Understanding Common Garage Door Sizes

Whether you’re replacing an old garage door, renovating and exploring new sizes, or getting a bigger garage, accurate sizing is essential. Whether you’re replacing a garage door, renovating an existing space, or building a new home, understanding common overhead garage door sizes will help you find a door that operates smoothly and enhances your home’s appearance.

Why Does Garage Door Size Matter?

Your garage door needs to be the right size to work properly. A correctly sized garage door opens and closes easily and works well alongside the other garage door components. It also adds to the door’s safety and will preserve your home’s value.

The size of your garage door opening will determine the door you need. Accurate measurements are crucial to getting the right garage door size. They ensure you don’t have to customize a door that doesn’t fit properly, saving you time and money.

Standard Garage Door Sizes

Garage doors are available in standard sizes, making choosing the one you need relatively straightforward. The order of the measurement is always width first, then height.

You can use these common overhead garage door sizes to determine the door you’ll need:

Single door sizes: These garage doors fit in garages big enough for one car. One-car garage door dimensions range from 8 feet to 9 feet wide and 7 feet to 8 feet high. The most common size is 8 feet wide by 7 feet high.
Double door sizes: A standard two-car garage door size, or double garage door, is 16-18 feet wide and 7-8 feet tall. The most common size is 16 by 7 feet.

Custom Sizes

Larger-sized doors are suitable for bigger vehicles like RVs, or if you have several cars:

Custom and RV sizes: RVs can be big or small, and these garage doors come in various sizes to accommodate different RV types. Common RV garage door sizes are 10-14 feet wide and 10-16 feet high. Usual sizes range from 12-14 feet wide to 12-16 feet high.

Measuring Your Garage Door Opening

It’s important to take precise measurements to ensure you order the correct size door. All measurements should be in feet and inches. You’ll need (USE AN EXPERT)to measure the height and width of the framed opening where your new door will be installed. You will also want to take these additional measurements:

Headroom: The space above the door for overhead tracks, springs and the door itself.
Left and right side room: This is the distance on each side of the door.
Backroom: This is the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage.

Features like low beams or sloped ceilings may affect the space the door and opener need to operate safely. One of the benefits of hiring an experienced garage door company to install your new door is that their technicians will know how to take accurate measurements to ensure you get the right size.

How to Choose the Right Garage Door Size for Your Needs

Whatever the reason for getting a new garage door, it can be helpful to think ahead. You may discover you need to renovate to make the space smaller or bigger. If you plan on buying a second car in the future, you will require more parking space. Some other factors to consider:

Vehicle size: Is your vehicle smaller or bigger than usual, or do you plan to downsize at some point?
Garage dimensions: Do you have a standard garage, or was it built with a taller ceiling to accommodate large trucks or recreational vehicles? If you have a nonstandard garage door opening, you may need to order a door that allows custom sizing.
Storage and free space needed: Consider if you have too much or too little space in your garage.

Retrofitting and Replacing Existing Garage Doors

Dreaming of a bigger or smaller garage door? Retrofitting your existing garage can be a fantastic way to modernize your space and often proves more economical than a complete garage overhaul. At Consolidated Garage Doors, we specialize in seamless retrofits, offering expert assessments to determine the perfect door size and style for your needs. Our experienced team ensures a smooth installation process, minimizing disruption and maximizing the value of your home.

Find the Right Garage Door Size With Our Experts

At Consolidated Garage Doors, we have a team of seasoned professionals ready to provide SOLID SERVICE. We use only premium tools and leading industry methods to offer comprehensive consultations for an accurately fitting door. With decades of experience delivering quality work, your garage door is in the right hands with us.

Complete this online form today to get in touch with us, and one of our experts will follow up with you promptly.

Smart Garage Doors + myQ® Technology

Smart homes have become more popular in recent years due to their attractive benefits, from incredible convenience to the security they bring. You can make your existing garage door smart or purchase a new garage door opener compatible with myQ technology. MyQ provides state-of-the-art solutions in the smart garage door market, offering advanced features to make your home more secure and provide the convenience to open your garage door from anywhere on your phone.

At Consolidated Garage Doors, we’re the leading garage door dealer for all your smart garage door needs. Whether you want a more integrated home system or need to beef up security, we go above and beyond by providing core products with added features and accessories that offer streamlined solutions.

What You Need to Know About myQ Technology

MyQ technology uses smart systems like your Wi-Fi connection, mobile apps and other technologies to work alongside your garage door. When you have a myQ garage door opener, the garage door does more than just open and close, offering innovative technology that gives you more control. If your garage door opener was manufactured in or before 1993, you’ll need to replace it with a modern version.

Some features of a smart garage door include:

Remote monitoring and management: You can check the status of your garage door, like whether it’s open or closed, from anywhere on a mobile device. Remote management also allows you to close or open the door remotely, and some systems have video camera capabilities.
Real-time notifications: Get notified when your garage door opens or closes, giving you peace of mind knowing when your loved ones leave or return home.
Scheduling capabilities: Seamlessly control the operation of your garage door at your fingertips. Set times for when the garage door opens and for the lights to switch on, like when you return home.

Expand Your Smart Garage Door With Must-Have myQ Accessories

Where myQ technology makes it easier to manage your garage door, adding cutting-edge accessories enables the door to do more. With smart integrations like LiftMaster® myQ accessories, controlling your garage door is effortless.

Integrating smart features is one of the best upgrades if you want a garage door opener that provides multiple easy-to-use options for controlling your garage door.

MyQ Smart Garage Hub

You can integrate your existing garage door opener with myQ technology or upgrade to a compatible one. By connecting the opener to myQ Smart Garage Hub, you can control deliveries with Amazon Key. Amazon authorizes the delivery, automatically opens your garage door and closes it again. You get notified when the delivery is complete, knowing your package and home are secure.

With monitoring capabilities, you receive notifications when people enter or leave through your garage door, whether by vehicle or on foot. Remote monitoring lets you know who enters your property for better home safety.

Smart Garage Hub also makes it easy to operate your garage door remotely. If you forgot to close your garage door, simply shut it from your phone. All features offer real-time notifications and video camera capabilities for added security.

MyQ Garage Door Sensor

Whether you already have a second garage or plan to build one, connecting the garage door opener with the same smart technology as the first one is hassle-free. By connecting the opener to myQ Smart Garage Control, you can extend the smart capabilities of your myQ system to the second opener.

MyQ Smart Garage Control enhances the security of your garage door by allowing you to:

Remotely control your garage door from a mobile device.
Monitor the status of your garage door, like when it opens or closes.

MyQ Remote LED Light

Whether you use your garage for hobbies or work projects or want more visibility, you can easily add more lights with myQ remote LED lighting. Connection is quick and wireless, and you can add up to 16 lights per garage door opener. You can also set daily schedules for the lights to turn on and off, like in the mornings when getting into your car. MyQ remote LED lights allow you to enjoy brighter lights with less maintenance than conventional non-LED lighting.

Integrating myQ With Your Smart Home Ecosystem

If you’re a busy homeowner, you understand the need for more streamlined integrations to easily control multiple features from your existing devices. Connecting myQ with your other home systems can turn your property into a complete smart hub, allowing you to manage various features however you choose.

You can integrate myQ with:

Smart home platforms: Whether you have Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or IFTTT, you can easily control your garage door with voice commands and schedules. Remotely open and close your garage door, control thermostat settings for enhanced energy efficiency, optimize lighting and more.
Security systems: For smart garage door security, connect your myQ garage door control to your Alarm.com or Ring app. You can control your garage lights, smart locks and cameras, get a live feed of your garage door and operate these right from your mobile device.
Delivery services: Integrate myQ with Amazon Key or Walmart+ InHome and open your garage door remotely, accept deliveries, and close it remotely once the delivery is complete.

Other Advanced Smart Garage Door Features for Modern Homes

With myQ’s advanced solutions, you can make your garage door smart with multiple features that help make managing the door easier and hassle-free. From opening the door for the dog walker to implementing smart security solutions, you can control your garage door from your fingertips. Take a look at some of the features you can connect:

Battery backup: Enjoy uninterrupted garage door operation even during power outages.
Automatic closing: With this feature, a myQ-connected garage door will automatically close after a preset time, adding to your peace of mind.
Safety sensors: These sensors complement existing garage door sensors. Smart technology will detect obstacles and prevent the door from closing, helping avoid accidents.
MyQ Smart Lock: With the myQ Smart Lock, you can automatically lock your garage passageway door when receiving a delivery to your garage, and unlock the door automatically once the delivery is done.
Smart garage video keypad and camera bundle: Get home protection with 24/7 livestreaming that provides object and person detection, notifications, video history and speakers with two-way audio.

Why Choose Consolidated Garage Doors for Your Smart Garage Upgrade?

At Consolidated Garage Doors, we’re your trusted smart garage door solutions provider. We have years of experience with garage door openers and can recommend the right myQ solution for your home and needs, no matter your existing garage door opener.

Our team is committed to offering quality LiftMaster® products, expert installation and individualized customer service. Whether you need a new garage door opener to enjoy all the myQ features or want to select the ones suitable for you, get SOLIDSERVICE you can depend on.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Us Today!

Experience the convenience, security and assurance that smart technology can bring. Request an estimate and get started today.

Wall-Mount Garage Door Openers vs. Ceiling-Mount

Comparing Wall-Mount Garage Door Openers vs. Ceiling-Mount Models

The average garage door opens and closes three to five times per day, which adds up to around 1,500 times a year. Garage door openers simplify the process. They make operating your garage door quicker, safer and more convenient. You can choose between wall- or ceiling-mounted options from a trusted manufacturer, LiftMaster, a leader in garage door opener technology.

LiftMaster’s wall-mounted openers represent some of the most innovative solutions in this category, combining space efficiency with powerful performance. Ceiling- or overhead-mounted models provide reliability and higher lifting capacity. Wall-mounted openers offer a space-savvy, energy-efficient alternative. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances.

This guide explores the differences between wall-mount garage door openers vs. overhead devices. By comparing these two solutions, you can decide which type best suits your garage and lifestyle.

What Is a Wall-Mount Garage Opener?

A wall-mount or side-mount garage door opener installs to the wall beside your garage door. The opener connects to the torsion bar that operates the door. The motor rotates the torsion bar, counterbalancing the door’s weight to lift or lower it.

Compact wall-mounted openers suit homes that value space and whisper-quiet operation. The pros of these openers include:

Space savings: Side-mounted openers free up valuable overhead space. They work well in garages with limited storage space or ceiling obstructions.
Quieter operation: Side-mount openers drive the torsion bar, eliminating noisy chain mechanisms. This direct drive system reduces vibration and noise transmission to your home.
Modern aesthetic: Compact wall-mount openers give a clean, streamlined look to the garage.
Compatibility with irregular layouts: Some garages have low ceilings or pipes that prevent the installation of overhead openers. Mounting an opener to the wall solves this problem.
Battery backup: Some openers include a battery backup, ensuring operation during power outages.
Security features: Many models come with advanced security features. Automatic reversal and motion sensors increase safety.
Smart home integration: Newer models feature smartphone connectivity and smart home integration.

What Is a Ceiling-Mount Garage Door Opener?

Traditional overhead garage door openers attach to your garage’s ceiling. They work using a motor and track system. The motor drives a trolley along the track, which opens or closes the garage door using a belt, screw-drive or chain mechanism.

LiftMaster offers a comprehensive range of ceiling-mount openers designed for reliability and performance. Ceiling-mount systems need significant overhead installation space. With exceptional durability and powerful lifting capacity, these openers can handle standard or even heavier doors.

Overhead-mounted garage door openers have long been the industry standard. Here’s why many homeowners choose this option:

Cost-effectiveness: Ceiling-mount openers always cost less than their wall-mounted counterparts.
Suitability for standard garages: Overhead openers are ideal for garages without obstructions or space constraints.
Versatile compatibility: These openers work with most standard garage door types and configurations. They can also handle heavier doors.
Simple technology: Overhead garage door openers use well-established, reliable technology. All LiftMaster models include smart features for remote operation through a smartphone app.
A variety of drive types: Choose between chain or belt. The right type depends on your noise and maintenance preferences.

Key Differences Between Side-Mount Garage Door Openers vs. Ceiling-Mount Models

A side-by-side comparison can help you make the best choice for your home. Here’s a breakdown.

Side-Mount Garage Door Opener vs. Overhead Opener Differences
Feature	Wall-Mount Garage Door Opener	Ceiling-Mount Garage Door Opener
Mounting Location	Mounted on the wall beside the garage door.	Attached to the ceiling in the center of the garage.
Space Usage	Makes use of vertical space, which may be ideal for garages with lower ceilings.	Occupies ceiling space, which suits garages with enough overhead clearance.
Drive Mechanism	Uses a direct drive mechanism to operate the torsion bar that lifts the door.	Uses a chain or belt to pull the door open along a track.
Noise Level	The direct drive system offers quieter operation with less vibration.	Chain or belt-drive models produce more noise and vibrations compared to wall-mount openers.
Cost	Purchase price is higher than ceiling-mount openers.	Initial cost is lower than wall-mount openers.
Maintenance	Routine inspections and lubrication of moving parts keep wall-mount openers in optimal condition.	Maintenance includes lubrication and assessing the motor, belts and chains.

What to Consider When You Choose a Wall-Mount Garage Door Opener vs. an Overhead Opener

When you choose a new garage door opener, consider the following.

1. Garage Space and Layout

If you have a low ceiling, a wall-mounted opener can maximize vertical space. It can also free up ceiling space for overhead storage. Check for pipes, beams or other obstructions that might interfere with a ceiling-mounted unit.

2. Noise Level

If you have living spaces attached to or beneath your garage, consider a belt drive opener. Wall-mount openers are quieter than ceiling-mount models, though modern overhead openers have features that reduce noise to a degree. Wall-mount openers also cause less vibration.

3. Garage Door Size

Both wall- and ceiling-mount openers can handle heavy or large doors, depending on the model. Check the horsepower (HP) of the opener. An opener with ½ HP works well for standard residential garage doors, while a ¾ to 1 ¼ HP opener suits heavier or oversized doors. LiftMaster offers models with sufficient power for even the heaviest residential doors.

4. Features and Technology

New garage door openers come with technology that enhances operation and safety. For example, a backup battery lets you operate your garage door during an outage. All opener models offer smart home integration. LiftMaster’s myQ technology offers substantial benefits for homeowners, including real-time notifications when your garage door opens or closes, secure remote access from anywhere via smartphone, and seamless integration with popular smart home platforms. With myQ, you can monitor your garage, grant temporary access to visitors, and even coordinate secure package deliveries inside your garage. Compare the security features offered by each type to align your choice with your needs.

5. Professional Installation

Whether you choose a wall- or ceiling-mount opener, leave the installation to the pros at Consolidated Garage Doors. Proper installation is crucial for safety when working with heavy garage doors that operate under high tension. Correct fitment ensures proper functionality, compliance and warranty validity.

Technicians can align tracks and program safety features. DIY installation can risk your safety and potentially void the warranty on a new door.

Recommended Garage Door Openers From LiftMaster®

LiftMaster® is the gold standard of garage door openers. Choose between ceiling- and wall-mounted models that enhance functionality and convenience.

Wall-Mount Garage Door Opener Models

These LiftMaster wall-mount garage door openers combine space-saving design with powerful operation:

Elite Series 98022: Suited to standard doors, the 98022 model boasts vibration-free operation that’s almost silent. Remote LED lighting and advanced features boost security, and next-generation technology integrates with myQ devices.
Elite Series 98032: This heavy-duty opener has the same features as 98022 but can lift doors from 400lbs. to 1100lbs. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity and a backup battery with a sleek design.

Ceiling-Mount Garage Door Opener Models

These LiftMaster overhead garage door openers blend reliability and performance:

Elite Series 87504-267: This overhead opener model adds security with a built-in camera. You can watch and control your garage from anywhere with the myQ app.
Premium Series 8365W: When you need extra lifting power, consider the 8365W model. A ½ HP industrial chain drive delivers reliable performance. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you operate your garage door from your smartphone.
Elite Series 8587W: The ¾ HP AC chain drive and i-beam rail system can lift even the heaviest doors. Integrated Bluetooth technology simplifies connection to the myQ app, reducing setup time.
84505R: This smart garage door opener features a built-in camera with two-way audio. The DC motor offers quiet operation while integrated LED lighting enhances visibility inside the garage. Compatibility with Amazon Key promotes secure, convenient deliveries.

Contact the Garage Door and Opener Experts

Ready to elevate your garage door with a new opener? Both wall- and ceiling-mounted openers have advantages to suit your space. Let Consolidated Garage Doors recommend the ideal opener for your needs. Since 1976, we’ve served customers in St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia and the surrounding areas. Our technicians install, maintain and repair all garage door opener types.

Discover SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS. Browse our range of LiftMaster garage door openers or contact us to request an estimate.

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Garage Door Track Options

The amount of space in your garage determines what you can do with it. When you optimize your garage space, you create more room for your vehicle and even more storage. There are several ways to maximize garage space, and one of them is selecting the right track. Consider Consolidated Garage Doors for all your garage door needs. We can help you find the right garage door track for your space, ensuring a perfect fit.

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Understanding Garage Door Track Systems

Garage door tracks are the metal parts that form the pathway for the garage door as it opens and closes. These tracks are essential for the door’s movement, functioning like train tracks. To ensure smooth operation, you must keep the tracks in excellent condition, as that allows the rollers to glide with ease.

A well-functioning track system plays a big role in the door’s efficiency and space use. It allows the door to open and close smoothly, minimizing friction and strain on your garage door opener. Also, the different track configurations make it easy to select one that accommodates your garage space.

When choosing a garage door track system, it’s important to consider the unique layout of your garage and its specific dimensions. These factors will determine the proper type of track for your space. Here are the areas inside your garage that have unique dimensions that affect your choice of track system:

Headroom: This is the space above the garage door, starting from the top of the door opening to the lowest point on the ceiling. That lowest point can be the ceiling or other obstacles, such as vents or piping. When measuring for headroom, the space should be large enough to fit the curving section of the tracks and other supporting parts.
Backroom: This distance captures the depth of the garage from the top of the door opening to the back wall.

Overview of Garage Door Track Options

Here are the different track configurations or options you should know about:

Standard Lift Tracks

The standard lift track is the most common track option for residential garage doors. They are designed for standard ceiling heights where there’s enough headroom. Standard lift tracks are ideal if you have enough or moderate headroom and don’t need much vertical space.

Consult garage door professionals to learn about track specifications in relation to your unique garage layout. Consolidated Garage Doors will help you select the correct tracks for your space.

High Lift Tracks

The difference between high lift garage door tracks and standard tracks is the space required for the headroom. High lifts use the vertical space above the door by extending the tracks higher before beginning the horizontal curve. As a result, these specialized tracks maximize overhead space, creating more clearance room.

High lift systems have longer vertical tracks, making them ideal for garages with extended ceiling heights. If you need extra overhead clearance but are unsure if you have enough ceiling space for a high lift installation, it’s best to consult with a professional. Our team at Consolidated Garage Doors will evaluate your garage to ensure your door opening meets the necessary installation requirements for a high lift system.

Check out this video of a high lift track garage door in action — it’s operated by the 98032 LiftMaster® opener, a powerful side-mounted opener.

Follow Roof Pitch Lift

A follow roof pitch lift configuration is a custom garage door track. What makes it a custom solution is that the vertical tracks align with the angle of the roofline. The style complements the unique aspects of a garage’s architecture, maximizing vertical space. For homeowners with pitched or sloped ceilings, follow roof pitch lift is the ideal track option.

Due to its unique style, follow roof pitch lift tracks don’t block vertical space or take excessive backroom space. Usually, the headroom space for a follow roof pitch lift varies depending on the slope.

Pairing Garage Door Track With Opener

The garage door track configuration you choose also impacts your choice of opener. While overhead openers are perfect with standard lift tracks, they may be unfit for specialized tracks. The openers may not work well with increased vertical travel.

High lift and follow-roof pitch lift tracks need wall-mounted or jackshaft openers. That’s because of the need for straight-up travel and a higher operational power. Ideal opener examples are Jackshaft Liftmaster Opener models such as the Elite Series 98022 and Elite Series 98032. These openers are suitable for heavy-duty operation and space optimization.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Track System

Here are the benefits of selecting the right garage door track system for your unique space:

Space Optimization

Where ceiling space is crucial, you need specialized track systems like high lift and follow roof pitch lift. They offer a strategic way to free up ceiling space for storage, ventilation and lighting. These are different from standard tracks, which are only suitable for typical garages with less need for overhead space.

Improved Accessibility

Choosing a suitable garage door track system creates an efficient and accessible space. If you own farming equipment or tall vehicles, consider track options with better clearance. For a typical garage housing regular-sized vehicles, the standard track is the best. We can also retrofit your existing garage door with a new track option. If you’ve just purchased your dream car, but find that your existing garage door track is obstructing its entry, retrofitting your garage door system might be the solution! By upgrading to a more suitable track option, you can create the necessary clearance for your vehicle, ensuring both functionality and style in your garage.

Trust the Experts at Consolidated Garage Doors

Consolidated Garage Doors is a leader in the garage door and opener industry. Our SOLID since 1976® trademark is a testament to the decades of SOLID reputation. We are the longest-running Clopay® Master Authorized Dealer in Northern Illinois.

Besides sales, we offer garage door service and repair for homeowners in various locations in Northern Illinois. Services range from repairs and replacements to aesthetic upgrades. For example, we powder coat tracks and hardware for a durable and attractive finish. You can rely on our exceptional customer service to guide you to the best selection for your unique needs.

Contact Consolidated Garage Doors for Assistance

Selecting a track system that complements your layout and garage door type allows you to maximize space in your garage. If you’re not sure which track option is suitable for your space, consult Consolidated Garage Doors. We provide expert guidance and professional garage door track installation. Contact us to learn more or visit our showroom in Batavia, Illinois.

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AC vs. DC Garage Door Opener Motors

Garage door openers have two power options — alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC currents are strong and can change direction, and DC currents flow in one direction and can be stored. Though AC and DC garage door motors both convert electricity into motion to open and close the garage door, the way they do it differs. Know the features and benefits of each garage door opener type so you can decide which kind your garage needs.

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AC Garage Door Opener

AC motors are the original garage door opener solution and have been in the industry longer than DC motors. AC motors have a lot of components in their large chassis, including a rotor and stator. In an AC garage door opener, the energy comes from the coils wrapped around the output shaft, which generate magnetic fields. Transformers control the direction and power of the current, which is what opens and closes the garage door.

AC garage door motors usually have a chain drive, which can wear out due to friction over time. Still, these motors have a durable build and few maintenance requirements.

Typical AC garage door opener features include:

Basic functionality: These openers have simple mechanics that focus on reliability and straightforward operation. They generally don’t come with battery backups and other advanced technology.
Higher lifting capacity: AC motors offer rugged construction and longevity. They can handle frequent use and are less susceptible to wear — even when lifting heavier doors.
Cost-effectiveness: AC openers generally cost less upfront than DC alternatives. They’re a budget-friendly option for homeowners looking for a basic solution.

DC Garage Door Opener

DC garage door openers entered the market as an alternative to AC motors. DC motors have shafts, bearings, gears and a gearbox in a small, lightweight chassis. The power comes from a generated source of power that provides constant voltage, like batteries. An electronic circuit board controls the amount of power the motor gets. This configuration gives you better control of speed variation, control and torque.

DC motors have a long-lasting brushless design that reduces noise during operation. These openers are also most likely to have a belt drive, which offers smoother performance and less wear compared to models with chain drives.

Other standout features of garage door openers with DC motors include:

Soft opening and closing: The electronic circuit board and variable speed enable gradual opening and closing that reduces wear on the door.
Battery backup: Many DC openers come with battery backup options to offer power and peace of mind during outages.
Smart technology integration: DC openers are often compatible with smart home systems for remote control and monitoring.
Energy-saving modes: These openers minimize energy consumption when they’re not in use, which means they can provide long-term savings.

AC vs. DC Garage Door Opener Differences

Both types of garage door openers have pros and cons. Their primary differences lie in their:

Noise levels: DC openers have the advantage in this category. Their brushless motors operate quietly with minimal vibration, while AC openers have mechanical components that produce more noise during operation.
Energy efficiency: DC openers are also more efficient because they use less power and adjust their speed based on the weight of the load. Energy consumption is lower as a result. In contrast, AC openers run at a constant speed and use the same energy no matter the load.
Control: DC openers often come with advanced control systems that allow for smoother operation and precise stopping. AC models tend to have simpler control mechanisms.
Smoothness: Since DC garage door openers have variable speed options, they allow for smoother starts and stops compared to the fixed speed of AC openers.

Should You Buy an AC or DC Garage Door Motor?

Consider the unique features of each motor to decide whether you want an AC or DC garage door opener and which best fits your needs. Essential considerations include:

Technology: If you want to use new technology, like an app on your phone to control the garage door, you need a DC garage door opener. These types of motors are modifiable to suit these components.
Power: Both DC and AC garage door openers offer sufficient horsepower to operate residential garage doors. If you think your garage door needs more power, AC motors have a stronger power current.
Brand: You may want to stick to what you know and buy a brand you’ve used before. Look at the models your preferred brand offers, and buy a garage door motor with the specifications you need.
Security: Garage door automation technology includes keyless entry, programmable settings and app-controlled features, so you can monitor and control your garage door no matter where you are. These features are more compatible with DC garage door openers.

Shop Garage Door Openers at Consolidated Garage Doors

If it’s time to buy a new garage door opener for your home, come to Consolidated Garage Doors. Since 1976, we’ve offered SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS for homeowners in St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva and surrounding areas. As an Authorized Dealer for LiftMaster®, we can help you find top-quality garage door openers with the features you want. Browse our residential garage door openers and contact us today.

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Broken Garage Door Spring: What to Do

Are you having trouble opening or closing your garage door? This potentially dangerous situation often indicates a broken spring. Instead of attempting to fix it yourself, contact Consolidated Garage Doors for help.

How Do Garage Door Springs Work?

Garage door springs are metal coils that raise and lower the door. Two types of springs exist — torsion springs, which span the width of the door, and extension springs, which extend along the tracks on the door’s sides.

Torsion springs hold tension in their coil, which helps to keep the door in place when closed and lift it during opening. As a garage door opens, the torsion springs unwind. As the door closes, the springs wind up again.

Extension springs contract as the door opens, using tension to pull it up. They also rely on a system of pulleys and cables to raise and lower a door. Extension springs are more common on older garage doors, while tension springs are more common on newer models.

What Causes a Broken Garage Door Spring?

Garage doors are heavy, and most get used at least daily, if not several times a day. Frequent opening and closing causes the springs to wear out as they approach 10,000 cycles — with one cycle representing one opening and closing. Haphazard maintenance practices make them more likely to wear out and break.

What to Do If a Spring Breaks on Your Garage Door

Replacing a broken garage door spring is not a do-it-yourself job for several reasons, including your garage door’s weight and the high tension applied to the springs. Attempting to fix the springs on your own carries an increased risk of injury.

Consolidated Garage Doors offers garage door spring replacement in the Chicagoland area. We can quickly fix your problem and provide maintenance advice to extend your new spring’s life.

How to Open a Garage Door With a Broken Spring

You should not use your garage when your garage door spring is broken because the door is too heavy to lift and lower safely without the spring to support it. A spring replacement will return your garage door to normal operation as soon as possible.

Replace a Broken Garage Door Spring With Consolidated Garage Doors

Contact us if your garage door spring is broken. We’ll send a technician to inspect and replace it if necessary. We’ve provided Chicagoland with SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES, and SOLID PRODUCTS since 1976^® and look forward to making you a lifelong customer.

What to Look for in a Garage Door Company

Is it time to repair or replace your home’s garage door? When choosing a garage door company, turn to Consolidated Garage Doors to handle your project quickly, efficiently and affordably to keep your home in good condition.

How to Find a Reliable Garage Door Company

One of our best tips for hiring a garage door company is to look for qualities like these.

Reputation

When you seek garage door repairs and replacements, you want a company with a long track record of successful projects for customers. We have built a reputation throughout Northern Illinois for quality work and excellent service.

Quality

Quality matters because you want a garage door that functions reliably for a long time and upgrades the look of your home. Choose Consolidated Garage Doors for high-quality garage doors and garage door openers. We are the longest-running Clopay^® Master Authorized Dealer^® and a Authorized Dealer for LiftMaster^® openers. These distinctions prove our ability to install and maintain an appealing and long-lasting garage door system for your home.

Experience

At Consolidated Garage Doors, we have over 240 years of combined garage door experience. We know every detail about garage door repair and replacement and leverage our knowledge to provide expert services.

Beyond having extensive experience, contractors should have proper insurance. At Consolidated Garage Doors, we carry sufficient liability insurance to cover your claims if an incident occurs.

Available Services

Not every garage door company offers the same services. Our team can handle various types of repair and installation tasks to meet all your needs. We even provide preventive maintenance to keep your door in peak condition and reduce the likelihood of future repairs.

Credentials and Testimonials

A reputable garage door company will have the appropriate certifications and designations that verify its professionalism, training, quality and commitment to service. We also have memberships in industry trade organizations and local business associations, including the International Door Association and the Northern Illinois Home Builders Association.

We also demonstrate our reputation through positive testimonials. Our customers appreciate our personable service, neat work and timely completion of garage door jobs.

Warranties

The best garage door companies offer warranties to safeguard your investments. As a Clopay and LiftMaster dealer, we offer both a manufacturers warranty as well as our labor warranty.

Contact Consolidated Garage Doors for Help

Do you have questions about how to pick a garage door company in Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles or the surrounding areas? Consolidated Garage Doors has been SOLID since 1976^®. Check out our credentials and contact us to learn more today.

Reasons You Need a New Garage Door Opener

Replace a worn or broken garage door opener with a LiftMaster opener from Consolidated Garage Doors to ensure your garage’s safety, security and convenience. At Consolidated Garage Doors, we provide high-quality garage door openers that offer reliable, durable and advanced features.

The garage door opener industry has seen significant advancement in recent years, particularly with DC-powered openers. By using DC power, garage doors are more efficient and provide quieter operation compared to traditional AC-powered motors. We offer a range of DC-powered garage door openers ideal for residential use.

Do You Need a New Garage Door Opener?

Functionality, convenience and security are essential for your garage door, and the opener makes those things possible. Below is a list of important reasons to replace your old garage door opener:

Security: Older garage door openers may not have the latest security features, such as a camera and the myQ phone app.
Noise: Older garage door openers may make loud, annoying noises during operation.
Malfunctions: If your current garage door opener fails to open and close the door properly, it is time for a replacement.
Updated technology: Your garage door opener may not be compatible with the latest home automation and smart home technologies.
Energy efficiency: Outdated openers may use more energy than necessary, resulting in higher electricity bills.
Safety features: Modern garage door openers have safety features that ensure the door stops or reverses if it encounters an obstruction while closing. Some older models may not have all the features you desire.

LiftMaster® Garage Door Openers

LiftMaster is the superior garage door opener brand. These openers offer quality performance due to innovative technology. They are designed to gradually slow down in the first and last 6 inches of travel to minimize wear and tear on the door frame. This feature ensures the door operates smoothly and quietly, making this brand an ideal solution for your home.

LED Lighting System

The LED lighting system is an important advantage, as it provides illumination inside your garage, making it easier to see and work. LEDs also use less energy compared to traditional light bulbs, that may save money on your electric bill.

Battery Backup

Another essential feature of LiftMaster openers is their battery backup, as it ensures your garage door opener can continue operating during a power outage.

Camera Technology

Advanced camera technology provides an added layer of security. This feature allows you to remotely monitor who is entering and leaving your garage.

Contact Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. for a New Opener

Enjoy SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS when you work with us. Get an estimate from us for a safer and more convenient garage door opener.

How Often Should You Get Your Garage Door Serviced?

Regular maintenance of your garage door can prolong its life span and ensure it continues operating smoothly and safely. A well-maintained garage door is less likely to break down unexpectedly, reducing repair costs and preventing inconvenient disruptions to your daily routine.

What Should Garage Door Maintenance Include?

The general recommendation is to have your garage door serviced at least once a year by a professional garage door technician. During the annual service, your technician will inspect and test all the components of your garage door and opener, including the springs, cables, rollers, hinges, tracks and safety sensors. Expert technicians from Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd., will identify any signs of wear and tear, damage or misalignment and make any needed adjustments or repairs to ensure your door operates safely, smoothly and quietly.

It’s essential to pay attention to any signs that your garage door is making unusual noises or not operating correctly. These could indicate that the door requires servicing sooner than the recommended annual interval.

Signs You Should Get Your Garage Door Serviced

Regular servicing of your garage door is crucial for ensuring safe, efficient and long-lasting operation. Failing to maintain your garage door can lead to various issues. Here are some signs that your garage door requires servicing:

Slow or uneven operation: If your garage door is taking longer than usual to open or close or moving in a jerky or uneven manner, these issues could come from the springs, cables or rollers.
Excessive noise: Garage doors can produce some noise during operation, but if the noise becomes louder than usual or includes grinding, scraping or rattling sounds, it could be a sign of worn or damaged components. Our technicians can identify the source of the noise and make any necessary repairs.
Door sticking or jamming: If your garage door is sticking or jamming during operation, it could be due to misaligned tracks, broken rollers or hinges.
Safety or sensor issues: Garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if there is an obstacle in the way. If these fail to work, this can be a safety hazard.
Damaged components: Over time, your garage door’s components can wear out or become damaged, leading to reduced performance and increased risk of breakdowns.

Contact Us Today for Garage Door Service and Repairs

Trust us to fix a range of residential garage door issues and provide preventive maintenance. Get in touch with us today for expert garage door service.

9 Tips for Buying Your New Garage Door

Buying a new garage door is a significant investment, so it’s essential to make an informed decision based on your needs and budget. Some general considerations are to look for a door that’s durable, energy-efficient, secure and installed by a reputable dealer or technician.

Before purchasing a new garage door, consider these 10 garage door buying tips to make a confident decision:

1. Material

Garage doors can be made from various materials, such as steel, wood or vinyl. Each has its benefits and considerations regarding durability, appearance and maintenance requirements, so be sure to research.

2. Style

Garage doors come in different styles, such as traditional, modern, carriage house and modern/contemporary. Consider your home’s architectural style and choose a door that complements it.

3. Insulation

Insulated garage doors can save energy and improve your garage’s comfort level during all four seasons. Consider the door insulation’s R-value and select a model that meets your needs.

4. Durability Features

A high-quality garage door should withstand daily use and varying weather conditions. Look for features such as galvanized hardware and tracks, nylon rollers, and torsion springs.

5. Budget

How much you’ll spend on your new garage door can vary depending on factors such as the size, material, style and insulation value. Cost will vary based upon your selections.

6. Accurate Measurements

To get an estimate for a new garage door, it’s crucial to get accurate measurements of your existing garage door.

7. Brand and Warranty

Clopay® Has some of the best warranties in the industry.

8. Security

The most secure garage door is a closed garage door.

9. Reputable Dealer

The quality of the garage door installation can significantly affect the door’s performance and life span. Make sure you select a reputable dealer with experience and expertise in garage door installation who provides excellent customer support for the lifetime of your door.

Contact Us for a New Residential Garage Door

Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. provides you with SOLID service to help you find the perfect garage door. Get in touch with us for a new door and professional installation that will provide you with peace of mind.