A malfunctioning garage door that refuses to close can disrupt your daily routine and pose security concerns. But there’s no need to panic! We’ll guide you in finding the root cause of a garage door that won’t close and implement the necessary fixes.

From sensor problems to misaligned tracks, we've got you covered. In a few simple steps, you can confidently tackle the issue and restore your garage door's smooth operation without the need for professional intervention. 

Let's get your garage door back on track and restore seamless functionality.

Top Reasons Your Garage Door Won't Close

• Disrupted Power Source

One of the most common reasons is a disrupted power connection. Check the power supply to ensure the garage door opener is receiving electricity.

• Sensor Obstruction

Modern garage doors have safety sensors that prevent them from closing if there's an obstruction in their path. Inspect and clear any debris or objects blocking the sensor's path.

• Broken Torsion Springs

Torsion springs counterbalance the weight of the garage door. If these springs break, the door may become difficult to move or close properly.

• Misaligned Tracks

Garage door tracks can become misaligned, causing the door to stick while closing. Problems with alignment can impede smooth door movement.

• Malfunctioning Remote Control

Sometimes, the problem may lie with the garage door remote control. Check and replace the batteries if necessary and ensure the remote works correctly.

Troubleshooting

Check the Sensors

Garage door openers have safety sensors by the tracks to detect obstructions and prevent closure if something is in the way. Check for dirty or misaligned sensors if the door won't close fully. Use a clean cloth to clean the lenses and realign blinking sensors until the light is steady by altering their position.

Check the Tracks and Rollers

Check tracks and rollers if the sensors seem to be in order, but the garage door won't fully close. Remove any obstructions and inspect for damage. Gently bend bent sections back into place with clamps or precise hammer strikes. Lubricate rollers with white lithium or silicone-based grease for smooth movement.

Check the Trolley

The trolley might be in bypass mode if the garage door doesn't close automatically but moves freely by hand. To fix it, pull the hanging rope towards the door to engage the trolley latch with the chain. When the opener is activated, the trolley will work properly.

Check Your Remote

If the garage door won't close with the remote, replace its batteries first. If it still doesn't work, reprogram it by accessing the "learn" button on the opener, pressing it until a light flashes, and then pressing a button on the remote. The remote should work properly after reprogramming.

Manually Close Your Garage Door

If you can't fix the door, call a technician. In the meantime, use the bypass rope to close and secure the garage manually. Insert a bolt into holes in the tracks to lock the door if no built-in latches are available.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for a Smooth-Functioning Garage Door

Regular Lubrication

Keep all moving parts of the garage door, such as hinges, springs, and rollers, well lubricated to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.

Visual Inspections

Inspect the garage door and its components on a regular basis for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. Address any flaws as soon as possible to avoid more serious difficulties.

Professional Maintenance

Schedule regular maintenance with a skilled garage door technician to detect and resolve potential issues before they become serious.

Conclusion

You can keep your garage door running smoothly and avoid the annoyance of a door that won't close by following these troubleshooting procedures and practicing preventive maintenance.

But if the problem persists, call the professionals at Door Doctor right away!

It may seem pretty apparent that having a good quality door to enter commercial buildings is an essential aspect of being a building owner. However, many building owners must repeatedly be reminded of the advantages of commercial entry doors. 

Believe it or not, there are multi-million dollar facilities out there that have inadequate doors, which make it super easy for unwanted entities to access them. Whatever type of facility or service your building houses, it is imperative to know why commercial entry doors can be advantageous for your building. 

Top 5 Advantages of Commercial Entry Doors

Here are the top 5 advantages of having commercial entry doors.

Energy Efficient

Good quality commercial entry doors installed by experts are energy efficient and help you save money on cooling and heating bills. By installing solid doors that can prevent the worst of the heat in the summers and the worst of the wind in winter, building owners ensure an airtight structure that can lead to energy savings. 

Demotivates Criminals

A great benefit of a commercial entry door is that it demotivates criminals from trying to access your property. And more often than not, their entry point is a weak, unsecured, or unlocked door. Seeing solid commercial entry doors will deter them from trying to target your building and keep them from gaining entry. 

Keeps Occupants Safe

One of the major advantages of commercial entry doors is that they can keep building occupants safe from any existing threats outside. That sort of seems like a given, but it is important to reiterate this point given the number of sudden tragedies that occur across the country in commercial properties such as schools and malls daily. 

Protection Against Natural Disasters

With increased global warming and climate change, natural disasters are on the rise. Unprecedented weather events like wildfires, intensely high temperatures, and massive floods have become common phenomena. Indeed, a commercial entry door may not hold off a natural disaster for long. But it will help mitigate the overall damage, keeping the occupants safe and the business operational once the disaster has passed. 

Enhanced Aesthetics

One of the advantages of commercial entry doors that people tend to overlook is that they can provide an aesthetic lift to the appearance of a building. People usually think that commercial entry doors give buildings a cold and sterile look. While that may have been true four or five decades ago, nowadays, with all the importance given to beauty and appearances, commercial entry door designs have evolved, and you can have your pick from a number of designs. 

Stay Worry-Free and Feel Safe with Commercial Entry Doors from Door Doctor

If you are looking for superb quality commercial entry doors and frames, look no further because Door Doctor's got your back. 

Door Doctor can help you install robust commercial entry doors that can assure you with their durability, safety, and reliability. You can choose from a collection of doors and get the door that best suits your building. Our team of specialists will cater to all your needs, whether design or installation. 

Contact the Door Doctor by calling our regional office or by ringing 1800-663-3130. You can also book an appointment online and ask for a consultation. 

Stay safe and sound with Door Doctor's trusted commercial entry doors.

When picking the perfect doors, there's a lot to think about. You want something that's durable, looks great, fits your budget, and functions well. Lately, impact doors have been getting much attention for their ability to resist extreme weather and provide top-notch security. Regarding impact doors vs. regular doors, each has its perks and offers a wide range of design options.  

By understanding the key differences between impact doors and regular doors, you can find out which door constitutes a better option for you!

Impact Doors Vs. Regular Doors: The Key Difference

Impact doors are designed to withstand high winds and impacts from flying debris during natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms. These doors are made of reinforced glass and have a strong frame designed to resist breaking or shattering when subjected to high-pressure conditions.

On the other hand, regular doors are the traditional doors that most homeowners use. They are made of wood, metal, or fiberglass and are not explicitly designed to withstand impacts from natural disasters or forced entry.

Impact Doors Vs. Regular Doors | A Side-by-Side Comparison

Differences in Construction

Before installing, you must understand the fundamental differences in construction of  impact doors and regular doors.

Materials used

The materials used to make impact doors differ from those used to make regular doors. Impact doors are made of reinforced glass and a robust frame constructed of aluminum or steel. Materials such as wood, metal, or fiberglass usually make up these standard doors.

The thickness of the doors

Impact doors are thicker than regular doors. The thickness of impact doors varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but they are typically between 1 ¾ inches to 2 ¼ inches thick. At the same time, regular doors are usually between 1 3/8 inches to 1 ¾ inches wide.

Hardware and locks

The hardware and locks used in impact doors are specially designed to withstand high-pressure conditions. They are usually made of materials such as stainless steel or brass. Regular doors may have similar hardware and locks but lack the ability to withstand high winds or forced entry.

The installation process

The installation process for impact doors is more complicated than for regular doors. Impact doors require a professional installation that involves securing the door frame and glass using special techniques and materials.

Whereas regular doors can be installed by a homeowner or a contractor using standard installation methods.

Cost and Maintenance

While the initial cost and maintenance of impact-resistant doors may be higher than regular doors, the long-term benefits and cost savings outweigh the difference. Thanks to their sturdy exterior and features, impact doors do not require additional repairs or yearly retouching and painting costs. 

These doors are well known for eliminating the need for heavy hurricane shutters, which can add to the cost of standard doors. Moreover, impact doors can save money in other ways, such as reducing UV rays from entering your space and potentially damaging valuable items. 

Despite the higher upfront cost, impact doors offer cost-effective advantages in the long run, making them a wise investment for protecting your home and belongings.

Appearance

While standard doors may look more appealing, you must invest in heavy hurricane shutters for protection. On the other hand, impact doors offer the advantage of customization, allowing you to choose the color, size, design, and style that suits your taste and enhances your home's curb appeal. 

Benefits of Impact Doors Over Regular Doors

When it comes to the benefits of impact doors versus regular doors, there are several key advantages to consider:

• Extreme weather resistance: These doors are designed to withstand hurricanes, tornadoes, and high winds.

• Enhanced security: Impact doors have reinforced frames, hardware, and laminated glass to protect against forced entry.

• Noise reduction: Impact doors can reduce outside noise, creating a calmer and more relaxed indoor environment.

• Energy efficiency: These doors are often equipped with low-E coatings on glass, reducing heat transfer and lowering energy bills.

• Long-lasting durability: Impact doors are built to resist wear and tear, warping, cracking, or fading, requiring minimal maintenance.

Regular doors may be more affordable and offer a more comprehensive range of design options, making them a suitable choice for homeowners who prioritize budget and aesthetics. 

However, they may have a distinct level of durability, security, and weather resistance than impact doors. Considering your specific needs and priorities is essential when comparing the benefits of impact doors over regular doors.

Impact Doors Vs. Regular Doors: A Wide Spectrum of Options for You to Chooce 

AIRGARD

AirGard impact doors offer reliable control for openings, are easy to install, and are efficient in high-traffic areas. They provide cost-effective energy conservation and adaptability to different opening sizes.

CHASE

Chase impact doors are budget-friendly, low-maintenance, and simple to install. These doors are designed to provide sustainable and efficient production control in demanding environments while enhancing the space's aesthetic appearance.

DURULITE

Durulite doors provide sound, environmental, and visual barriers in various applications and markets. These doors are known for their fast, efficient, and safe operation, making them a cost-effective choice for ensuring secure door openings.

ECOSWING

The EcoSwing impact door is constructed from recycled, solid, and durable materials. It offers safe and efficient operation, making it suitable for a broad range of applications needing reliable openings.

PROLINE

Proline impact doors are known for their strength and durability, offering visual, aural, and thermal separation in demanding applications. These doors are reliable, lightweight, and adaptable to various opening sizes, making them versatile.

Are Impact Doors Worth It?

If you're in a region prone to hurricanes, having impact doors can provide added security and peace of mind. These doors are made from durable materials and undergo rigorous testing to withstand severe weather conditions.  

Impact doors benefit everyone with their ability to withstand intense winds and impact testing. So, if you're considering installing impact doors, go for it and enjoy the added protection for your space!

Transform Your Regular Doors into Outstanding Ones with Door Doctor

Garage doors are no longer merely a functional part of your home; they’ve also become important in improving its overall appearance and security. They not only shield your vehicles and possessions from the elements, but they also provide an added layer of protection.

Garage doors have become smarter, more energy-efficient, and more customizable as technology advances. Looking ahead, here are some of the top garage door trends we expect to see this year.

Say Goodbye to Boring Garage Doors: 2023's Hottest Garage Door Trends!

A garage door can drastically alter the appearance and feel of a property. Many innovations have attracted the attention of both homeowners and manufacturers, from the convenience of automatic systems to the unified design of matching garage and front doors. Here are the latest garage door trends to look out for in 2023.

Contemporary Garage Doors

Contemporary garage doors are sleek and modern, with clean lines and little embellishment. These doors come in a variety of colours, finishes, and styles, including flush panel and glass doors.

Choose from a range of hardware and window options to match your home's architectural style. Modern garage doors also have cutting-edge features like innovative technology, energy efficiency, and safety and security measures. These doors are a fashionable and functional addition to any home, enhancing its functionality, security, and curb appeal.

Carriage Garage Doors

With a design inspired by historic carriage house doors, carriage house garage doors are traditional and rustic. They come in various materials, colours, and styles, such as raised panels and flush panel doors.

Carriage house garage doors can be tailored to complement your home's decor and enhance your home’s insulation, energy efficiency, safety, and security. Add a touch of historical grandeur to your home while boosting your property's curb appeal and value!

Specialized Garage Doors

Garage doors with specialized features are developed for specific uses, such as industrial, commercial, agricultural, and storage buildings. They are designed to withstand extreme environments and are available in a variety of models, materials, and sizes to meet the specific needs of various industries.

Specialized garage doors provide advanced features such as energy efficiency, innovative technology, customization choices, and reliable and safe access to critical buildings and equipment.

Smart Technology

Garage doors are keeping up with technology's rapid advancements. Smart garage doors are gaining popularity among homeowners who value convenience, safety, and energy efficiency. With remote control capabilities via smartphones, opening and closing the door is a breeze.

Stay informed with notifications about door activity, and integrate with home automation systems for centralized control. Energy savings are also possible, thanks to sensors that adjust the temperature based on heat and light levels and motion sensors that close the door when not in use.

Conclusion

Garage doors are vital to our homes, enhancing their functionality, security, and curb appeal. With technological advancements, garage doors have evolved from being simply functional to smart, energy-efficient, and customizable.

In 2023, we expect to see growing demand for contemporary-style garage doors offering sleek and modern designs, carriage house-style garage doors providing a touch of historical grandeur, and specialized garage doors for industrial and commercial uses.

Garage doors can enhance your home's security, functionality, and curb appeal. Installing a garage door is a multi-step process, from choosing the right type of door to installing the tracks and hardware.

Installing a garage door requires the right tools, materials, and knowledge. The steps in installing a garage door are described below to show you that garage door installation isn’t easy. That’s why you should contact a professional for this job, like Door Doctor.

Installing a Garage Door

There are a few steps before you can begin the garage door installation process, which includes:

1. Selecting the Right Garage Door

Select the garage door that fits your budget, your garage, and your preferences. Various types of garage doors are available, such as rolling steel doors and impact doors.

2. Gathering the Necessary Tools

Before beginning the garage door installation process, you need to gather the tools required to install the garage door. They may include a power drill, screws, a level, a hammer, and a wrench.

By hiring professionals to install your garage door, you can save yourself the hassle and cost of obtaining these tools.

Garage Door Installation Process

After you’ve selected the garage door that fits your needs and obtained all the tools required for garage door installation, you’re ready to start the installation process.

• Disconnect the Current Door from the Opener

Before starting the installation process, disconnect the garage door from the opener. Simply pull the red emergency release handle. This will move the trolley arm vertically, allowing you to manually raise or lower the door.

• Installing the Panels and Tracks

Begin by installing the garage door panels by drilling pilot holes and screwing the bar to the panel. Then, attach the brackets and hinges to the door sections and attach them to the tracks. Ensure the wheels lie correctly on the track for proper functionality.

• Connect the Spring Assembly to the Track

After installing the panels and tracks, assemble all the parts that support the spring and attach it to the track.

• Bolt the Tracks and Install Spring, Torsion Rod & Pulleys

After connecting the spring assembly, line up the horizontal and vertical tracks and attach them to the door. Then bolt the tracks together securely. After that, connect the spring anchors to the springs and attach the spring locking cone.

Finally, bolt the two springs to the header bracket, ensuring a tight fit. To complete the installation, slide the torsion rod into the holes in the side header brackets and attach pulleys to each end of the rod.

• Install the Cable

To install the cable, attach it to the pulley wheel and turn the wheel so any slack is pulled taut over the pulley. Move the wheel towards the header bracket and fasten all components tightly.

How Much Does Garage Door Installation Cost?

An average garage door installation, including labor costs, is approximately $1,200, depending on specifications and location. But costs can range from $260 to $2,300 or more, depending on the size, material, and type.

This is a small price to pay to have your garage door installed safely by professionals!

Contact Door Doctor for Garage Door Installation!

As you can see, installing a garage door isn’t a DIY task; it is risky and requires skill. You should not undertake this job yourself. If you’re considering installing a garage door, you should rely on professionals to do the job correctly and safely.

A garage door’s function is pretty simple. It goes up. It comes down. That's it. until one day, that stops. One day, you press the garage door button, which doesn't open. And then you press it again, and it still refuses to open. 

Pretty frustrating, right? 

Here’s the good news. Instead of rushing to fork over the cash to pay someone else to fix your garage door right away, with some simple troubleshooting, you’ll find there are easy fixes for most issues! 

These are the five most common residential garage door problems. Not only are they easy to identify, you can even fix them yourself! 

Problem No. 1: Your Garage Door Keypad Doesn't Work

Not every garage door has a keypad, but if your door has one, it can become faulty over time. This is one of the most common problems residential garage door owners face. 

If your keypad is not working, it could mean a couple of things.

• The batteries are dead - Replace the batteries in your keypad and see if it works. 
• The antenna is malfunctioning - The antenna that receives the keypad signal might be malfunctioning. Confirm that the antenna is pointing downward toward the keypad to ensure that it is receiving a proper signal. 
• Your keypad needs programming - Usually, it's just a matter of updating and reprogramming your garage door keypad. You can find the instructions in your garage door manual or online. 

Problem No. 2: Your Garage Door Has Become Excessively Noisy

Let's be honest. Who has not experienced this problem when it comes to garage doors? A squeaky or grunting garage door can be extremely unpleasant and might even wake your next-door neighbors if it’s bad enough. 

Lucky for you, this residential garage door problem can be an easy fix with routine maintenance. 

• Use a simple combination of garage door lube and lithium-based grease on the moving parts of your garage door to eliminate inopportune screeching. 
• Schedule a comprehensive lubrication session for your garage door at least once a year to prevent this problem. 
• Look into replacing the hinges if lubrication does not do the trick. 

Problem No. 3: Your Garage Door Freezes

Extreme moisture and cold can lead to this residential garage door problem. It is commonly on the coldest day of the year, just when you’re appreciating the coziness of your garage that your garage door simply freezes mid-closing or mid-opening. 

Try to use regular de-icing products to unfreeze the door. People have even used a hair dryer to melt the frozen moisture from their garage door hinges! Ensure that your garage door's bending areas remain dry, as this can help prevent future problems. 

Problem No. 4: Your Garage Door Seems Uneven

One day, you're driving out of your garage and notice that the door is moving strangely or looks uneven. Who needs this kind of headache? 

A garage door can become uneven for several reasons.

• Rust on one side of the door can cause that side to move slower. Give the hinge area a good wipe-down to fix the issue. 
• An obstacle between the garage door and the outside could be causing the misalignment. Make sure all objects are removed from the front and back of the door before opening. 
• Your door manual is your best friend. Check to see if you are missing anything and try all the troubleshooting suggestions before contacting a professional. 

Problem No. 5: Your Garage Door Has Worn-Out Springs

A standard garage door issue is. Extension or torsion springs connected to cables and pulleys are responsible for counterbalancing your garage door. Because these springs face constant wear and tear, along with a massive amount of pressure, over time it becomes a struggle for your garage door to open. 

Most people prefer to contact a professional to replace garage door springs. But if you are skilled at manual labor and know how to fix this residential garage door problem, there is no reason not to undertake it yourself. 

Facing Residential Garage Door Problems? Call the Door Doctor!

Door Doctor offers the best residential garage door repair services with a team of expert professionals who will repair your garage door ASAP! Door Doctor has made a name for itself and built a loyal customer base over the last four decades. Our specialists are skilled at restoring any dysfunctions or problems related to your garage door. And our services are available 24/7! 

If you're looking for a professional to fix your residential garage door problems, contact us by calling your regional office or 1-800-663-3130. You can also book an appointment online for a consultation. 

Door Doctor - curing & securing doors since 1983.