Installing a new garage door on old tracks may seem to be a simple money-saving solution when replacing your worn-out or damaged residential garage door. However, many homeowners do not adequately consider the potential safety hazards and risks involved in this decision. While you could install a new garage door on old tracks, it is vital consider the following before chasing the opportunity to save a few dollars.

Benefits of Installing a New Garage Door on Old Tracks

Under certain conditions, a new garage door can be installed on old tracks, which offers homeowners a range of benefits. Below are some advantages of reusing old tracks when installing new garage doors:

Cost Savings

One of the primary benefits of reusing old tracks is that it significantly reduces the overall cost of garage door replacement. Purchasing new tracks can add to the cost, so homeowners may opt to use existing tracks as a way to save money without compromising functionality or safety.

Time Efficiency

Installing a new garage door on existing tracks can save considerable time during the replacement process. Additional preparation and adjustments are required to install new tracks, which can prolong the installation timeline. Reusing old tracks eliminates the need for such alterations, streamlining the entire process.

Compatibility

Old tracks might be compatible with certain garage door models, making them a suitable option for installation. When the existing tracks align with the specifications of the new garage door, it ensures a seamless fit and smooth operation. When the new garage door is compatible with the existing tracks, homeowners can upgrade their garage doors without the hassle of searching for new tracks that perfectly match their door's requirements.

Considerations When Installing a New Garage Door on Old Tracks

Type of Garage Door

Replacing a garage door on old tracks is only feasible if you stick to the same brand. Each brand has a unique door style that must align with the track dimensions. Using mismatched parts can cause the track brackets to bend or become misaligned.

Thickness and Weight

The new garage door should match the weight and thickness of the old one. If not, the horizontal tracks may fail to support the door adequately.

Garage Door Materials

If your old tracks are made of galvanized steel and are in good condition, they can be reused as they are rust resistant. However, if your garage door is made of a lighter material and the tracks are aluminum, ensure their condition is suitable before reuse.

Other Key Factors

Consider the garage door opener's headroom, location, and size, as these factors can also affect the horizontal tracks.

Old Tracks vs. New Modern Tracks

Material & Construction

Modern garage door tracks are predominantly crafted from galvanized steel, providing superior resistance to rust and corrosion compared to older tracks. Furthermore, new tracks boast sturdier construction, enhancing their durability and lifespan.

Design Features

New garage door tracks have innovative design features that elevate performance and safety. For instance, some modern tracks incorporate rolled edges to minimize the risk of finger injuries and can be adjusted to ensure a perfect fit for your garage door.

Compatibility with Modern Garage Doors

Today's garage doors are often more substantial and better insulated than their older counterparts. To accommodate these enhancements, new tracks are designed to provide proper support and seamless operation, ensuring optimal compatibility with modern garage doors.

Conclusion

Investing in a new garage door track could save you money over the long term. Trying to cut costs during the initial installation might lead to significant expenses in the future when more severe issues arise. If you're uncertain about how to proceed, contact Door Doctor.

With over 40 years of experience as a garage door expert, we handle everything from routine maintenance to new installations with the utmost proficiency. Trust us to ensure your job is completed flawlessly. 

We all know that front doors set the tone for your home. They are the point of entry. Homeowners take great care in choosing a paint colour for their front door. But front doors aren’t the only way point of aesthetic appeal in your house. The garage door is also something you use to enter and exit daily. So it does become important to ask yourself: “Does the colour of my garage door matter?” 

Initially, this question might not even seem that important. After all, people barely glance at the garage door, right? 

Wrong! Garage doors are crucial for improving your house’s overall appearance and curb appeal. They have a vast surface area and are a significant part of your house’s exterior. Door Doctor will explain how to select the right garage door colour and why this choice is important. 

Why Choosing the Right Colour for Your Garage Door Matters

You may think that your garage door colour doesn’t matter. But colour matters on the exterior of your home, just as it does on the inside, even on your garage door. 

A well-chosen garage door colour that complements your property has several positive impacts. 

• Your home looks refreshed and updated. 
• It adds curb appeal to your property. 
• It adds value to your property. 
• It makes your home more inviting. 
• It can help enhance and complement the rest of your exterior decor. 

Factors to Consider While Choosing Garage Door Paint Colour

Your Door Material

Modern garage doors are usually made of either wood, steel, aluminum or vinyl. Try to choose a colour that enhances the material of your garage door. This is where the issue of garage door colour takes shape. 

Wood: Garage doors made of wood already have naturally beautiful colours that could be obscured by coloured paint. If you have a wooden garage door, you should opt for a semi-transparent or translucent finish. Giving your wooden garage door a high-quality finish can really amp up the curb appeal of your home. 

Aluminum: Aluminum garage doors are usually available in several basic colours. But if you want to paint your aluminum garage door, ensure that you prepare the metal with an oil primer. 

Vinyl: Vinyl garage doors take more effort to paint. They require several coats for the paint to actually stick to the door’s surface. 

Current Exterior Colours

The exterior of your house usually has three primary colour schemes—the outdoor fixtures, the visible walls on the exterior, and the roof. Opt for a garage door colour that strikes the right balance between these colour palettes. If you already have a lot of fancy outdoor fixtures, opt for a softer colour. If you want to make a bold statement, choose a contrasting colour that makes your garage door pop! 

When choosing a garage door colour, consider your home’s exterior design as a whole. Choosing the same colour for the garage door as the rest of your exterior can make your house look bigger. If you want the garage door to stand out, choose a colour that makes it pop. Each colour tends to evoke a different feeling for your home. 

Green: A dark green garage door gives your home exterior a luxurious look and can enhance the beauty of your house. 

Red: The colour red will attract the most attention and can make your garage door the focal point. 

Blue: Blue is also a popular choice for garage doors, as it has a calming effect and provides a subtle aesthetic boost. 

Black: Black is another bold colour that adds sophistication. It pairs especially well with white exteriors. 

The Style of House

When choosing your garage door colour, it is important to consider your house’s architectural style. If you have a modern home, your garage door will look best in bold, dark colours that make a statement. Think about whether you want your garage door to pop or if you want a more complementary colour that blends in with the rest of the street. 

If your home is has a fairly relaxed exterior, choose colour palettes with soft whites and breezy blues. Your garage door colour should be consistent with your house’s theme and style. Otherwise, you can end up with odd, conflicting colour combinations that make your home less attractive.

The Landscaping

Last, but not least, it is worth selecting a garage door colour that complements your landscaping! Like any of the outdoor fixtures and colours, the landscaping on your property is a huge factor in choosing your garage door colour. 

If your property has a lot of shrubs and trees, you want to find a colour that complements them. If you have flowers and shrubbery in your garden, choose a more traditional colour so that the landscape doesn’t clash with the modern garage door colour. 

Don’ts for Selecting a Garage Door Colour

Whether you are choosing a garage door for your new home or upgrading your current home’s garage door, here are the major DON’Ts when choosing a garage door colour.

DON’T be too trendy: A hot pink or aqua blue garage door sounds super exciting but take a second to imagine what you will think about it a year down the line. You don’t want people wondering, “What were they thinking?” when they see your garage door. 

DON’T make your garage door the focal point: Sure, you want people to notice your garage door, but it shouldn’t be the central focus of your exterior. Your garage door should complement your front door, which is the actual showstopper.

DON’T match your garage door to your front door: This should be avoided, especially if you have painted your front door a bold blue or red. The front door should be the main attention-grabbing feature of your exterior.   

Enhance the Beauty of Your Home with Door Doctor Garage Doors

If you have decided to give your garage door a much-needed facelift now that you know that your garage door colour matters, then Door Doctor is here for you. 

Our huge variety of garage doors for residential properties offers many options to choose from. Request a residential quote and learn all about our expert skills in making your garage door one of the most beautiful features of your home exterior.  

Contact us by calling the office in your region or 1-800-663-3130. You can also book an appointment online.

Door Doctor - Where you never have to choose between quality and aesthetics.

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.