Garage Door and Driveway Gate Tips and News | The Door Company

Should You Repair or Replace Your Garage Door? Here’s How to Decide

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

newly intalled brown steel garage door

Your garage door is one of the hardest-working systems on your property. It opens and closes hundreds—sometimes thousands of times each year, securing your home or business while providing daily access. But when something goes wrong, many owners face the same question: Should you repair your garage door, or is it time to replace it?
The answer isn’t always obvious, but a few key factors can guide the decision.

 

Start With the Age of Your Garage Door
Most garage doors last 15–30 years, depending on material, climate, and maintenance. If your door is only a few years old and still structurally sound, repairs usually make sense. But if the door is reaching the end of its lifespan, repairs often become more frequent—and more expensive. At that point, replacement may be the more cost-effective option.

 

Consider the Type and Severity of the Damage
Not all damage is the same. Cosmetic issues like minor dents, paint chips, or worn weather stripping are simple to repair. But structural problems like bent tracks, warped panels, cracked sections, or failing springs—can compromise the entire system. Severe damage may affect safety and reliability, especially if the door is loud, shaky, or unbalanced.
For minor mechanical issues, repairs can restore smooth operation. For major structural damage, replacement ensures long-term safety and performance.

 

Evaluate How Often You’re Calling for Repairs
If you feel like you’re scheduling service visits every few months, that’s often a sign your system is wearing down. Older doors and openers eventually require repeated fixes because multiple components begin to fail at the same time. Instead of spending money on patchwork repairs, a new door or upgraded opener can save you time, frustration, and long-term costs.

Check the Condition of Your Opener
Sometimes the problem isn’t the door—it’s the opener. If your opener is outdated, noisy, or struggling to lift the door, an opener replacement can solve the issue without replacing the entire system. But if both the opener and the physical door are aging or malfunctioning, upgrading everything together provides better reliability and security.

Think About Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Modern garage doors are engineered with improved insulation, tighter seals, and quieter, smoother operation. If your current door lacks insulation or shows gaps that let in drafts, pollen, or smoke, upgrading can boost home comfort and reduce energy loss—especially in Northern California’s varied climate. Repairing an uninsulated or outdated door won’t deliver these benefits the way a replacement can.

 

Assess Curb Appeal and Property Value
Your garage door makes up a large portion of your exterior. If your current door is faded, dented, or outdated, replacing it can dramatically enhance curb appeal—and it consistently ranks as one of the top home improvement projects for return on investment. If aesthetics matter or you’re preparing to sell, a new door is often the smarter choice over repairing an old one.

 

When Repair Is the Right Choice
Repair typically makes sense when:

  • The door is less than 10–15 years old
  • Damage is minor or cosmetic
  • Only one component has failed (like a spring, cable, or sensor)
  • The door is still structurally sound

 

When Replacement Is the Better Option
Replacement is usually the smarter investment when:

  • Your door is reaching the end of its lifespan
  • Damage is widespread or structural
  • You’re experiencing frequent breakdowns
  • The door is visibly outdated, loud, or unsafe
  • You want better insulation, security, or curb appeal

 

The Door Company Can Help You Choose the Best Option
Whether you need a simple repair or a full system upgrade, The Door Company provides expert recommendations based on honesty, safety, and long-term value. Our team can inspect your garage door or gate, diagnose the issue, and help you decide the most cost-effective path forward.

From retail storefronts to large commercial properties, and from residential homes to high-traffic facilities, we’ve been Northern California’s trusted garage door and security gate experts for over 30 years.

 

Ready to schedule an inspection or get a quote?
Contact The Door Company today—your safety, security, and peace of mind come first.

How Commercial Garage Doors Enhance Property Protection

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

When it comes to safeguarding your business, few features are as important or as overlooked as your commercial garage door. These heavy-duty systems do far more than just open and close. They serve as a crucial layer of defense against theft, weather damage, and operational downtime, while also improving your building’s efficiency and value.

 

At The Door Company, we’ve installed and maintained thousands of commercial garage doors across Northern California, and we’ve seen firsthand how the right door can make all the difference in property protection.

 

Why Security Starts With Your Garage Doors

Your business’s garage doors are often one of the largest access points to your building, and that makes them a prime target for unauthorized entry. Investing in durable, well-built commercial garage doors adds a powerful barrier between your property and potential threats.

High-quality commercial doors are built with reinforced steel, advanced locking systems, and optional security features like keypads, sensors, and remote monitoring. These features work together to deter intruders, prevent break-ins, and ensure your valuable equipment, vehicles, and inventory remain secure.

 

Protection Against Weather and Environmental Damage

Beyond security threats, the right garage doors also defend your property against environmental hazards. Strong winds, heavy rain, and temperature fluctuations can take a toll on your building and on anything stored inside.

Modern commercial garage doors are designed to provide a tight, weather-resistant seal, keeping out moisture, dust, and debris. This helps preserve your equipment, reduces potential damage, and extends the life of everything inside your facility.

 

Minimizing Downtime and Operational Risks

A damaged or malfunctioning door can disrupt your operations, slow down workflows, and even halt business altogether. That’s why regular maintenance and professional installation are key.

With proper upkeep, including inspections, lubrication, and timely repairs, your commercial garage doors will operate smoothly and reliably. This consistency helps ensure your business runs efficiently without unexpected delays or costly interruptions. Learn more about our commercial garage door maintenance services to keep your system in peak condition.

 

Boosting Curb Appeal and Property Value

While security and functionality are top priorities, aesthetics shouldn’t be overlooked. Modern commercial garage doors come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to enhance your building’s appeal to potential customers while maintaining robust protection.

A well-maintained, visually appealing door can also increase the overall value of your property, an added bonus if you ever decide to sell or lease your space.

 

Why Choose The Door Company

With decades of experience serving businesses across California, The Door Company specializes in secure, high-performance commercial garage doors designed to protect your property and support your operations. From custom installations to emergency repairs, our team is committed to delivering reliable solutions that keep your business safe and secure.

 

Final Thoughts

Investing in quality commercial garage doors is one of the smartest ways to enhance property protection. By combining strength, security features, and reliable performance, they safeguard your assets, prevent costly damage, and keep your operations running smoothly, all while adding long-term value to your property.

Ready to upgrade your commercial business security? Contact The Door Company today to schedule a consultation or request a free quote.

How to Choose the Best Garage Door for Your Business

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

commercial garage door

When it comes to running a successful business, the right garage door is more than just a functional feature, it’s an investment in security, efficiency, customer trust, and brand image. Whether you’re looking for a new garage door for your restaurant, warehouse, auto shop, retail space or industrial facility, the garage door you choose plays a major role in the efficiency of your daily operations.

Here are the top features to consider when choosing the perfect garage door for your business.

Prioritize Security
Your garage door is often the largest entry point to your business. A strong, durable door with secure locking systems helps protect valuable equipment, inventory, and staff. Consider steel or aluminum doors for maximum protection, and don’t forget to explore advanced access control options for added security.

Consider Daily Usage
Different businesses use garage doors in different ways. If your door opens and closes multiple times a day, look for high-cycle doors designed to handle heavy use. For occasional access, a standard commercial overhead door may be more than enough.

Energy Efficiency Matters
Insulated garage doors can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs. For businesses like warehouses or workshops, an insulated garage door is a smart investment that pays off in energy savings.

Choose the Right Style & Material
Your garage door contributes to curb appeal and can reflect your company’s professionalism. Aluminum and glass doors work well for showrooms, while steel is popular for industrial spaces. Consider materials that balance durability, aesthetics, and budget.

Safety First
Employee safety should always be a top priority. Modern commercial garage doors can be equipped with safety sensors, motion detectors, and auto-reverse functions to reduce the risk of accidents.

Work with a Trusted Professional
A high-quality garage door is only as good as its installation. Partner with experienced garage door specialists like The Door Company, California’s trusted experts for over 30 years, to ensure your business gets the best fit, function, and ongoing support.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find the perfect garage door solution for your business!

Guide to Troubleshooting the Most Common Garage Door Problems

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

If you own a home or business with a garage, you’ve likely experienced at least one of the most common garage door problems. From a door that won’t open to one that makes loud, grinding noises, to broken springs or cables, we’ve seen it all. These issues can be frustrating, inconvenient, and sometimes even unsafe. Understanding the causes of common garage door problems and knowing a few quick troubleshooting tips can save you time and money, and help you determine when it’s time to call a professional like The Door Company for expert assistance.

 

  1. Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

Possible Causes: Unbalanced power source disruption, misaligned or blocked safety sensors, broken springs or cables.

Quick Fixes: Check if the opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, clean and align the safety sensors to ensure they’re unobstructed. If you suspect broken springs or cables, stop using the door and call a professional immediately as these parts can be dangerous to handle on your own.

 

  1. Noisy Garage Door Operation

Possible Causes: Loose hardware, worn rollers, or insufficient lubrication.

Quick Fixes: Tighten bolts and screws on tracks and hinges, apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, springs, and hinges. If the noise persists, it may be time for roller replacement or track adjustments. Don’t forget to schedule garage door maintenance at least annually, or more for older models.

 

  1. Garage Door Opens Unevenly

Possible Causes: Track misalignment, damaged springs, or obstructions in the tracks.

Quick Fixes: Inspect tracks for bends, debris, or gaps, remove any obstructions and gently straighten small bends with pliers. Major misalignments or broken springs should be handled by a professional.

 

  1. Remote or Keypad Isn’t Working

Possible Causes: Dead batteries, signal interference, or other programming issues.

Quick Fixes: Replace the batteries in your garage remote or keypad. Check for objects that might block the signal. If none of these fix the issue, reprogram your opener according to the manufacturer’s instructions or call an expert for help.

 

  1. Garage Door Closes Too Quickly

Possible Causes: Broken springs or worn cables, faulty opener settings.

Quick Fixes: If you notice frayed cables or damaged springs, stop using the door and call an expert immediately, as these are serious safety hazards. Otherwise, check your opener’s force and limit settings to ensure they’re properly adjusted to your garage door.

 

The Door Company is Here for All Your Garage Door Emergencies

Dealing with common garage door problems doesn’t have to be stressful. By identifying the cause early and trying a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can often get your door working smoothly again. However, some issues like broken springs, severe track misalignment, or a door that’s come off its rails require the expertise and tools of a trained technician. At The Door Company, we’ve specialized in repairing and maintaining all types of garage doors for over 30 years. We are here to help you ensure your home or business stays secure and functional. If you’re facing any of these common garage door problems, contact us today for fast, professional service you can trust in California.

 

Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close (And What to Do About It)

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

Few things are more frustrating than hitting the garage door remote— and nothing happens. Or worse, the door starts to close, then reverses for no clear reason. When garage doors are often the main entry point for the home, this kind of issue can throw off your whole day.

Before you panic (or call for service), let’s walk through some of the most common reasons your garage door won’t close and what you can do to fix them.

 

Check the Safety Sensors

Modern garage doors are equipped with photo-eye sensors on either side of the door, a few inches off the ground. If something is blocking the beam, or the sensors are dirty or misaligned, your door won’t close.

 

Quick fix:

Make sure nothing is in the way. Wipe the sensors clean with a soft cloth and check that they’re facing each other directly.

 

Your Remote Needs a Battery (or Reprogramming)

Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a dead battery in your remote. If the wall button works but the remote doesn’t, this is likely your issue. If the remote and wall control don’t work, it may be a programming or wiring problem.

 

Quick fix:

Try replacing the battery first. If that doesn’t help, you may need to reprogram the remote or call a technician to inspect the wall unit wiring.

 

The Door Tracks Are Blocked or Damaged

Even a small object in the track — or a bent section — can stop the door from moving properly. California’s dry climate can cause dust, small debris, or even a loose bolt to cause problems over time.

 

Quick fix:

Look along the tracks for anything out of place. Clear any obstructions, and don’t try to bend or force anything yourself, as damaged tracks require professional repair.

 

Broken Garage Door Springs or Cables

If you hear a loud snap or the door feels incredibly heavy when trying to close it manually, a spring or cable might be broken. These are essential parts of your system and can be dangerous to fix on your own.

 

What to do:

Call a garage door technician immediately. Do not attempt to repair or replace springs or cables without the proper tools and experience, serious injuries may occur.

 

The Door Limit Settings Are Off

Garage door openers have settings that tell the door how far to open or close. If these settings shift (especially after a power outage or installation), the opener may think the floor is an obstruction and reverse.

 

Quick fix:

Check your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the limit settings. It’s a small adjustment, but it can make a big difference.

 

Still Stuck? Let the Pros Handle It.

If your garage door still won’t close after checking these issues, it might be time to call in the experts. Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all makes and models. We serve homeowners throughout California with fast, reliable service. Contact The Door Company today for emergency garage door repair and get your door (and your day) back on track!