Garage Door Springs Archives - Bayside Garage Doors

4 Best Tips to Avoid Costly Garage Door Repairs

baysidegaradev on March 18, 2024

Your garage door is more than just a secure barrier for your home. It’s an essential part of your daily home operations, and its smooth functionality is often taken for granted. When it fails, the resulting impact is not just an inconvenience—garage door repairs can be surprisingly costly.

In this blog post, we’ll break down key strategies to maintain your garage door’s condition, prevent issues before they arise, and save you from unforeseen repair bills.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

The best defense against an untimely garage door malfunction is a proactive offense. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify minor issues before they escalate. Begin your checks by examining the door’s exterior for visible wear and tear on the tracks, rollers, springs, and cables.

Check for Wear and Tear: A keen eye during visual checks can alert you to loose hardware, frayed cables, or dented tracks that might go unnoticed.

Lubricate Moving Parts: Keep moving components well-oiled to minimize friction. Use a light, penetrating oil specified for garage door use and apply sparingly to the door’s springs, hinges, and rollers.

Test Safety Features: Conduct regular tests to ensure your door’s safety sensors are working correctly. Place an obstruction in the door’s pathway to make sure the sensors can halt operation without fail.

Proper Installation and Adjustment

A garage door’s longevity often hinges on its initial installation and later adjustments.

Ensure Correct Installation: Whether you are installing a new door or suspect issues with an existing one, installation integrity is key. Properly installed doors operate more efficiently and are less prone to breakdowns.

Adjust Spring Tension: Garage door springs bear a significant part of the door’s weight and should be properly tensioned. Incorrect tension can lead to issues with opening and closing and potential safety hazards.

Balance the Door: A balanced door requires less force to operate, minimizing strain on the motor and other moving parts. An unbalanced door can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on hinges and rollers.

Mindful Operation Practices

Daily use of your garage door can contribute to its longevity or cause unnecessary wear.

Avoid Slamming the Door: Repeatedly letting the door slam shut can damage the tracks and springs over time. Close the door gently to preserve the system’s integrity.

Keep Sensors Clear: Sensors maintain your family’s safety, so ensure they are unobstructed and free from dust or debris.

Educate Family Members: Teach everyone who uses the door to operate it safely and mindfully. Even small children should understand the risks and be aware of the correct operation of this heavy equipment.

Weatherproofing Measures

Your garage door is often your home’s first defense against the elements.

Seal Gaps and Cracks: A well-sealed door keeps out pests, dirt, and water, safeguarding your garage and preventing moisture damage. Periodically inspect and replace worn-out seals to maintain the barrier’s integrity.

Protect Against Moisture: Use a rust-resistant primer and paint on exposed steel surfaces, and consider a dehumidifier for your garage.

Maintain Insulation: Insulation helps regulate garage temperatures and cushions the door from heavy impacts, reducing the wear on its systems.

Professional Garage Door Assistance in Tampa

While many maintenance tasks can be done by oneself without much trouble, there are times when it’s best to leave it to the professionals. When looking into professional services, always opt for experienced and reputable service providers.

By following these expert tips, you’re not just avoiding expensive repairs; you’re also ensuring your safety and peace of mind. Don’t wait for your garage door to break down—prepare it to stand strong against life’s trials and tribulations, big or small.

Feel free to contact Bayside Garage Doors at (813) 670-2087 for any of your door repair needs. Our team of experts is always available to offer professional service in the Tampa area!

Garage Door Repairs: DIY or Professional Service? A Guide for Couples

baysidegaradev on February 15, 2024

For many couples who own their homes, whether to tackle home improvement projects themselves or call in professionals is a common debate. When it comes to garage door repairs, the stakes are high—this is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about safety and functionality.

If you’re stuck in this DIY vs. professional service debate, don’t worry. This detailed guide will offer insights to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Risks and Rewards of Garage Door DIY

The charm of DIY is obvious: potential cost savings, the satisfaction of self-accomplishment, and perhaps a fun weekend project. However, before you roll up your sleeves, let’s assess what garage door maintenance involves:

Pros of DIY Garage Door Repair:

Cost Efficiency: Doing it yourself could save money that would otherwise be paid to a professional service.
Learning Experience: Developing new skills can feel incredibly rewarding.
Flexibility: You can work on your own timetable without the need to schedule appointments.

Cons of DIY Garage Door Repair:

Safety Hazards: Garage doors are heavy and work under high tension, especially when dealing with springs.
Time-Consuming: What seems simple in a video tutorial might be more complex in reality.
Potential for Errors: Mistakes can lead to additional costs or even the need to hire a service afterward to fix the DIY mishaps.

For a safer and more effective garage door installation, it would perhaps be better to enlist the help of an experienced professional. But let’s delve a bit deeper into what these services offer.

When to Call in the Garage Door Professionals

Professional garage door services bring a wealth of experience and the right tools for the job.:

Safety: This cannot be stressed enough – professionals know how to handle hazardous components safely.
Warranty: Many professional repairs come with a service warranty, giving you peace of mind and protection against future issues.
Convenience: Time is precious, and professionals can usually fix problems much quicker than the DIY route.
Longevity: A correct fix by a professional can extend the life of your garage door.

Couples should discuss and weigh factors such as the complexity of the problem, the tools required, and the level of experience needed before making a decision.

Home Maintenance Tips for the Eager DIYer

If you’re set on going the DIY route for simpler tasks, start with these tips:

Regular Inspections: Give your garage door regular love. Inspect for wear and tear on rollers, springs, and cables.
Lubrication: Use a garage door-specific lubricant on moving parts a couple of times a year.
Testing the Balance: Ensure your door is properly balanced by disconnecting the opener and manually opening the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay put, the springs may need adjustment – something best left to professionals.

Making the Decision Together

Decision-making as a couple means finding harmony between perspectives. When considering DIY vs. professional garage door repair, discuss:

Budget: Are savings from DIY worth the time and potential risks involved?
Expertise: Can we realistically tackle the problem, or is it outside our skillset?
Quality: Are we confident in delivering a fix that matches professional quality?
Time: Do we have the time to dedicate to this project?

Finding the Right Professional Garage Door Service

Should you choose the path of hiring professionals, vet potential service providers with these criteria:

Credentials: Are they licensed and insured?
Reviews: What do other customers say about their experiences?
Services: Do they offer a warranty? How comprehensive are their services?
Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple sources to ensure you get a fair price.

Remember, like in any happy relationship, communication is essential. Discuss your worries and expectations with the service provider before any work begins.

Show Your Home Some Love With Our Professional Garage Door Services

Whether you take the DIY leap or opt for professional garage door repair, make the decision as a team. Consider the safety risks, potential savings, time investment, and peace of mind. A well-functioning garage door is vital to your home’s security and overall aesthetics, just as solid cooperation is crucial for a happy and successful partnership.

Much like a relationship, home maintenance requires regular attention and informed decisions. With the correct information, couples can confront the DIY vs. professional service debate head-on and choose the path that best suits their needs, skills, and aspirations.

Are you looking for a garage door specialist? Bayside Garage Doors can help you. Contact us at the following numbers for more information: 813-670-2087 (Hillsborough County), 352-405-1492 (Pasco & Hernando), 727-285-8171 (Pinellas County). Serving anywhere in the Tampa area!

5 Reasons Your Garage Door Is Making Noise, and How to Fix Them

baysidegaradev on January 19, 2024

A noisy garage door can be rather annoying for both you and your neighbors. In addition to the noise, it may be an indication of a bigger issue that needs immediate attention; thus, ignoring it for too long may lead to greater problems with your garage door opener system that can be expensive to fix. In this blog post, we’ll examine the five most common reasons behind a noisy garage door and how to fix them.

Improper Installation

If you’re hearing noises from your garage door, chances are it’s due to improper installation. These noises include loud grinding, rattling, squealing when opening or closing the door, and even slapping sounds from a loose chain. Vibrating, rumbling, or rattling noises might be a sign that the nuts or bolts are loose. In this situation, consider promptly calling a professional to fix the improperly installed door.

Worn Rollers

Over time, your garage door’s rollers can wear out, causing the door to move out of alignment or slip off the tracks, creating a squeaking, screeching, or vibrating sound. You may need to replace or lubricate the rollers depending on the type you have. Steel rollers can last longer but are prone to rust and corrosion, while nylon rollers make less noise and last as long as steel rollers. If the noise persists after applying lubrication and replacement, it’s wise to call professionals to have a look.

Poor Lubrication

Another common problem that can make a garage door noisy is poor lubrication. Proper lubrication of all parts keeps your door running smoothly and helps prevent rust and corrosion that can result in squeaking, grinding, clinking, and rattling sounds. If you hear any of these sounds, it may be time to lubricate your door.

Off-Balance Door

An off-balance garage door can create a scraping or banging noise. An unbalanced door also causes an uneven appearance, closes after being manually opened, doesn’t open at all, and has a slow response time. This problem may be a result of loose or aging springs, broken torsion springs, or weight added to the door.

Failing Opener

Your garage door opener is one of the most essential parts of your system, and a quick and reliable opener will help you stick to your schedule and safely enter or exit your home. When you hear straining, grinding, or buzzing sounds, it could mean that your opener is failing. The noise could be a result of overheating or an old motor that needs to be replaced.

Sometimes, the solution to a noisy garage door may be as simple as lubrication or replacing worn rollers, but other times, you may need to call a garage door professional. To avoid garage door malfunctions, it’s necessary to give your garage door regular maintenance so that any issues are caught early on. Maintenance can go a long way in keeping your garage door functional, quiet, and safe.

Need help with a noisy or damaged garage door? Bayside Garage Doors is here to assist you anywhere in the Tampa area. Contact us at the following numbers for more information: 813-670-2087 (Hillsborough County), 352-405-1492 (Pasco & Hernando), 727-285-8171 (Pinellas County).

What Kinds of Garage Door Repairs Fall Under Homeowners Insurance Coverage?

baysidegaradev on December 19, 2023

As a homeowner, you understand the significance of proper insurance coverage for your home. But what about your garage door? Accidents happen, and your garage door could inevitably need repairs or replacement. So, does your homeowners’ insurance policy cover such damages? In this blog post, we’ll go over the garage door damages typically covered by homeowners insurance.

Vehicle Damage

It’s hard to avoid the occasional accident, especially inside your garage. Luckily, most homeowners insurance policies do cover damages caused by vehicles. Whether it’s you backing up into your door or a visitor crashing into your garage door, your insurance company should cover the damages.

Natural Disasters

If your area is frequently affected by thunderstorms, tornadoes, or hurricanes, most policies will cover damages to your garage door. However, the individual coverage for each type of natural disaster may vary. Take a moment to read your policy documents to understand what damages are included or excluded from the coverage.

Fire Damage

A sudden fire in your garage is one of the most damaging and scary things that can happen to your home. But if your policy includes fire coverage, your garage door damages will most likely be included.

Vandalism and Break-Ins

Most homeowners insurance policies will cover the damages if someone breaks into your garage or vandalizes your garage door. You may also be able to claim coverage for any personal property that was stolen or damaged inside your garage.

Wear and Tear

Garage doors often face daily wear and tear, a common problem. Unfortunately, most homeowner’s insurance policies won’t cover general wear and tear expenses. That said, if the damage resulted from a covered peril like a natural disaster, your coverage might include the repair costs.

Keeping up with regular maintenance for your garage door can make a big difference in avoiding damages. But if any unexpected damages do happen, take a moment to carefully review your policy documents to understand what’s covered and what’s not. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance company and speak with a representative who can help explain your coverage options. Having good homeowners insurance coverage for your garage door will give you peace of mind and allow you to rest assured that you’re protected from unexpected damages.

Need to get your garage door fixed? Or in need of some maintenance? Bayside Garage Doors is here to assist you anywhere in the Tampa area. Contact us at the following numbers for more information: 813-670-2087 (Hillsborough County), 352-405-1492 (Pasco & Hernando), 727-285-8171 (Pinellas County).

How Does a Garage Door Spring Break?

baysidegaradev on March 18, 2023

A car is a major investment and can be tough to live without. Getting to work, the supermarket, and other stores are made much easier when you own a motor vehicle. Naturally, you want to protect that investment and that is where a garage comes in handy.

A structure for storing your car keeps it out of the elements, protecting the paint and undercarriage from dirt and rust. A garage is also a great place for storing tools and other things you don’t want to keep in the house. Like any other building, a garage must have a door to get in and out. A garage door must be big enough to let a car move through, so the door is larger and operated differently.

The Garage Door Springs

Most garage doors open and close by rolling up on a track and sitting beneath the ceiling. The doors have small wheels attached to the sides that roll on the tracks. Whether the door operates manually or is automatic, it cannot function without the springs. There is one on each side and they serve to pull the door upward when it is unlatched.

Two Types of Springs

There are two different types of springs that are used for garage doors. They are extension springs and torsion springs.

Extension Springs

Extension springs are mounted on the top of the tracks where they sit beneath the roof. They extend when the door is opened, providing a counterbalance to the weight of the door. Extension springs have a safety cable attached in case one breaks.

An extension spring may break if it becomes rusted or overextended. A bracket might also break free. The spring can cause injury to people or damage to the car, garage, or contents. The safety cable prevents the spring from flying free.

Torsion Springs

The other type is the torsion spring. These are more commonly used and as the name implies, work using torsion, or twisting force. The springs are mounted around a shaft and as the garage door is opened or closed, they twist around the shaft. The spring supplies force to make sure the door opens and closes smoothly and stays in position.

Torsion springs can also rust which weakens them and can eventually cause a break. Wear and tear over time can also weaken a torsion spring and cause it to malfunction.

Broken Springs

Whichever type of springs your garage door has, breaking is not uncommon, especially for older springs. If one does break, your garage door will not be functional and will remain in whichever position it was in when the spring broke. At that point, it’s time to call a garage door company to replace the spring. It’s a fairly easy job and your door will be good as new quickly.

A garage is the best place to store your car and without a functional door, it won’t protect your car. If a spring should break or if you have any other problems, contact Bayside Garage Doors at (727) 408-7636 for expert repair service or to install a new door.

Determining Whether Your Garage Door Springs Are Broken

baysidegaradev on December 15, 2021

Broken garage doors can be a major hassle. Being unable to easily open your garage can make storing your car a challenge, an issue that will be rapidly compounded in poor weather. Aside from your vehicle, limited access to items stored in the garage can also be a challenge. If your garage is attached to your home, and serves as a primary entrance, it can even make the process of entering your house an unnecessary hassle.

A common way for garage doors to break is at the springs. There are two springs used to open the door and support its weight, and a break in a spring can be both a nuisance and a safety issue. The latter can be an especially significant concern with young children.

The following tips can help you stay aware of signs of broken garage door springs.

Is the Garage Door Not Opening?

The surest sign of a problem is that the garage doors simply will not open. If this happens, one of the first places to check are the garage door springs. There is a good chance that one or both may be broken. To safely use your garage door, you will need to have the springs replaced immediately.

Do the Garage Door Springs Appear Tight?

Even before you have problems opening the door, there are signs to be attuned for that can suggest a problem may be imminent. One of these is the state of the springs themselves. Take a close look at the springs. Are they coiled tightly? This is what you want to see in the springs.

However, if you see gaps, or inconsistency in the spring coil, this is a surefire sign that there is a problem. It is a good idea to call a garage door professional immediately, to address the problem before it becomes worse and the garage door fails to open.

Are the Garage Door Panels Level, and Properly Aligned?

The garage doors themselves can be another good place to look when seeking problems in the door mechanism. When the garage doors are closed, the panels comprising the door should be level, and correctly aligned.

If the door panels appear uneven to you, or if you notice unusual gaps between the panels, this is another sign that the door mechanism has a problem — and there is a good chance that the springs are the culprit. Once again, it is best to call a professional immediately, to address the problem before it becomes more of an issue.

Fix Your Garage Doors Today

For a variety of reasons, garage doors can develop problems over time. The reasons can range from an accident, to severe weather, to simple overuse. But a broken garage door can be a headache — and even a danger — so it is important to address any potential issues as soon as possible.

Bayside Garage Doors provides high quality garage door repair in Hillsborough County, Pasco & Hernando, and Pinellas County. We have the experience and expertise to address any problems you may be facing, and to swiftly get your garage doors working well again.

Get a free quote – contact us online, or call our team directly at (813) 433-7395 today!