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- Energy efficiency: Outdated openers may use more energy than necessary, resulting in higher electricity bills.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.
Signs Your Garage Door Needs Maintenance
As a homeowner, it’s easy to take for granted that your garage door functions properly. However, like most mechanical objects, a garage door requires regular service to keep it in peak operating condition and prevent unexpected breakdowns, especially as it ages. It’s a good idea to keep an eye out for indications that your garage door needs maintenance.
1. Excessive or Unusual Noises
While all garage doors make noise while operating, some sounds can indicate potential repair or maintenance issues. For example, a grating or rumbling racket during opening or closing often identifies faulty or failing springs. Other troublesome sounds include popping, squeaking and rustling.
2. Door Won’t Open or Close
A door that stops halfway or doesn’t open at all can prevent you from getting your car out of the garage. And a door that’s stuck in the raised position poses a security risk. Possible causes for a door that won’t move include a malfunctioning opener, a faulty connection between the door and the control panel, broken springs, a blocked photo-eye sensor or a snapped cable.
3. Sagging
Does your door begin to sag or fall slowly to the floor when you open or close it about halfway? It likely means that the door is unbalanced and requires a manual adjustment. A worn spring can also create a potentially dangerous imbalance and requires prompt service.
4. Misalignment
A garage door may come off the tracks over time. This issue occurs more frequently as the door ages or sustains significant damage. A professional garage door technician can perform a comprehensive inspection and correct the problem or recommend a door replacement.
5. Slow Response Time or Hitching
A properly functioning door requires only a few seconds to open or close after you activate the opener. If your door moves more slowly or exhibits a jerky motion, there’s likely an issue with the springs or another essential component. Lubricating the tracks, rollers and other moving parts may improve the performance.
6. Shaking
A door that shakes or vibrates excessively during opening and closing may have loose hinges, damaged tracks, disconnected rollers or other mechanical issues. This problem tends to worsen over time, making it essential to perform timely service.
Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. Provides Garage Door Repair and Maintenance
Do you live in Batavia, St. Charles, Geneva or the surrounding area? If you are noticing possible maintenance issues or signs you need a new garage door, the experienced professionals at Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. are ready to help.
Delivering SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS is the focus of our business. Our experienced garage door technicians can keep your door performing well and handle the most challenging repair tasks quickly and efficiently.
Contact Us to Learn More
Are you noticing signs that your garage door needs maintenance or repairs? Call us at 630-761-1976 or fill out our online form to request a service appointment today.
Pros to Having Windows for Garage Doors
Are you in the market for a new garage door for your home? You’ll have many options regarding the style and materials, enabling you to choose a customized product that meets your unique needs. One important decision you’ll make involves whether to select a garage door with windows.
What Are the Pros to Garage Door Windows?
Installing a garage door with windows can provide many benefits for homeowners.
1. Boosts Curb Appeal
If you drive or stroll around your neighborhood, you’ll likely notice various garage door designs and styles. You’ll have numerous options for customized windows that enhance the appearance of your garage and home. If you’re planning to sell your house eventually, the right windows can make it more attractive to potential buyers.
2. Makes Your Garage Seem More Spacious
While the actual dimensions of your garage will not be affected, windows can make the space seem larger. This quality is vital if you spend a lot of time working in the garage or using it for other purposes besides parking your vehicles.
3. Provides Natural Lighting
A windowless garage may work for some homeowners, but choosing a model with windows allows the sunlight to stream inside during the daytime. You’ll increase visibility in the room without needing to turn on the lights, and the interior will be brighter and more appealing.
4. Reduces Utility Costs
Are you trying to lower your household expenses? Windows in a garage door allow natural light to enter, so you may not need to turn on the lights during the daytime hours. If you use your garage frequently during the day, the sunlight can enable you to use less electricity, which could lead to lower utility bills.
5. Minimizes Security Issues
Many homeowners are concerned about windows because they may allow people to see inside the garage. However, most manufacturers design these products with the windows toward the top of the door. The height prevents passersby from looking in, enabling you to maintain privacy and security.
Your Source for Garage Door Windows
As the longest-running Master Authorized Dealer for Clopay® doors in the region, Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. serves homeowners in Batavia, St. Charles, Geneva and beyond. We offer an entire collection of durable, attractive Clopay residential products — many of which come with an assortment of attractive window options.
When you choose us as your garage door provider, you’ll receive the SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS we’ve been delivering for decades — we’ve been SOLID since 1976®. Our experienced team can help you choose the perfect door and window combination for your property. We’ll also perform a fast, professional installation.
Explore Your Garage Door Window Options Today
Visit our Batavia, IL, showroom today to get a closer look at our attractive, durable garage doors with windows. Do you have questions about whether windows are an appropriate choice for your property? Call us at 630-761-1976 or submit our online contact form today.
Reasons to Add a Garage Door Camera
Security cameras are a constant presence these days. You can find them in public places, businesses and wherever else potential security and safety risks loom. A home’s garage is another area that could benefit from a security camera installation.
The Benefits of a Security Camera in a Garage Door Opener
Advancements in technology now enable you to purchase a garage door opener with a camera to bolster your home security efforts. Installing these devices provides a host of benefits.
1. Monitor a Vulnerable Area
Unauthorized individuals often select the garage as an entry point to the rest of the home. Or, if your property contains a detached garage, they may choose it as their target, especially if it’s far away or out of sight from the house. A security camera in your garage allows you to monitor this area, even if it’s out of your sightline.
2. Track Arrivals and Departures
A garage door opener camera can take a photo every time someone opens or closes the door. If you discover a break-in or items missing from your garage, you can check the recordings to see if an unauthorized individual entered the area.
3. Implement Remote Monitoring and Control
Many openers provide access to smart technology that allows you to monitor and control its functions from a remote location. Suppose you arrive at work and suddenly realize you might have left the garage door open. You can use your smartphone or tablet to check the camera feed and close the door with a quick key tap. You can also open the door to allow a delivery person inside to drop off a package, then close it after the individual leaves.
4. Receive Instant Alerts
Another advantage of a garage door opener camera with smart technology is that you can receive an immediate alert on your mobile device whenever someone attempts to enter your garage. You can then check to see if the individual is a family member or an unwanted guest.
5. Gain Night Vision Capabilities
While some burglars ply their trade during the day when no one is home, others prefer the cover of darkness. A garage door opener with a camera can provide clear night vision so you can see intruders in the dark. If you detect an uninvited nighttime visitor, you can call for help without needing to inspect the area. You can also see if nocturnal animals are attempting to seek shelter inside your garage.
Contact Us for Garage Door Opener Cameras
If you live in Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles or the surrounding area, the team at Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. can meet your security camera requirements. As a ProVantage Authorized Dealer, we can provide a high-quality, technologically advanced LiftMaster® garage door opener with a camera you can trust to protect your property 24 hours a day.
Providing SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS is the cornerstone of our business — we’ve been SOLID since 1976®. Contact us to learn more about your garage door opener camera options today.
6 Ways to Prepare Your Garage Door for Fall and Winter
For many of us, the onset of autumn and its cooler temperatures provides a welcome respite from the summer heat and humidity. The fall is also the time to prepare your property for the upcoming winter season, including your home’s garage door.
1. Conduct a Test Run
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t pay much attention to how your door is functioning. Performing a quick test can often reveal potential signs of trouble that you can correct before they become significant repair issues. Take a moment to open and close the door and ensure that it moves smoothly, and listen for any excessively loud or unusual noises.
2. Inspect and Clean the Photo Eyes
Testing your photo eyes at least once a month ensures that your garage door closes correctly. If the photo eyes are not aligned, your door will not close. In this case, you can make slight adjustments by hand until they align. Adjust the non-lit sensor first. Once it lights up, it should be in the correct position, and your door will close properly.
If the photo eyes are dirty, the system’s reverse mechanism may not operate properly. You can clean the photo eyes using a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
3. Perform a Visual Check
You can learn a lot about your garage door’s health by inspecting it. Check for signs such as loose or frayed cables, rusted springs, damaged panels or anything else that appears amiss. Inspect the weatherstripping at the bottom of the door to ensure a tight seal. An experienced garage door technician can help you fix these issues in the early stages.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts
While most garage door maintenance tasks require the services of a trained professional, lubricating the moving parts is one job you can do yourself. Use white lithium grease or silicone spray to lubricate the rollers, hinges and springs. It’s vital to use extreme caution when lubricating these parts, as excessive lubrication can cause runs or drips on the face of your door and your vehicles.
5. Do a Fall Cleaning
The start of fall is an excellent time to clean your garage door and the area around it. Remove dirt, grass and debris that may have accumulated over the summer. Ensure the sensors are clean and unobstructed to prevent them from malfunctioning.
6. Change the Batteries
Cold winters can take a toll on batteries. Preparing a garage door for fall and winter should include replacing the batteries in the opener, remote control unit and keyless entry pad, especially if it’s been a year or longer since the last change.
Contact Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. for Help With Fall Preparation
Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd. can handle fall prep for a garage door in Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles and the surrounding region. We strive to deliver SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS — we’ve been SOLID since 1976®. Our experienced technicians will perform a comprehensive inspection and troubleshooting steps to ensure your garage door is ready for the changing seasons.
Call us at 630-761-1976 or contact us online to request a service appointment today.
Garage Door Buying Guide
Whether you’re a new homeowner or are refreshing the look of your existing home, buying a garage door is an exciting opportunity for you to breathe new life into your home’s exterior. Many homeowners replace their garage door once in their lifetime, so finding the perfect mix of function, fashion, and affordability is an important part of the process.
To help you make the decision best for your home, our buying guide offers a collection of garage door information below, including overviews of garage door styles, materials, insulation, brochures, garage door comparisons and more. We also offer information on how to measure and install your garage door when you’re ready to make the switch.
Ways to Prepare Your Garage Door for Spring in Illinois
When spring arrives, it’s a good idea to make sure the winter weather hasn’t taken its toll on your garage door. Preparing your garage door for spring ensures that it’ll work properly for the next several months so you won’t have to face any unexpected problems.
Here are some different ways you can prep your garage door for the spring season.
Check Your Garage Door Equipment for Wear and Tear
Look out for these problems with your garage door:
- Frayed cables: Cables need to be intact to keep the garage door in the tracks. Frayed cables should be replaced right away to maintain a safe operating environment for your door.
- Rusty metal parts: If your tracks, screws, rollers, bolts, springs or hinges are rusty, contact Consolidated Garage Doors for repairs
- Cracked or damaged panels: Panels need to be replaced right away to ensure safety with the operation of your garage door
- Loose bolts or screws in the track brackets: Tight bolts and screws keep the track in place, so your garage door operates better.
- Worn weatherstripping: Check the weatherstrip along with the perimeter of your garage door. An intact weatherstrip is a seal around the entire door to prevent elements from getting into your garage.
- Bent tracks: Any bent or damaged tracks should be repaired or replaced immediately.
*If you are experiencing any of these issues with your garage door, contact Consolidated Garage Doors for professional services and repairs
Run Safety Tests
Before performing any of these tests, please check your owner’s manual or your manufacturer’s website for a copy of the owner’s manual.
Test the safety features of your garage door to make sure they’re working correctly, including:
- Auto-reverse: The auto-reverse function makes the garage door operate in reverse if it hits something, which keeps people, cars, bikes and other objects safe. Make sure your garage door auto reverses by waving an object in the path of the photo-eye sensors
- Emergency release: The emergency release cord disconnects the trolley from the opener carriage, so you can manually open and close the garage door. We recommend going to your owner’s manual to see how to properly connect and disconnect
*If you are experiencing any of these issues with the operation of your garage door, contact Consolidated Garage Doors for professional services and repairs
Prepare for Power Outages
The springtime is known for severe weather that can cause power outages. Make sure your garage door will remain operational by using the manual release lever to disengage (*see owner’s manual) the opener from the garage. You can also rely on backup batteries of your DC opener if you have them.
Do a Garage Spring Cleaning
Since your garage door opens to the outdoors, it’s constantly exposed to harsh elements, particularly in the wintertime. Your garage can fill with dirt, grime and dust, which can affect the components of your garage door. Clean your garage door inside and out to remove these contaminants and improve its appearance.
A thorough garage spring cleaning includes:
- Cleaning the outside of the garage door: Rinse the grime off your garage door with a hose. Then, wash the door with water, dish soap and a soft brush or rag, starting at the top and working your way down. Finish with another rinse to wash the soap suds off.
- Cleaning the inside of the garage door: Dust off the sections of your door, clear away cobwebs and sweep the floor. Use hot soapy water to get the floor clean, and use a hose with low pressure on tough stains.
Remember to avoid cleaning moving parts with water because it could cause the parts to rust or get damaged.
Prep Your Garage Door for Spring With Consolidated Garage Doors
While you can do some maintenance on your own, an experienced professional should perform the more complicated services. If you have any concerns about your garage door, call a professional. They can do some basic maintenance and identify and repair problems with the garage door or its mechanisms. Using Consolidated Garage Doors to prep your garage door for spring prevents future emergency problems and saves money.
Consolidated Garage Doors has been SOLID since 1976®, helping local homeowners with their garage door maintenance, repairs, and replacements. Our garage door services cover all your spring preparation needs, including:
- Strut repair.
- Panel repair.
- Cable repair.
- Garage door window inserts.
- Hinge repair.
- Roller replacement.
- Spring repair.
Consolidated Garage Doors provides SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS for St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia and the surrounding areas. Request service for your garage door online or contact us for more information.
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 transform electricity into motion to open and close the garage door, they do so in different ways. Knowing the features and benefits of each garage door opener type will help you decide which kind your garage needs.
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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 made to be modified 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.
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 magnetic fields generated through the coils wrapped around the output shaft. Transformers control the power and direction of the current, which is what opens and closes the garage door.
The benefits of an AC garage door motor include:
- Durable build.
- Few maintenance requirements.
- Most likely to have a chain drive.
- Competitive pricing.
- Large amounts of power.
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. As a result, you have better control of speed variation, control and torque, and the garage door opener can have a soft open and close feature.
The benefits of a DC garage door motor include:
- Quiet operation.
- Energy efficiency.
- Most likely to have a belt drive.
- Battery backup and remote operation options.
- Long-lasting brushless design.
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. We have offered SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS for more than 42 years in St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva and surrounding areas. Browse our residential garage door openers and contact us today.