from the outside, but it might not always be the best idea. You risk doing more harm than good. A skilled locksmith has the knowledge and tools to avoid damage that may require expensive repairs.

How a Garage Locksmith Can Help

Many people envision a locksmith as someone who can open a traditional lock without a key. Today’s garage doors have more advanced systems. But a garage door locksmith can repair a keypad that isn’t working. Issues with garage door remotes, from replacing batteries, to setting up a universal remote, can also be managed. Resetting a keypad or remote is also something they can do, as it’s something homeowners often find themselves dealing with.

In addition, a locksmith can:

Check Garage Door Sensors: Whether a photo eye sensor isn’t working or a sensor that detects when your car approaches the garage malfunctions, a locksmith can fix the problem, adjust the sensor, or help replace a faulty device.

Repair/Maintain Your Garage Door Opener: A garage door opener problem is one of the most common reasons to be locked out of your garage. Equipped with professional tools and machinery, a locksmith can gain access via any garage door opener. They can also evaluate it and provide any maintenance needed to get it working smoothly again.

Minor Garage Door Repairs: Some garage locksmiths have the skills to replace broken springs in addition to repairing or replacing locks. Depending on their skill level, they may even be able to replace hinges or service and repair panels.

Garage Locksmiths Can Have Many Skills

As you can see, garage door locksmiths can possess a wide range of skills and specialties. Some can help maintain garage doors and even install newer technologies to make them more secure. Many locksmiths are now familiar with how to reprogram a keypad or other electronic lock, whether it uses Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or biometric technologies. High-tech security features such as card readers, fingerprint locks, security cameras, alarms, and motion sensors can be installed. Some security devices use Wi-Fi so you can view footage from your garage using your cell phone.

For traditional-style locks, a garage locksmith can change them or even rekey a lock. Rekeying is less expensive than replacing a lock; it can be done if the locksmith can rearrange the pins in the lock’s cylinder. Common locks used in garages include slide locks, T-handle locks with cables that release two bolts as the handle is turned, and J-arm locks with an operator arm that locks on the trolley.

Contact Us for Garage Door Help

Mesa Garage Doors specializes in installing and servicing many styles of garage doors. We have a full line of automatic garage door openers as well. Our installers and repair technicians are factory trained and provide high-quality service every time. They can handle all your garage needs, so call whether your garage door doesn’t close properly or you are locked out. For immediate help and award-winning service, contact us online or call 714-975-5951.

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What to Do If a Detached Garage Door Is Stuck Closed

There are many advantages to having a detached garage. A garage door that’s stuck closed is not one of them. But the best thing is not to panic. You can manually unlock it if your detached garage door is stuck closed, with the following steps:

  • Open the locks or latches needed to open the door manually.
  • Unplug the motor, which cuts electricity to the garage door opener.
  • Locate the red emergency release cord, pull it down, and continue until the door has reached the top.

Where to Look If Your Detached Garage Door Is Stuck Closed

How you proceed next depends on the exact cause of the issue. If the garage door isn’t opening, here are the best things to check:

Photo-Eye Sensors

The garage door won’t activate if the photo sensor isn’t receiving a signal. To address this issue, clean any dirt and dust from the sensor, remove any obstructions, and check whether the transmitter and receiver are misaligned. Make sure they’re installed at the same height and they face one another from each side of the door. If necessary, turn the photo-eye to align it. Also, check for wiring damage or a blinking LED; these indicate the sensor needs to be replaced.

Transmitter Batteries

If the remote transmitter has a dead battery, a signal won’t be sent when you press the button. Check the receiver on the interior wall. When you press the button here and the door works, the problem is with the remote. Swap out the batteries to get the remote working again; if this doesn’t do the trick, something may be blocking the remote signal, the antenna may be dirty or misaligned, or the device may need to be replaced.

Power Supply

A disconnected power supply is a common reason for a detached garage door to be stuck closed. Check if the operator has been unplugged or a circuit breaker has tripped. Plugging the garage door opener back in or resetting the breaker should get the door working again. Otherwise, an electrician should check for a defective outlet or faulty wiring.

Garage Door Tracks

The tracks must be straight for a garage door to move. If the door is stuck closed, check whether it’s crooked or makes grinding noises when you try to operate it. Don’t force the door to open, as this can cause more damage. Look for objects blocking the track. You can realign it by loosening the screws securing it to the frame, tapping the track back into position, and re-tightening the screws. Call a technician if there’s damage you can’t fix.

Torsion or Extension Springs

Inspect the springs if the garage door won’t open. Torsion springs run horizontally across the top of the door while extension springs are mounted on the sides. The springs support the garage door’s weight and will eventually wear out. A breaking or snapped spring is extremely dangerous to handle, so call a professional to replace it.

Garage Door Cable

Aligned with the tension springs, the cables provide the work needed to operate the door. They also slow a garage door’s descent when the spring breaks. Otherwise, severe damage can occur. After the spring has broken, operating the door risks breaking a cable, which can be extremely dangerous, so have it fixed by a contractor quickly.

Sensitivity Settings

The system may not have been programmed correctly at the factory. You’ll need to contact a provider to obtain the proper settings, so there’s the right amount of force to open or close the door. Even if everything else is working, the opener won’t respond if the sensitivity controls aren’t set correctly.

Other Things You Can Do

There can be many reasons your detached garage door is stuck closed. If none of the above issues seem to be the cause, here are some other steps you can take:

  • Clear Any Obstructions: Check all moving parts to see if something is stuck and remove it; if you can’t find anything, try applying some silicone-based grease or oil lubricant.
  • Install a New Trolley Carriage: This requires turning off the power at the breaker, making sure the door is fully closed, and placing a ladder in a safe location. First, install the rail to the wall bracket. Then slide the new carriage onto the rail and restore power to test the door.
  • Check for Installation Issues: An error during installation can cause a garage door to not open. In this case, you should contact the installer, who can come and correct the issue so your garage door works properly.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

If your detached garage door is stuck closed, our qualified technicians can troubleshoot it and provide any adjustment or repair necessary. They can work with any type of garage door. We are available 24/7 so book your free estimate or call 714-975-5951 any time.

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Should I Install a Roll-Up or a Sliding Garage Door?

Installing a new garage door can improve curb appeal, security, and energy efficiency. It also allows you to take advantage of different styles and options. One of the choices homeowners have is to pick between a roll-up or a sliding garage door. The advantages of each type will be explained below to help with your purchasing decision:

Why Should I Install a Roll-Up Garage Door?

A roll-up door, or overhead rolling door, retracts into a compact coil as it opens. It is made of numerous steel or aluminum slats. Similar to sectional garage doors familiar to many homeowners, roll-up garage doors can be manually or electronically operated.

Although more often used in commercial settings, roll-up garage doors have advantages including:

  • Small Footprint: The slats coil around a single axle contained in a drum above the door opening. This drum requires about 14 to 29 inches of headroom; aside from guide tracks on the frame, no bulky equipment is required.
  • Security: A rolling garage door uses high-strength materials and secure locking mechanisms. These make it more difficult to break into, improving home security and peace of mind.
  • Durability: A rolling door is resistant to wear and tear, even over years of heavy usage. It resists corrosion, rust, and severe weather while containing fewer parts compared to a sectional/sliding door.
  • Weather Protection: Compared to other garage doors, a roll-up door is better at keeping out wind, rain, and dust. Temperature control in your garage can be improved, and storage, furnishings, and belongings will be more protected.
  • Energy Savings: Foam insulation prevents air leakage, heat transfer, and noise. Another perk is that roll-up doors leave no space under them for air transfer; you won’t need additional air conditioners or fans.

Why Should I Install a Sliding Garage Door?

Traditionally used for commercial and agricultural spaces, sliding garage doors are becoming more common in residential applications. A sliding door can be installed in homes as either a large paneled door or a bi-parting set of doors. Steel, aluminum, or wood panels retract up along the ceiling as the door opens; this requires a vertical track along the side and one along the ceiling.

You can see the following benefits of installing a sliding garage door:

  • Compact Design: While they don’t roll up into a coil, sliding garage doors are relatively compact. They are well-suited for garages that aren’t too small, but sliding models can accommodate lower ceilings than traditional garage doors.
  • Ease of Installation: Ceiling support is needed, but a sliding door comes in standard and custom sizes. Installing the upper and lower rails may require a professional, who can complete the job relatively quickly.
  • Quiet Motor: Less force is needed to open or close a sliding garage door, compared to a traditional model, so the motor is less noisy. Occupants of rooms that share walls with the garage won’t be disturbed when the door is being operated.
  • Easy to Operate and Maintain: The door glides easily along the wall, even if you need to operate it manually, for example, during a power outage. As for maintenance, it’s easy to deal with anything from a squeaky wheel or jammed track to replacing panels and components.
  • Design Options: Sliding garage doors can accommodate various design options and add-ons, from your preferred colors and materials to the inclusion of windows, woodwork, and decorative hinges or other elements.

Should I Install a Roll-Up or Sliding Garage Door?

The right garage door usually depends on the application. If you can choose between either, it’s important to consider the cost vs. durability. A garage door professional can help select the ideal garage door for your home.

Are you still weighing whether to install a traditional, roll-up, or sliding garage door? Mesa Garage Doors has many types of garage doors and options to choose from. Continue browsing to see the various series of high-quality garage doors that we offer. For assistance or to get a new door estimate, contact us online or call 714-646-1596.

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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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