The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is always looking to save you money when we can. The easiest way to do so is by giving you the knowledge to keep your garage door running smoothly with these six tips on preventative maintenance. Read on to find out how to save on garage door repair.
Before Your Start
Before you start on any home improvement project, safety should be the first thing on your mind. If you’re not sure how to safely do garage door preventative maintenance, please call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, and we’ll get the job done for you.
Follow these steps for safe garage door maintenance:
Unplug the door: Make sure to unplug your door so that it does not start moving while you’re working on it.
Use Clamp Locking Pliers: If you are planning to work under the door, attach clamp locking pliers below the rollers to ensure the door won’t move.
Don’t touch the torsion spring: These have enough power to seriously injure you if handled improperly. Call a professional instead.
Inspect Your Garage Door Parts
Before you start blindly tightening and adjusting, take 15 minutes to thoroughly examine all the components of your garage door. Check your rollers for chips, make sure your tracks are level, and test your sensor using the two-by-four test mentioned in last month’s blog. Now is also a prime opportunity to replace the batteries in both your outdoor keypad and your remote openers.
Checking the basic parts of your garage door goes a long way in keeping everything running smoothly. Garage door checks like the one described above make preventative maintenance an easy task, but if you’re not sure about what the individual parts should be doing, the Overhead Door Company is here to help.
Tighten Loose Ends
The natural motion of your garage door can cause nuts and bolts to become shaky. A simple twist with your wrench should keep them in place until the next check-up. If you notice a particular one becoming repeatedly loose, it could be indicative of a larger issue. If this is the case, jump on a quick call to see what we can do for you.
Grease the Tracks… and Roller… and Springs
Making sure everything on your garage door is properly lubricated is by far the easiest way to prevent wear and tear and add years to the life of its components. Before you grease, make sure to wipe down the areas to remove gunky buildup and debris. Next, be sure to know the difference between lubricants so you can coat your setup properly.
Lithium Grease: Thick lubricant applied to the flat surfaces — like the tracks — to prevent friction.
Silicone Spray: Applied to the rollers and hinges leads to smooth operation.
WD-40: An alternative to silicon spray that has to be applied with more frequency because it is alcohol-based.
Replace the Weatherstripping
We’re always singing the praises of having a solid weatherstrip on the bottom of your garage door. It helps to regulate temperature, keeps out critters, and prevents water from seeping in during showers and snowstorms. For an even greater seal, consider adding similar stripping to all four sides.
For Anything Else, Call Us!
We know there are still probably a few items on this list you still might feel uncomfortable performing yourself. That’s where we come in. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is here to help with any garage door preventative maintenance to keep you from having to spend big down the road.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-07-20 07:00:002020-07-17 15:42:50Preventative Maintenance for Your Garage Door
Chances are you haven’t been leaving the house much over the past two months. It’s given you the opportunity to clean your house and work on a number of those nagging projects that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to complete. But now it’s time to take it up a notch. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has compiled a list of things for you to consider before you decide whether converting your garage into a living space is the right move and what garage maintenance comes with it.
Get In The Zone
If you plan on making big adjustments to your garage, you have to get the proper paperwork. Requirements vary depending on your location but you typically need to attain what’s called a conversion permit from your city’s zoning department. Depending on the specific renovations you plan on making — such as raising the floor, adding windows, or putting in a bathroom — you may be required to attain additional permits. Typically, contractors will take care of the paperwork, so this note is directed towards the DIYers out there.
Specific zoning requirements include:
Adding a window to allow natural light and air
A ceiling that is at least 7 ½ feet high
Maintain a temperature of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit
Make sure all electrical outlets are properly spaced
Consider The Cost (And Benefits)
A full-scale garage overhaul and garage maintenance does not come cheap. Adding insulation, finishing floors, and putting in windows all come with significant costs. If you plan on adding plumbing, plan on adding between $10,000 and $20,000 to the cost. That may seem like a lot, but typically, you are able to recoup around 80% of the cost in added value to your home. If you live in a tourist destination you can offset the cost of your renovations, mortgage or living expenses by renting the converted room out on Airbnb or VRBO.
Do You Have Space?
If you’ve got people staying in your garage that means your car — along with everything else you store in your garage — has to be stored somewhere else. That means you’ll need either a spacious driveway or neighborhood with an abundance of street parking. If you live in an area with extremes in temperature, you need to take the proper precautions to protect your vehicle. Also, make sure either your attic or basement can handle the influx of items. Often times, converting your garage can be the impetus to getting rid of unnecessary junk that has built up over the years.
Do You Have The Right Garage Door?
Transforming your garage to a habitable room requires the right garage door. A Thermacore® door from the Overhead Door Company is the perfect piece to kickstart your remodeling project. With its sandwich constructions, these doors were built to keep the temperature of your garage regulated (perfect for complying with the permit above). Set up an appointment with the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today and take the first step to creating the converted garage you’ve always wanted.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-05-11 08:00:002020-05-11 18:11:32Things to Consider Before Converting Your Garage
The average American opens their garage door roughly 1,500 times per year. Once you factor in that the average garage door weighs between 200 and 400 pounds depending on the material and size, you start to get an idea of how hard your opener is working. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has a guide to garage door openers filled with the information you need to know when you’re selecting a new one for your home.
You’ve Got Options
If it hasn’t happened to you yet, it’s bound to happen at some point. You’ll be on your way to work and your garage door won’t open. Your first thought is to go on Google and click on the first garage door repair company you see. However, only the Overhead Door Company has options and expertise to make sure you’re on your way out the door in a timely fashion. Here are some options we provide:
Chain Drive: This is the OG. A chain drive uses a metal chain attached to a motor to raise and lower your door. Though this is one of the most economical and inexpensive versions of the garage door opener, it’s also one of the loudest. If noise is a concern and your garage door is connected to your home, you might want to look elsewhere.
Belt Drive: Swap out that chain for a belt and you arrive here. Nearly as cost-efficient and none of the noise. These openers generally have fewer parts as well so maintenance is a breeze.
Screw Drive: A screw-drive opener uses a threaded steel rod to move the lifting mechanism. As the rod rotates, it drives the trolley along the track to raise or lower the door. It is In between the chain and belt drive in terms of noise and closer to the chain drive in terms of maintenance.
Direct Drive: No belt. No chain. Nothing. With a direct drive garage door opener, the motor is the opener because it’s installed inside the trolley and uses a gear wheel to guide the trolley along a fixed chain.
Wild Horses
Just like your car, the power of garage door openers is measured in horsepower. Almost every option on the market ranges from ⅓ to 1½ horsepower. When choosing the horsepower of your new opener, there are two factors that you need to consider:
How much does my door weigh: As mentioned above, the weight of your garage door can vary based on the type of material. The math here is pretty simple, heavier door = more needed power.
Can the other components handle the power: If you are looking to purchase a new opener and/or door, know you might have to upgrade your hardware — the roller, tracks, springs, etc. You need to make sure your setup is able to evenly distribute your new opener’s power. If not, you’re putting unnecessary pressure on these parts and they’ll wear out faster.
You Only Need Half
In most cases, your garage door should only require a motor with a ½ horsepower. This is the industry standard that can lift most metal and vinyl doors quickly and reliably. If you plan on purchasing a door made of a heavier wood — like the Carriage House Collection — or an ultra-modern glass model — such as Overhead Door’s 511 and 521 models, you might need something with more power.
Invest In Quality Now
It might be tempting to opt for the cheapest opener you come across while searching online. However, this could end up costing you more money down the road. Cheap openers that don’t evenly distribute weight tend not to last as long which means you could be shelling out for a new system sooner than if you had paid a little extra up front.
The Original and Still the Best
We don’t mean to brag, but the Overhead Door Company wrote the book on garage door maintenance, garage door repair, and garage door installation. Our founder, C.G. Johnson, invented the electric garage door opener in 1926 and OHD has made a commitment to innovating ever since. Our staff is trained to work exclusively on garage doors and can help get you exactly what you need to update your garage — from the door to the opener to everything in between.
Feel free to reach out to one of our technicians for more information about how the Overhead Door Company can help you or call today to set up an appointment.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-04-13 08:00:002020-04-06 22:52:34What To Look For When Buying A New Garage Door Opener
The start of spring is the perfect time to boost the curb appeal of your home. The weather is cool, the grass is green, and the front of your home is bursting with possibilities. It’s also the perfect time for a little bit of spring cleaning! And no, that doesn’t mean you have to break out your vacuum. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has listed 7 projects to make your home more eye-catching and more valuable. Keep reading to find out how.
numbers on the board
Have you ever been to a new neighborhood and had difficulty finding the home you’re looking for. Google Maps is letting you down and none of the houses have clearly-labeled numbers. Don’t be that house. There are so many interesting options on today’s market that there’s no need to stick to a drab wooden slab with small numbers. Whether modern, made of metal, neon or surrounded by grass, pick an address plaque that will set you apart from every other house on the block.
Paint It (Anything But) Black
Refresh any part of your home with a brand new coat of paint. Adding a new coat of paint to your home’s exterior can increase its value by up to 5%. Even smaller items — shutters, light fixtures, even patio furniture — become far more eye-catching when bathed in a new veneer of matte or high-gloss. If you are really trying to make an impact, consider a bright pop of color. Try adding a splash of color to your garage door for an easy garage door tune-up.
Power Washing
If you already like the color of your home but are still looking for a refresh, consider powering washing. Using a high-powered stream of water, you or a professional can strip your home of its winter grime. While you’re at it, do the same to your driveway. Removing stains and or leftover salts from the winter will make your concrete look like new and help to extend its life.
Knockin’ on a Heavenly Front Door
What the one thing on your home that everyone interacts with? Your doorknob of course! For less than $50, you can purchase a new knob and knocker that will have everyone talking. You also want something to compliment your new paint job.
Box Out
Show off your green thumb by adding hanging flower boxes to your windows. The extra pop of greenery will instantly make your home look more hospitable and make you look like a professional botanist. Make sure to measure everything in great detail before you start building and think about what type of flowers would complement the outside of your home. The species will dictate how many holes you will need to allow it to retain the necessary amount of water.
Fix Your Driveway
A smooth, even driveway is the best way you can improve your home’s curb appeal. Imagine, a freshly-paved pathway of gorgeous concrete guiding the eye to all the other updates you’ve made to the front of your home.
Add a New Garage Door
With the exception of adding a new kitchen, a new garage door has the biggest impact on increasing the value of your home. Contact the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri to learn about the newest style or download the DoorView app to check out what your dream garage door would look like.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-03-11 08:00:002020-03-03 17:32:21Boost Your Curb Appeal With These 7 Easy Spring Cleaning Tips
In case you need reminding, we’re in the middle of winter. In other words, we’re in the middle of garage door repair season. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, it’s all happening and it’s taking its toll on your garage door. Cold weather can have a lasting impact on your garage door, but the worst is when the freezing temperatures make it stick to the ground. Now you’re stuck waiting for the repairman (who’s running late because remember, it’s winter and everyone and their mother is getting their door fixed too) or trying to chip it out yourself and making what is already a damaged door, worse.
At the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, we want to make sure you’re never stuck waiting for a garage door maintenance team. Below are four easy tricks to help a winter garage door catastrophe from happening and what to do in case it does happen.
Get a Heat Source – Adding a heat source to your garage can help keep your garage door from sticking to the ground due to ice or moisture.
Replace the Seal – Having a fresh weatherstripping seal on your garage door will help keep things running smoothly. Reach out to your local garage door company to see what weatherstripping works best for you.
Use Salt – Using standard kitchen salts are easier on your garage door than the heavy-duty sidewalk salt. Kosher salt can also keep ice away from your weatherstripping and help keep your garage door from getting stuck.
Call an Expert Garage Door Repair Company – If nothing else works, get your garage door maintenance company out to your home or business to take a look at what’s going on.
Bring the Heat
Adding a space heater to your garage is an easy way to ensure two things: your morning walk to the car will be a little more bearable and your garage door will be less likely to stick to the floor. To avoid increasing your electric bill, look for battery-powered models you can run throughout the day. A simple, cheap fix like this can save you from calling a garage door repair team when winter happen. But in case a winter vortex does hit, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is ready for all your winter garage door maintenance needs.
Replace the Seal
The weatherstripping on the bottom of your garage door is usually the first thing to go when the weather turns icy. Even the best seals need to be replaced after a few years. When purchasing a new one, opt for a version made of heavy-duty rubber. Not only will these be less likely to freeze as the temperature drops, but they will also prevent water from creeping inside. If you’re having trouble finding the best weatherstripping or aren’t sure how to get it on your garage door, reach out the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Pass the Salt
Ice melt is essential for survival during midwest winters. However, the premium stuff you sprinkle on your driveway isn’t ideal for putting directly on your weather seal as it can wear down the rubber even faster than the elements. Instead, reach into your pantry and pull out the iodized or kosher varieties to keep those garage door maintenance men at bay. Both do a great job at ridding your garage door of icy debris without any of the unpleasant side effects of the heavy-duty stuff.
Let the Experts Take Care of It
If you’ve taken all the proper steps and your garage door still freezes shut — to the point where you feel uncomfortable messing with it — let one of our garage door specialists come out and handle it. Or, if your door is looking a little worse for wear, consider replacing it before next winter. Either way, give us a call at (573) 243-3111 today!
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-02-13 11:00:372020-02-13 16:34:26How to Keep Your Garage Door From Sticking in 4 Easy Steps
It’s that time of year again. Jack Frost is nipping at your garage door and you need to take the proper steps to protect it so it makes it to the spring. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, has 4 tips to keep your garage operating at peak performance for as long as there is snow on the ground.
Seal the Deal
The weather stripping on the bottom of your garage door might be its most underrated feature. This small strip of rubber does a whole host of jobs: it prevents moisture from sneaking in, regulates the temperature, and keeps the door from freezing to the ground. That’s why this winter, you need to show it some respect by clearing off any icy buildup. If it does freeze, douse it with warm water and let it sit. It should be back to normal in a matter of minutes.
Lubrication
Lubrication is essential for your garage door year-round. Normally, you would only have to worry about greasing up the hinges, roller, tracks, and springs every three months. During the winter, that should increase to once every six weeks. But don’t worry, It’s a relatively simple process that only takes ten minutes to complete.
First, make sure your garage door is down and the power to the opener is unplugged. Next, give the aforementioned parts a gentle wipe down with a rag to clean any dirt or debris. Finally, apply an even coat of lithium-based grease — best because the mixture adheres to the metal with ease — and you’re all set. The benefits are plentiful: your garage door will run smoothly, be protected from the elements, and make far less noise than if you left it untouched.
Check For Material-Specific Damage
Different garage doors take different types of damage. If wood absorbs too much water, it rots. Metal rusts. Even plastics can be adversely affected by driveway salts. Knowing the signs of decay and what to look for can be the difference between replacing a panel and the whole door.
Protect Your Tech
The electronic components of your garage door — the opener, keypad, and photoelectric system (that fancy laser that tells you if anything is keeping your garage door from closing) — are all more susceptible to having their batteries drained during the winter. Switching them out mid-winter will drastically decrease the chances of waking up to a dead battery and your car trapped in your garage.
To set up an appointment, schedule a repair, or get a little more advice about how to care for your garage door this winter, call Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2020-01-13 09:00:312020-01-13 21:26:02Keeping Your Garage Going Through the Winter
With the holidays upon us, many Americans will take the time to make their homes, yards, and offices look seasonally-appropriate. While decorating is a fun way to show your holiday spirit, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri wants to make sure that you do it properly. Below we have included a list of tips on how to decorate in a safe, energy-efficient manner.
Have a Plan
Decorating your home isn’t like decorating the tree, you can’t just haul everything out and hope it all fits. When plotting your decorations, especially your lights, you need to take into account the resources you have at your disposal — like how much room you have and how many sockets are close by. Also, with regards to lights, check the packaging to see how many strands you are able to connect and then safely plug into a single outlet. Doing so will ensure that you have a sparkling display instead of a fire hazard.
Torn and Frayed
Speaking of fire hazards, now is also the time to double-check the condition of your wires, plugs, and electric-powered decorations. After spending months in the attic, bulbs can crack and wires can fray meaning that sparks could fly – and not in a good way. Thoroughly inspect everything you want to put up and repair or replace anything that is not up to code.
Consider the Ladder
Once you have the lights and decorations picked out, it’s time to get the proper gear to hang them. Chances are you will need a ladder to reach the tippy-top of the tree and the frame of your home. Instead of using a metal ladder, which can conduct electricity, consider using a wood, rubber, or plastic one as a safer alternative.
Once you are up there, make sure you have someone on the ground holding you down. Even if you have the sturdiest ladder in the world, it is still good to have a buddy at the base to provide extra stability and peace of mind.
Hit the Lights
Once your home is ready for Santa and his sleigh, you should be good to go, right? Well, not quite. Just because your house can light up the night sky doesn’t mean you should do so all the time. The average American household can increase its electric bill by up to $200 for the month of December if they choose to turn on their lights every night. Instead of paying a hefty bill, pick and choose certain days to light up — your wallet and the environment will thank you.
For more decoration tips, or to get a new garage door for the holidays, contact the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today!
Everyone has heard of spring cleaning, but at the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, we are offering an alternative that we are calling fall organizing. Below, we have listed a number of easy hacks that you can do at home in order to get a clean, organized garage before winter. Read on to find out more.
From the Window to the Wall
Maximizing your wall space goes a long way in getting your garage clean. A good place to start? Adding a pegboard. A wall-sized pegboard is a great way to store tons of items in an easily-accessible fashion. Not only that, but you can install small drawers or baskets to give you a place to hold small items like nuts and bolts alongside the tools you use them with. If you are looking to take it up a level, you can even make an outline of every tool so cleanup from big projects is a simple game of match instead of a giant jigsaw puzzle.
Going Vertical
You know the saying “there’s nowhere to go but up”? Well, that definitely applies to your garage. We recommend maximizing the space in your garage by thinking about it in the most vertical way possible. For instance, if you are considering adding a basket or drawer to hold things, you might as well add a full stack of them in order to best utilize the space.
The same goes for big-ticket items such as bikes. If you have found a space that can comfortably fit one, double up and add an additional hanger. You might even consider a ceiling rack if you have the room up top. This way, you will have more valuable floor space and you won’t have to do a full-scale rearrange just to get to a particular item.
Think Like a Superstore
Stores like Walmart and Target are designed to comfortably fit the maximum amount of products in the least amount of space which is exactly what your goal should be with your garage floor. Those wire ball racks you see in the sporting goods section? They are good for more than just showing off your rapidly-fading jump shot. They actually make for a great (vertically-efficient) way to keep your kids’ basketballs, soccer balls, and volleyballs from rolling under your car.
Also, think about creating specific zones. Having a work station, lawn/driveway care section, toy area, and pet place (if applicable) mean that you will be able to easily find whatever you need. If you need more help getting your garage organized, or a new door to cover it, call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today!
It’s that time of year again. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has your annual winterization checklist to make sure you won’t have to worry about your garage from December to March – because, unfortunately, winter technically does not end until March. Keep reading for everything you need to know about turning your garage door into a snow barrier.
Seal the Deal
The weatherstrip on the bottom of your garage door may be the single most underrated part of your entire setup. This small strip of rubber does a huge amount of work by keeping the cold from sneaking underneath the base of the door, preventing water from seeping in, and saving your door’s bottom panel from rot and rust. What’s even better is that replacing the weatherstrip won’t cost you an arm and a leg. In fact, you can find a solid replacement at almost every major hardware store for less than $60.
It’s Coming in Through the Cracks
Fun fact: the outlets in your garage are the source of anywhere from two to five percent of air infiltration. That means leaving them unsealed could be costing you some real money. The easy fix? Buy a can of expandable foam caulk to cover up those areas where heat escapes from.
Insulate Yourself From the Outside World
Well, that may be a bit much, however, adding insulation to your garage certainly is not. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri already offers Thermacore® doors that feature our sandwich construction of steel-polyurethane-steel as well as between-section seals with thermal breaks to reduce air infiltration. On top of that, you should consider adding insulation to the walls of your garage to help trap even more heat and make your garage feel like your living room (again, maybe a bit much). As a bonus, adding this temperature-regulating substance will also keep it cool when the sun finally decides to return.
Blanket Yourself in Savings
Since you are theoretically insulating your entire garage, you might as well insulate everything inside of it as well. Wrapping insulated blankets around your water heater and pipes means that they won’t have to work as hard when they are heating your morning shower. In turn, your water bill is going to look a lot more pleasing. You can also spend an extra minute(s) enjoying that glorious hot water without feeling guilty.
For more tips on winter-proofing, or to get a garage door that can handle the elements, call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today.
https://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.png00Houston Wiltseyhttps://overheaddoorsemo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ohd_southeast_missouri_logo_tm.pngHouston Wiltsey2019-10-01 08:00:252019-09-30 16:30:17Winter-Proofing Your Garage? Just Follow These 4 Steps.
Preventative Maintenance for Your Garage Door
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyThe Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is always looking to save you money when we can. The easiest way to do so is by giving you the knowledge to keep your garage door running smoothly with these six tips on preventative maintenance. Read on to find out how to save on garage door repair.
Before Your Start
Before you start on any home improvement project, safety should be the first thing on your mind. If you’re not sure how to safely do garage door preventative maintenance, please call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, and we’ll get the job done for you.
Follow these steps for safe garage door maintenance:
Inspect Your Garage Door Parts
Before you start blindly tightening and adjusting, take 15 minutes to thoroughly examine all the components of your garage door. Check your rollers for chips, make sure your tracks are level, and test your sensor using the two-by-four test mentioned in last month’s blog. Now is also a prime opportunity to replace the batteries in both your outdoor keypad and your remote openers.
Checking the basic parts of your garage door goes a long way in keeping everything running smoothly. Garage door checks like the one described above make preventative maintenance an easy task, but if you’re not sure about what the individual parts should be doing, the Overhead Door Company is here to help.
Tighten Loose Ends
The natural motion of your garage door can cause nuts and bolts to become shaky. A simple twist with your wrench should keep them in place until the next check-up. If you notice a particular one becoming repeatedly loose, it could be indicative of a larger issue. If this is the case, jump on a quick call to see what we can do for you.
Grease the Tracks… and Roller… and Springs
Making sure everything on your garage door is properly lubricated is by far the easiest way to prevent wear and tear and add years to the life of its components. Before you grease, make sure to wipe down the areas to remove gunky buildup and debris. Next, be sure to know the difference between lubricants so you can coat your setup properly.
Replace the Weatherstripping
We’re always singing the praises of having a solid weatherstrip on the bottom of your garage door. It helps to regulate temperature, keeps out critters, and prevents water from seeping in during showers and snowstorms. For an even greater seal, consider adding similar stripping to all four sides.
For Anything Else, Call Us!
We know there are still probably a few items on this list you still might feel uncomfortable performing yourself. That’s where we come in. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is here to help with any garage door preventative maintenance to keep you from having to spend big down the road.
(573) 243-3111
Garage Door Safety Month Infographic
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyThings to Consider Before Converting Your Garage
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyChances are you haven’t been leaving the house much over the past two months. It’s given you the opportunity to clean your house and work on a number of those nagging projects that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to complete. But now it’s time to take it up a notch. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has compiled a list of things for you to consider before you decide whether converting your garage into a living space is the right move and what garage maintenance comes with it.
Get In The Zone
If you plan on making big adjustments to your garage, you have to get the proper paperwork. Requirements vary depending on your location but you typically need to attain what’s called a conversion permit from your city’s zoning department. Depending on the specific renovations you plan on making — such as raising the floor, adding windows, or putting in a bathroom — you may be required to attain additional permits. Typically, contractors will take care of the paperwork, so this note is directed towards the DIYers out there.
Specific zoning requirements include:
Consider The Cost (And Benefits)
A full-scale garage overhaul and garage maintenance does not come cheap. Adding insulation, finishing floors, and putting in windows all come with significant costs. If you plan on adding plumbing, plan on adding between $10,000 and $20,000 to the cost. That may seem like a lot, but typically, you are able to recoup around 80% of the cost in added value to your home. If you live in a tourist destination you can offset the cost of your renovations, mortgage or living expenses by renting the converted room out on Airbnb or VRBO.
Do You Have Space?
If you’ve got people staying in your garage that means your car — along with everything else you store in your garage — has to be stored somewhere else. That means you’ll need either a spacious driveway or neighborhood with an abundance of street parking. If you live in an area with extremes in temperature, you need to take the proper precautions to protect your vehicle. Also, make sure either your attic or basement can handle the influx of items. Often times, converting your garage can be the impetus to getting rid of unnecessary junk that has built up over the years.
Do You Have The Right Garage Door?
Transforming your garage to a habitable room requires the right garage door. A Thermacore® door from the Overhead Door Company is the perfect piece to kickstart your remodeling project. With its sandwich constructions, these doors were built to keep the temperature of your garage regulated (perfect for complying with the permit above). Set up an appointment with the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today and take the first step to creating the converted garage you’ve always wanted.
(573) 243-3111
What To Look For When Buying A New Garage Door Opener
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyThe average American opens their garage door roughly 1,500 times per year. Once you factor in that the average garage door weighs between 200 and 400 pounds depending on the material and size, you start to get an idea of how hard your opener is working. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has a guide to garage door openers filled with the information you need to know when you’re selecting a new one for your home.
You’ve Got Options
If it hasn’t happened to you yet, it’s bound to happen at some point. You’ll be on your way to work and your garage door won’t open. Your first thought is to go on Google and click on the first garage door repair company you see. However, only the Overhead Door Company has options and expertise to make sure you’re on your way out the door in a timely fashion. Here are some options we provide:
Wild Horses
Just like your car, the power of garage door openers is measured in horsepower. Almost every option on the market ranges from ⅓ to 1½ horsepower. When choosing the horsepower of your new opener, there are two factors that you need to consider:
You Only Need Half
In most cases, your garage door should only require a motor with a ½ horsepower. This is the industry standard that can lift most metal and vinyl doors quickly and reliably. If you plan on purchasing a door made of a heavier wood — like the Carriage House Collection — or an ultra-modern glass model — such as Overhead Door’s 511 and 521 models, you might need something with more power.
Invest In Quality Now
It might be tempting to opt for the cheapest opener you come across while searching online. However, this could end up costing you more money down the road. Cheap openers that don’t evenly distribute weight tend not to last as long which means you could be shelling out for a new system sooner than if you had paid a little extra up front.
The Original and Still the Best
We don’t mean to brag, but the Overhead Door Company wrote the book on garage door maintenance, garage door repair, and garage door installation. Our founder, C.G. Johnson, invented the electric garage door opener in 1926 and OHD has made a commitment to innovating ever since. Our staff is trained to work exclusively on garage doors and can help get you exactly what you need to update your garage — from the door to the opener to everything in between.
Feel free to reach out to one of our technicians for more information about how the Overhead Door Company can help you or call today to set up an appointment.
(573) 243-3111
Boost Your Curb Appeal With These 7 Easy Spring Cleaning Tips
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyThe start of spring is the perfect time to boost the curb appeal of your home. The weather is cool, the grass is green, and the front of your home is bursting with possibilities. It’s also the perfect time for a little bit of spring cleaning! And no, that doesn’t mean you have to break out your vacuum. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has listed 7 projects to make your home more eye-catching and more valuable. Keep reading to find out how.
numbers on the board
Have you ever been to a new neighborhood and had difficulty finding the home you’re looking for. Google Maps is letting you down and none of the houses have clearly-labeled numbers. Don’t be that house. There are so many interesting options on today’s market that there’s no need to stick to a drab wooden slab with small numbers. Whether modern, made of metal, neon or surrounded by grass, pick an address plaque that will set you apart from every other house on the block.
Paint It (Anything But) Black
Refresh any part of your home with a brand new coat of paint. Adding a new coat of paint to your home’s exterior can increase its value by up to 5%. Even smaller items — shutters, light fixtures, even patio furniture — become far more eye-catching when bathed in a new veneer of matte or high-gloss. If you are really trying to make an impact, consider a bright pop of color. Try adding a splash of color to your garage door for an easy garage door tune-up.
Power Washing
If you already like the color of your home but are still looking for a refresh, consider powering washing. Using a high-powered stream of water, you or a professional can strip your home of its winter grime. While you’re at it, do the same to your driveway. Removing stains and or leftover salts from the winter will make your concrete look like new and help to extend its life.
Knockin’ on a Heavenly Front Door
What the one thing on your home that everyone interacts with? Your doorknob of course! For less than $50, you can purchase a new knob and knocker that will have everyone talking. You also want something to compliment your new paint job.
Box Out
Show off your green thumb by adding hanging flower boxes to your windows. The extra pop of greenery will instantly make your home look more hospitable and make you look like a professional botanist. Make sure to measure everything in great detail before you start building and think about what type of flowers would complement the outside of your home. The species will dictate how many holes you will need to allow it to retain the necessary amount of water.
Fix Your Driveway
A smooth, even driveway is the best way you can improve your home’s curb appeal. Imagine, a freshly-paved pathway of gorgeous concrete guiding the eye to all the other updates you’ve made to the front of your home.
Add a New Garage Door
With the exception of adding a new kitchen, a new garage door has the biggest impact on increasing the value of your home. Contact the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri to learn about the newest style or download the DoorView app to check out what your dream garage door would look like.
(573) 243-3111
How to Keep Your Garage Door From Sticking in 4 Easy Steps
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyIn case you need reminding, we’re in the middle of winter. In other words, we’re in the middle of garage door repair season. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, it’s all happening and it’s taking its toll on your garage door. Cold weather can have a lasting impact on your garage door, but the worst is when the freezing temperatures make it stick to the ground. Now you’re stuck waiting for the repairman (who’s running late because remember, it’s winter and everyone and their mother is getting their door fixed too) or trying to chip it out yourself and making what is already a damaged door, worse.
At the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, we want to make sure you’re never stuck waiting for a garage door maintenance team. Below are four easy tricks to help a winter garage door catastrophe from happening and what to do in case it does happen.
Bring the Heat
Adding a space heater to your garage is an easy way to ensure two things: your morning walk to the car will be a little more bearable and your garage door will be less likely to stick to the floor. To avoid increasing your electric bill, look for battery-powered models you can run throughout the day. A simple, cheap fix like this can save you from calling a garage door repair team when winter happen. But in case a winter vortex does hit, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri is ready for all your winter garage door maintenance needs.
Replace the Seal
The weatherstripping on the bottom of your garage door is usually the first thing to go when the weather turns icy. Even the best seals need to be replaced after a few years. When purchasing a new one, opt for a version made of heavy-duty rubber. Not only will these be less likely to freeze as the temperature drops, but they will also prevent water from creeping inside. If you’re having trouble finding the best weatherstripping or aren’t sure how to get it on your garage door, reach out the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Pass the Salt
Ice melt is essential for survival during midwest winters. However, the premium stuff you sprinkle on your driveway isn’t ideal for putting directly on your weather seal as it can wear down the rubber even faster than the elements. Instead, reach into your pantry and pull out the iodized or kosher varieties to keep those garage door maintenance men at bay. Both do a great job at ridding your garage door of icy debris without any of the unpleasant side effects of the heavy-duty stuff.
Let the Experts Take Care of It
If you’ve taken all the proper steps and your garage door still freezes shut — to the point where you feel uncomfortable messing with it — let one of our garage door specialists come out and handle it. Or, if your door is looking a little worse for wear, consider replacing it before next winter. Either way, give us a call at (573) 243-3111 today!
Keeping Your Garage Going Through the Winter
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyIt’s that time of year again. Jack Frost is nipping at your garage door and you need to take the proper steps to protect it so it makes it to the spring. Below, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, has 4 tips to keep your garage operating at peak performance for as long as there is snow on the ground.
Seal the Deal
The weather stripping on the bottom of your garage door might be its most underrated feature. This small strip of rubber does a whole host of jobs: it prevents moisture from sneaking in, regulates the temperature, and keeps the door from freezing to the ground. That’s why this winter, you need to show it some respect by clearing off any icy buildup. If it does freeze, douse it with warm water and let it sit. It should be back to normal in a matter of minutes.
Lubrication
Lubrication is essential for your garage door year-round. Normally, you would only have to worry about greasing up the hinges, roller, tracks, and springs every three months. During the winter, that should increase to once every six weeks. But don’t worry, It’s a relatively simple process that only takes ten minutes to complete.
First, make sure your garage door is down and the power to the opener is unplugged. Next, give the aforementioned parts a gentle wipe down with a rag to clean any dirt or debris. Finally, apply an even coat of lithium-based grease — best because the mixture adheres to the metal with ease — and you’re all set. The benefits are plentiful: your garage door will run smoothly, be protected from the elements, and make far less noise than if you left it untouched.
Check For Material-Specific Damage
Different garage doors take different types of damage. If wood absorbs too much water, it rots. Metal rusts. Even plastics can be adversely affected by driveway salts. Knowing the signs of decay and what to look for can be the difference between replacing a panel and the whole door.
Protect Your Tech
The electronic components of your garage door — the opener, keypad, and photoelectric system (that fancy laser that tells you if anything is keeping your garage door from closing) — are all more susceptible to having their batteries drained during the winter. Switching them out mid-winter will drastically decrease the chances of waking up to a dead battery and your car trapped in your garage.
To set up an appointment, schedule a repair, or get a little more advice about how to care for your garage door this winter, call Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today.
(573) 243-3111
Overhead Door’s Guide to Holiday Decorating
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyWith the holidays upon us, many Americans will take the time to make their homes, yards, and offices look seasonally-appropriate. While decorating is a fun way to show your holiday spirit, the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri wants to make sure that you do it properly. Below we have included a list of tips on how to decorate in a safe, energy-efficient manner.
Have a Plan
Decorating your home isn’t like decorating the tree, you can’t just haul everything out and hope it all fits. When plotting your decorations, especially your lights, you need to take into account the resources you have at your disposal — like how much room you have and how many sockets are close by. Also, with regards to lights, check the packaging to see how many strands you are able to connect and then safely plug into a single outlet. Doing so will ensure that you have a sparkling display instead of a fire hazard.
Torn and Frayed
Speaking of fire hazards, now is also the time to double-check the condition of your wires, plugs, and electric-powered decorations. After spending months in the attic, bulbs can crack and wires can fray meaning that sparks could fly – and not in a good way. Thoroughly inspect everything you want to put up and repair or replace anything that is not up to code.
Consider the Ladder
Once you have the lights and decorations picked out, it’s time to get the proper gear to hang them. Chances are you will need a ladder to reach the tippy-top of the tree and the frame of your home. Instead of using a metal ladder, which can conduct electricity, consider using a wood, rubber, or plastic one as a safer alternative.
Once you are up there, make sure you have someone on the ground holding you down. Even if you have the sturdiest ladder in the world, it is still good to have a buddy at the base to provide extra stability and peace of mind.
Hit the Lights
Once your home is ready for Santa and his sleigh, you should be good to go, right? Well, not quite. Just because your house can light up the night sky doesn’t mean you should do so all the time. The average American household can increase its electric bill by up to $200 for the month of December if they choose to turn on their lights every night. Instead of paying a hefty bill, pick and choose certain days to light up — your wallet and the environment will thank you.
For more decoration tips, or to get a new garage door for the holidays, contact the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today!
(573) 243-3111
Fall Garage Storage Tips
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyEveryone has heard of spring cleaning, but at the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri, we are offering an alternative that we are calling fall organizing. Below, we have listed a number of easy hacks that you can do at home in order to get a clean, organized garage before winter. Read on to find out more.
From the Window to the Wall
Maximizing your wall space goes a long way in getting your garage clean. A good place to start? Adding a pegboard. A wall-sized pegboard is a great way to store tons of items in an easily-accessible fashion. Not only that, but you can install small drawers or baskets to give you a place to hold small items like nuts and bolts alongside the tools you use them with. If you are looking to take it up a level, you can even make an outline of every tool so cleanup from big projects is a simple game of match instead of a giant jigsaw puzzle.
Going Vertical
You know the saying “there’s nowhere to go but up”? Well, that definitely applies to your garage. We recommend maximizing the space in your garage by thinking about it in the most vertical way possible. For instance, if you are considering adding a basket or drawer to hold things, you might as well add a full stack of them in order to best utilize the space.
The same goes for big-ticket items such as bikes. If you have found a space that can comfortably fit one, double up and add an additional hanger. You might even consider a ceiling rack if you have the room up top. This way, you will have more valuable floor space and you won’t have to do a full-scale rearrange just to get to a particular item.
Think Like a Superstore
Stores like Walmart and Target are designed to comfortably fit the maximum amount of products in the least amount of space which is exactly what your goal should be with your garage floor. Those wire ball racks you see in the sporting goods section? They are good for more than just showing off your rapidly-fading jump shot. They actually make for a great (vertically-efficient) way to keep your kids’ basketballs, soccer balls, and volleyballs from rolling under your car.
Also, think about creating specific zones. Having a work station, lawn/driveway care section, toy area, and pet place (if applicable) mean that you will be able to easily find whatever you need.
If you need more help getting your garage organized, or a new door to cover it, call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today!
(573) 243-3111
Winter-Proofing Your Garage? Just Follow These 4 Steps.
/in Uncategorized /by Houston WiltseyIt’s that time of year again. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri has your annual winterization checklist to make sure you won’t have to worry about your garage from December to March – because, unfortunately, winter technically does not end until March. Keep reading for everything you need to know about turning your garage door into a snow barrier.
Seal the Deal
The weatherstrip on the bottom of your garage door may be the single most underrated part of your entire setup. This small strip of rubber does a huge amount of work by keeping the cold from sneaking underneath the base of the door, preventing water from seeping in, and saving your door’s bottom panel from rot and rust. What’s even better is that replacing the weatherstrip won’t cost you an arm and a leg. In fact, you can find a solid replacement at almost every major hardware store for less than $60.
It’s Coming in Through the Cracks
Fun fact: the outlets in your garage are the source of anywhere from two to five percent of air infiltration. That means leaving them unsealed could be costing you some real money. The easy fix? Buy a can of expandable foam caulk to cover up those areas where heat escapes from.
Insulate Yourself From the Outside World
Well, that may be a bit much, however, adding insulation to your garage certainly is not. The Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri already offers Thermacore® doors that feature our sandwich construction of steel-polyurethane-steel as well as between-section seals with thermal breaks to reduce air infiltration. On top of that, you should consider adding insulation to the walls of your garage to help trap even more heat and make your garage feel like your living room (again, maybe a bit much). As a bonus, adding this temperature-regulating substance will also keep it cool when the sun finally decides to return.
Blanket Yourself in Savings
Since you are theoretically insulating your entire garage, you might as well insulate everything inside of it as well. Wrapping insulated blankets around your water heater and pipes means that they won’t have to work as hard when they are heating your morning shower. In turn, your water bill is going to look a lot more pleasing. You can also spend an extra minute(s) enjoying that glorious hot water without feeling guilty.
For more tips on winter-proofing, or to get a garage door that can handle the elements, call the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Missouri today.
(573) 243-3111